10 Best Herbal Creams For Altitude Sickness

Herbal creams for altitude sickness are topical remedies that utilize plant extracts to alleviate symptoms associated with high-altitude environments.

These creams typically contain herbs such as Ginkgo biloba, Rhodiola, and Ginger, which help increase blood flow and oxygenation to the body. Examples of herbal creams that aid in altitude sickness include those containing Andean maca root and Qivana's Altitude Adaptation Cream.

By using these creams, individuals can improve their ability to adapt to high elevations, reducing fatigue and discomfort, and enhancing their overall travel experience.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for altitude sickness, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with altitude sickness because it increases blood flow to the brain and extremities, reducing the effects of low oxygen levels.

The active compounds in Ginkgo biloba, bilobalide and ginkgolides, improve circulation and oxygen delivery to tissues, making it easier to adapt to high altitudes. Additionally, Ginkgo biloba creams may help reduce inflammation and improve cognitive function, further alleviating the symptoms associated with altitude sickness.

This makes it a popular natural remedy for travelers and adventurers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with altitude sickness.

• Bilobalide: Helps with altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the brain, which can alleviate symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.
• Flavonoids: Assist in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation at high altitudes, which can help alleviate symptoms such as shortness of breath and dizziness.
• Ginkgolides: Help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation in the lungs, which can improve oxygenation and reduce the severity of symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for altitude sickness.

• Leaves: Leaves are used due to their high flavonoid and terpenoid content, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness.
• Seeds: Seeds are used due to their high bilobalide content, a compound that may help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation associated with altitude sickness.
• (optional) barks: Barks are sometimes used due to their potential antioxidant properties, which may help mitigate oxidative stress associated with high altitude exposure.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for altitude sickness.

1. Combine 2 ounces of coconut oil and 0.5 ounces of beeswax in a small saucepan.
2. Heat the mixture over low heat until the beeswax melts and the mixture reaches 120 to 140 degrees fahrenheit.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of ginkgo biloba extract powder.
4. Add 2 drops of vitamin e oil and 10 drops of lavender essential oil to the mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into small containers and let it cool and harden for 30 minutes.

2. Rhodiola rosea

Rhodiola rosea, also known as golden root, creams helps with altitude sickness because they contain adaptogenic properties that aid the body in adapting to high altitudes.

These creams typically include Rhodiola rosea extracts which increase oxygen utilization, reduce fatigue, and improve mental clarity. By enhancing the body's ability to adapt, Rhodiola rosea creams can help alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness such as headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath.

This natural remedy has been used by mountaineers and adventurers to support their high-altitude endeavors.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rhodiola rosea creams that help with altitude sickness.

• Rosavin: Rosavin is a key constituent in Rhodiola rosea that helps alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness by improving cardiovascular function and reducing oxidative stress caused by high altitude.
• Salidroside: Salidroside is a phenylethylene glycoside in Rhodiola rosea that helps mitigate altitude sickness symptoms by reducing inflammation, improving mitochondrial function, and enhancing antioxidant defenses.
• Tyrosol: Tyrosol, a phenolic compound in Rhodiola rosea, may help alleviate altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, improving cardiovascular function, and enhancing the body's ability to adapt to high-altitude conditions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of golden root used to make creams for altitude sickness.

• Roots: The roots of Rhodiola rosea are rich in bioactive compounds, making them a primary source for extracting the plant's therapeutic properties.
• Leaves: Rhodiola rosea leaves are used due to their high content of adaptogenic compounds, which help the body adapt to high-altitude conditions.
• Barks: Rhodiola rosea barks are employed for their rich content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds, contributing to the plant's potential benefits for alleviating altitude sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic golden root for altitude sickness.

1. Harvest 10-20 grams of rhodiola rosea roots and clean them thoroughly with water to remove any dirt.
2. Dry the cleaned rhodiola rosea roots in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours to remove moisture.
3. Grind the dried rhodiola rosea roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder.
4. Mix 1 teaspoon of rhodiola rosea powder with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of beeswax in a double boiler.
5. Stir the mixture continuously for 10-15 minutes until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.

3. Panax ginseng

Panax ginseng, also known as ginseng, creams helps with altitude sickness because of its adaptogenic properties.

It enables the body to adapt to high-altitude stress by increasing oxygen supply and reducing fatigue. The cream's active compounds, such as ginsenosides, help to improve cardiovascular function and boost the immune system.

