Travellers, hikers, and mountain climbers alike have all been affected by altitude sickness. The euphoria of reaching new heights can quickly be replaced by dizzy spells, loss of appetite, and in extreme cases, potentially fatal symptoms. But what if there were a viable solution to this form of sickness, directly from nature? Cue in Cannabidiol (CBD).
Before diving deep into how CBD might help with altitude sickness, we must first understand what altitude sickness is. Altitude sickness is caused by a dramatic drop in pressure and oxygen levels as the altitude increases. The body reacts to this sudden change causing symptoms like headache, nausea, dizziness, and vomiting.
Altitude sickness may be categorised into three stages, escalating from mild to severe:
Understanding these stages is equally important as they dictate the severity of the symptoms that individuals may experience.
The potential relief for altitude sickness could be CBD. It’s a natural compound derived from the hemp plant that has been gaining recognition for its therapeutic benefits. Unlike its cousin THC – the compound responsible for inducing a “high” – CBD does not possess psychoactive effects but rather works with the body’s endocannabinoid system to maintain balance and functionality. As seen on www.cbd-world-online.com, CBD can provide various physical and mental benefits.
Several studies suggest that CBD could help alleviate symptoms associated with altitude sickness due to its unique properties. Let’s take a look at how it can potentially alleviate and regulate these symptoms.
Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of altitude sickness. Studies have shown that CBD can help alleviate these symptoms by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain, which are responsible for regulating nausea and vomiting.
Another common symptom of altitude sickness is disrupted sleep or insomnia. CBD has been shown to help individuals suffering from sleep problems by helping to regulate the sleep cycle. It could help users fall asleep and stay asleep, providing much-needed rest.
One of the most prominent effects of CBD is its anti-inflammatory benefits. Altitude sickness can cause inflammation in the brain and lungs which could potentially lead to the critical conditions of HACE and HAPE. CBD’s potent anti-inflammatory effects could help in reducing this inflammation.
A study published in the National Library of Medicine indicates that CBD could offer neuroprotective benefits. High altitudes can cause oxidative stress, leading to the death of brain cells. The neuroprotective benefits offered by CBD could thwart this oxidative stress and protect the brain cells, potentially reducing the severity of altitude sickness.
A series of studies indeed point towards CBD’s potential benefits in treating altitude sickness. However, understanding the right dosage, the quality of CBD, and the best method of consumption is critically essential. Always reach out to a health professional or a CBD expert before starting a CBD regimen, especially for treating symptoms associated with a condition like altitude sickness.
While CBD could potentially alleviate symptoms of altitude sickness, it is not a singular cure-all. There are several other protective measures that should be taken, such as gradual climbs over a period, staying hydrated, consuming a healthy diet, and getting adequate rest. Moreover, individuals with underlying health conditions should always check with their healthcare provider before planning an expedition to high altitudes.
To sum it up, CBD holds promising potential in combating the symptoms of altitude sickness due to its anti-nausea, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective traits. However, it is not a complete replacement for other protective measures or professional medical advice. With more robust research in the pipeline, the full impact of CBD on altitude sickness remains to be fully understood and implemented confidently.
So, the next time you plan to scale new heights, consider securing nature’s own health hack – CBD, and enjoy a more gratifying and safe mountaineering experience!
