10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Altitude Sickness

Herbal tinctures for altitude sickness are concentrated liquid extracts of plant-based ingredients that have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms associated with high-altitude conditions.

These tinctures help by increasing oxygen flow to the brain and body, reducing inflammation, and promoting relaxation. Examples of herbal tinctures that can help with altitude sickness include Ginkgo biloba, Rhodiola rosea, and Ashwagandha.

By using these tinctures, people who frequent high-altitude areas can reduce their risk of acute mountain sickness (AMS) and improve their overall quality of life, allowing them to fully enjoy their outdoor adventures without the debilitating symptoms associated with altitude sickness.

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

1. Andrographis paniculata

King of bitters tinctures helps with altitude sickness because it contains a unique blend of herbal extracts that work to alleviate symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue.

The botanicals in this formula have natural adaptogenic properties, which help the body adapt to changes in oxygen levels and pressure.

By soothing the digestive system and calming the nervous system, King of bitters tinctures provides relief from altitude sickness symptoms, allowing individuals to acclimate more quickly and comfortably to high elevations.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Andrographolide: A sesquiterpene lactone that helps alleviate altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which are often exacerbated by high altitudes.
• Dihydroandrographolide: A sesquiterpene lactone that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to mitigate the effects of altitude sickness by protecting the body from oxidative damage and inflammation.
• N-andrographyl-10-α-olide: A sesquiterpene lactone that has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Andrographis paniculata are used to make tinctures for altitude sickness due to their high content of andrographolide, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate symptoms.
• Stems: The stems of Andrographis paniculata are used to make tinctures for altitude sickness due to their ability to increase blood flow and oxygenation, helping to alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Roots: The roots of Andrographis paniculata are used to make tinctures for altitude sickness due to their high content of andrographolide and other compounds that help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh andrographis paniculata leaves and flowers by pinching off the entire stem.
2. Dry the harvested andrographis paniculata in a single layer at 35-40 degrees celsius for 2-3 hours.
3. Combine 1 part of dried andrographis paniculata with 2 parts of 80-proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.

2. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with altitude sickness because it contains a unique combination of bioactive compounds that work synergistically to alleviate symptoms.

The tannins and flavonoids in maidenhair tree extract have been shown to reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation, and enhance oxygenation to the body's tissues, making it an effective natural remedy for alleviating headaches, fatigue, and shortness of breath commonly associated with high-altitude exposure.

Its adaptogenic properties also help the body adapt to changes in environment and stress levels, further supporting its use in altitude sickness treatment.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, may help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are often exacerbated at high elevations.
• Terpenoids: These sesquiterpenes may help mitigate the effects of altitude sickness by reducing the release of inflammatory mediators, such as histamine and leukotrienes, which can contribute to symptoms like headaches and dizziness.
• Ginkgolide b: This specific terpenoid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness by reducing inflammation in the brain and other affected areas.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Ginkgo biloba are used to make tinctures for altitude sickness due to their high flavonoid and terpenoid content, which helps improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the body's tissues.
• Seeds: The seeds of Ginkgo biloba are used to make tinctures for altitude sickness due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation associated with high altitude.
• Buds: The buds of Ginkgo biloba are used to make tinctures for altitude sickness due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds that help improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 2 pounds of dried ginkgo biloba leaves from mature trees and dry them completely in a warm place.
2. Combine the dried ginkgo biloba leaves with 80 proof vodka in a 1:2 ratio by weight in a glass container.
3. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking the container daily.
4. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth into another container, squeezing the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
5. Transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle, label it, and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

3. Rhodiola rosea

Golden root tinctures helps with altitude sickness because of its natural ability to increase oxygen flow to the brain and body.

The herb, also known as Rhodiola rosea, has adaptogenic properties that help the body adapt to high elevations by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. This allows the body to better cope with the decrease in oxygen levels at higher altitudes, reducing symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue.

