10 Best Herbal Teas For Altitude Sickness

Herbal teas for altitude sickness are natural remedies that help alleviate symptoms associated with high elevations.

These teas work by increasing oxygen supply, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation. Examples of herbal teas that aid in altitude sickness include ginkgo biloba, peppermint, and ginger. They help in reducing headaches and nausea, allowing individuals to acclimate to high altitudes.

For instance, trekkers on the Himalayan trails have found ginger tea to be particularly effective in managing altitude sickness, enabling them to complete their journeys safely and with minimal discomfort.

The following article describes in detail the most important teas 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, teas helps with altitude sickness because it improves blood circulation and oxygenation.

The active compounds in Ginkgo biloba, flavonoids and terpenoids, help to dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow to the brain, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing altitude sickness. By improving oxygen delivery to the body, Ginkgo biloba tea may help alleviate symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and dizziness associated with high altitudes.

This can be especially helpful for travelers and athletes.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds help alleviate altitude sickness by improving blood flow and reducing oxidative stress, which can contribute to altitude-related symptoms.
• Bilobalide: This triterpene lactone may help mitigate altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and improving cognitive function, which can be impaired at high elevations.
• Ginkgolides: These sesquiterpene lactones may aid in alleviating altitude sickness by inhibiting platelet-activating factor (PAF), which can contribute to altitude-related inflammation and oxidative stress.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which help to improve circulation and reduce symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds are used to make teas due to their ability to increase oxygen delivery to the body's tissues, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing altitude sickness.
• Buds: Ginkgo biloba buds are used in teas to promote vasodilation, which can help to alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches and shortness of breath.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 2-4 cups of ginkgo biloba leaves from mature trees in late summer or early fall.
2. Clean 2-4 cups of ginkgo biloba leaves by rinsing them in cold running water for 5 minutes.
3. Dry 2-4 cups of ginkgo biloba leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 1-2 weeks.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried ginkgo biloba leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and serve immediately, allowing it to cool for 2-3 minutes before consumption.

2. Rhodiola rosea

Rhodiola rosea, also known as golden root, teas helps with altitude sickness because it contains adaptogenic compounds that aid in the body's response to high-altitude conditions.

The herb's ability to improve mental performance, reduce fatigue, and increase oxygen delivery to the body helps alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness. Rhodiola rosea's antioxidant properties also help mitigate oxidative stress caused by high altitude, making it a potentially beneficial remedy for individuals ascending to high elevations.

Its benefits can be particularly useful for travelers and athletes.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosavin: Helps alleviate altitude sickness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can be triggered by high altitude.
• Salidroside: Acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, potentially mitigating the effects of high altitude on the cardiovascular system and reducing the risk of altitude sickness.
• Trehalose: May help maintain cellular hydration and protect against high-altitude-induced dehydration and oxidative damage, thereby reducing the severity of altitude sickness.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: The roots of Rhodiola rosea are the primary part used for making teas due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including rosavin and salidroside, which help to reduce fatigue and stress associated with altitude sickness.
• Leaves: Rhodiola rosea leaves contain adaptogenic properties that help to balance the body's response to high altitudes, making them a popular ingredient in teas aimed at alleviating altitude sickness.
• Buds: Rhodiola rosea buds are used in teas for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by high altitudes.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest approximately 1 ounce of rhodiola rosea roots and stems in late summer when flowers have faded.
2. Dry the harvested material in a warm well-ventilated area for at least 1 week.
3. Crush the dried roots and stems into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 1 teaspoon of the powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving hot or cold.

3. Eleutherococcus senticosus

Eleutherococcus senticosus, also known as Siberian ginseng, teas helps with altitude sickness because of its adaptogenic properties.

It stimulates the body's natural response to stress, allowing it to adapt to high altitude conditions. The tea is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by high altitude.

This, in turn, helps to alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, fatigue, and nausea, making it a popular choice among trekkers and adventurers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eleutherococcus senticosus teas that help with altitude sickness.

