My Experience Using CBD for Altitude Sickness
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If you’ve ever traveled to high elevations, you might be familiar with the symptoms of altitude sickness—headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. While plenty of remedies exist, not all of them are effective for everyone. After struggling with these symptoms on a hiking trip in Colorado, I decided to try something new (cbd roll on for pain). This is my personal journey and honest reflection on using CBD for altitude sickness and how it helped me feel more comfortable at high altitudes.
What is Altitude Sickness?
Altitude sickness, also known as acute mountain sickness (AMS), typically occurs when you travel too quickly to high elevations without giving your body time to adjust. Common symptoms include:
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Difficulty sleeping
- Fatigue or weakness
While it’s usually mild, severe cases can be dangerous and require medical attention. Most people use hydration, rest, and medications like acetazolamide to cope. But in my case, I wanted a more natural approach—and that’s when I turned to CBD for altitude sickness.
Why I Chose CBD for Altitude Sickness
I’d read about CBD’s anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, and anxiety-reducing properties and wondered if it could help manage the physical discomfort and unease I experienced during altitude changes.
Here’s what appealed to me:
- Natural plant-based remedy
- Non-psychoactive (no “high”)
- Known for reducing nausea and headaches
- May help with sleep and anxiety
CBD’s versatility and general safety profile made it a compelling option, so I decided to bring it along on my next high-altitude trip.
How I Used CBD for Altitude Sickness
On my most recent trip to Aspen, Colorado (elevation over 8,000 feet), I began taking CBD oil the day before I traveled. I used a full-spectrum CBD tincture (25 mg per dose), placing the drops under my tongue for faster absorption.
My usage plan:
- Day before ascent: One 25 mg dose in the evening
- Day of arrival: 25 mg in the morning, another dose in the evening
- During symptoms: An extra 10 mg when I felt headache or nausea starting
Additionally, I stayed well-hydrated and avoided alcohol—important steps whether you’re using CBD or not.
What I Experienced
I was pleasantly surprised by how effective the CBD for altitude sickness turned out to be. While I still felt some mild symptoms, they were far less intense than usual. Here’s a breakdown:
- Headaches: Significantly reduced and shorter in duration
- Nausea: Barely noticeable—CBD seemed to settle my stomach quickly
- Sleep: Slept better than I usually do at high altitude
- Anxiety: Felt calm and more in control during moments of breathlessness
CBD didn’t make the altitude disappear, but it certainly made it more manageable. I was able to enjoy hiking, dining, and sightseeing without constantly feeling off-balance or sick.
What Science Says About CBD and Altitude
While there’s limited direct research on CBD for altitude sickness, its components have been studied for related symptoms:
- Anti-nausea: CBD interacts with serotonin receptors, potentially reducing motion and altitude-induced nausea.
- Anti-inflammatory: May help alleviate the inflammation-related headaches that come with altitude changes.
- Neuroprotective: CBD is believed to help with brain oxygenation and reduce oxidative stress—key issues at high elevation.
- Anxiolytic: Helps reduce anxiety, which can exacerbate breathlessness and discomfort in unfamiliar environments.
More clinical research is needed, but anecdotal reports—including mine—suggest real promise.
Tips for Using CBD at High Altitudes
If you’re planning a trip and want to try CBD for altitude sickness, here are some tips from my experience:
- Start early: Begin dosing before your elevation change.
- Use a quality product: Look for third-party tested, full-spectrum or broad-spectrum CBD oil.
- Choose the right format: Tinctures absorb faster; gummies are convenient but slower-acting.
- Stay hydrated: CBD is helpful, but hydration is still your first line of defense.
- Listen to your body: If symptoms worsen, consult a medical professional—CBD is not a replacement for emergency care.
FAQs About CBD for Altitude Sickness
1. Is CBD safe to use for altitude sickness?
Yes, CBD is generally well-tolerated. Just ensure you’re not allergic and consult your doctor if you’re on other medications.
2. Can CBD completely prevent altitude sickness?
No. It can help reduce symptoms, but it won’t eliminate the effects of high elevation entirely. Acclimatization and hydration are still essential.
3. What form of CBD works best?
CBD tinctures or oils taken sublingually offer fast absorption and symptom relief. Capsules or gummies work too but take longer to kick in.
4. How much CBD should I take?
Start with a low dose (10–25 mg) and monitor how your body responds. Everyone’s tolerance and needs are different.
5. Will CBD affect my hiking performance?
Not negatively. In fact, by reducing headaches, nausea, and anxiety, it may help you feel more capable and comfortable during your activity.
Final Thoughts
My experience using CBD for altitude sickness was overwhelmingly positive. It didn’t completely erase the challenges of high elevation, but it made my symptoms far more manageable—without relying on pharmaceutical drugs. I was able to stay active, enjoy my trip, and sleep well through the night, all thanks to this natural remedy.
If you’re planning a mountain getaway or high-altitude adventure, consider packing CBD in your travel kit. Just make sure to test it at home first to understand how your body reacts—and always prioritize safety and acclimatization.
