Immune Systems Advisor

Evidence Review • Oral Health • Microbiome Mouthwash can reduce plaque, gingivitis, bad breath and tooth decay—but some antimicrobial formulations also alter the oral microbiome. What does the evidence really tell us about chlorhexidine, nitric oxide, blood pressure, diabetes and long-term health? Quick Answer Mouthwash is neither universally harmful nor universally necessary. Therapeutic mouthrinses can provide meaningful dental benefits, particularly for people with gingivitis, plaque, elevated cavity risk or specific dental conditions. However, antimicrobial rinses can also alter the oral microbial ecosystem. The important distinction is between demonstrated dental benefits and hypotheses about long-term systemic effects . Current evidence does not establish that routine mouthwash use causes hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease or Alzheimer's disease. Evidence status: ...

Abstract Background: Povidone-iodine (PVP-I) has been proposed as a topical antiviral intervention targeting SARS-CoV-2 replication in the nasopharynx. While early pandemic recommendations were largely mechanistic, recent studies (2024–2025) provide more structured clinical evidence. Objective: To evaluate updated clinical efficacy, safety, and translational relevance of PVP-I nasal and oral applications in COVID-19. Methods: Narrative review of in vitro studies, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), and systematic reviews published between 2020 and 2025. Results: Recent meta-analysis (2025) suggests PVP-I reduces viral load compared with controls, though effects are modest and not always statistically significant. Randomized trials (2024) confirm shortened viral clearance time but no clear reduction in severe outcomes. Evidence from a 2025 phase III trial in upper respiratory infections supports antiviral activity in real-world viral illnesses. ...

Please enjoy this brief update from the Steve Gruber Show (below) on Real America’s Voice. You may think the claim that twice daily nasal sprays and gargles are better than vaccines is overstated however consider these observations: On demand sporadic Vicks First Defence and Saline nasal sprays reduced the rate of viral upper respiratory tract infection by ~20% as shown in the Immune Defence Study (below). Balmforth et al , demonstrated a 71% risk reduction in COVID-19 illness with a xylitol nasal spray done on a regular basis through the pandemic Influenza vaccine efficacy is running 24-40% in four CDC networks for 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine efficacy is negative in four studies, meaning continued vaccination is associated with greater risk of recurrent acute illness. I told Steve Gruber that I have interviewed multiple individuals and have panned my patients. Twice daily ...

A newer COVID-19 variant may be causing a severe sore throat in some people who contract the infection. The variant, known as NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus), has been nicknamed by some as "razor blade throat" due to the painful symptom . Dr. McCullough appeared on Real America’s Voice Just the News with Amanda Head and said that the sore throat means the virus has been in the nasal cavity silently reproducing for at least five days before the onset of the sore throat. Because vaccines don’t work, the only way to help reduce the risk of Nimbus is twice daily nasal sprays and gargles. It must be done routinely and not just in reaction to the onset of symptoms where it is too late. COVID-19 Variant "Nimbus" NB.1.8.1 Causing 'Razor Blade Throat' by Peter A. McCullough, MD, MPH Strong Call for Twice Daily Nasal Spray and Gargle Regimen Read on Substack COVID-19 Variant "Nimbus" NB.1.8.1 Causing 'Razor Blade Throat' Strong Call for Twice Daily Nasal Spr...

Dr. Peter McCullough has impeccable academic credentials. He's an internist, cardiologist, epidemiologist, a full professor of medicine at Texas A&M College of Medicine in Dallas. He also has a master's degree in public health and is known for being one of the top five most-published medical researchers in the United States and is the editor of two medical journals. Dilute Povidone Iodine or Betadine (a 1% solution) gargling and as a nasal spray on a regular basis twice a day for prevention and then if you have been exposed or are in early stages use at least 4 or potentially 6 times a day. You can also use dilute hydrogen peroxide or dilute sodium hypo chloride or even Scope or Listerine – obviously do not swallow and spit out. Updates:  Efficacy and Advantages of Nasopharyngeal and Oropharyngeal Treatments for Early Intervention and Prophylaxis in Respiratory Viral Infections : A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (2025) How to Detox Sp...

Abstract: Nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal (NP/OP) treatments targeting the upper respiratory tract demonstrate significant efficacy in reducing the risk of progression and transmission of respiratory viral infections, including SARS-CoV-2. This systematic review synthesizes data from 66 clinical studies and multiple meta-analyses, evaluating compounds such as povidone-iodine, iota-carrageenan, nitric oxide, and others with established safety profiles. Early treatment or prophylaxis yields a lower risk profile, with efficacy rates of 38% [25-49%] for oral application, 56% [48-63%] for nasal application, and 91% [74-97%] for combined nasal and oral administration. Targeted delivery to the primary site of infection offers direct action, rapid onset, higher local drug concentrations, and reduced systemic side effects. Despite regulatory challenges, evidence supports the potential of NP/OP treatments as safe, cost-effective interventions, with polytherapy enhancing efficacy (68% [57-77%] r...