By supporting the body's natural response to altitude stress, Panax ginseng creams can alleviate symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and nausea, making it a valuable remedy for individuals traveling to high-altitude regions.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Panax ginseng creams that help with altitude sickness.

• Ginsenosides: These triterpene saponins have been shown to improve cardiovascular function and increase oxygen delivery to tissues, which can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Ginsenoside rg1: This specific ginsenoside has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce oxidative stress associated with high altitudes.
• Panaxynol: This lignan has been reported to have vasodilatory effects, which can help improve blood flow and reduce the severity of altitude sickness symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginseng used to make creams for altitude sickness.

• Roots: The roots of Panax ginseng contain ginsenosides, which are believed to help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness by improving blood circulation and reducing oxidative stress.
• Leaves: The leaves of Panax ginseng are also rich in ginsenosides, which contribute to their potential benefits in treating altitude sickness.
• Barks: The barks of Panax ginseng contain bioactive compounds that may help in reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health, both of which are relevant to altitude sickness.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginseng for altitude sickness.

1. Weigh 100g of dried panax ginseng root and grind it into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 30 seconds.
2. Combine the ginseng powder with 50g of beeswax and 10g of coconut oil in a double boiler.
3. Melt the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes stirring occasionally until the wax has fully dissolved.
4. Add 20g of distilled water and 5g of vegetable glycerin to the mixture and stir well for 5 minutes.
5. Remove the mixture from the heat and let it cool and thicken before transferring it to an airtight container.

4. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with altitude sickness because of its adaptogenic properties that help the body adjust to high-altitude conditions.

The cream's active compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives, may aid in reducing inflammation and promoting oxygenation in the body. Additionally, Echinacea purpurea's antioxidant properties can help protect against oxidative stress caused by high altitude, supporting overall health and well-being during mountainous travel or high-altitude activities.

This natural remedy may provide relief from altitude sickness symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with altitude sickness.

• Icariin: This flavonoid glycoside has been shown to increase nitric oxide production, which can help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
• Cichoric acid: As an anti-inflammatory compound, cichoric acid may help mitigate the inflammation and oxidative stress associated with high-altitude environments.
• Alkylphenols: These phenolic compounds may contribute to the antioxidant properties of Echinacea purpurea, helping to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative damage caused by high-altitude conditions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for altitude sickness.

• Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory properties to help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Leaves: They are used for their antioxidant properties to help reduce oxidative stress caused by high altitudes.
• Flowers: They are used for their immunomodulatory properties to help boost the immune system and combat altitude sickness.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for altitude sickness.

1. Infuse 1 ounce of dried echinacea purpurea flowers in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes.
2. Strain the infusion and discard the solids then mix it with 1 ounce of beeswax.
3. Melt the beeswax and echinacea mixture in a double boiler over low heat for 20 minutes.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil to the mixture.
5. Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and refrigerate until it thickens into a cream.

5. Allium sativum

Allium sativum, also known as garlic, creams helps with altitude sickness because of its natural vasodilatory properties.

The active compounds in garlic, such as allicin, help to widen blood vessels and improve circulation, which can aid in the body's ability to adapt to high altitudes. Additionally, garlic creams may help to reduce inflammation and promote the production of red blood cells, further alleviating symptoms associated with altitude sickness.

This can lead to improved oxygenation and reduced fatigue.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Allium sativum creams that help with altitude sickness.

• Allicin: A sulfur compound responsible for the distinct odor and flavor of garlic, allicin is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may help alleviate altitude sickness by reducing inflammation in the body and protecting against oxidative stress caused by high-altitude conditions.
• S-allylcysteine: A bioactive compound derived from allicin, SAC has shown potential in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. It may help mitigate the effects of altitude sickness by protecting the body from oxidative damage and reducing inflammation in the affected areas.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin may help alleviate altitude sickness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Its ability to scavenge free radicals and protect against cellular damage may contribute to its potential benefits in high-altitude conditions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of garlic used to make creams for altitude sickness.

• Rhyzomes: They are used due to their high concentration of allicin, a compound that helps to alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Roots: The roots are used for their medicinal properties, including reducing inflammation and improving circulation, which can help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves are used for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the severity of altitude sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic garlic for altitude sickness.