• Eleutherosides: These saponin glycosides help with altitude sickness by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and promoting antioxidant defenses, which helps mitigate the effects of high altitude on the body.
• Polyphenols: Polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, in Eleutherococcus senticosus help alleviate altitude sickness by reducing oxidative stress, improving cardiovascular function, and supporting the body's natural response to high altitude.
• Lignans: Lignans, a type of polyphenolic compound, in Eleutherococcus senticosus help counteract altitude sickness by enhancing antioxidant activity, reducing inflammation, and supporting the body's natural detoxification processes, which helps mitigate the effects of high altitude on the body.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: They are the primary source of adaptogenic compounds, including eleutherosides, which help the body adapt to stress caused by high altitude.
• Stems: They contain eleutherosides, which aid in reducing stress and fatigue associated with altitude sickness.
• Leaves: They also contain eleutherosides, which help the body adapt to the physiological changes caused by high altitude.

Recipe

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

1. Gather 2-3 grams of dried eleutherococcus senticosus root and place it in a tea infuser.
2. Boil 8 ounces of water in a kettle for 2-3 minutes to reach a rolling boil.
3. Steep the eleutherococcus senticosus root in the boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup through the infuser and discard the solids.
5. Allow the tea to cool for 2-3 minutes before consuming it.

4. Panax ginseng

Panax ginseng, also known as ginseng, teas helps with altitude sickness because it is believed to improve oxygen delivery to the body's cells.

The herb contains compounds called ginsenosides, which have been shown to increase red blood cell count and improve circulation. This helps to counteract the effects of high altitude, where oxygen levels are lower.

By improving oxygen delivery, Panax ginseng teas may help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches, fatigue, and dizziness, making it a popular remedy among travelers and adventurers.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Ginsenosides: These steroidal saponins may help alleviate altitude sickness by increasing red blood cell count, improving oxygen delivery to tissues, and reducing oxidative stress.
• Ginsengolides: These ginsenoside derivatives may contribute to the relief of altitude sickness symptoms by reducing inflammation, improving blood circulation, and enhancing the body's adaptability to high altitudes.
• Panaxynol: This lignan glycoside may help alleviate altitude sickness by improving cardiovascular function, reducing blood pressure, and enhancing the body's ability to adapt to high altitudes.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: Used due to their high concentration of ginsenosides, which are believed to help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
• Leaves: Utilized for their potential adaptogenic properties, helping the body adapt to high altitudes.
• Roots: (Repeated) Also used because of their antioxidant properties, which can help protect against the oxidative stress caused by high altitude exposure.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 4 to 12 grams of dried panax ginseng roots or 2 to 4 grams of fresh roots.
2. Clean the roots under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris thoroughly.
3. Dry the cleaned roots in a single layer at 40 to 50 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
4. Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
5. Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of the ground panax ginseng powder in 200 milliliters of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.

5. Angelica sinensis

Angelica sinensis, also known as dong quai, teas helps with altitude sickness because it is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

These properties help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress that can occur at high elevations. The tea's expectorant and diuretic properties also aid in removing excess fluid from the body, reducing swelling in the lungs and brain. Additionally, Angelica sinensis is believed to improve circulation and boost oxygenation, helping the body adapt to the lower air pressure at high altitudes.

This makes it a popular remedy for altitude sickness among travelers and adventure seekers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica sinensis teas that help with altitude sickness.

• Ligustilide: Helps alleviate altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and modulating the immune response to mitigate the effects of high altitude on the body.
• Butylphthalide: Acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body to help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Phenylpropanoids: Exert a protective effect on the cardiovascular system, helping to reduce blood pressure and improve blood circulation to combat the hypoxia (low oxygen levels) associated with altitude sickness.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of dong quai used to make teas for altitude sickness.

• Roots: Rich in antioxidants and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Leaves: Contain essential oils that help to ease nausea and dizziness associated with high altitudes.
• Stems: Provide a combination of anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties that help to alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and fatigue.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest angelica sinensis roots and rhizomes in the fall season when they are fully mature.
2. Dry the harvested roots and rhizomes in a well-ventilated area for at least 2 weeks.
3. Chop 5-10 grams of dried roots and rhizomes into small pieces for easy infusion.
4. Steep the chopped angelica sinensis in 1 liter of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release active compounds.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving to enjoy the herbal infusion.

6. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with altitude sickness because of its natural ability to ease digestive discomfort and reduce nausea.

The menthol content in peppermint has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate headaches and fatigue, common symptoms of altitude sickness. Additionally, the tea's cooling effect can help to calm the stomach and promote relaxation, making it easier for the body to acclimate to higher elevations.

This can be particularly beneficial for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with altitude sickness.

• Menthol: Menthol, a terpene compound, helps alleviate altitude sickness by providing relief from headache and nausea, common symptoms associated with high altitude.
• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid helps combat altitude sickness by its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation caused by high altitude.
• Menthone: A terpene compound, menthone helps alleviate altitude sickness by its vasodilatory effects, which can help improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues affected by high altitude.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for altitude sickness.

• Leaves: They are the primary part used to make teas for altitude sickness due to their high menthol content, which helps alleviate symptoms such as nausea, headaches, and fatigue associated with altitude sickness.
• Stems: The stems of the plant are also used to make teas for altitude sickness, as they contain essential oils that help reduce inflammation and improve respiratory function, both of which are beneficial for alleviating altitude sickness symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of Mentha x piperita are used to make teas for altitude sickness due to their high antioxidant content, which helps protect the body from oxidative stress caused by high altitude, and their anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce inflammation associated with altitude sickness.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh leaves from 5-10 mentha x piperita plants early in the morning for optimal flavor and aroma.
2. Rinse the harvested leaves with cold water to remove dirt and debris gently.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of fresh leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove leaves completely.
5. Serve the tea hot or iced immediately and enjoy within 30 minutes of preparation.

7. Echinacea angustifolia

Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, teas helps with altitude sickness because of its adaptogenic properties that aid in regulating the body's response to high altitude.

The tea's rich content of flavonoids and caffeic acid helps to improve blood circulation and oxygen delivery to the body's tissues. This, in turn, reduces the severity of altitude sickness symptoms such as headaches and fatigue, allowing the body to adapt more quickly to the change in environment.

Additionally, it supports immune function to combat altitude-related respiratory issues.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving circulation, which can help the body adapt to high altitudes.
• Cichoric acid: A phenolic compound found in Echinacea angustifolia, cichoric acid may help combat altitude sickness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which can lead to improved oxygen delivery to the body's tissues.
• Alkylamides: These compounds may help alleviate nausea and vomiting associated with altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and modulating the body's response to stress.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: They are the most commonly used part for teas due to their high concentration of echinacoside, an alkylamide responsible for some of the plant's medicinal properties.
• Leaves: Leaves are used in teas for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness.
• Roots: Due to the same echinacoside content in roots, they are also used to make teas that can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.

Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall when the plant is mature and the roots are fully developed.
2. Wash the roots thoroughly with cold water to remove any dirt or debris from the harvesting process.
3. Dry the roots in a single layer at room temperature for 7 to 10 days to remove moisture content.
4. Use a coffee grinder to grind 2 teaspoons of dried echinacea angustifolia roots into a fine powder.
5. Steep 2 teaspoons of the powdered echinacea angustifolia roots in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.

8. Valeriana officinalis

Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, teas helps with altitude sickness because it possesses adaptogenic properties, allowing the body to better cope with high-altitude conditions.

The tea's sedative and anti-inflammatory effects can help alleviate symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and insomnia associated with altitude sickness. Additionally, valerian's antioxidant properties may aid in reducing oxidative stress, which can contribute to altitude sickness.

By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, valerian tea may provide relief for individuals experiencing altitude sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Valerenic acid: Helps with altitude sickness by exhibiting potential anti-inflammatory properties, which may aid in reducing the body's inflammatory response to high altitude.
• Valeranone: Contributes to alleviating altitude sickness by having a potential vasodilatory effect, which can help improve blood circulation and oxygen delivery to the body's tissues at high altitudes.
• Ligustilide: May aid in reducing the severity of altitude sickness by acting as an anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory agent, helping to alleviate symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.

