Are you planning your next adventure and traveling soonish? In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, I embarked on a unique journey that included not one, but two 14-day stays in Managed Isolated Quarantine facilities while traveling overseas. These experiences have provided me with invaluable lessons on staying healthy while on the go.

In this guide, we’ll explore practical insights and evidence-based strategies for fortifying your body’s defenses at the three primary entry points for pathogens: the nasal passage, mouth, and hands.

Strengthening our defenses at these three entry points is a smart approach to reduce the chances of harmful invaders getting through. Let’s delve into some evidence-based strategies for fortifying these entry points and giving your immune system a better shot at winning the battle against pathogens.

1. Nasal Passage:
   • You might be surprised to learn that a simple 20-minute heat therapy at 45°C (that’s about as warm as a comfortable bath) can be a game-changer when it comes to fighting off Human Rhinoviruses (HRV), those notorious culprits responsible for the common cold.
   • Let’s break it down: In the Conti 1999 in-vitro study (cell-culture study), researchers found that heat therapy could reduce HRV multiplication by more than 90%. Impressive, right? But what’s even more fascinating is that it works by targeting specific stages of the virus replication cycle.
   • Think of it like this: team HRV is trying to lodge an attack against your immune system. Your immune cells need to counter-balance however like many wars, it’s a numbers game. Heat therapy is your secret weapon. it wipes out 90% of team HRV before they reach your Fort Knox.
   • So, here’s your actionable takeaway: When you start feeling that telltale sniffles creeping in, do a round of steam inhalation (Heat water to 45 degrees or till safe/tolerable, pour into basin, inhale for as long as you can) and switch on your aromatherapy diffuser. Add a couple drops of Thieve’s Oil and get your well-deserved shut-eye. See below for details.
2. Mouth:
   • Antibacterial Drops: Oregano oil has garnered attention for its potential as a natural antibacterial agent, and research supports its efficacy in this regard. A study published in Frontiers in Pharmacology in 2017 delved into the antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties of oregano oil. These properties make it a compelling option for maintaining oral health. Incorporating oregano oil as an antibacterial drop may assist in controlling bacteria in your mouth, contributing to a healthier oral environment. This natural approach to oral hygiene adds to the growing body of evidence highlighting the benefits of oregano oil in supporting overall wellness. See product recommendation below.
   • Iodine has long been known for its antiseptic properties, and it’s used in various medical and dental applications. For those without iodine allergies or thyroid concerns, gargling with Betadine Solution may offer potential benefits, as suggested by Chen 2021. If you have any allergies to iodine or have thyroid issues, seek medical attention before using iodine.
   • AND
   • Suck Enhanced Zinc 18.75mg lozenges at least four times daily. Research, like the Hemilä 2017, has suggested that zinc, particularly in the form of zinc acetate, may help enhance recovery from the common cold. This is thought to be due to its potential to inhibit the replication of cold-causing viruses in the throat. Time is of the essence. The studies that showed benefit administered zinc within 24 hours of having symptoms. Note prolonged zinc supplementation over recommended daily intake can tip the zinc:copper balance. Seek further medical assistance for long-term use.
3. Hands:
   • Frequent Handwashing: Proper handwashing with soap and water is one of the most effective ways to prevent pathogens from your hands.

Here is my Must Have list from my lived-experiences and travelling tips to stay healthy during this time:

• Aromatherapy Diffuser & Thieve’s Oil ~ to reduce nasal stuffiness associated with dryness from ducted air-conditioning . The legend of Thieve’s oil (aromatherapy incorporating essential oil blend of cloves, cinnamon, eucalyptus, lemon and rosemary) goes back to the bubonic plaque. During the plaque, a team of thieves stole from the dead but never got sick. They were caught and for their freedom, disclosed their secret, aromatherapy with Thieve’s oil. A study found a reduction in microbes in a controlled environment with Thieve’s oil.[i] I use Now Foods Nature Shield 1-2 drops in my diffuser.
• Top 3 supplements to boost your immune system ~ read my complimentary guide to help decide which top 3 supplements would best serve your immune system! And for a comprehensive review on the role of supplements, go here.
• First Aid Kit for respiratory infections (see below)
• North American Herb & Spice Oreganol Super Strength wild oregano oil ~ this is your wild card, 73% carvacrol with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. I sip 1-2 drops in a quarter glass of warm water when I sense a cold is coming
• There is emerging data suggesting that black cumin seed (Nigella sativa) has immunomodulatory, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects against respiratory conditions. It has a long history of medicinal and culinary use in the Middle East and Asia. Imran 2022 collated a literature review with positive results while Said 2022 found the combination of vitamin D and black cumin seed reduce the symptoms of COVID-19.

1. [i] Chao SC, Young G, Oberg CJ. Effect of a Diffused Essential Oil Blend on Bacterial Bioaerosols. Journal of Essential Oil Research. 1998;10:5. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10412905.1998.9700958

Affiliate Disclosure: Products and services recommended are limited to products that Therese’s uses and recommends to clients. The educational materials may contain affiliate links, which means The Pharmacist Edit may receive a commission on any product or service you purchase using the links provided. You will pay the same price (or lower) for all products and services, and your purchase helps support Therese‘s ongoing research and work.