How to Stop Getting Sick and Stay Healthy
Our bodies are exposed to many external aggressions. In this article, we explore natural habits and remedies you can adopt to avoid getting sick. Whether you want to prevent colds, sore throats, or winter gastroenteritis, or simply maintain overall good health, these natural solutions to strengthen your immune system will help you stay well all year round.
Why Do I Often Get Sick?
The immune system is our first line of defense against infections. Frequently falling ill can be a sign of a weakened immune system.
The Role of the Immune System in Preventing Illness
The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs, whose role is to identify and neutralize pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and even cancerous cells.
When the immune system functions properly, it can fight harmful microorganisms effectively, often before we even notice any symptoms.
When the immune system is weakened, it becomes less effective at protecting the body from infections, resulting in higher susceptibility to illness and slower recovery.
What Weakens Our Immune System?
GeneticsSome people are naturally more vulnerable to infections due to their genetic makeup. If there is a family history of immune deficiencies, you may be more likely to get sick.
Lifestyle and EnvironmentAn unbalanced lifestyle can compromise your natural defenses. The main culprits include:
Lack of sleep
Nutrient-poor diet
Chronic stress
Lack of physical activity
Polluted environment
Natural Remedies to Strengthen the Immune System
To avoid getting sick, it’s important to support your immune system. Here are some particularly effective natural approaches:
Dietary SupplementsSupplements can play a key role in supporting the immune system, especially if your diet doesn’t provide all the nutrients you need. Some of the most beneficial include:
Vitamin D – essential for proper immune function, especially in winter when sun exposure is limited.
Vitamin C – known for its antioxidant properties, it stimulates white blood cell production and helps protect the body from infections.
Zinc – crucial for regulating the immune system and fighting viruses and bacteria.
Probiotics – support a healthy gut flora, closely linked to immune health and reduced inflammation.
The Power of Essential OilsEssential oils are concentrated plant extracts that can influence and strengthen the immune system. Certain oils are particularly effective in preventing or alleviating infections.
Ravintsara Essential OilRavintsara is known for its antiviral and immune-stimulating properties. It can strengthen natural defenses and help fight various viral infections such as flu, sinusitis, colds, mononucleosis, shingles, herpes, hepatitis, and viral enteritis , a must-have in your wellness kit!
Recommended Use:
Diffusion: 10–15 drops several times per day to purify the air and prevent respiratory infections.
Topical application: 2–4 drops applied to the chest, back, or soles (for children), morning and evening during winter.
Dry inhalation: 3–4 drops on a tissue, inhale deeply.
Steam inhalation: 5 drops in a bowl of hot water, inhale for 10–15 minutes, several times per day.
Internal use: 1–2 drops diluted in honey or olive oil, 3 times per day for respiratory or digestive infections.
Caution: Not recommended during the first 3 months of pregnancy or for infants under 3 months.
Tea Tree Essential Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)Broad-spectrum antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and immune-stimulating, Tea Tree is a must-have for fighting various infections.
Recommended Use:
Diffusion: 10–15 drops several times per day.
Topical application: 3–4 drops diluted in carrier oil, applied to the chest or soles (for children), 3 times per day.
Internal use: 2 drops in honey or on a neutral carrier, 3 times per day for 5–7 days.
Caution: Not recommended during the first 3 months of pregnancy or for infants under 3 months.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris, thymol chemotype) Essential OilA powerful oil with antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antiparasitic, and immune-stimulating properties. Particularly effective for strengthening immunity and fighting respiratory infections.
Use:
Can relieve bronchitis, sinusitis, pneumonia, pharyngitis, sore throat
Treat infectious diarrhea, skin and intestinal parasites, fungal infections, and gum infections
Topical application: 2 drops of thyme oil + 8 drops of carrier oil, 3 times per day.
Internal use: Only under professional guidance due to potency.
Caution: Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children under 6 years; can irritate skin if undiluted.
Important: Ravintsara, Tea Tree, and Thyme oils can support children’s natural defenses, but age-appropriate dosage must always be respected.
Healthy Habits to Prevent Illness
In addition to natural remedies, adopting a healthy lifestyle is essential for strengthening your immune system.
Balanced, Nutrient-Rich DietA varied diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is key to supporting your body’s defenses. Focus on:
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Quality proteins
Whole grains
Healthy fats (nuts, seeds, fatty fish)
Colorful fruits and vegetables (berries, citrus, carrots, spinach, etc.) are particularly rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and E, which support immunity.
Restorative SleepQuality sleep allows your body to regenerate and strengthen immunity. The WHO recommends 7–9 hours of sleep per night for adults.
Tips for better sleep:
Keep a regular schedule
Create a restful environment (dark, quiet, comfortable temperature)
Avoid screens before bed
Relaxation practices such as meditation or yoga can also help improve sleep quality.
Regular Physical ActivityModerate exercise strengthens immunity, improves circulation, helps eliminate toxins, and supports white blood cell production. A 30-minute daily walk, yoga, or cycling is enough. Exercise also reduces stress, which is a major factor in weakening immunity.
Stress ReductionChronic stress raises cortisol, which can suppress immune function. Managing stress is essential. Techniques include:
Meditation
Yoga
Deep breathing
Spending time in nature
Avoid Harmful SubstancesSmoking, excessive alcohol, and drugs significantly weaken immunity:
Smoking damages lungs and increases infection risk
Excess alcohol reduces white blood cell production
Reducing or avoiding these substances helps maintain strong natural defenses
By understanding what weakens your immunity and adopting natural solutions, you can significantly reduce your risk of illness and stay healthy throughout the year.