Best Essential Oils for Altitude Sickness

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Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness, is a common medical condition that occurs when people travel to higher altitudes where there is less oxygen. The human body is not designed to handle higher altitudes, and it takes time for it to adjust to the change in air pressure and oxygen levels. In this article, I will cover the best essential oils for altitude sickness, as well as other ways to prevent or minimize its effects.

Altitude sickness can range from mild symptoms like shortness of breath and headache to severe conditions like high-altitude pulmonary edema and cerebral edema, which can be fatal if left untreated.

There are various forms of altitude sickness, including acute mountain sickness (AMS), high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), and cerebral edema (HACE). The most common symptoms of altitude sickness include headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, symptoms may also include confusion, difficulty walking, and chest tightness.

While seeking medical attention is the best way to manage altitude sickness, using essential oils can also help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with this condition. In this article, we will discuss the best essential oils for altitude sickness and how to use them.

Best Essential Oils for Altitude Sickness

Peppermint Oil: Peppermint oil is known for its ability to reduce nausea and motion sickness, making it an excellent choice for those experiencing mild symptoms of altitude sickness. It can also help improve blood circulation and lower blood pressure, which can be beneficial when traveling to higher altitudes.
Lavender Oil: Lavender oil is a calming and soothing oil that can help alleviate headaches and other symptoms associated with altitude sickness. It can also help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which can be helpful when trying to adjust to a new altitude.
Clary Sage Oil: Clary sage oil is another calming oil that can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. It can also help alleviate headaches and other symptoms associated with altitude sickness.
Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus oil can help open up airways and improve breathing, making it a great choice for those experiencing shortness of breath or other respiratory symptoms at higher altitudes.
Roman Chamomile Oil: Roman chamomile oil is a gentle and soothing oil that can help alleviate headaches and other symptoms associated with altitude sickness. It can also help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

How to Use Essential Oils for Altitude Sickness

There are various ways to use essential oils for altitude sickness, including:

Inhalation: Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser or a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam. We like to use a non-plastic nebulizing diffuser.
Topical Application: Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil or almond oil and apply it to your skin.
Roll-On: Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil and add it to a 10 ml roll-on bottle for easy application.

Precautions When Using Essential Oils for Altitude Sickness

When using essential oils, it is essential to take precautions to avoid adverse effects. Some essential oils can cause skin irritation, and others may not be suitable for use during pregnancy or with young children. Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil and keep them out of reach of children. Before using any essential oils, it is a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have a medical condition.

Other Ways to Manage Altitude Sickness

In addition to using essential oils, there are other ways to manage altitude sickness, including:

Drinking plenty of water: Staying hydrated can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with altitude sickness.
Resting: Taking a rest day when traveling to a new altitude can help the body adjust to the changes in air pressure and oxygen levels.
Supplemental Oxygen: Using pure oxygen or visiting an oxygen bar can provide relief for those experiencing severe symptoms of altitude sickness.
Eating well: Eating a diet rich in dark leafy greens and foods high in amino acids can help the body adjust to the new altitude and promote blood flow.
Acclimating slowly: Gradually increasing elevation changes can help the body adjust more easily to higher altitudes.
Avoiding alcohol and caffeine: These substances can exacerbate the symptoms of altitude sickness and make it more difficult for the body to adjust.
Using coca leaves: In South America, chewing coca leaves is a common practice to help alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness. However, this is not legal in all countries and should only be done under medical advice.
Cayenne Pepper: Cayenne pepper is believed to improve blood circulation and can be added to herbal tea to help alleviate mild symptoms of altitude sickness.

While essential oils can be a great way to manage mild symptoms of altitude sickness naturally, it is essential to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist. Altitude sickness can be a severe medical condition and is the most common cause of death in people who climb mountains. Therefore, it is crucial to take proper precautions and acclimate to a new altitude slowly.

Altitude sickness is a common medical condition that occurs when traveling to higher altitudes. Using essential oils can be a natural way to manage mild symptoms of altitude sickness and promote relaxation and calmness. However, it is crucial to seek medical attention for severe symptoms and take proper precautions when traveling to higher altitudes, including acclimating slowly and staying hydrated. With the right care, it is possible to enjoy the beauty and adventure of higher elevations without adverse effects.