Plant's Parts

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

• Roots: The roots are used because they contain a high concentration of valerenic acid, a key compound responsible for the plant's sedative and adaptogenic properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high content of valerenic acid and other bioactive compounds, which can aid in reducing stress and anxiety associated with altitude sickness.
• Flowers: The flowers are used because they have a milder sedative effect compared to the roots and leaves, and can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, both of which are essential for recovering from altitude sickness.

Recipe

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

1. Gather dried valeriana officinalis roots approximately 2 teaspoons for every 8 ounces of water required.
2. Boil 8 ounces of water for 5 to 10 minutes to reach a suitable temperature.
3. Combine the dried valeriana officinalis roots with boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 5 to 7 minutes to extract the desired properties.
5. Strain the liquid and discard the solids to prepare the valeriana officinalis tea for consumption.

9. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with altitude sickness because it contains compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation.

The calming properties of English lavender tea help to alleviate the anxiety and discomfort often associated with high altitudes. Additionally, the tea's ability to lower cortisol levels and improve circulation may also contribute to its effectiveness in alleviating altitude sickness symptoms.

This natural remedy provides a soothing solution for travelers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with altitude sickness.

• Linalool: A terpene that helps alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
• Linalyl acetate: A terpene that helps alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness by promoting vasodilation, which can help increase oxygen delivery to the body's tissues.
• Caffeic acid: A phenolic compound that helps alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness by acting as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, which can help mitigate the effects of high altitude on the body.

Plant's Parts

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for altitude sickness.

• Leaves: They are used to make teas due to their calming and relaxing properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Flowers: They are used to make teas due to their antispasmodic and adaptogenic properties, which can help the body adapt to high altitudes and reduce symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Stems: They are used to make teas due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and improve oxygenation in the body at high altitudes.

Recipe

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

1. Gather dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in amounts of one to two teaspoons for every cup of water.
2. Heat water in a kettle to a temperature between 95 and 105 degrees fahrenheit within five minutes.
3. Steep the dried flowers in the heated water for five to seven minutes to allow extraction.
4. Strain the tea into a cup using a fine mesh sieve to remove the flowers within one minute.
5. Allow the tea to cool before drinking within three to five minutes for best flavor.

10. Taraxacum mongolicum

Taraxacum mongolicum, also known as Mongolian dandelion, teas helps with altitude sickness because of its unique properties.

This herbal tea is rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory compounds that help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. The tea's diuretic properties also aid in reducing fluid retention and improving circulation, which is essential for the body to adapt to high altitudes.

Additionally, the tea's adaptogenic properties help the body to cope with the physical and mental stress associated with altitude sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: These compounds may help reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing altitude sickness.
• Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds can act as antioxidants and help mitigate oxidative stress, which may contribute to the development of altitude sickness. They may also help improve cardiovascular function and reduce inflammation.
• Coumarins: These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could help alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness, such as nausea and headache.

Plant's Parts

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

• Leaves: The leaves are used to make teas for altitude sickness because they contain compounds that help to adapt the body to high altitudes.
• Flowers: The flowers are used to make teas for altitude sickness because they contain antioxidants and other compounds that help to reduce oxidative stress and alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Roots: The roots are used to make teas for altitude sickness because they contain adaptogenic compounds that help the body to adapt to high altitudes and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.

Recipe

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

1. Gently measure 20-30 grams of dried taraxacum mongolicum roots and flowers for a standard serving.
2. Boil one liter of water in a pot over high heat for five minutes.
3. Add the measured taraxacum mongolicum to the boiling water and let steep for 10-15 minutes.
4. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup or teapot.
5. Serve the taraxacum mongolicum tea warm or at room temperature immediately after preparation.

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

The best combination of herbal teas that help with altitude sickness is a blend of Peppermint, Ginger, and Yarrow.

Peppermint aids in digestion and circulation, while Ginger helps reduce inflammation and nausea. Yarrow, high in antioxidants, promotes oxygenation and reduces fluid retention. Drinking a warm, balanced blend of these teas can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and dizziness.

This combination is also known to boost energy and support overall well-being in high-altitude environments.