When we decide to perform Haj, the four-day annual pilgrimage, we usually think of planning for air travel, place of sojourn, and journey logistics. I wonder how many of us think of preparing our bodies for such a formidable peregrination. One of the first prerequisites for performing Haj, Islam’s fifth pillar, is good health conditions. Because it is an arduous stipulation, God the Merciful (Al-Raheem) put physical fitness a priority. Haj is neither required of the physically unfit nor of the financially incapable, as He asserts in the Holy Qur’an, surat Al-Baqarah, The Cow, “Allah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things difficult for you” (chapter: 2; verse: 185). Since pilgrims need to be physically fit and well, I chose a few natural, preventive, healing remedies from this columnist’s healing cabinet to help you through this multi-procedure journey.

In last week’s column (Rev up your Immunity with Immune Boosters, Arab News, Dec. 5th, 2007), I recommended the use of some important vitamins and immune boosters to be taken a couple of weeks before the Haj trek. Such supplements protect from disease and pathogens and give energy. The mentioned measures should be seriously followed. Not only do you need to preserve every drop of energy you have, but also build on it in order to stay healthy and well to complete the required stipulations and return home safe, sound, and fulfilled. The following suggestions will help you, inshallah, keep your immunity at its best.

Water should be very clean and pure. Bottled water is reliable. If it is not available, drink boiled water as often as possible to avoid dehydration and its consequences. Remember, without reasonable salt intake, your body will not retain or benefit from water. Add a dash of salt to yogurt drinks or munch on saltine crackers that you should carry with you.

Live culture yogurt is necessary to protect your gastrointestinal tract from microbes found in food and drinks. Make sure you take a cup with every meal.

Lime and lemon should be added to your food if possible. They kill germs and increase your vitamin C supply to fight cold viruses and flu infections. Should you suffer from stomachache or diarrhea, drink the juice of two limes undiluted twice to thrice daily. Make sure you have lime at hand.

Ginger powder or its supplement reduces nausea and eases the digestion.

Cumin, anise, fennel, and cardamom seeds relieve gas and digestive problems.

Turmeric powder, an anti-inflammatory spice, and all the above ones suggested are great immune enhancers and health protectors. Add turmeric to yogurt, milk, and soup.

You can take along some of the above dry items in small plastic bottles. Write their names on stickers. Chew them or make hot infusions of the seeds.

Black and hot peppers, in moderation, destroy bacteria in food and increase blood flow in the body and brain.

Green tea and herbal infusions (mint, ginger, cinnamon, peppermint, chamomile, rooibos, and ginseng) are effective health promoters due to their high antioxidant content.

Nuts’ good oils, in small amounts, protect health. They should not be fried.

Oliban, or Boswellia (luban shihri), is an immune-enhancing antifungal, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant gum.. Dissolve 2 to 3 drops of the gum in water 2 hours prior to taking it 2 to 3 times daily for colds, flu, and digestive disorders.

Activity improves cardiac health and body oxygenation, builds muscles and immunity, increases energy, and enhances sleep and well-being. Start now!

Sleep is a very important factor in maintaining a healthy immune system. Sleep restores killer cells and increases energy. Your body requires enough sleeping hours to repair.

The following foods should be avoided. You should try to abstain from them to protect your immunity and health during Haj and all the time.

Refined sugar and carbohydrates, and soda drinks are immune drainers and energy sappers. They encourage yeast infections, obesity, and disease.

Fatty, fried, fast foods (the nasty 3 Fs) are difficult to digest, which exerts the immune system and promotes lethargy and weight gain.

Overindulgence is an enemy of digestive health and immunity. Over consumption leads to heavy breathing and strains the heart, draining energy and immune defenses. This style of eating contributes to obesity, heart disease, diabetes, digestive disorders, and lethargy.

Fruits and Vegetables are major health promoters, but they should be washed properly and soaked in water and vinegar to destroy germs. Take dry fruits with you; they contain antioxidants.

Protecting yourself against pathogens and boosting your immune system are major factors in helping you complete the pillar of Haj with minimum complication. Optimum health and wellness are vehicles for appreciating and enjoying the different Haj observances to the maximum. May your Haj be uncomplicated, rewarding, and blessed. Haj Mabroor, inshallah!