Nausea is a subjective, unpleasant sensation of discomfort in the upper stomach and an urge to vomit. It can occur as a standalone symptom or in conjunction with other symptoms. While it may not always lead to vomiting, nausea is commonly associated with gastrointestinal, neurological, and systemic conditions
Nausea is a complex process that involves the central nervous system (CNS), autonomic nervous system, and gastrointestinal system. Key mechanisms include:
Stimulation of the Chemoreceptor Trigger Zone (CTZ)
Located in the area postrema of the brainstem, this area detects circulating toxins, drugs, or metabolic disturbances and sends signals to the vomiting center.
Vomiting Center in the Brainstem
The nucleus tractus solitarius integrates sensory input from the vagus nerve, vestibular system, and CTZ, triggering nausea and vomiting reflexes.
Gastrointestinal (GI) Response
Slowing of gastric motility and emptying contributes to the sensation of nausea.
Reverse peristalsis may occur in severe cases.
Autonomic Nervous System Activation
Increased parasympathetic activity leads to hypersalivation, pallor, and diaphoresis (sweating), often accompanying nausea.
Causes of Nausea
Gastrointestinal Causes
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Gastritis or peptic ulcers
- Bowel obstruction
- Food poisoning or infections
- Motion sickness
Neurological Causes
- Migraine
- Vestibular disorders (e.g., vertigo)
- Increased intracranial pressure (e.g., tumour or trauma)
- Head injuries
Metabolic and Systemic Causes:
- Pregnancy (morning sickness)
- Renal failure (uraemia)
- Diabetic ketoacidosis
- Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hyponatremia)
Psychological Causes:
- Anxiety or stress
- Depression
Medication and Toxins:
- Chemotherapy drugs
- Antibiotics
- Alcohol or recreational drugs
Symptoms That May Occur Alongside Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Headache
- Sweating
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Fatigue
- Increased salivation
Ayurvedic Perspective of Nausea
In Ayurveda, nausea is primarily associated with an imbalance of Doshas—mainly Kapha and Pitta. It is often termed as Chardi or the tendency to vomit. The underlying causative factors can differ:
1. Kapha-Related Nausea:
- Excess mucus or heaviness in the stomach.
- Triggered by cold, oily, or heavy foods.
2. Pitta-Related Nausea:
- Associated with burning sensations or acidic regurgitation.
- Triggered by spicy, hot, or sour foods.
3. Vata-Related Nausea:
- Accompanied by dryness and bloating.
- Aggravated by irregular eating patterns or stress.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Nausea
Dietary Recommendations:
- Avoid heavy, greasy, and spicy foods.
- Consume light, easily digestible foods like rice gruel (Kanji), and soups.
- Use cooling and alkaline foods like coconut water and buttermilk.
Lifestyle Practices:
- Avoid overeating or skipping meals.
- Stay hydrated with water, herbal teas, or lime juice.
- Practice Pranayama (breathing exercises) to reduce stress.
Panchakarma Therapies:
Vamana (Therapeutic Emesis):
Used to detoxify and balance Kapha-related nausea.
Shirodhara (Oil Therapy):
Beneficial for Vata- and stress-induced nausea.
Herbal Remedies:
Ginger (Zingiber officinale):
- A renowned anti-nausea herb. Boil fresh ginger in water and consume as tea.
Cardamom (Elaichi):
- Chewing cardamom seeds or drinking cardamom-infused water alleviates nausea.
Clove (Lavang):
- Chewing on cloves helps reduce vomiting tendencies.
Coriander (Dhania):
- Coriander seeds boiled in water soothe the stomach.
Mint (Pudina):
- Fresh mint juice or tea calms digestive discomfort.
