10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Altitude Sickness

Herbal decoctions for altitude sickness are natural remedies made by steeping herbs in hot water, which can provide relief from the symptoms of acute mountain sickness (AMS).

These decoctions work by improving oxygen delivery to the body's cells and reducing inflammation. Examples of helpful herbal decoctions include ginkgo biloba, which improves blood flow and oxygenation, and Rhodiola rosea, which helps reduce stress and fatigue.

By using these natural remedies, travelers can enjoy their mountain adventures without worrying about AMS, and local communities can continue to thrive in high-altitude regions with minimal risk of illness.

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

1. Andrographis paniculata

King of bitters decoctions helps with altitude sickness because it contains a unique blend of herbs that work in harmony to alleviate symptoms.

The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and congestion caused by high elevation, while its expectorant qualities relieve coughing and shortness of breath. Additionally, the herbs' antioxidant effects help protect against oxidative stress and cellular damage triggered by altitude changes, promoting a smoother adjustment to new elevations.

By supporting the body's natural response to altitude changes, King of bitters decoctions helps alleviate symptoms and promote acclimatization.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Andrographis paniculata decoctions that help with altitude sickness.

• Andrographolide: A diterpenoid lactone, andrographolide is believed to help alleviate altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which are often exacerbated by high altitudes.
• N-acetyl andrographolide: A derivative of andrographolide, NAAG is thought to help mitigate altitude sickness by modulating the body's response to hypoxia (low oxygen levels) and promoting the production of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production.
• Andrographiside: A sesquiterpene lactone, andrographiside has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of king of bitters used to make decoctions for altitude sickness.

• Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of andrographolide, a key bioactive compound with anti-inflammatory and adaptogenic properties.
• Roots: Used due to their andrographolide content and potential to reduce inflammation and improve oxygen delivery to the body at high altitudes.
• Stems: Used due to their ability to modulate the body's response to high altitude, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and potentially improving symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic king of bitters for altitude sickness.

1. Harvest 30-60 grams of fresh andrographis paniculata leaves and stems from mature plants.
2. Dry the harvested material in a well-ventilated area for 1-3 days to reduce moisture content.
3. Use a mortar and pestle to grind 10-20 grams of dried andrographis paniculata into a fine powder.
4. Combine 1-2 teaspoons of the andrographis paniculata powder with 1 cup of boiling water to make a decoction.
5. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes before straining and serving the decoction immediately.

2. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with altitude sickness because it contains compounds that help to dilate blood vessels, increasing oxygen flow to the body's tissues.

The decoction also has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling in the brain and other organs, which can occur as a result of high altitudes. Additionally, maidenhair tree decoctions have been shown to stimulate the immune system, helping the body to adapt to the lower oxygen levels found at high elevations.

By promoting healthy circulation and reducing inflammation, maidenhair tree decoctions can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, making it an effective natural remedy for those who venture to high altitudes.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These flavonoids have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress caused by high altitude, thereby alleviating symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Terpenoids: These terpenoids have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress and inflammation caused by high altitude, and also improve blood flow to the brain, reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
• Bilobalide: This triterpene has neuroprotective properties, which can help protect the brain from damage caused by high altitude, and also improve blood flow to the brain, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and its symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to help reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Seeds: Ginkgo seeds have been used to treat various health conditions, including altitude sickness, due to their potential to improve blood circulation and reduce oxidative stress.
• Roots: Ginkgo roots are thought to have adaptogenic properties, helping the body to adapt to high-altitude environments and reducing the severity of altitude sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 2-3 teaspoons of dried ginkgo biloba leaves and flowers from a reputable source.
2. Measure 1 cup of boiling water and pour it over the dried ginkgo biloba mixture in a heat-resistant cup.
3. Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
4. Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
5. Store the cooled decoction in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Rhodiola rosea

Golden root decoctions helps with altitude sickness because they contain bioactive compounds that have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of high-altitude maladies.