1. Gather 250 grams of dried allium sativum roots, 50 grams of beeswax, 50 grams of coconut oil, and 20 grams of shea butter.
2. Infuse 100 grams of the allium sativum roots in 500 milliliters of carrier oil for four to six weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil and mix it with 200 grams of coconut oil, 100 grams of shea butter, and 50 grams of beeswax.
4. Melt the combined mixture in a double boiler and stir occasionally for 30 minutes to 40 minutes.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and harden for at least two hours before applying to the skin.

6. Tanacetum parthenium

Tanacetum parthenium, also known as feverfew, creams helps with altitude sickness because of its unique properties that aid in reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation.

The active compounds in feverfew, such as parthenolide, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness, including headaches and fatigue.

Additionally, feverfew's ability to improve blood flow can help the body adapt to high altitudes, making it a valuable remedy for those who venture to mountainous regions.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Tanacetum parthenium creams that help with altitude sickness.

• Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate the inflammation and oxidative stress associated with altitude sickness.
• Parthenolide: This sesquiterpene lactone has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, which can help manage the headaches and fatigue commonly experienced at high altitudes.
• Fatty acids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body from the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with altitude sickness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of feverfew used to make creams for altitude sickness.

• Leaves: Used due to their bioactive compounds, including parthenolide, which has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.
• Flowers: Used due to their high content of parthenolide and other bioactive compounds that may help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
• Buds: Used due to their bioactive compounds, including parthenolide, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate headaches associated with altitude sickness.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic feverfew for altitude sickness.

1. Harvest 100 grams of tanacetum parthenium flowers in their blooming stage when the plant is in full bloom.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a well-ventilated area for 7 to 10 days to achieve a moisture content of 10%.
3. Grind 50 grams of dried tanacetum parthenium flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Mix the powder with 100 grams of coconut oil and 20 grams of beeswax in a double boiler at 160 degrees fahrenheit.
5. Stir the mixture for 15 minutes and remove from heat to allow it to cool and solidify into a creamy texture.

7. Salix alba

Salix alba, also known as white willow, creams helps with altitude sickness because it contains salicin, a natural compound that has anti-inflammatory properties.

When hikers ascend to high altitudes, their bodies experience a decrease in oxygen levels, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Salicin in Salix alba creams can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms such as headaches and joint pain, making it a useful remedy for altitude sickness.

Its natural properties also promote relaxation and reduce stress, further aiding in recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salix alba creams that help with altitude sickness.

• Salicin: Salicin, a phenolic compound, helps with altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and relieving headaches and body aches associated with high altitude.
• Salicylic acid: Salicylic acid, a phenolic acid, helps by acting as a vasodilator, improving blood flow to the brain and other vital organs, which is often impaired at high altitudes.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid, helps by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation caused by high altitude, which can help alleviate symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of white willow used to make creams for altitude sickness.

• Leaves: Used to make creams for altitude sickness due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Barks: Used to make creams for altitude sickness due to their potential vasodilatory and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Roots: Used to make creams for altitude sickness due to their potential adaptogenic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic white willow for altitude sickness.

1. Harvest 100g of dried salix alba bark, carefully selecting branches with no signs of decay or contamination.
2. Combine the dried bark with 500ml of carrier oil, such as sweet almond oil, in a double boiler.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat for 4-6 hours, stirring occasionally, to facilitate infusion and extraction.
4. Strain the oil mixture through cheesecloth and discard the solids, collecting the infused oil in a clean container.
5. Mix the infused oil with 10% beeswax and 5% vitamin e oil, heating the mixture until the wax melts and cools to form a smooth cream.

8. Crataegus monogyna

Crataegus monogyna, also known as hawthorn, creams helps with altitude sickness because it contains flavonoids and oligomeric proanthocyanidins that aid in improving cardiovascular function and blood flow to the brain.

The increased oxygen delivery to the brain helps alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches and fatigue.

Additionally, hawthorn's antioxidant properties help protect against oxidative stress caused by high altitude, making it a potential natural remedy to help acclimatize to high elevations and reduce the severity of altitude sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Crataegus monogyna creams that help with altitude sickness.

• Quercetin: A flavonoid that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate the inflammation and oxidative stress associated with altitude sickness.
• Catechins: A type of phenolic compound that may help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) by promoting vasodilation and improving cardiovascular function.
• Tannins: A type of polyphenol that may help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and fatigue, by reducing inflammation and improving antioxidant defenses.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of hawthorn used to make creams for altitude sickness.

