Taos Tea: Altitude Air Crashing Gummy Youth?

By Franklin Everett Shaw

April 3, 2026

Forget those glossy brochures promising instant altitude acclimatization in Denver. They’re usually fluff. The real secret to enjoying the Rockies without feeling like you’re breathing through a straw? It’s about understanding your body and giving it the right tools. And for many, that tool can be found in a carefully crafted, natural approach inspired by the principles behind “Taos Tea.”

Taos Tea, traditionally, is a blend of herbs designed to help with altitude sickness. We’re going to adapt that concept for the Denver resident, focusing on readily available ingredients and a delivery method that’s both palatable and practical: gummies.

Why gummies? Because they’re easy to carry, discreet to consume, and can be precisely dosed. Plus, let’s be honest, who doesn’t like a gummy?

The core ingredients we’ll be focusing on are:

• Ginger: A potent anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea agent. Ginger helps settle the stomach, a common casualty of altitude sickness. You can find fresh ginger root at almost any grocery store in Denver, from King Soopers to Whole Foods.
• Ginkgo Biloba: This herb is believed to improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain. While the science is still evolving, many people swear by it for altitude acclimatization. You can find Ginkgo Biloba supplements at Vitamin Cottage or online retailers like Amazon.
• Electrolytes: Crucial for hydration, especially at altitude where you lose fluids faster. Think sodium, potassium, and magnesium. We’ll incorporate these through electrolyte powders readily available at sporting goods stores like REI or even pharmacies like Walgreens.
• Vitamin C: An antioxidant that can help combat the oxidative stress caused by high altitude. Easily sourced from citrus fruits or supplements.

Now, let’s get to the recipes. Remember, these are guidelines, and you should always consult with your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.

Recipe 1: The Acclimatization Aid (Lower Altitude - Denver, Boulder, Colorado Springs)

This recipe is designed for those living at lower altitudes in Colorado (around 5,000-6,000 feet) who are planning a trip to higher elevations.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 cup fruit juice (apple or white grape work well)
  • 2 tablespoons gelatin powder (unflavored)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (local Colorado honey is a bonus!)
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 50mg Ginkgo Biloba extract (powdered)
  • 1/4 teaspoon electrolyte powder (unflavored)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Vitamin C powder

• Instructions:

  1. Bloom the gelatin: In a small bowl, mix the gelatin powder with 1/4 cup of cold fruit juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
  2. Heat the remaining juice: In a saucepan, heat the remaining 3/4 cup of fruit juice over medium heat. Do not boil.
  3. Dissolve the gelatin: Add the bloomed gelatin to the warm juice and stir until completely dissolved.
  4. Add the remaining ingredients: Remove from heat and stir in the honey, grated ginger, Ginkgo Biloba extract, electrolyte powder, and Vitamin C powder.
  5. Pour into molds: Pour the mixture into silicone gummy molds.
  6. Chill: Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

• Dosage: 2-3 gummies per day, starting a few days before your trip to higher altitude.

Recipe 2: The High-Altitude Helper (Breckenridge, Vail, Aspen)

This recipe is for those already living at higher altitudes (above 8,000 feet) or experiencing more severe altitude sickness symptoms.

• Ingredients:

  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons gelatin powder (unflavored)
  • 1 tablespoon agave nectar (or honey)
  • 1.5 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
  • 75mg Ginkgo Biloba extract (powdered)
  • 1/2 teaspoon electrolyte powder (unflavored)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Vitamin C powder

• Instructions: Follow the same instructions as Recipe 1.

• Dosage: 3-4 gummies per day, as needed.

Important Considerations:

• Ginger Strength: The potency of ginger can vary. Start with a smaller amount and increase as tolerated. Some people find ginger to be too strong, causing heartburn.
• Ginkgo Biloba Quality: Not all Ginkgo Biloba supplements are created equal. Look for a standardized extract with a guaranteed percentage of ginkgolides and bilobalide.
• Electrolyte Balance: Be mindful of your overall electrolyte intake. Too much sodium can be detrimental.
• Hydration is Key: These gummies are a supplement, not a replacement for proper hydration. Drink plenty of water, especially at altitude.
• Acclimatization is Gradual: Don’t expect these gummies to magically eliminate altitude sickness. They are designed to support your body’s natural acclimatization process. Spend a few days at a moderate altitude before venturing to higher peaks.
• Listen to Your Body: If you experience any adverse effects, discontinue use and consult with your doctor.

Common Mistakes and Pitfalls:

• Starting Too Late: Don’t wait until you’re already feeling sick to start taking these gummies. Begin a few days before your trip to allow your body to adjust.
• Overdoing It: More is not always better. Stick to the recommended dosage.
• Ignoring Hydration: These gummies won’t work if you’re dehydrated. Drink plenty of water.
• Expecting a Miracle Cure: Altitude sickness is a complex condition. These gummies are a tool to help manage symptoms, but they are not a guaranteed cure.
• Not Consulting a Doctor: If you have any underlying health conditions, talk to your doctor before using these gummies.

Sourcing Ingredients in Denver:

• Ginger: Any grocery store (King Soopers, Safeway, Whole Foods, Sprouts)
• Ginkgo Biloba: Vitamin Cottage, Natural Grocers, online retailers (Amazon)
• Electrolyte Powder: REI, sporting goods stores, pharmacies (Walgreens, CVS)
• Vitamin C Powder: Vitamin Cottage, Natural Grocers, online retailers (Amazon)
• Gelatin Powder: Any grocery store
• Honey: Local farmers markets, grocery stores (look for Colorado honey!)
• Agave Nectar: Any grocery store

Comparing to Other Remedies:

While these gummies offer a natural approach, other remedies exist. Acetazolamide (Diamox) is a prescription medication often used to prevent and treat altitude sickness. It works by increasing the rate of acclimatization. However, it can have side effects, such as tingling in the extremities and increased urination.

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help with headaches, a common symptom of altitude sickness. Oxygen therapy is another option, but it’s typically reserved for severe cases.

Ultimately, the best approach is a combination of strategies: gradual acclimatization, proper hydration, a healthy diet, and, potentially, the support of natural remedies like these Taos Tea-inspired gummies.

Living in or visiting Denver offers unparalleled access to the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Don’t let altitude sickness ruin your experience. By understanding your body and utilizing these natural remedies, you can enjoy all that Colorado has to offer, from hiking fourteeners to skiing world-class slopes. Remember to consult with your doctor, listen to your body, and enjoy the adventure!