Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is a common and distressing side effect of cancer treatment, affecting comfort and daily function. Symptoms can be acute (within 24 hours) or delayed (days afterward). Even with prescribed anti-nausea medications, many patients experience persistent queasiness. This can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, and reluctance to continue treatment. Exploring complementary, non-pharmacological methods can offer additional relief and improve overall well-being.
Dietary Adjustments for Managing Nausea
Eating habits must be modified to minimize digestive stimulation and reduce nausea. Adopt a pattern of eating small, frequent meals every two to three hours, rather than three large ones, to stabilize the stomach.
Selecting bland, dry, and low-fat foods is helpful because they are easier to digest. Examples include plain crackers, dry toast, pretzels, boiled potatoes, or rice. Foods served cool or at room temperature are preferable, as heat releases stronger aromas that can trigger nausea.
Proper fluid management prevents dehydration. Liquids should be sipped slowly between meals, not consumed with food, as drinking during meals can cause premature fullness. Avoid liquids that are very sweet, greasy, spicy, or strongly scented.
Targeted Herbal and Botanical Aids
Certain botanicals have anti-nausea properties and can be used as complementary aids. Ginger, derived from Zingiber officinale, is a recognized natural remedy. Its active compounds are thought to work by interacting with receptors in the digestive tract and brain, similar to some conventional anti-nausea drugs.
Ginger can be consumed as capsules, fresh root tea, or inhaled essential oil. Doses of 0.5 to 1.0 gram of ginger powder or capsule form are effective for controlling acute nausea within 24 hours of chemotherapy.
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) may also offer relief, especially as an inhaled essential oil. Its active component, menthol, relaxes the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, alleviating queasiness. Inhalation aromatherapy with peppermint oil can reduce the severity and frequency of acute nausea.
While natural, these botanicals carry risks, such as heartburn or diarrhea with ginger, and must be discussed with the oncology team before use.
Physical and Sensory Relief Techniques
Non-ingestible methods can interrupt nausea signals sent to the brain. Acupressure focuses on the Pericardium 6 (P6) point, or Neiguan, located on the inner wrist. Applying firm pressure three finger-widths below the wrist crease, between the two large tendons, can reduce the severity of acute and delayed nausea.
This safe, non-invasive method can be performed using finger pressure or specialized wristbands. Acupressure is thought to modulate nervous system pathways transmitting signals from the gut to the brain’s vomiting center. It is often most effective when used alongside prescribed antiemetic medications.
Managing the sensory environment is another effective strategy. Strong odors can trigger nausea, so maintaining a cool, well-ventilated space is helpful. Aromatherapy using peppermint, ginger, or citrus scents can provide positive sensory input. Distraction techniques like music, light activity, or guided imagery also redirect attention away from the sensation of sickness.
The Importance of Consulting Healthcare Providers
Natural methods offer support but are complementary tools and should not replace prescribed antiemetic treatments. Anti-nausea medications are the standard approach for preventing severe symptoms.
Patients must inform their care team, including their oncologist and dietitian, about any supplements, herbal teas, or dietary changes. This communication is necessary because some botanicals can interact with chemotherapy drugs or blood thinners, altering effectiveness or increasing toxicity.
Nausea requires immediate medical attention in specific instances. These include persistent vomiting lasting more than 48 hours or an inability to keep down any food or liquids. Such situations increase the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, requiring professional intervention.