By Leen Randell
Updated: Nov 13, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Altitude Sickness
Herbal teas for altitude sickness are a natural remedy that helps alleviate symptoms associated with high altitudes, such as headaches, fatigue, and dizziness.
These teas are effective in reducing altitude sickness due to their adaptogenic properties, which enable the body to adapt to changes in oxygen levels. The best herbal teas for altitude sickness include Ginkgo biloba, Astragalus membranaceus, Rhodiola rosea, Zingiber officinale, Andrographis paniculata, Panax ginseng, Withania somnifera, Cinchona officinalis, Echinacea purpurea, and Glycyrrhiza glabra.
If left untreated, altitude sickness can lead to severe consequences, including respiratory failure, brain damage, and even death, significantly impacting one's quality of life and daily activities.
1. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba teas helps with altitude sickness because it improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to the body's tissues.
The leaves of the ginkgo biloba tree contain flavonoids and terpenoids that help to dilate blood vessels, allowing for better circulation and increased oxygen supply to the brain and other organs. This can aid in reducing symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, fatigue, and dizziness, making it a popular choice among travelers and adventurers who venture to high elevations.
Regular consumption may also enhance overall cardiovascular health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba teas that help with altitude sickness.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the brain and other tissues.
- Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone has antioxidant properties that help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with altitude sickness.
- Quercetin: As a potent antioxidant, quercetin helps mitigate the damage caused by high altitude conditions, such as reduced oxygen levels and increased oxidative stress.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Ginkgo biloba used to make teas for altitude sickness.
- Leaves: They are the primary part used due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Barks: Barks are used in some herbal teas, possibly due to their potential anti-inflammatory properties that could help counteract altitude sickness symptoms.
- Seeds: Some herbal teas may include Ginkgo biloba seeds, possibly for their antioxidant properties, which could aid in reducing oxidative stress associated with altitude sickness.
2. Astragalus membranaceus
Astragalus membranaceus teas helps with altitude sickness because it has been found to enhance the body's natural response to high elevations.
The tea's adaptogenic properties help to regulate the body's stress response, improving circulation and oxygen delivery to the body's tissues. Astragalus has also been shown to increase the production of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells, which is essential for transporting oxygen to the body's tissues at high altitudes.
This can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, such as fatigue and shortness of breath.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Astragalus membranaceus teas that help with altitude sickness.
- Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress caused by high altitude, which can exacerbate altitude sickness.
- Saponins: Saponins in Astragalus membranaceus have anti-inflammatory properties, which can alleviate the symptoms of high altitude sickness such as headaches and fatigue.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly astragalosides, have antioxidant properties that help protect the body against the oxidative damage caused by high altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Astragalus membranaceus used to make teas for altitude sickness.
- Roots: The roots of Astragalus membranaceus are rich in compounds that can help improve circulation and reduce fatigue, making them a popular choice for teas addressing altitude sickness.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Astragalus membranaceus contain antioxidants and adaptogenic properties that can help the body adapt to high altitudes and reduce stress.
- Leaves: The leaves of Astragalus membranaceus are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that can help improve oxygenation and reduce inflammation in the body, making them beneficial for teas addressing altitude sickness.
3. Rhodiola rosea
Rhodiola rosea teas helps with altitude sickness because it's rich in adaptogenic compounds that aid in stress management and improve cardiovascular function.
The tea's adaptogenic properties help the body adapt to high-altitude conditions by regulating blood pressure and flow, reducing fatigue and shortness of breath. Additionally, Rhodiola rosea's antioxidant properties help mitigate oxidative stress caused by altitude, supporting overall physiological balance and reducing the severity of altitude sickness symptoms.
This makes it a potential natural remedy for altitude sickness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rhodiola rosea teas that help with altitude sickness.
- Rosavin: Helps to improve oxygen utilization in the body, reducing the severity of altitude sickness symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.
- Salidroside: Acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation caused by high altitude, thus alleviating symptoms such as shortness of breath and dizziness.
- Tyrosol: Exhibits vasodilatory properties, helping to widen blood vessels and improve blood flow to the brain and other organs, which can be compromised during altitude sickness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Rhodiola rosea used to make teas for altitude sickness.
