When that sudden, queasy wave of nausea hits, the search for relief is immediate. For many, the first question is whether to use ginger for nausea, an ancient natural remedy, or to reach for a reliable pharmaceutical like Gravol. The answer isn’t always simple, and it depends entirely on your situation.
I’ve seen how this single symptom can completely disrupt a person’s life—from the expectant mother afraid to eat, to the patient who can’t enjoy a simple car ride. This guide isn’t about picking a “winner”; it’s about empowering you with the evidence to make the best, most informed choice for your body.
Ginger vs Gravol: The Quick Verdict
- For Pregnancy Nausea: Evidence strongly supports ginger as a safe and effective first-line option. Gravol/Dramamine is generally considered safe but should be used in consultation with a doctor.
- For Motion Sickness: Gravol/Dramamine is a highly effective and proven preventative treatment. Ginger can be effective for mild symptoms but may not be strong enough for severe cases.
- Key Difference: Ginger works primarily in the digestive tract, while Gravol/Dramamine acts on the brain, which is why it can cause drowsiness.
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Narrator: Dr. Emily, nausea is one of those symptoms that can completely derail a day. What are the first things people typically reach for?
Dr. Emily Richards: It’s a great question. Most people have two go-to options in their mind: the natural remedy, ginger, and the pharmacy staple, Gravol or Dramamine. The key is knowing which one is the right tool for the job.
Narrator: So let’s start with the most sensitive situation: pregnancy and morning sickness. What does the evidence say?
Dr. Emily Richards: For pregnancy nausea, the evidence is very clear: ginger is a safe and effective first-line choice. It works in the gut, not the brain, so it doesn’t have those sedating side effects, which is a huge benefit.
Narrator: And what about Gravol or Dramamine in that situation?
Dr. Emily Richards: It’s generally considered low-risk, but it’s something that absolutely must be discussed with a doctor first. Because it acts on the brain, we’re always more cautious during pregnancy.
Narrator: Okay, so let’s switch gears to the other big one: motion sickness. You’re about to get on a plane or a boat. What’s the verdict?
Dr. Emily Richards: This is where Gravol or Dramamine really shines. It’s an antihistamine that is incredibly effective at preventing motion sickness when you take it before you travel. Ginger can help with mild symptoms, but for a more serious case, the pharmaceutical option is more reliable.
Narrator: So the key takeaway is that the right choice really depends on the cause of the nausea.
Dr. Emily Richards: Exactly. It’s about making an empowered, evidence-based choice for your specific situation.
The Natural Approach: How Does Ginger Work for Nausea?
Ginger has been used for thousands of years as a digestive aid. It’s not just folklore; modern science has identified active compounds like gingerols and shogaols that are responsible for its anti-nausea effects. These compounds are believed to work directly in the gut, helping to speed up stomach emptying and reduce the pressure that can lead to nausea.
I remember one patient who was struggling with severe morning sickness and couldn’t keep anything down. We started her on a simple regimen of ginger tea, and within days, she was able to enjoy meals with her family again. That experience exemplifies how simple dietary approaches can complement medical treatment—a principle I explore in our guide to building an anti-inflammatory kitchen.
How to Use Ginger for Nausea:
- Ginger Tea: Steep a few slices of fresh ginger root in hot water for 5-10 minutes. This is often the most soothing method.
- Ginger Capsules: For a standardized dose, capsules are an excellent option. Most studies use 250mg four times daily, but I advise my patients to start with a lower dose of 250mg once or twice daily to assess tolerance before increasing.
- Crystallized Ginger: A small piece can be chewed slowly to help quell mild nausea.
A Note on Choosing Quality Ginger Products
When choosing a ginger product, quality and form matter. To save you time, here are a few well-regarded options on Amazon that align with the forms discussed in this guide.
(Full Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. These are products I recommend based on their quality and positive user feedback, at no extra cost to you.)
- For Soothing Tea: Traditional Medicinals Organic Ginger Tea
- For Standardized Dosing: Nature’s Way Ginger Root Capsules
- For On-the-Go Relief: The Ginger People Gin Gins Chewy Ginger Candy
A 2014 meta-analysis published in the journal Nutrition Journal confirmed that ginger is an effective and safe treatment for nausea and vomiting during pregnancy.
The Pharmaceutical Option: Understanding Gravol & Dramamine
Gravol and Dramamine are brand names for the drug dimenhydrinate. It’s an antihistamine, but its primary use is for preventing and treating nausea, vomiting, and dizziness associated with motion sickness. Unlike ginger, it works by blocking histamine receptors in the brain that are involved in triggering the vomiting reflex.
Key Considerations for Gravol/Dramamine:
- Primary Use: What I tell my patients about Gravol is that timing is everything. It is most effective when taken before you expect to experience motion sickness (e.g., 30-60 minutes before a flight or car ride). Taking it 30 minutes before travel can make the difference between enjoying a scenic drive and spending it feeling miserable.
