Taos Tea: Altitude Air Stealing Summer Savings?
By Franklin Everett ShawForget those glossy brochures promising miracle cures for altitude sickness on your Taos hiking trip. They’re often filled with empty promises and overpriced pills. The real solution might be brewing right in front of you, in a steaming cup of Taos Tea.
Taos Tea, a local favorite, is a yerba mate-based drink. But can it really help you breathe easier at 7,000+ feet? Let’s dive into the science, the local lore, and a practical guide to using this caffeinated concoction to conquer those New Mexico peaks.
The problem with altitude sickness, or acute mountain sickness (AMS), stems from reduced oxygen levels at higher elevations. This leads to symptoms like headaches, nausea, fatigue, and dizziness. Traditional remedies often involve coca tea (common in South America) or prescription medications like acetazolamide (Diamox). But these aren’t always readily available or desirable.
So, how does Taos Tea stack up? The key lies in its caffeine and antioxidant content.
Caffeine, a stimulant, can help alleviate some AMS symptoms. It can reduce fatigue and improve alertness, making the initial ascent feel less daunting. However, it’s a double-edged sword. Caffeine can also dehydrate you, exacerbating altitude sickness. Moderation is crucial.
Antioxidants, abundant in yerba mate, combat oxidative stress. Oxidative stress increases at high altitudes due to the body working harder with less oxygen. By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants can potentially reduce inflammation and improve overall well-being, indirectly aiding acclimatization.
Now, let’s get practical. Here’s a “how-to” guide for using Taos Tea to help acclimate to the altitude around Taos, New Mexico:
Start Before You Arrive: If possible, begin drinking Taos Tea a few days before your trip. This allows your body to adjust to the caffeine and antioxidants. You can order Taos Tea online from various retailers.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate: Counteract the dehydrating effects of caffeine by drinking plenty of water. Aim for at least a gallon of water per day, especially during your first few days in Taos.
Pace Yourself: Don’t rush your ascent. Spend a day or two at a lower altitude (e.g., Santa Fe, around 7,200 feet) before heading to Taos (6,969 feet) or higher elevations for hiking.
Listen to Your Body: If you experience any symptoms of altitude sickness, descend immediately. Taos Tea is not a cure-all.
Brew it Right: Follow the instructions on the Taos Tea package. Typically, you’ll steep the tea in hot (but not boiling) water for 5-7 minutes. Avoid over-steeping, as this can make the tea bitter.
Local Sourcing: While you can buy Taos Tea online, consider purchasing it directly from local shops in Taos. This supports the local economy and ensures you’re getting the freshest product. Check out Taos Mesa Brewing Mothership or Cid’s Food Market.
Compare Prices: A bag of Taos Tea (enough for roughly 30 cups) typically costs around $12-$15 in Taos. Online prices can be higher, often ranging from $15-$20 plus shipping.
Now, let’s address some common challenges and pitfalls:
Over-reliance on Caffeine: Don’t depend solely on Taos Tea to combat altitude sickness. It’s a supplement, not a replacement for proper acclimatization and hydration.
Ignoring Symptoms: Many hikers push through symptoms, thinking they’ll subside. This can lead to severe AMS and even life-threatening conditions like HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) or HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema).
Dehydration: This is the biggest culprit. Carry a hydration pack and sip water constantly throughout the day.
Mixing with Alcohol: Alcohol exacerbates dehydration and can worsen AMS symptoms. Avoid alcohol during your first few days at altitude.
Anecdotal evidence from Taos residents and tourists is mixed. Some swear by Taos Tea, claiming it helps them feel more energized and less affected by the altitude. Others find it ineffective. It’s important to remember that everyone reacts differently to altitude and caffeine.
Consider this: Maria, a local Taos resident who runs a hiking tour company, recommends Taos Tea to her clients, but emphasizes that it’s just one piece of the puzzle. She also stresses the importance of proper hydration, pacing, and listening to your body.
Another example: A tourist from Dallas, Texas, reported feeling significantly better after drinking Taos Tea during a hike to Williams Lake near Taos Ski Valley (elevation 11,000 feet). However, she also made sure to drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks.
Ultimately, Taos Tea can be a helpful tool in your altitude acclimatization arsenal, but it’s not a magic bullet. It’s a blend of caffeine and antioxidants that may alleviate some symptoms, but it’s crucial to prioritize hydration, pacing, and listening to your body.
Don’t fall for the hype. Approach Taos Tea as a potential aid, not a guaranteed solution. And remember, the best way to combat altitude sickness is to ascend slowly, stay hydrated, and be aware of your body’s limits. Enjoy the stunning scenery of Taos, but do so responsibly.