By supporting the body's natural response to altitude changes, golden root tinctures can provide relief from the discomforts of altitude sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosavin: This phenolic glycoside constituent is believed to aid in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which may contribute to the symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Salidroside: This phenolic glycoside is known to have antioxidant properties, which may help mitigate the effects of high altitude on the body, such as oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Tyrosol: This phenolic constituent has been shown to have adaptogenic properties, helping the body to cope with physical stress, such as that induced by high altitude.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Rhodiola rosea contain the highest concentration of bioactive compounds, including rosavin, salidroside, and tyrosol, which help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Leaves: The leaves of Rhodiola rosea contain a significant amount of salidroside, which has been shown to improve mental performance and reduce fatigue at high altitudes.
• Stems: The stems of Rhodiola rosea also contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds, including rosavin and tyrosol, which help to mitigate the effects of altitude sickness and improve physical performance.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest approximately 1 part of rhodiola rosea roots by digging up the plants in fall after the first frost.
2. Clean the roots thoroughly in cold running water to remove any dirt and debris then pat dry.
3. Cut the cleaned roots into small pieces and combine with 2 parts of a solvent such as ethanol or glycerin.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-4 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking and strain the liquid through cheesecloth.
5. Filter the resulting tincture through a coffee filter to remove any remaining particles and store in dark glass bottles.

4. Eleutherococcus senticosus

Siberian ginseng tinctures helps with altitude sickness because it is a natural adaptogen that enhances the body's ability to cope with stressors, including high elevations.

It increases oxygenation of tissues, improves cardiovascular function, and boosts energy levels, allowing the body to adjust to reduced oxygen pressure more efficiently.

Additionally, Siberian ginseng has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms such as headaches and fatigue often associated with altitude sickness, making it a popular natural remedy for those who frequently travel to high-altitude areas.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Eleutheroside e: It helps with altitude sickness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can be triggered by high altitude exposure.
• Eleutheroside b: This constituent has anti-fatigue properties, which can help mitigate the physical exhaustion often experienced at high altitudes.
• Saponins: Saponins in Eleutherococcus senticosus tinctures may help improve cardiovascular function and increase blood flow to the brain, which can be beneficial for individuals experiencing altitude sickness.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are used due to their high content of eleutherosides, which are believed to have adaptogenic properties and help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
• Barks: They are used for their eleutheroside content, which is thought to help regulate body functions and improve endurance at high altitudes.
• Stems: They are used as they contain eleutherosides, which may help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness such as fatigue and weakness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest eleutherococcus senticosus roots at dawn when the sap is most active and the plant is at its peak potency.
2. Clean and chop the harvested roots into small pieces to ensure even extraction and minimize waste.
3. Combine 1 part of the chopped roots with 2 parts of 80% ethanol or glycerin in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day to enhance extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

5. Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha tinctures helps with altitude sickness because it is a natural adaptogen that can help the body acclimate to high elevations.

As an herb, ashwagandha has been shown to increase resistance to stress, enhance endurance, and reduce fatigue, all of which are common symptoms of altitude sickness.

When taken as a tincture, ashwagandha works by stabilizing blood pressure, reducing inflammation, and improving oxygenation of the body's tissues, helping to alleviate symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Withanolides: These alkaloids may help alleviate high-altitude nausea and vomiting by reducing inflammation and modulating the body's physiological response to stress.
• Withaferin a: This withanolide may help mitigate high-altitude hypoxia by improving oxygen delivery to tissues and reducing oxidative stress, which can contribute to altitude sickness symptoms.
• Oleanane triterpenoids: These compounds may help alleviate high-altitude fatigue and weakness by modulating the body's energy metabolism and reducing inflammation.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, including withanolides, which have adaptogenic properties to help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves of Withania somnifera are also used for tinctures due to their rich content of flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds, which aid in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation associated with high altitude.
• Fruits: The fruits of Withania somnifera are another part used for tinctures, as they contain glycosides and other compounds that may help mitigate the effects of altitude sickness by promoting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest withania somnifera roots and leaves at dawn after the plant has reached its full maturity.
2. Clean and dry the harvested plant material in a shaded area for several hours.
3. Chop the dried withania somnifera into small pieces weighing about 500 grams per liter of solvent.
4. Steep the chopped plant material in a high-proof neutral solvent like ethanol or glycerin for 14 to 21 days.
5. Filter the resulting liquid mixture and store it in a cool dark place for at least six months.

