Vomiting

Definition

Vomiting is the forceful expulsion of the stomach contents through the mouth. Vomiting is a natural reflex.

Symptoms

Symptoms of vomiting include upset stomach, nausea, sweating, white clammy skin, and general sick feelings. Dry heaves commonly occur when the stomach is completely empty and there is nothing left to expel.

Causes

The most common causes of vomiting include morning sickness attributed to pregnancy, food allergies, food poisoning, parasites, emotional upset, alcohol binging, medicinal side effects, and excessive exercise or activity after eating.

Note: Vomiting may also occur due to gastric illness (ulcers or inflammation), appendicitis, reaction to microbial toxins, pharmaceutical medication use, excess mineral consumption (most commonly zinc and iron), radiation, motion sickness, gastrointestinal blockage, or a metabolic disorder such as diabetes or liver disease. Vomiting is also associated with psychological disorders such as bulimia, which is self-induced vomiting.

If vomiting persists, consider having a doctor screen you for one of the problems listed above. When vomit contains blood, contact a doctor immediately.

Organic Cures

Aromatherapy: Massage or compress a mixture of black pepper, chamomile, fennel, camphor, lavender, peppermint, or rose essential oils, onto your stomach.

Diet: If you are experiencing regular vomiting you must rehydrate your body. Drink filtered water, fresh-squeezed natural vegetable juices, and clear broths. Avoid heavy foods and dairy in particular. For meals, consume a light vegetable broth and whole-grain bread, until you are ready to gradually reintroduce more solid foods, such as plain organic yogurt, potatoes, soups, brown rice, and steamed veggies. After two or three days, begin consuming a normal organic, whole foods diet.

Herbs: Ginger, peppermint, and spearmint are all useful for calming nausea. They can be used alone or in tea.

Homeopathy: Useful homeopathic remedies include Ipecac, phosphorus, arsenicum album, and Nux Vomica.

Liquid Therapy: Any organic, fresh vegetable juice infused with ginger can help calm your stomach.

Dietary Supplementation: One day after the vomiting has stopped, begin taking supplements, but only take light doses for the first few days. Useful nutrients include acidophilus, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin B1, vitamin C, folate, and deglycerrhized licorice.

Alternative Professional Care

If your signs and symptoms persist despite following the advice listed above, seek the help of a qualified health professional. The following expert treatments have all demonstrated the ability to be helpful in treating regular vomiting: Acupressure, Craniosacral Therapy, Detoxification Therapy, Environmental Medicine, Magnetic Area Therapy, Naturopathic Medicine, Osteopathy, and Chinese Medicine. (See Glossary for descriptions of these alternative therapies.)