- Roots: The roots of Rhodiola rosea are commonly used due to their high concentration of active compounds, including rosavin and salidroside, which help mitigate the effects of altitude sickness.
- Leaves: The leaves of Rhodiola rosea are also used to make teas, as they contain adaptogenic properties that aid in reducing stress and fatigue associated with high altitudes.
- Stems: The stems of Rhodiola rosea are another commonly used part, as they contain a higher percentage of rosavin and other bioactive compounds, which help in alleviating symptoms of altitude sickness.
4. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale teas helps with altitude sickness because of its ability to alleviate nausea and digestive issues often associated with high altitudes.
The active compound, gingerol, has natural anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce swelling in the body and alleviate pain caused by altitude sickness.
Additionally, ginger has been shown to help regulate blood flow, which can become compromised at high elevations, allowing the body to adapt more effectively to the change in environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with altitude sickness.
- Gingerols: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches and nausea.
- Shogaols: Shogaols have vasodilatory effects, which help improve blood flow to the brain and other vital organs, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids in ginger, particularly beta-sinensal, have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help mitigate the effects of high altitude on the body.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Zingiber officinale used to make teas for altitude sickness.
- Rhyzomes: They contain compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate nausea and other symptoms associated with altitude sickness.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Leaves: The leaves of Zingiber officinale contain compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which can help alleviate nausea, headaches, and other symptoms associated with altitude sickness.
5. Andrographis paniculata
Andrographis paniculata teas helps with altitude sickness because it contains andrographolide, a compound that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These properties help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can occur due to the low oxygen levels at high altitudes. By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Andrographis paniculata tea may help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue.
Its ability to promote oxygen delivery to the body's tissues may also aid in alleviating these symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Andrographis paniculata teas that help with altitude sickness.
- Andrographolide: This diterpenoid lactone helps with altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can be caused by high altitude exposure.
- Dihydroandrogenolide: This compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness, such as headaches and nausea.
- Andrographiside: This compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects, which can help mitigate the effects of high altitude exposure and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Andrographis paniculata used to make teas for altitude sickness.
- Leaves: The leaves of Andrographis paniculata are most commonly used to make teas for altitude sickness due to their high concentration of andrographolide, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Roots: The roots of Andrographis paniculata are also used to make teas for altitude sickness, as they contain a higher concentration of andrographolide than the leaves and may provide a more sustained release of the compound.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Andrographis paniculata are used to make teas for altitude sickness, as they contain a higher concentration of andrographolide than the leaves and may provide a more sustained release of the compound, similar to the roots.
6. Panax ginseng
Panax ginseng teas helps with altitude sickness because it contains compounds that aid in reducing fatigue and improving oxygenation in the body.
The ginsenosides in Panax ginseng are believed to increase red blood cell count and improve circulation, which can help offset the reduced oxygen levels at high altitudes.
By boosting energy and oxygen supply, Panax ginseng teas may help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and dizziness, allowing individuals to better adapt to high-altitude environments.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Panax ginseng teas that help with altitude sickness.
- Ginsenosides: These compounds help alleviate altitude sickness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation caused by high-altitude conditions.
- Saponins: Saponins in Panax ginseng teas have been shown to improve cardiovascular function and reduce blood pressure, which can help mitigate the effects of altitude sickness.
- Terpenoids: These terpenoids have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and fatigue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Panax ginseng used to make teas for altitude sickness.
- Roots: They are the primary source of ginsenosides, which are believed to help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
- Leaves: They contain smaller amounts of ginsenosides and other compounds that may contribute to the tea's potential benefits.
- Stems: They are sometimes used in combination with roots and leaves to create a more comprehensive Panax ginseng tea.
7. Withania somnifera
Withania somnifera teas helps with altitude sickness because it contains compounds that enhance oxygen delivery to the body and reduce oxidative stress.
Ashwagandha, the botanical name for Withania somnifera, has been traditionally used to boost energy and endurance at high elevations. By reducing inflammation and promoting blood vessel dilation, Withania somnifera teas may alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness such as fatigue, headaches, and shortness of breath.
This natural remedy has been shown to support the body's adaptation to high-altitude environments.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera teas that help with altitude sickness.
