Sick and tired Q: I get very bad cases of motion sickness anytime I'm in the car for more than 30 minutes or so. I hate taking Dramamine though because it makes me groggy for the rest of the day. Are there any natural remedies for car sickness that won't make me so tired? JVW: Nausea is yet another one of those unpleasant human conditions that the big-time patent medicine companies just don't seem to be able to solve without causing even more problems. The major class of anti-nausea drugs is called dimenhydrinate, which includes brand name products like Dramamine, Hydrate, Marmine, Triptone, and others. Its major side effect is the same one you've experienced: drowsiness. It doesn't sound that bad, especially in comparison to some of the other side effects associated with patent medications, but it can make performing normal daily tasks -- especially driving -- nearly impossible. Fortunately, there is a natural remedy that has been proven in countless studies to be even more effective than prescription or over-the-counter medications without interfering with your daily routine: ginger. Small, frequent doses generally give the best results. Ginger and ginger powder supplements are readily available in most natural food stores. But make sure that you use all-natural, good-quality ginger. It shouldn't have any added sugar and should have a spicy taste (certainly not what you'd find in a bottle of ginger ale). Although no problems have been reported, it is possible that ginger can increase the chance of bleeding, so you should not take it if you're currently on warfarin or aspirin unless you are under professional supervision. One common side effect of ginger is heartburn. If this occurs, use a lower dose more often or take the ginger with food. | 
