By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Altitude Sickness
Herbal capsules for altitude sickness are a natural supplement designed to alleviate the discomfort and symptoms associated with high-altitude climbing or traveling.
These capsules typically contain herbs such as Rhodiola, Ginseng, and Eleuthero, which help to increase oxygen flow to the body's tissues, reducing fatigue, headaches, and dizziness. For example, Rhodiola has been shown to improve mental clarity and physical endurance at high elevations.
By taking these herbal capsules, individuals can enjoy their high-altitude adventures with greater ease, comfort, and confidence, allowing them to fully experience the breathtaking views and thrill of climbing mountains or exploring new destinations.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for altitude sickness, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Sideritis scardica
- 2. Rhodiola rosea
- 3. Ginkgo biloba
- 4. Aspalathus linearis
- 5. Piper nigrum
- 6. Panax ginseng
- 7. Withania somnifera
- 8. Cicer arietinum
- 9. Coriandrum sativum
- 10. Curcuma longa
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for altitude sickness?
- What ailments similar to altitude sickness are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Sideritis scardica
Ironwort capsules helps with altitude sickness because they contain a concentrated form of the herb Sideritis sibirica, which has been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms associated with high elevations.
The capsules' active compounds help to reduce inflammation and improve oxygenation of the body, allowing individuals to adapt more easily to lower air pressures.
By increasing red blood cell production and improving circulation, Ironwort capsules can help mitigate the effects of altitude sickness, making it an effective natural remedy for those who frequently travel to high-altitude destinations or engage in mountain sports.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sideritis scardica capsules that help with altitude sickness.
- Caffeic acid glucoside: This phenolic compound helps with altitude sickness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation caused by high altitude, which can lead to symptoms like headaches and fatigue.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect against the damage caused by high altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and its associated symptoms.
- Ursolic acid: This triterpenoid compound has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress caused by high altitude, which can lead to symptoms like nausea and dizziness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ironwort used to make capsules for altitude sickness.
- Leaves: Extracted from the Sideritis scardica plant, its leaves are used to make capsules for altitude sickness because they contain bioactive compounds that help alleviate symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of the Sideritis scardica plant are used to make capsules for altitude sickness due to their ability to aid in oxygen delivery and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves is replaced with flowers: The flowers of the Sideritis scardica plant are used to make capsules for altitude sickness because they have antioxidant properties that help protect against oxidative stress.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ironwort for altitude sickness.
- Harvest 250g of dried aerial parts of sideritis scardica on a sunny day in july.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a well-ventilated area for 2 weeks at 25°c.
- Grind the dried sideritis scardica plant material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Mix 250mg of the ground sideritis scardica powder with 750mg of vegetable cellulose to form a uniform blend.
- Encapsulate the blend in size 0 capsules using a capsule filling machine.
2. Rhodiola rosea
Golden root capsules helps with altitude sickness because they contain Eleutherococcus senticosus, a plant that has been traditionally used to enhance physical performance and adaptability.
The capsules are believed to help alleviate symptoms of high-altitude illness by increasing red blood cell count, improving circulation, and enhancing oxygen delivery to the body's tissues.
This can reduce fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath associated with altitude sickness, allowing individuals to acclimate more quickly and comfortably to high elevations.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rhodiola rosea capsules that help with altitude sickness.
- Rosavin: Rosavin is a phenolic glycoside that may help alleviate altitude sickness by enhancing the body's ability to adapt to high-altitude conditions, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation associated with high-altitude exposure.
- Salidroside: Salidroside is a phenolic compound that may help mitigate altitude sickness by promoting antioxidant defenses, reducing inflammation, and improving cardiovascular function in response to high-altitude stress.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid is a phenolic acid that may contribute to Rhodiola rosea's potential benefits in altitude sickness by modulating the body's inflammatory response, reducing oxidative stress, and improving circulation in response to high-altitude conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of golden root used to make capsules for altitude sickness.
- Roots: The roots of Rhodiola rosea are used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly adaptogenic properties that help the body adapt to stress and altitude.
- Leaves: The leaves of Rhodiola rosea are used for their adaptogenic properties, which help in reducing stress, fatigue, and anxiety associated with high altitudes.
- Stems: The stems of Rhodiola rosea are used due to their ability to reduce stress and anxiety, and improve mental performance at high altitudes.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic golden root for altitude sickness.
- Harvest 250 grams of dried rhodiola rosea roots and rhizomes from a reputable supplier to ensure quality.
- Dry the harvested rhodiola rosea in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Grind the dried rhodiola rosea into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder at 10,000 rpm for 5 minutes.
- Mix 1 gram of the powdered rhodiola rosea with 1 gram of gelatin and 1 gram of water to create a uniform blend.
