A new oral antiseptic spray that is effective in killing 99.9% of infectious airborne germs could be the answer to fighting colds and flu, claim a research team from San Francisco.
The germ-killing oral spray -- Halo Oral Antiseptic -- creates a 'gum microbial barrier' that protects users from airborne germs such as influenza and rhinovirus, while also fighting respiratory illnesses.
"The glycerine and xanthan gum prevent the germs from entering a person's system and the [anti-infective agent] kills the germs once they're trapped there," explains Dr Esper, in a statement.
How does the oral spray work?
Oral Spray
Breathing Airborne Germs(01 of03)
Open Image ModalUsing Halo(02 of03)
Open Image ModalSustained Germ-Killing Power(03 of03)
Open Image ModalThe spray, which has been tested against clinical strains of 2009 pandemic H1N1 (swine flu), is already available in supermarkets in America.
During drug trials, when a person used three sprays of Halo, it destroyed airborne germs breathed in for up to six hours, even when they were eating and drinking.
Natural Remedies For Colds And Flu
Natural Remedies For Colds And Flu(01 of10)
Open Image Modal (credit:Alamy)
Garlic (02 of10)
Open Image ModalGarlic is well known for its immune system benefits and is best eaten raw or crushed in soups and hot drinks. Garlic combats snotty noses by releasing a compound called allicin, which is full of anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. (credit:Alamy)
Celery (03 of10)
Open Image ModalIf you're struggling to get a good night's sleep, tackle the problem with a stick of celery.Celery contains phthalidesm which has sedative powers and helps the body shut off and rest easy during the night. (credit:Alamy)
Thyme(04 of10)
Open Image ModalA great natural remedy for respiratory disorders as it helps to release mucus from the body. It is also an antispasmodic which helps relax bronchial tubes, clearing the airways. Brew a cup of thyme tea or use it as an oil to treat chesty coughs or emphysema. (credit:Alamy)
Leafy Greens (05 of10)
Open Image ModalNosebleeds can be a symptom of cold and flu. Prevent this from happening by adding leafy greens to your diet. Packed with Vitamin K, greens fortify sensitive capillaries and help your blood clot quickly if you have a nose bleed. (credit:Alamy)
Jujube Tea(06 of10)
Open Image ModalJujube tea is rich in Vitamin C and great for the immune system and is widely used for relieving aching throat muscles. (credit:Alamy)
Carrots(07 of10)
Open Image ModalCarrots are ideal for treating cold-induced headaches as they contain beta-carotene, which can reduce inflammation in the blood vessels of the brain.Chop them up and put in a stew, grate them on top of a salad or blend them to create a headache-friendly soup. (credit:Alamy)
Nuts (08 of10)
Open Image ModalLavender(09 of10)
Open Image ModalWhen the flu bug strikes, chances are the lack of sleep, appetite and constant nose blowing will begin to wear you down. Lavender is great for calming the nerves and relieving feelings of anxiety and stress. Use either dried lavender to scent the room or apply lavender oil on your pulse points for an instant calming boost. (credit:Alamy)
Pineapple (10 of10)
Open Image ModalA low immune system can lead to weakened digestive system. Strengthen it by using pineapple which helps reduce intestinal inflammation and speeds the breakdown of protein, reducing gas and discomfort. (credit:Alamy)