- Side Effects: The most common side effect is drowsiness. This is a critical factor to consider if you need to drive or remain alert.
- Pregnancy Safety: Dimenhydrinate is generally considered low-risk during pregnancy, but it is essential to discuss its use with your obstetrician, especially in the first trimester.
When to See a Doctor About Nausea
While using ginger for nausea or Gravol can be effective for many common situations, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. Please seek care if you experience nausea accompanied by severe abdominal pain, a high fever, blood in your vomit, or signs of dehydration (like dizziness or inability to keep fluids down).
Head-to-Head Comparison: Which is Right for You?
| Feature | Ginger | Gravol / Dramamine |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Pregnancy Nausea, General Upset Stomach | Motion Sickness (Preventative) |
| Mechanism | Acts on the digestive tract | Acts on the brain (antihistamine) |
| Pregnancy Safety | Generally considered safe and effective (First-line) | Generally low-risk, but consult your doctor |
| Primary Side Effect | Minimal; high doses can cause heartburn | Drowsiness, dry mouth |
A Doctor’s Verdict: The Right Tool for the Right Job
In my clinical practice, the recommendation is clear and follows the evidence. It’s about choosing the right tool for the right job, a core principle of patient self-advocacy we detail in our guide on communicating effectively with your healthcare team.
- For expecting mothers dealing with morning sickness: Start with ginger. It is safe and effective, and free of sedating side effects. Begin with tea or small doses and see how your body responds.
- For predictable motion sickness (a cruise, a long car ride): Gravol or Dramamine is an incredibly reliable and effective preventative measure. Take it as directed before your journey begins, but plan for the potential drowsiness.
Your Top Questions About Nausea Relief Answered
How do you use ginger for nausea during pregnancy?
Ginger can be used in several ways. Ginger tea, made from fresh root, is a soothing option. Ginger capsules (around 250mg, 4 times a day) are also shown to be effective. Always discuss any supplement use with your doctor during pregnancy.
Are Dramamine and Gravol the same thing?
Yes, in North America, both Dramamine (in the U.S.) and Gravol (in Canada) typically use the same active ingredient, dimenhydrinate, for treating motion sickness.
Does Gravol or Dramamine make you sleepy?
Yes, drowsiness is the most common side effect of Gravol and Dramamine. Because it is an antihistamine that acts on the brain, it can cause significant sleepiness, and you should not drive or operate machinery after taking it.
Conclusion: An Empowered Choice
You now have the knowledge to make an informed choice. You don’t have to suffer through nausea or guess about which remedy might work best for your specific situation. This is exactly why I practice medicine—to give you the knowledge and confidence to take control of your health journey, one informed decision at a time. By understanding how these two very different remedies work, you can move from simply reacting to your symptoms to making a proactive, evidence-based choice that is right for your body.
Disclaimer: The content provided by Dr. Emily Richards is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any changes to your treatment plan, especially during pregnancy.
References
View Full List of Scientific References
- Lete I, Allué J. The Effectiveness of Ginger in the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting during Pregnancy and Chemotherapy. Integr Med Insights. 2016 Mar 31;11:11-7. doi: 10.4137/IMI.S36273. PMID: 27053918; PMCID: PMC4818021.
- Dai Y, Zhao Y, Nie K. The Antiemetic Mechanisms of Gingerols against Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2022 Feb 24;2022:1753430. doi: 10.1155/2022/1753430. PMID: 35251202; PMCID: PMC8893993.
- Viljoen, E., Visser, J., Koen, N. et al. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect and safety of ginger in the treatment of pregnancy-associated nausea and vomiting. Nutr J 13, 20 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-13-20
- AHFS Patient Medication Information [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc.; c2019. Dimenhydrinate; [updated 2024 Jan 30; cited 2025 Aug 29]; [about 5 p.]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a607046.html
- DrugBank. Dimenhydrinate: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action – DrugBank. Version 5.1.9. Accessed August 29, 2025. https://go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB00985
- AHFS Patient Medication Information [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc.; c2019. Dimenhydrinate; [updated 2024 Jan 30; cited 2025 Aug 29]; [about 5 p.]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a607046.html
- Drugs.com. Dimenhydrinate Use During Pregnancy | Drugs.com. Updated January 30, 2024. Accessed August 29, 2025. https://www.drugs.com/pregnancy/dimenhydrinate.html
- Viljoen, E., Visser, J., Koen, N. et al. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect and safety of ginger in the treatment of pregnancy-associated nausea and vomiting. Nutr J 13, 20 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-13-20
- Lete I, Allué J. The Effectiveness of Ginger in the Prevention of Nausea and Vomiting during Pregnancy and Chemotherapy. Integr Med Insights. 2016 Mar 31;11:11-7. doi: 10.4137/IMI.S36273. PMID: 27053918; PMCID: PMC4818021.
- AHFS Patient Medication Information [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc.; c2019. Dimenhydrinate; [updated 2024 Jan 30; cited 2025 Aug 29]; [about 5 p.]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a607046.html
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