Talking about altitude sickness. It usually starts with a slight throbbing of the head and if not taken care of, burst into a full blown migraine. It can start at any time and you should stop and rest. Further physical exertion will only make it worse. Some get hit so bad they throw out every three steps. This is no joke.
The herbal preparation Hong Jing Tian which you can get at the Tibetan drug shop seems to help but they advise that you should take it a week or two before your departure. It costs me about 40 yuan for a one week pack. It is a general tonic and apparently is ok for daily consumption but check your blood pressure for any misfires.
The scientific name of the main herb is Rhodiola Rosea. It is said to increase mental and physical stamina so maybe that is the reason why it helps with altitude sickness. I read somewhere that it is also used to promote hormonal balance which could also mean that your libido may get a boost .. nice..
I had a glance at the Chinese herbs on my packet and noticed that it also contains a variety of ginseng as well. That would account for some people saying that they get ‘hot’ after taking the drug. A nun who was travelling with us had this complaint but I think it was because she was not taking in sufficient water. She was, you see, trying to avoid too many pee stops along the long journey.
This next one is very important. Try to avoid baths and getting yourself exposed when in areas of high altitude. Washing your hair is a definite no. The air is very thin and dry so it is very easy to catch a cold. This cold is not like the common cold but is more like a reaction to the different climate. Tibetan medicine would call it an imbalance of the body energies. This is a malady which is better to avoid than to try to cure.
Have a safe trip!
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Thanks for sharing this! Would come in handy when I decide to go climb mountains!
Btw, I also know of a Chinese mushroom called lingzhi or ‘ganoderma lucidum’ which is also very effective in countering altitude sickness.
Guess Lingzhi works as it strengthens our constitution. Don’t know about the economics though. I believe Hong Jing Tian (or rose root) is cheaper. You can try getting the dried form and boil in water to drink as a tea. As advised by my Chinese doctor friend, I now prepare a concoction by soaking them in white chinese rice wine. If you are into wine, what better than being a little tipsy especially in cold weather!