Nausea and vomiting are uncomfortable symptoms that can disrupt your day, whether caused by motion sickness, pregnancy, chemotherapy, or even stress. While medications can provide relief, they often come with side effects of their own and may not suit everyone. For those seeking a natural, non-invasive alternative, acupressure offers a promising solution.

Acupressure is a healing technique rooted in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It involves applying pressure to specific points on the body to stimulate natural healing processes. Acupressure is safe, effective, and easy to perform, making it an accessible remedy for managing nausea and vomiting.

This article explains the basics of acupressure, the benefits it offers, and how to locate and stimulate specific points that can help ease nausea and vomiting.

The Basics of Acupressure

Acupressure is based on the same principles as acupuncture, but instead of using needles, it relies on touch. According to TCM, the body contains pathways of energy, known as “meridians,” that flow throughout. These meridians correspond to different organs and systems, and blockages or imbalances in this energy flow are believed to cause discomfort or illness.

Applying sustained pressure to specific points along these meridians is thought to restore balance and encourage the body’s natural ability to heal. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood from a scientific perspective, many experts believe acupressure works by stimulating nerves and increasing circulation, releasing endorphins, or altering brain pathways involved in processing nausea.

One of the best things about acupressure is that it’s non-invasive and requires no special tools. All you need is your hands and, in some cases, a little guidance to find the right points.

Benefits of Acupressure for Nausea

Acupressure has become a popular remedy for nausea and vomiting for several reasons.

1. Non-Invasive and Risk-Free

Unlike medications, acupressure doesn’t involve taking pills or using injections. This makes it especially attractive for individuals who are sensitive to medications or unable to take them due to other health conditions.

It’s also considered safe for virtually all individuals, including pregnant women, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and those recovering from surgery, as long as it’s done correctly.

2. No Side Effects

Medications often come with side effects like dizziness, fatigue, or drowsiness. Acupressure is free from these issues, making it a gentle and desirable option for those seeking relief.

3. Cost-Effective and Convenient

Acupressure can be performed anywhere—at home, while traveling, or even at work. Once you learn the technique, applying pressure to these points doesn’t require professional assistance, which can save both time and money.

4. Immediate Relief

Acupressure is known to work quickly, sometimes providing noticeable relief within minutes. This can be especially helpful during sudden bouts of nausea, such as during motion sickness or after eating something that doesn’t agree with your stomach.

Key Acupressure Points for Nausea and Vomiting

While acupressure includes many points across the body, a few are especially effective for managing nausea and vomiting. Below are some of the most commonly used points, including guidance on locating and using them.

1. Pericardium 6 (P6) – Nei Guan

This is one of the most well-researched and widely recommended acupressure points for nausea relief.

Location: On the inner forearm, about three finger widths below the wrist crease, in the space between the two tendons.

How to Apply Pressure:

  • Use your thumb or index finger to gently press on the P6 point.
  • Apply firm pressure in a circular motion for 2–3 minutes.
  • Repeat on the other wrist if needed.

P6 is effective for managing motion sickness, morning sickness during pregnancy, and chemotherapy-induced nausea. Wristbands designed to target the P6 point are also available for convenient, hands-free relief.

2. Stomach 36 (ST36) – Zu San Li

This point is beneficial not only for nausea but also for improving digestion overall.

Location: Below the kneecap, about three finger widths to the outside of the shinbone.

How to Apply Pressure:

  • Sit comfortably and locate the point using your fingers.
  • Apply firm, steady pressure with your thumb, massaging the area in a circular motion for 1–2 minutes.
  • Do this on both legs for better results.

3. Conception Vessel 12 (CV12) – Zhong Wan

This point helps alleviate nausea-related stomach discomfort and bloating.

Location: On the midline of the abdomen, about four finger widths above the belly button.

How to Apply Pressure:

  • Sit or lie down comfortably.
  • Use your index and middle fingers to gently massage the point in a clockwise direction for 1–2 minutes.
  • Breathe deeply as you apply the pressure.

4. Large Intestine 4 (LI4) – He Gu

Known as a versatile point, LI4 can help with headaches, stress, and nausea.

Location: On the back of the hand, in the webbing between the thumb and index finger.

How to Apply Pressure:

Pinch the webbing with your opposite thumb and index finger.

Apply firm pressure with a small circular motion for 1–2 minutes.

Repeat on the other hand if needed.

Note: This point should be avoided during pregnancy as it may stimulate uterine contractions.

How to Practice Acupressure Safely

To make the most of acupressure, follow these simple guidelines:

  • Stay Relaxed: Make sure you’re seated or lying down in a comfortable position before beginning. Deep breathing can help enhance the effects of acupressure.
  • Apply Gentle Pressure: The goal is to stimulate the point without causing discomfort. If you feel pain, reduce the intensity of your touch.
  • Consistency is Key: If you deal with chronic nausea, try practicing acupressure daily as part of your wellness routine.
  • Consult a Professional: If you’re unsure about where to start, consider seeing a licensed acupuncturist or a trained acupressure practitioner for guidance.

Acupressure offers a safe and natural way to manage nausea and vomiting. By pressing on targeted points like P6 and ST36, you can ease discomfort without relying on medications. Whether you’re dealing with morning sickness, motion sickness, or post-surgical nausea, this simple technique puts the power of relief in your hands.