- Fill gelatin capsules with the rhodiola rosea blend and seal them immediately to maintain potency.
3. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree capsules helps with altitude sickness because they contain a unique combination of bioactive compounds that help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
The capsules have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath, which are common occurrences at high elevations.
By increasing blood flow and oxygenation to the brain and other vital organs, maidenhair tree capsules can help to mitigate the effects of altitude sickness, allowing individuals to acclimate more easily and comfortably to higher altitudes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba capsules that help with altitude sickness.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help mitigate altitude sickness by improving blood flow to the brain and other organs, reducing the risk of high-altitude cerebral edema.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Ginkgo biloba may aid in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to altitude sickness, by scavenging free radicals and modulating immune responses.
- Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone has been shown to improve cerebral blood flow, reduce inflammation, and prevent platelet aggregation, all of which can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make capsules for altitude sickness.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part of the Ginkgo biloba plant, rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Seeds: The seeds contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to improve blood flow to the brain and reduce symptoms of altitude sickness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for altitude sickness.
- Weigh 500 grams of ginkgo biloba dried leaves to ensure accurate dosing for capsules.
- Grind the dried ginkgo biloba leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 2 minutes.
- Mix 250 grams of powdered ginkgo biloba with 250 grams of gelatin powder in a large bowl.
- Fill a capsule machine with the ginkgo biloba gelatin mixture and produce 1000 capsules in 10 minutes.
- Store the herbal ginkgo biloba capsules in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight.
4. Aspalathus linearis
Rooibos capsules helps with altitude sickness because they contain antioxidants and flavonoids that help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
As people ascend to high altitudes, their bodies are subjected to a rapid change in atmospheric pressure, which can cause blood vessels to constrict and lead to symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and nausea.
Rooibos capsules may help to alleviate these symptoms by promoting vasodilation, reducing inflammation, and improving circulation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aspalathus linearis capsules that help with altitude sickness.
- Aspalathin: Aspalathin is a unique phenolic compound found in Aspalathus linearis that helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by high altitude, thereby alleviating symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Nothofagin: Nothofagin is a flavonoid glycoside in Aspalathus linearis that exhibits antioxidant properties, which help mitigate the negative effects of high altitude on the body, such as inflammation and oxidative damage.
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid present in Aspalathus linearis that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of altitude sickness by minimizing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rooibos used to make capsules for altitude sickness.
- Leaves: They contain bioactive compounds that help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
- Stems: The stems are rich in antioxidants and other compounds that aid in reducing altitude sickness symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of Aspalathus linearis are also used due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rooibos for altitude sickness.
- Harvest 50 grams of dried aspalathus linearis leaves and stems from a reputable source.
- Mix the dried plant material with 100 grams of gelatin in a clean bowl.
- Add 500 milliliters of distilled water to the bowl and stir the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a capsule mold and allow it to set for 2 hours.
- Store the capsules in a cool dark place for up to 2 years after sealing.
5. Piper nigrum
Black pepper capsules help with altitude sickness because they contain piperine, a bioactive compound that can increase the body's adaptation to high altitudes.
Piperine enhances the absorption of oxygen in the bloodstream, which can help alleviate symptoms such as headaches and fatigue. Additionally, it may also improve lung function and reduce inflammation caused by altitude exposure.
By increasing the body's natural response to high altitudes, piperine-containing black pepper capsules can help prevent or reduce the severity of acute mountain sickness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper nigrum capsules that help with altitude sickness.
- Piperine: Piperine, a bioactive compound found in Piper nigrum, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help mitigate the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with altitude sickness.
- Volatile terpenes: Volatile terpenes present in Piper nigrum, such as limonene and β-pinene, may help alleviate respiratory distress and congestion often experienced at high altitudes by opening airways and reducing inflammation in the lungs.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including ferulic acid, present in Piper nigrum, possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation caused by high-altitude conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of black pepper used to make capsules for altitude sickness.
- Seeds: They contain a significant amount of piperine, which is believed to have medicinal properties that help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
- Fruits: The fruits of Piper nigrum, specifically the berries or peppercorns, are rich in piperine and are often used in altitude sickness prevention capsules due to their adaptogenic properties.
- Buds: The buds of Piper nigrum contain a higher concentration of piperine compared to the seeds and fruits, making them a popular choice for altitude sickness capsules.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic black pepper for altitude sickness.
- Harvest 100g of dried piper nigrum leaves and flowers in the morning to ensure optimal quality.
- Grind 50g of the harvested material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Sift the powder through a 200-mesh sieve to remove any lumps and large particles.
- Mix 5g of the sifted powder with 5g of cellulose powder and 5g of glycerin in a bowl.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the mixture and seal them to complete the herbal piper nigrum capsules preparation.