The decoction's adaptogenic properties help the body acclimate to changes in oxygen levels, reducing the severity of headaches, fatigue, and nausea associated with altitude sickness.

Additionally, golden root's antioxidant activity helps combat oxidative stress caused by high-altitude environments, further enhancing its therapeutic effects.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosavin: This phenolic glycoside helps with altitude sickness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can be triggered by high altitudes.
• Salidroside: This phenolic glycoside exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in mitigating the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as fatigue and headaches.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic acid has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the body from the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with high-altitude exposure.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Rhodiola rosea are commonly used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as rosavin and salidroside, which are believed to help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
• Rhyzomes: Rhodiola rhyzomes are also used to make decoctions for altitude sickness because they contain a high amount of rosavin and other compounds that may help adapt the body to high altitudes.
• Leaves: Rhodiola leaves are used in some traditional remedies for altitude sickness due to their antioxidant properties and ability to help the body adapt to stress and high altitudes.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 ounces of rhodiola rosea roots and stems from the plant.
2. Rinse the harvested rhodiola roots and stems with water to remove dirt.
3. Combine 1-2 ounces of rhodiola roots and stems with 2 cups of cold water in a pot.
4. Boil the mixture for 5-10 minutes to extract the active compounds from the rhodiola.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.

4. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice decoctions helps with altitude sickness because it can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is a common symptom of high-altitude conditions.

The anti-inflammatory compounds present in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, can help to soothe and calm the body's tissues, reducing swelling and discomfort.

Additionally, licorice decoctions may also help to alleviate symptoms of acute mountain sickness, including headaches and fatigue, by promoting healthy digestion and supporting respiratory function.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with altitude sickness.

• Saponins: Saponins in Glycyrrhiza glabra may help alleviate altitude sickness by reducing inflammation in the body, which can be triggered by high altitudes and low oxygen levels.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Glycyrrhiza glabra may help mitigate altitude sickness by exerting antioxidant effects, protecting the body from oxidative stress caused by high-altitude conditions.
• Glycyrrhetic acid: Glycyrrhetic acid in Glycyrrhiza glabra may help alleviate altitude sickness by modulating the body's response to high altitude, possibly by regulating the levels of various hormones and reducing the severity of altitude-related symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for altitude sickness.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make decoctions for altitude sickness because they contain glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make decoctions for altitude sickness because they have diuretic properties that can help reduce fluid buildup in the body caused by altitude.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make decoctions for altitude sickness because they contain flavonoids and saponins, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30-60 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a trusted supplier or grow your own.
2. Cut the roots into small pieces to increase the surface area for infusion.
3. Combine the root pieces with 1 liter of boiling water in a clean glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to dissolve.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

5. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with altitude sickness because they contain a unique combination of flavonoids, terpenes, and other bioactive compounds that work synergistically to combat the symptoms of high-altitude exposure.

The diuretic properties of dandelion help to reduce fluid buildup in the lungs, alleviating respiratory distress, while its anti-inflammatory effects soothe irritated tissues and mucous membranes.

Additionally, dandelion's antioxidant properties protect against oxidative stress, which can exacerbate altitude sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Taraxacum officinale decoctions may help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness by improving blood flow and reducing oxidative stress.
• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin in dandelion may aid in reducing inflammation and improving circulation, which can help mitigate the effects of altitude sickness.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as caffeic acid, may exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness by reducing oxidative damage and inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for altitude sickness.

• Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are commonly used to make decoctions for altitude sickness because they are rich in saponins, which help to reduce inflammation and improve breathing.
• Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale are used to make decoctions for altitude sickness because they contain inulin, a prebiotic that helps to regulate fluid balance in the body.
• Seeds: The seeds of Taraxacum officinale are used to make decoctions for altitude sickness because they contain a compound that helps to reduce inflammation and improve oxygen delivery to the body's tissues.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh taraxacum officinale roots in the morning after the dew has dried.
2. Chop the harvested roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a mortar.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 500ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes in a covered state to allow the roots to infuse.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

6. Boswellia serrata

Frankincense decoctions helps with altitude sickness because they contain boswellic acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

At high altitudes, the lower air pressure can cause inflammation in the lungs and brain, leading to symptoms of altitude sickness.

