Viral Band-Aid Trick for Car Sickness: Fact or Fiction?

Social media is abuzz with a viral video suggesting a simple yet unconventional remedy for car sickness: placing a band-aid over a child’s belly button. This travel hack, shared by Jasmin, has attracted over 8 million views, with many praising its effectiveness. The method is said to prevent nausea during travel, though Jasmin admits she doesn’t fully understand how it works.

The video has sparked debate. Some viewers, like Mellissa Nonis, recall similar traditional practices that were beneficial, while others suggest the remedy might be a placebo effect—where improvements are felt due to belief rather than scientific validation. Dr. Poonam Sidana, a neonatologist, and Dr. Shobha Subramanian Itolikar, an internal medicine consultant, both emphasize that there is no scientific evidence supporting the band-aid method. They highlight that motion sickness is due to a sensory conflict between the eyes and inner ear, which the band-aid does not address.

Medical experts, including Dr. Sam Hay, suggest that while the band-aid trick is unlikely to cause harm, it lacks scientific backing. Parents should be cautious, as relying solely on such remedies may delay seeking appropriate medical advice. Proven methods for managing motion sickness include medications, positional adjustments, focusing on stable objects, and natural remedies like ginger and peppermint.

For reliable advice on motion sickness, consult a healthcare provider to explore safe and effective options for your child.