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Motion sickness affects millions of people worldwide, causing discomfort during travel in cars, planes, and boats. This condition arises when the brain receives conflicting signals from the eyes, inner ears, and muscles, leading to symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. While various medications exist to mitigate these symptoms, they often come with side effects such as drowsiness. Researchers are now exploring innovative, non-pharmaceutical solutions, one of which involves sound therapy.
A recent study by Takumi Kagawa and Masashi Kato from Nagoya University in Japan has identified a specific auditory frequency that may help alleviate motion sickness. Their research focused on the vestibular system, which plays a crucial role in maintaining balance. The scientists discovered that a tone at 100 hertz and a volume of 65.9 dBa, dubbed “sound spice,” significantly improved balance in test subjects.
During the study, live mice were exposed to this tone for five minutes before being subjected to movements that typically induce motion sickness. The results indicated that the mice treated with “sound spice” exhibited improved stability and displayed fewer signs of discomfort compared to those that had not received the auditory treatment. Remarkably, the positive effects persisted for over two hours.
Building on these findings, the researchers conducted tests on human volunteers. After just one minute of listening to the “sound spice,” participants engaged in motion-inducing activities, including swinging and simulated driving. Monitoring techniques like electrocardiography and posturography confirmed that the sound effectively reduced symptoms associated with motion sickness.
The potential of this non-invasive and quick solution is encouraging for travelers and those prone to motion-induced discomfort. With its volume comparable to everyday environmental noise, “sound spice” does not require special equipment and is safe for use. Although further research is necessary to explore long-term effects and broader applications, this innovation could represent a significant advancement in the management of motion sickness, helping individuals maintain stability during their journeys.
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