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
• Barks: The bark's flavonoids and saponins help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, which can help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
• Fruits: The fruits of Crataegus monogyna contain flavonoids and other antioxidants that help improve cardiovascular function and reduce altitude sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hawthorn for altitude sickness.

1. Harvest 50g of dried fruit from the tree for use in the herbal cream.
2. Infuse the dried fruit in 100ml of carrier oil like sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
3. Strain the infused oil and discard the solids then add 20g of beeswax.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 60-70 degrees celsius for 10 minutes.
5. Pour the hot mixture into small containers and allow it to cool completely.

9. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with altitude sickness because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties and ability to aid digestion.

At high altitudes, the body experiences decreased oxygen levels, which can lead to nausea, headaches, and fatigue. Ginger's active compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to reduce inflammation and improve circulation, helping the body adapt to the changed environment. Additionally, ginger has been shown to ease nausea and digestive discomfort commonly associated with altitude sickness.

This makes it a valuable remedy for travelers and climbers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with altitude sickness.

• Shogaols: These gingerol derivatives have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the fluid buildup in the lungs that can occur with altitude sickness (High-Altitude Pulmonary Edema, HAPE).
• Gingerols: Specifically, 6-gingerol, a major compound in ginger, has been shown to have vasodilatory effects, which can help improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of High-Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE) by improving blood flow to the brain.
• Curcuminoids: While not exclusive to ginger, curcuminoids have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help mitigate the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with altitude sickness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for altitude sickness.

• Rhyzomes: They are used due to their high concentration of compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
• Roots: The roots are used for their rich content of gingerols and shogaols, which can help reduce nausea and other symptoms associated with high altitudes.
• Buds: The buds are used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including gingerols and shogaols, which can aid in reducing inflammation and alleviating altitude sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for altitude sickness.

1. Harvest fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes with clean gardening shears to avoid contamination and preserve potency.
2. Wash the harvested rhizomes thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove dirt and debris for 5 minutes.
3. Grate the washed rhizomes using a fine grater to release the active compounds for 10 minutes.
4. Mix the grated zingiber officinale with 1/4 cup of coconut oil and 1/4 cup of beeswax in a double boiler to melt.
5. Whip the cooled mixture using an electric mixer until it becomes smooth and creamy for 5 minutes.

10. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, creams helps with altitude sickness because it contains valerenic acid, which has a sedative effect on the body.

At high altitudes, the body experiences increased stress due to lower oxygen levels. The valerenic acid in Valeriana officinalis creams helps to calm the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress caused by altitude sickness.

Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties can help alleviate headaches and fatigue often associated with altitude sickness, making it a helpful remedy for those experiencing these symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis creams that help with altitude sickness.

• Valerenic acid: This is a sesquiterpene that acts as a GABA receptor modulator, which may help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness such as anxiety and insomnia by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
• Valerenal: This is a sesquiterpene with sedative properties, which may help mitigate the effects of high altitude on the body by promoting sleep and reducing inflammation.
• Valeranone: This is a sesquiterpene that has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which may help protect against oxidative stress caused by high altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make creams for altitude sickness.

• Roots: Valerian root contains valerenic acid, which helps to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness.
• Roots: Valerian root also contains valerenol, which has sedative properties that can help to calm the body and mind during high-altitude conditions.
• Roots: The sesquiterpenes present in valerian roots have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can aid in relieving symptoms of altitude sickness.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for altitude sickness.

1. Extract the valeriana officinalis roots by macerating 20 grams in 100 milliliters of carrier oil for 2 weeks.
2. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container to separate the plant material.
3. Combine the extracted oil with beeswax and shea butter in a 1:1:1 ratio by weight.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 10 minutes.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken before transferring it to a glass jar for storage.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for altitude sickness?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with altitude sickness is a blend of arnica, ginger, and cayenne pepper.

Arnica cream reduces inflammation and relieves pain, while ginger cream eases nausea and digestive discomfort. Cayenne pepper cream increases blood flow and helps the body acclimate to high altitudes. Applying these creams topically can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.

However, it's essential to note that these creams are not a substitute for medical treatment, and consulting a doctor is still necessary for severe cases.

What ailments similar to altitude sickness are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to altitude sickness that are treated with herbal creams are inflammation, pain, and swelling associated with conditions such as arthritis, sprains, and strains.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like arnica, calendula, and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce discomfort and promote healing.

These creams can also be used to treat skin irritations and minor injuries, providing a natural alternative to conventional pain relievers.