- Alkaloids: These compounds help with altitude sickness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can be exacerbated by high altitudes.
- Withanolides: Withanolides help by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the brain, which can be compromised at high altitudes, leading to altitude sickness.
- Terpenes: Terpenes help by reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and improving blood vessel function, all of which can be beneficial in alleviating symptoms of altitude sickness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Withania somnifera used to make teas for altitude sickness.
- Roots: They are the most commonly used part due to their high adaptogenic properties, which help the body adapt to high altitudes.
- Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Seeds: They are used for their adaptogenic properties, which can help the body adapt to high altitudes and reduce stress.
8. Cinchona officinalis
Cinchona officinalis teas helps with altitude sickness because it contains quinine, a natural compound that increases blood flow to the brain and helps the body adapt to high altitudes.
The tea also contains other bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness, such as headaches and fatigue.
By improving circulation and reducing inflammation, Cinchona officinalis tea may help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms, making it a popular remedy among travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinchona officinalis teas that help with altitude sickness.
- Quinine: It helps with altitude sickness by reducing the severity of malaria-like symptoms, which can be triggered by the lower oxygen levels at high altitudes.
- Quinovic acid glycosides: These compounds help with altitude sickness by improving circulation and reducing the risk of blood clots that can occur at high altitudes.
- Quinic acid: It helps with altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and relieving headaches, fatigue, and other symptoms associated with high-altitude sickness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Cinchona officinalis used to make teas for altitude sickness.
- Leaves: The leaves of Cinchona officinalis are primarily used to make teas for altitude sickness due to their high content of quinine, which helps alleviate symptoms such as nausea and headaches.
- Barks: The barks of Cinchona officinalis are also used to make teas for altitude sickness due to their high concentration of quinine and other alkaloids that help reduce fever and alleviate other symptoms.
- Seeds (albeit not typically): Cinchona officinalis seeds are occasionally used in some teas due to their lower content of quinine compared to the leaves and barks, but they still contain some beneficial alkaloids that can help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
9. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea teas helps with altitude sickness because it contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These properties may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with high altitude exposure. The tea also contains flavonoids and phenolic acids that can aid in improving circulation and oxygen delivery to the body's tissues.
Furthermore, Echinacea purpurea may help boost the immune system, which can be weakened by the body's stress response to altitude changes, making it a potentially beneficial herbal remedy for altitude sickness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with altitude sickness.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help mitigate the effects of oxidative stress caused by high altitude, reducing the risk of inflammation and damage to the body's tissues.
- Caffeic acid: This phenolic acid has antioxidant properties that help protect the body from the negative effects of high altitude, such as damage to blood vessels and increased risk of dehydration.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may aid in reducing inflammation and promoting the body's natural response to high altitude, which can help alleviate symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Echinacea purpurea used to make teas for altitude sickness.
- Leaves: Used in teas due to their anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Flowers: Utilized in teas for their antioxidant and adaptogenic properties, which may aid in acclimatization and reduce altitude sickness symptoms.
- Roots: Employed in teas due to their immunomodulatory effects, which may help boost the body's natural defense against altitude sickness.
10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra teas helps with altitude sickness because it has anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing stress on the body.
The tea's flavonoids and saponins help regulate blood pressure, which is often affected by high altitude. Additionally, its antioxidant properties help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by altitude changes.
By reducing inflammation, regulating blood pressure, and providing antioxidant protection, Glycyrrhiza glabra teas can alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness, making it a helpful remedy for those ascending to high elevations.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with altitude sickness.
- Glycyrrhizic acid: Helps with altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can alleviate symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.
- Licoricidin: Helps with altitude sickness by inhibiting the release of histamine, a chemical that can exacerbate symptoms such as nausea and dizziness.
- Licorice flavonoids: Helps with altitude sickness by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation in the body, which can alleviate symptoms such as shortness of breath and muscle fatigue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of Glycyrrhiza glabra used to make teas for altitude sickness.
- Roots: They are used to make teas for altitude sickness due to their anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms.
- Leaves: They contain compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and improve oxygenation in the body, making them useful for altitude sickness.
- Barks: They are used in teas for altitude sickness due to their antioxidant properties and ability to help regulate blood pressure.