6. Panax ginseng

Ginseng tinctures helps with altitude sickness because it has been traditionally used to increase oxygenation of the body, improving circulation and reducing symptoms of high-altitude hypoxia.

The active compounds in ginseng, such as ginsenosides, have been shown to enhance cellular energy production, increasing endurance and reducing fatigue associated with altitude sickness. Additionally, ginseng tinctures may help alleviate headaches and nausea, common complaints when traveling to high elevations.

By supporting the body's natural response to low oxygen levels, ginseng tinctures can provide relief from the discomforts of altitude sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Ginsenosides: Ginsenosides help with altitude sickness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can be exacerbated by high altitude.
• Ginsenoside rg1: Ginsenoside Rg1 helps with altitude sickness by improving cardiovascular function and increasing oxygen delivery to the body's tissues, thereby alleviating symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Ginsenoside rb1: Ginsenoside Rb1 helps with altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and improving immune function, which can become compromised at high altitudes.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The primary part used for altitude sickness tinctures, as they contain the highest concentration of ginsenosides, which are believed to alleviate symptoms.
• Stems: In some cases, stems are used to make tinctures, possibly due to their lower cost and potential synergy with other parts.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 2-4 dried panax ginseng roots depending on their size and quality at the optimal time of year.
2. Clean and chop the ginseng roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped ginseng with 80-100 proof vodka in a 1:3 to 1:5 root to solvent ratio in a clean glass jar.
4. Seal the jar and store it in a dark place at room temperature for 2-6 weeks to allow for extraction.
5. Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

7. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with altitude sickness because it contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

When ascending to high altitudes, the body experiences increased stress and inflammation due to the low oxygen levels. The glycyrrhizin in herbal licorice tinctures works to reduce this inflammation, helping to alleviate symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue. Additionally, licorice root has been traditionally used to soothe digestive issues, which are also common at high elevations.

Overall, licorice tinctures can provide relief from the discomforts of altitude sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Licoricidin: Licoricidin, a glycoside, may help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can be exacerbated by high altitudes.
• Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help mitigate the effects of altitude sickness, such as fatigue and shortness of breath.
• Isoliquiritigenin: Isoliquiritigenin, a flavonoid, may help combat altitude sickness by improving cardiovascular function and reducing blood pressure, which can be beneficial in high-altitude environments where blood pressure often increases.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for altitude sickness due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, which helps to alleviate symptoms such as headaches and fatigue associated with high altitude.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for altitude sickness due to their adaptogenic properties, which help to reduce stress and improve oxygenation in the body at high elevations.
• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are also used to make tinctures for altitude sickness due to their ability to help regulate electrolyte balance and reduce dehydration, common issues associated with high altitude.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and clean them thoroughly with a soft brush.
2. Grind the cleaned roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 30 seconds.
3. Combine 1 part of the ground glycyrrhiza glabra powder with 2 parts of 80% ethanol in a glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking for 10 minutes.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another glass container discarding the solids and store in a cool dark place.

8. Echinacea angustifolia

Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with altitude sickness because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds, particularly artemisinin and ursolic acid.

These compounds have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular function, which are often compromised at high altitudes. The tincture's antispasmodic properties also help to ease the discomfort of hypoxia-induced muscle cramps and spasms.

Additionally, Kansas coneflower has natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help to mitigate the oxidative stress caused by high-altitude exposure.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help with altitude sickness by reducing inflammation and improving circulation, which can help alleviate headaches and shortness of breath associated with high altitudes.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Echinacea angustifolia may help mitigate altitude sickness by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to high-altitude-related fatigue and respiratory distress.
• Alkaloids: Echinacoside, an alkaloid in Echinacea angustifolia, may aid in alleviating altitude sickness symptoms by modulating the body's response to high altitudes, reducing the severity of symptoms such as nausea and dizziness.