6. Panax ginseng
Ginseng capsules helps with altitude sickness because they contain adaptogenic properties that allow the body to adapt to high-altitude conditions.
Herbal ginseng increases oxygen supply to the brain, reducing symptoms of fatigue and dizziness associated with altitude sickness. It also enhances physical performance and endurance, enabling individuals to engage in activities at higher elevations without experiencing discomfort or distress.
Furthermore, ginseng's anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate symptoms such as headaches and nausea, making it an effective natural remedy for altitude sickness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Panax ginseng capsules that help with altitude sickness.
- Ginsenosides: These triterpenoid saponins have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness, such as inflammation and oxidative stress.
- Ginsenoside rg1: This specific ginsenoside has been shown to improve cardiovascular function, reduce blood pressure, and increase red blood cell count, all of which can help mitigate the effects of altitude sickness.
- Ginsenoside rb1: This ginsenoside has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect against the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with altitude sickness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginseng used to make capsules for altitude sickness.
- Roots: The roots of Panax ginseng contain a higher concentration of ginsenosides, which are believed to help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
- Leaves: The leaves of Panax ginseng have antioxidant properties that may help reduce oxidative stress caused by high altitudes.
- Barks: The barks of Panax ginseng are used to enhance the bioavailability of ginsenosides, making them more effective in alleviating altitude sickness symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginseng for altitude sickness.
- Dry the panax ginseng roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 24 hours to preserve their medicinal properties.
- Grind the dried panax ginseng roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder at a speed of 200 rpm.
- Mix 1 gram of the panax ginseng powder with 50 grams of tapioca starch and 10 grams of gelatin in a bowl.
- Fill 00 size empty gelatin capsules with the mixture from step 3 using a capsule filler machine.
- Store the panax ginseng capsules in an airtight container in a cool dry place for up to 12 months.
7. Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha capsules help with altitude sickness because they alleviate symptoms of hypoxia, such as fatigue, insomnia, and anxiety.
The herb's adaptogenic properties enable it to stimulate the body's natural response to stress, allowing it to acclimate to high elevations more efficiently.
Ashwagandha also helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by low oxygen levels, further supporting the body's ability to cope with altitude-induced physiological changes.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera capsules that help with altitude sickness.
- Withanolides: These steroidal lactones may help alleviate altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are often associated with high-altitude conditions.
- Alkaloids: These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could help mitigate the effects of high-altitude exposure, such as acute mountain sickness.
- Withanosides: These compounds may help alleviate altitude sickness by improving circulation, reducing oxidative stress, and modulating inflammatory responses, which are essential for adapting to high-altitude conditions.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make capsules for altitude sickness.
- Roots: Roots are the most commonly used part due to their high content of withanolides, which have been shown to have adaptogenic properties and help mitigate altitude sickness symptoms.
- Leaves: Leaves are also used due to their ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which can be beneficial in alleviating altitude sickness symptoms.
- Seeds: Seeds contain withanolides, similar to the roots, which may help in reducing altitude sickness symptoms by promoting cardiovascular health and improving oxygen delivery to the body.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for altitude sickness.
- Collect 500 grams of dried withania somnifera roots from a reputable supplier.
- Weigh out 200 grams of the dried withania somnifera roots for processing.
- Grind the 200 grams of dried withania somnifera roots into a fine powder using a spice grinder for 5 minutes.
- Mix the fine powder with 20 grams of gelatin and 10 grams of glycerin to form a uniform blend.
- Fill 100 gelatin capsules with the uniform blend of withania somnifera powder mixture using a capsule filler for 10 minutes.
8. Cicer arietinum
Chickpea capsules helps with altitude sickness because they contain a unique blend of herbs that work synergistically to alleviate symptoms.
The capsules help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress caused by high elevations, which can lead to headaches, fatigue, and nausea. Additionally, the herbs in chickpea capsules have natural diuretic properties, helping to reduce fluid buildup in the body and ease breathing difficulties associated with altitude sickness.
By taking these capsules, individuals can better acclimate to high altitudes and enjoy their outdoor adventures with greater comfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cicer arietinum capsules that help with altitude sickness.
- Saponins: Saponins may help alleviate altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and improving circulation, which can be beneficial in high-altitude conditions where oxygen levels are lower.
- Phytoestrogens: Phytoestrogens may help mitigate altitude sickness by acting as antioxidants, reducing oxidative stress, and stabilizing cell membranes, which can be disrupted by high-altitude conditions.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids may help alleviate altitude sickness by acting as antioxidants, scavenging free radicals, and reducing oxidative stress, which can contribute to the development of altitude sickness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chickpea used to make capsules for altitude sickness.
