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Nausea can come from many causes, so an online herb list cannot say what suits you. Learn what to describe, when to seek medical help first and how Christine reviews concerns in Lane Cove.

Many possible causes

When your stomach is churning, an online list of herbs for nausea can look like a quick answer. Nausea, however, has many possible causes, including medicine side effects, early pregnancy, infections, migraine, anxiety and conditions affecting the gut or other organs. A general article cannot tell you which applies to you, or which product might be suitable.

Familiar kitchen ingredients can also give a false sense of security. Ginger in a stir-fry is very different from a concentrated herbal preparation, which will not suit everyone.

What to describe at your appointment

Dr Christine Shen, Acupuncturist, will want to understand the pattern before discussing any options. Useful details include:

• when the nausea happens and how long it lasts
• anything that comes with it, such as headache, pain or dizziness
• what you have already tried and how it went
• every medicine and supplement you take, plus any herbal bottles from earlier consultations

If you are pregnant or trying to conceive, say so early. Christine will also want your GP, midwife or maternity team involved in decisions about nausea during pregnancy.

When to seek medical help first

Some situations need a doctor rather than another product. Persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration such as passing very little urine or feeling dizzy on standing, significant or worsening abdominal pain, vomiting blood, or nausea after a head injury should be assessed promptly by your GP or an emergency department.

If granules are considered

Christine’s herbal preparations are granules in bottles, each with written measuring, storage and use-by directions. Make sure you know the exact product name and when it will be reviewed. Keep the directions with the original bottle, and let Christine know when your doctor changes any medicine. If a new symptom develops and you are unsure of the cause, ask rather than adjusting the amount yourself.

Getting advice in Lane Cove

A short diary kept for a few days, noting meals, timing and how you felt, can make a consultation far more productive. Christine discusses digestive concerns at the Lane Cove clinic and can help you consider whether herbal care belongs alongside your medical plan at all.