Parts Used

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

• Roots: They are rich in inulin, which can help the body adapt to high altitudes by increasing red blood cell count and improving oxygen delivery.
• Leaves: They contain compounds that have been shown to improve respiratory function and reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial during altitude sickness.
• Barks: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when they are mature and dry.
2. Clean and chop the roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter.
3. Combine the chopped roots with 80 proof vodka in a ratio of 1:5 using 500 grams of roots.
4. Steep the mixture in a dark glass jar for 4-6 weeks at room temperature, shaking daily.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.

9. Achillea millefolium

Yarrow tinctures helps with altitude sickness because of its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and nausea associated with high-altitude exposure.

The tincture's ability to improve circulation and reduce blood pressure also helps the body adapt more effectively to lower oxygen levels, allowing for smoother acclimatization. Additionally, yarrow's antispasmodic properties may help relieve respiratory issues common at high elevations.

By promoting overall physical well-being, herbal yarrow tinctures can be a valuable addition to any altitude sickness prevention or treatment plan.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium tinctures that help with altitude sickness.

• Terpenes: Terpenes, particularly sesquiterpenes, in Achillea millefolium tinctures may help alleviate altitude sickness by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties that reduce oxidative stress and promote respiratory health.
• Phenolics: The phenolic compounds in Achillea millefolium tinctures may aid in preventing altitude sickness by exhibiting antioxidant properties that mitigate hypoxia-induced oxidative damage and improve cardiovascular function.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound found in Achillea millefolium, may help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms by reducing inflammation, promoting vasodilation, and protecting against hypoxia-induced cellular damage.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make tinctures for altitude sickness.

• Leaves: The leaves are used due to their high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.
• Stems: The stems are used because they contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help mitigate the effects of high altitude.
• Flowers: The flowers are used due to their high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh achillea millefolium flowers and leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated.
2. Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
3. Combine 250 grams of chopped plant material with 750 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass jar.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for four weeks to allow for extraction and infusion.
5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container discard the solids.

10. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle tinctures helps with altitude sickness because of its unique ability to dilate blood vessels and increase oxygenation of the body.

The herbs' natural properties work to reduce inflammation and open up airways, allowing for more efficient exchange of gases in the lungs. This results in improved respiratory function, reduced fatigue, and enhanced overall physical performance at high elevations.

Additionally, stinging nettle's anti-inflammatory effects help to alleviate symptoms such as headaches and joint pain often associated with altitude sickness.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with altitude sickness.

• Quercetin: This flavonoid acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, helping to alleviate the oxidative stress and inflammation associated with high-altitude conditions.
• Ascorbic acid: This water-soluble vitamin is essential for maintaining healthy blood vessels and preventing blood vessel constriction, which can help reduce the severity of altitude sickness symptoms.
• Alkaloids: These compounds may have diuretic properties, which can help reduce fluid retention and alleviate headaches, nausea, and fatigue often experienced at high altitudes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for altitude sickness.

• Leaves: Known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness.
• Stems: Contain compounds that aid in reducing inflammation and improving circulation, which can help alleviate altitude sickness symptoms.
• Roots: Rich in antioxidants and other compounds that help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1 part of fresh or dried urtica dioica leaves and stems at dawn when the plant is at its highest water content.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces using scissors or a sharp knife for better extraction.
3. Mix 1 part chopped plant material with 2 parts 80 proof grain alcohol in a clean glass jar for a 1:2 ratio.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking to enhance extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with altitude sickness is a blend of Ginkgo Biloba, Rhodiola Rosea, and Ginger.

Ginkgo Biloba enhances oxygen delivery to the body, while Rhodiola Rosea helps to reduce stress and fatigue associated with high altitudes. Ginger, with its warming properties, aids in circulation and digestion.

Taking these tinctures in moderation, typically 20-30 drops each, can help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and dizziness, and promote overall well-being in high-altitude environments.

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

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

Herbal remedies like ginkgo biloba, ashwagandha, and Rhodiola rosea have been used to alleviate symptoms of oxygen deficiency and low blood pressure, which are common in altitude sickness.

These herbs help improve circulation, boost energy levels, and enhance mental clarity, making them useful for individuals experiencing similar discomforts at high elevations or under other conditions of reduced oxygen availability.