The anti-inflammatory properties of frankincense may help to alleviate these symptoms by reducing the body's response to this inflammation, allowing the body to adapt more easily to the high altitude environment.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Boswellia serrata decoctions that help with altitude sickness.

• Terpenoids: This constituent helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with altitude sickness by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and free radicals.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids like Ferulic Acid have antioxidant properties that help mitigate the oxidative stress caused by high altitude, thereby reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
• Terpinen-4-ol: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and fatigue, by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of frankincense used to make decoctions for altitude sickness.

• Roots: The roots of Boswellia serrata are used to make decoctions for altitude sickness because they contain boswellic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms.
• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes from Boswellia serrata are used due to their rich content of boswellic acids, which aid in reducing inflammation and improving respiratory function.
• Barks: The barks of Boswellia serrata are utilized to make decoctions for altitude sickness because they contain boswellic acids and terpenoids that help ease inflammation and promote oxygenation in the body.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30-60 grams of dried boswellia serrata resin from the plant's trunk or branches.
2. Grind the harvested resin into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or grinder.
3. Combine the ground resin with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

7. Panax ginseng

Ginseng decoctions helps with altitude sickness because it increases blood flow to the brain and reduces inflammation.

The ginsenosides in ginseng have been shown to improve oxygenation of tissues, which is particularly important at high altitudes where the air pressure is lower. Additionally, ginseng has antioxidant properties that help protect against damage caused by free radicals, which can accumulate at high elevations.

By improving circulation and reducing oxidative stress, ginseng decoctions may help alleviate symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath associated with altitude sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Ginsenosides: These triterpenoid saponins help reduce altitude sickness by improving cardiovascular function, increasing red blood cell count, and enhancing oxygen delivery to tissues.
• Ginsenobiosides: These saponin glycosides have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help mitigate the inflammation and oxidative stress associated with altitude sickness.
• Oleanolic acid: This triterpenoid compound has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may contribute to its potential benefits in alleviating altitude sickness symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Panax ginseng are used to make decoctions for altitude sickness because they are the most concentrated source of ginsenosides, which help alleviate symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of Panax ginseng are also used due to their adaptogenic properties, which help the body adapt to high altitudes.
• Roots: The roots of Panax ginseng are used to make decoctions for altitude sickness because they contain compounds that improve blood circulation and oxygen delivery to the body's tissues.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Cut 5-9 grams of dried panax ginseng root into small pieces.
2. Combine the cut root pieces with 2-3 cups of water in a saucepan.
3. Boil the mixture over medium heat for 30-60 minutes or.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a container.
5. Store the herbal decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

8. Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha decoctions helps with altitude sickness because it is a natural adaptogen that aids in stress reduction, increasing tolerance to high altitudes.

The decoction's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by the body's adjustment to lower oxygen levels.

Additionally, ashwagandha's ability to improve cardiovascular function and increase red blood cell count helps to counteract the effects of altitude sickness, allowing the body to better adapt to changes in oxygen levels.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera decoctions that help with altitude sickness.

• Withanolides: These steroidal lactones are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help mitigate the oxidative stress and inflammation caused by high-altitude conditions.
• Alkaloids: These compounds have been shown to have vasodilatory effects, which may help reduce blood pressure and improve blood flow to the brain and other vital organs, counteracting the hypoxia associated with altitude sickness.
• Terpenoids: These compounds have been reported to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help protect against the tissue damage and oxidative stress caused by high-altitude conditions.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make decoctions for altitude sickness.

