Medicinal plants for altitude sickness

The use of medicinal plants includes a wide variety of techniques and treatments that have been used over the years to cure and treat various health conditions.

Using medicinal plants for altitude sickness offers a quick and viable solution, without the use of pharmaceuticals, to counteract the symptoms of mountain altitude sickness.

What is Altitude Sickness?

Altitude sickness, also known as soroche, is a condition that can affect some people who visit high-altitude areas, due to the reduced oxygen in the air.

Symptoms of Altitude Sickness

The most common symptoms of altitude sickness include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Irritability
• Shortness of breath
• Confusion

Coca Leaf

Coca or Erythroxylon coca is primarily used in infusions. It is a stimulant, analgesic, and blood pressure regulator, which helps oxygenate the blood, reducing respiratory discomfort. It also acts as a digestive, easing nausea and stomach pain.

Muña

Muña or Minthostachys setosa is used in infusions. It has medicinal uses for treating headaches, gastritis, and altitude sickness. It helps improve breathing, reduces fatigue, and alleviates stomach discomfort. Like coca, it is a traditional botanical species in Inca medicine.

Capulí

Prunus capulí Cav, being a 20-meter tall tree, has three forms of application: the fruit is used as a purgative, the leaves regulate heart rhythm and treat altitude sickness, and the bark of the tree is used as an anti-rheumatic. This plant is also used to relieve cough, bronchitis, and oxygen deficiency.

Mint

Mentha piperita contains biochemical components, primarily eugenol and rosmarinic acid, which are anticoagulants. These can improve blood circulation, but should be used in minimal doses for people with diabetes. It also combats dizziness and headaches. Like the plants described earlier, it is used in infusions.

Altitude Sickness Pills (Over-the-counter)

Medicinal plants are often the first choice for altitude sickness; however, they can take time to be effective.

• Sorojchi Pills: One option if medicinal plants don't work is Sorojchi Pills. These capsules help alleviate the symptoms of altitude sickness and stimulate the nervous system.

• Diamox: Acetazolamide is a very common option that helps with breathing and reduces symptoms. This pill should be taken with plenty of water and works best before reaching a high altitude.