When it comes to health advice, there’s nobody better qualified to provide it than someone who works in a medical capacity.

If you struggle with illness or queasiness, paramedic Amy Leigh has a straightforward “hack” she describes as “highly effective.” Holding up a small alcohol wipe packet, she explained these are usually used to clean and disinfect patients’ skin.

Nevertheless, Amy Leigh pointed out that several recent studies indicate these wipes also possess anti-nausea capabilities—simply by sniffing them. “In my own experience, I have found this method highly effective,” she confirmed, noting that patients still receive anti-sickness medication as well.

“For patients who are actively vomiting or experiencing severe nausea, always resort to antiemetics—such as anti-sickness tablets or injections,” Amy Leigh advised. “However, for travel sickness, mild to moderate nausea, or someone who’s had a bit to drink, definitely try the alcohol wipes.”

Wondering where to purchase them? “Just about anywhere—they’re easily accessible,” the paramedic explained. “Plus, they’re budget-friendly and affordable.”

Amy Leigh further suggested that these wipes offer a “great alternative” to travel sickness pressure bands. “I’m quite a fan of them,” she stated, noting she prefers the Clinell brand, though “any generic alcohol wipe will work.”

A study published by the BMJ explored “patient access to symptomatic treatment through self-service nausea stations” in a hospital’s emergency department, supporting Amy Leigh’s recommendations as well.

It found that over a 25-week period, IPA [isopropyl alcohol] inhalation is effective in improving nausea symptoms, with 53% of the survey’s respondents suggesting ‘great improvement’ or ‘good improvement’. In addition, 88% of respondents felt there was improvement in symptoms.

Just 12% reported that IPA administration showed ‘no improvement’, however.

Amy Leigh’s clip was met with hundreds of responses, many of which appeared to support Amy’s advice too. “I was in hospital on Monday for surgery and when I came round I was nauseous and they gave me a wipe to smell it worked great,” one TikTok user outlined in their success story.

A second person revealed: “My 1st month taking Mounjaro [weight loss injection] I felt terribly nauseous. The alcohol wipe worked a treat. Also when I was coming round from general anaesthetic. Great tip.”

A third added: “When I had HG [Hyperemesis Gravidarum, a severe form of nausea and vomiting] in pregnancy towards the end my symptoms eased a bit and I found that smelling the wipes really helped.”

Whilst a fourth praised the tip: “Did this on the train home after my son was sick on a day trip. I felt so queasy but kept sniffing a wipe and topping it up with some hand sanitiser all the way home. Definitely worked for me!”