Both Sodium Chlorite and common salt (
Sodium Chloride) have anti-microbe properties,
Sodium Chlorite is more effective.
Sodium Chlorite is added to packaged meat because of its ability to inhibit bacterial growth. Also when it acidifies, it produces Chlorine Dioxide which is shown to kill a wide range of microorganisms. Incidentally Chlorine Dioxide is also used to purify the water we receive at home.
Sodium Carbonate: When acidified helps loosen persistent mucus in the nose.