Antimicrobial and antiviral composition

Abstract

An antimicrobial and antiviral barrier composition for topical application to the proximal anterior nares includes an antiseptic solution in combination with cocos nucifera (coconut oil) and one or more citrus oils such as, for example, citrus sinensis (orange oil). Various embodiments may also include one or more of the following additional ingredients: lauric acid; d-limonene; soy oil; emu oil; grapefruit seed extract; glycine soja; aloe vera and a preservative, such as sodium benzoate.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] This invention relates to antiseptic compositions and, more particularly, to a nasal antiseptic barrier composition having antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. [0003] 2. Discussion of the Related Art [0004] In recent years, outbreaks of new and potentially deadly diseases such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) and the Avian Influenza have captured worldwide attention and concern. New and unusual strains of the flu virus have also emerged in the last few years and have spread throughout the world population at epidemic levels. It is believed that increases in world population, rapid travel between distance regions and high concentration of individuals in confined areas where there is poor air filtration (e.g. aircraft, trains, buses and tourist sites) have resulted in the increase in the number of, as well as mutation of, pathogenic organisms. [0005] The onset of respiratory disease is prima...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013] Considering the forgoing, it is a primary object of the present invention to provide an antimicrobial and antiviral composition for topical application to the anterior nostril openings for protecting against harmful exposure to airborne pathogens.

[0014] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a safe and highly effective antimicrobial and antiviral composition for topical application to the rim of each nostril to provide protection against a broad spectrum of harmful pathogens for at least 8 hours.

[0015] It is still a further object of the present invention to provide an antimicrobial and antiviral composition for topical application to the rim of each nostril to enhance the natural filtration properties of the nose.

[0016] It is yet a further object of the present invention to provide an antimicrobial and antiviral composition for topical application to the rim of the nostrils for trapping and killing airborne pathogens before these pathogens can replicate within the nasal cavity.

[0017] It is still a further object of the present invention to provide an antimicrobial and antiviral composition that significantly reduces the number of harmful pathogens that proliferate freely within the nasal cavity, thereby minimizing the degree and severity of potential respiratory infection.

[0018] It is still a further object of the present invention to provide an antimicrobial and antiviral composition of topical application to the rim of the nostrils, and wherein the composition has a pleasant scent and contributes to the lubrication and filtration of the nasal passages.

Problems solved by technology

The nasal passages, on the other hand, are less effective in trapping and killing microorganisms.

While these are good practices to help reduce the possibility of infection, they are not long lasting and are usually only effective to kill germs that were on the hands or other areas of the body prior to cleansing.

With little to no residual effect, the hands can become contaminated with pathogens shortly after washing.

However, the use of face masks is generally impractical, inefficient and socially unappealing.

Colds cause more than 50 million days of restricted activity and 25 million days lost from school and the work place.

Overall, the estimated cost to the U.S. economy of the common cold and other related illnesses is approximately $150 billion per year.

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