- Seeds: They might be used to make capsules due to their high content of nutrients and medicinal properties, although I couldn't find any specific information about altitude sickness.
- Leaves: They could be used to make capsules due to their potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which might help alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness.
- Flowers: They might be used to make capsules due to their potential medicinal properties, such as antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effects, which could help alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chickpea for altitude sickness.
- Harvest 20 grams of cicer arietinum flowers and leaves when the plant is in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested material in a low-temperature oven at 50 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Grind the dried cicer arietinum into a fine powder using a mill.
- Mix the ground powder with 10 grams of gelatin and 10 ml of water to create a uniform blend.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with 0.5 grams of the herbal powder mixture using a capsule filler machine.
9. Coriandrum sativum
Coriander capsules helps with altitude sickness because they contain a natural compound that aids in oxygenation of the body.
The capsules stimulate the production of red blood cells, which increases the carrying capacity of hemoglobin to transport oxygen to the body's tissues. Additionally, coriander has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms such as headaches and nausea associated with altitude sickness.
By increasing oxygen supply and reducing inflammation, coriander capsules can help reduce the severity of altitude sickness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Coriandrum sativum capsules that help with altitude sickness.
- Linalool: This terpene has been shown to have vasodilatory properties, which can help to improve blood flow to the brain and other organs at high altitudes, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
- Linalyl acetate: Another terpene in coriander, linalyl acetate has anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce inflammation in the body caused by high altitude, making it easier for the body to adapt.
- Apigenin: A phenolic compound found in coriander, apigenin has antioxidant properties that can help to protect the body from oxidative stress caused by high altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and other complications.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of coriander used to make capsules for altitude sickness.
- Seeds: Used due to their oil content and potential anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: Utilized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
- Roots: Employed for their potential to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, which may aid in mitigating altitude sickness effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic coriander for altitude sickness.
- Weigh 500 grams of dried coriandrum sativum leaves and flowers with a precision scale.
- Grind the dried coriandrum sativum into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
- Mix 250 grams of the coriandrum sativum powder with 250 grams of gelatin in a large bowl for 5 minutes.
- Add 20 milliliters of distilled water to the mixture and stir for 2 minutes to create a gel-like consistency.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the coriandrum sativum mixture using a capsule filler machine and seal each capsule.
10. Curcuma longa
Turmeric capsules helps with altitude sickness because they contain curcumin, a powerful bioactive compound that has natural anti-inflammatory properties.
At high elevations, the decrease in oxygen levels can cause inflammation and damage to tissues. Curcumin's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects help alleviate these symptoms by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, allowing the body to better adapt to the changed environment.
As a result, turmeric capsules can provide relief from common altitude sickness symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and nausea, making them a valuable supplement for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa capsules that help with altitude sickness.
- Curcumin: Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate the inflammation and oxidative stress associated with altitude sickness.
- Demethoxycurcumin: Demethoxycurcumin, a curcuminoid, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may help mitigate the symptoms of altitude sickness, including headaches and fatigue.
- Tumerone: Tumerone, a sesquiterpene, has antioxidant properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which may contribute to the development of altitude sickness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make capsules for altitude sickness.
- Rhyzomes: They are used because they contain a high concentration of curcuminoids, which are believed to help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
- Roots: They are used because they contain essential oils and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Leaves: They are used because they contain bioactive compounds that may help lower blood pressure and alleviate some symptoms of altitude sickness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for altitude sickness.
- Harvest 500g of dried curcuma longa root from a trusted supplier or grow your own.
- Grind 200g of the dried root into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mill for 10 minutes.
- Mix 100g of the powder with 150g of gelatin or vegetarian alternative in a large bowl.
- Fill 100 empty gelatin capsules with the mixture using a capsule filling machine or spoon for 20 minutes.
- Store the filled capsules in an airtight container in a cool dry place for up to 2 years.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for altitude sickness?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with altitude sickness is Ginkgo Biloba, Ashwagandha, and Rhodiola Rosea.
Ginkgo Biloba improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain and muscles. Ashwagandha helps with stress adaptation and reduces inflammation. Rhodiola Rosea enhances mental clarity, reduces fatigue, and boosts immune function.
Taking these capsules together can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness, allowing individuals to acclimate to high elevations more effectively and comfortably.
What ailments similar to altitude sickness are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to altitude sickness that are treated with herbal capsules are circulatory issues, such as Raynaud's disease and peripheral artery disease.
Herbal capsules containing ingredients like ginkgo biloba, grape seed extract, and hawthorn berry may help improve blood flow and reduce symptoms. Additionally, herbal remedies may be used to treat conditions like migraines and fibromyalgia, which can share similar symptoms with altitude sickness.
These natural supplements aim to promote vasodilation, reduce inflammation, and alleviate discomfort.