• Roots: Used due to their high concentration of withanolides, which are believed to help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
• Leaves: Used for their adaptogenic properties, which can help the body adapt to high-altitude conditions.
• Seeds: Used due to their potential to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with altitude sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30-60 grams of dried roots of withania somnifera from a reliable source in the morning.
2. Clean the roots thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Boil 1 liter of water in a saucepan over a medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the cleaned roots to the boiling water and allow it to simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

9. Citrus x aurantium

Bitter orange decoctions helps with altitude sickness because it contains bioactive compounds that help to increase oxygen delivery to the body's tissues.

The decoction's citric acid content also enhances the body's natural production of nitric oxide, which widens blood vessels and improves circulation.

This increased blood flow helps to reduce symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath, allowing the body to better adapt to high elevations.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Citrus x aurantium decoctions that help with altitude sickness.

• Nobiletin: Nobiletin, a flavonoid and phenolic compound, has been shown to inhibit inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which are common contributors to altitude sickness.
• Syringin: Syringin, a phenolic glycoside, has been found to have vasodilatory properties, which can help to improve blood flow to the brain and other organs, alleviating symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Aurantio-obtusone: Aurantio-obtusone, a limonoid, has been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help to mitigate the damage caused by high-altitude conditions to the body.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of bitter orange used to make decoctions for altitude sickness.

• Peel (from fruits): The peel is used due to its high concentration of limonene, which may help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Leaves: Citrus x aurantium leaves are utilized for their medicinal properties, including potential anti-inflammatory effects that may aid in alleviating altitude sickness symptoms.
• Seeds: The seeds of Citrus x aurantium are used in decoctions for their alleged ability to reduce inflammation and alleviate other symptoms associated with altitude sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried citrus x aurantium peel and place it in a clean glass container.
2. Combine the dried peel with 8 ounces of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into another container.
5. Discard the solids and store the decoction in a dark glass bottle in the refrigerator.

10. Cinnamomum verum

Ceylon cinnamon decoctions helps with altitude sickness because its active compounds, such as cinnamaldehyde and epicatechin, have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms of high-altitude exposure.

The decoction's warming and soothing effects can also aid in reducing fatigue, joint pain, and headaches commonly associated with altitude sickness.

Additionally, Ceylon cinnamon's ability to improve blood circulation may help to counteract the decreased oxygen levels at higher elevations, making it a valuable natural remedy for those who frequently travel to high-altitude regions.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum decoctions that help with altitude sickness.

• Cinnamaldehyde: This phenolic aldehyde has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate the inflammation and swelling associated with high-altitude conditions.
• Eugenol: As a phenolic compound, eugenol has been found to exhibit vasodilatory effects, which could help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of high-altitude-related cardiovascular issues.
• Linalool: This terpene has been identified as a potential vasodilator and anti-inflammatory agent, which may contribute to its potential benefits in mitigating altitude sickness symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make decoctions for altitude sickness.

• Barks: Rich in oils and compounds that help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, such as nausea and headaches.
• Leaves: Contain volatile oils that can help reduce inflammation and improve breathing, which is beneficial for those experiencing altitude sickness.
• Stems: Although less commonly used, the stems of Cinnamomum verum can be used to make decoctions that help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Measure 5 grams of dried cinnamomum verum bark and place it in a heat-resistant container.
2. Boil 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan over high heat for 5 minutes.
3. Add the measured cinnamomum verum to the boiling water and stir for 2 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 15 minutes, then remove from heat.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

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

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with altitude sickness is a blend of Andean mint (Mentha x piperita f. citrata), licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), and ginseng (Panax quinquefolius).

Andean mint helps to reduce nausea and dizziness, while licorice root aids in hydration and electrolyte balance. Ginseng, rich in antioxidants, helps to boost energy and oxygen supply to the body.

Drinking a decoction of these herbs can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness and promote acclimatization.

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

Ailments similar to altitude sickness that are treated with herbal decoctions are conditions such as anemia, bronchitis, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Herbs like Ginkgo biloba, Eleuthero, and Ashwagandha help increase oxygenation of the body, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation, which can alleviate symptoms similar to those experienced at high elevations.

These herbal remedies have been traditionally used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic practices to treat various conditions that affect energy levels and overall well-being.