The Himalayas pose as a remote but attractive place for many people, but the 'world's highest mountains are not that easy to visit. Low oxygen in the air can easily trigger altitude sickness, and if without proper treatment, it could be fatal for many.

Fortunately, nature always finds a way out for you.

Rhodiola is a genus of perennial plants growing in high-altitude mountains of the Northern Hemisphere. Although it has a cute appearance, its medical value has surpassed its horticultural value.

Longwhip Rhodiola is one of the 73 Rhodiola species growing in China. Its red flowers can attract insects from a far distance to pollinate. Longwhip Rhodiola is mostly found on the rocky mountain at the altitude of about 2,500 to 5,400 meters above sea level.

The yellow color Narrowleaf Rhodiola also lives on the alpine mountains with 2,000 to 5,600 meters above sea level, but it prefers grassy area.

Both species are known as herbal medicine and used widely to prevent high altitude sickness. The mechanism behind is promoting blood circulation to increase oxygen efficiency at the cellular level.

(Video provided by CGTN Nature filming crew. Cover image designed by CGTN's Li Xiaojie.)

China's Flora Tour

From the wetlands along the coast to the dense rain forests hidden in the southwest of China, all boast an array of plant species. In this series, we will go on a tour to learn about some of the most iconic flora in different provinces and see how they live in harmony with the local climate and topography.

Read More:

China's Flora Tour: Flora of China is facing a challenge

China's Flora Tour: Yunnan-An 'early spring' hidden in the summer of Shangri-La

China's Flora Tour: Yunnan-Hidden treasures of tertiary relict plant

China's Flora Tour: Yunnan-Don't judge a flower by its look

China's Flora Tour: Yunnan-A purple medusa living on the rocky mountain slopes

China's Flora Tour: Yunnan-Touch the sky, the colorful poppy in the Himalayas

(Video filmed by Yang Yang, edited by Xing Fangyu. Cover image designed by Qu Bo.)

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at nature@cgtn.com)