How to Use Natural Remedies to Treat Altitude Sickness

Pocahontas Mountain, Jasper National Park, Alberta

Symptoms of altitude sickness mimic the flu or a mild hangover. Shortness of breath, throbbing headaches and nausea are all common complaints associated with altitude sickness. These uncomfortable symptoms subside on their own within 1 to 5 days as the body becomes acclimatized to the new altitude. In the meantime, natural remedies can be used to treat these symptoms and provide a measure of relief while traveling in the high country.

Things You'll Need

• Reishi capsules Ginkgo capsules Rhodiola rosea capsules Ginger tincture Lemon juice Ground ginger Honey

Instructions

1. Take up to five 420 milligram capsules of reishi per day to improve blood oxygenation and prevent altitude sickness. Reishi should be taken throughout the journey and for several days after visiting areas of high altitude.

2. Take 3 capsules of ginkgo containing at least 40 milligrams of extract each. Begin taking the ginkgo capsules at least two days previous to travel. You may continue taking the ginkgo throughout the visit to quell the headaches and nausea accompanied by altitude sickness.

3. Take 200 to 600 milligrams of rhodiola rosea capsules per day while in an area of high altitude to prevent sickness. Take rhodiola upon waking as it's stamina increasing properties can interfere with sleep.

4. Combine 10 to 20 drops of ginger tincture in 1 cup of warm water and drink upon waking in the morning. This remedy can be taken daily as needed to prevent altitude sickness.

5. Make a tea of lemon juice, ground ginger and honey. Boil one cup of water and add one teaspoon of each ingredient. Drink as needed while in the high country to prevent or ease altitude sickness.

Tips & Warnings

• Ascend to higher altitudes as slowly and gradually as possible. This will help ward off altitude sickness and give your body a chance to become accustomed to the change. Drink lots of water while traveling in elevated areas. Water alone will not prevent altitude sickness but it will prevent headaches caused by dehydration. Lemon juice mixed with the water will also provide a measure of prevention.

• Seek immediate medical attention if altitude sickness is accompanied by a lack of coordination, severe nausea and vomiting, confusion, shortness of breath while resting, coughing of white or pink foam, or gurgling while breathing. These are signs of altitude induced accumulation of fluid on the brain or in the lungs. Do not take ginkgo or rhodiola rosea if you are taking aspirin on a daily basis or any type of blood thinning medication. This can cause serious side effects. Do not take ginger in any form if you have gallbladder disease.