Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. By providing the information contained herein we are not diagnosing, treating, curing, mitigating, or preventing any type of disease or medical condition. Before beginning any type of natural, integrative or conventional treatment regimen, it is advisable to seek the advice of a licensed healthcare professional. May contain affiliate links. Product photos/descriptions provided by company websites. This is not medical advice.
What causes it?
Diphtheria is a serious infection caused by strains of bacteria called Corynebacterium diphtheriae that make a toxin. It is the toxin that can cause people to get very sick.
Diphtheria bacteria spread from person to person, usually through respiratory droplets, like from coughing or sneezing. People can also get sick from touching infected open sores or ulcers. Those at increased risk of getting sick include:
- People in the same household
- People with a history of frequent, close contact with the patient
- People directly exposed to secretions from the suspected infection site (e.g., mouth, skin) of the patient1
What are the symptoms?
Depending which body part has been affected by diphtheria, symptoms may include weakness, sore throat, mild fever, and swollen glands in the neck. If the skin is infected, open sores or ulcers may occur.1
Prevention
The CDC recommends frequent vaccination to prevent diphtheria, however be sure to read the manufacturer inserts (DTAP, TDAP, and Tetanus depending on age) especially the “limitations of effectiveness” section.
Additionally, the CDC states that close contacts of someone with diphtheria should be:
- Monitored for possible illness for 7 to 10 days from the time they were last exposed
- Tested for diphtheria with a sample collected from the nose and throat1
Diagnosis
Doctors usually decide if a person has diphtheria by looking for common signs and symptoms. They can swab the back of the throat or nose and test it for the bacteria that cause diphtheria. A doctor can also take a sample from an open sore or ulcer and try and grow the bacteria. If the bacteria grow and make the diphtheria toxin, the doctor can be sure a patient has diphtheria.1
Treatment
If antibiotics or antitoxins are recommended, be sure to read the manufacturer insert. Also research:
- Echinacea is traditionally used to support respiratory health in Native American medicine. Research has shown it destroys infection directly and bolsters the body’s defenses by magnifying white blood cell count. Echinacea can lower elevated body temperature. Taken preventatively, it can help prevent enzymes from dissolving hyaluronic acid in the tissues preventing pathogenic bacteria penetration. Echinacea also accelerates the production of granulomatous tissue (healing) and stimulates the lymph system which carries waste from infection.2 Several products below also have echinacea.
- Licorice Root is also used for respiratory conditions in traditional Chinese medicine. The expectorant properties help loosen and expel mucus from the airways. However, be sure to research about interactions with blood pressure medications. Several products below also have licorice root.2
- Thyme is antimicrobial and used for respiratory ailments to soothe coughs and support respiratory health.2
- Steam inhalation with hot water infused with chamomile, eucalyptus, or mint might soothe the throat, reduce congestion, and provide temporary relief. 2
1 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
2 “The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine” by Daniel B. Mowrey, Ph. D.
Products to Research
Dr. Green Mom Nature’s Biotic™
$17.09 with discount | “JUSTTHEINSERTS” for 10% off
Bestselling immune formula features organic echinacea, goldenseal and licorice plus ethically wildcrafted Oregon grape, myrrh, and wild indigo. These herbs enhance the innate action of a healthy immune system and support resilient mucous membranes in the lungs, urinary, and digestive tracts. To avoid disrupting the microbiome, this powerful formula should be used for periods of two weeks or less unless advised by a healthcare provider
- Physician Formulated, cGMP, Third Party Tested
- Alcohol Free, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Soy Free, Dairy Free, Vegan, Kosher
This is our strongest immune support formula and was designed for short term use only. Do not use for longer than two weeks unless advised by a professional.
Rowe Casa Organics Cough Syrup
$13.60 with discount | For your first Rowe Casa Organics order, use discount code “JUSTTHEINSERTS” for 20% off.
This is a great all-natural alternative when you don’t want the added sugars, artificial ingredients, and chemical additives found in conventional cough syrups. The essential oils in this recipe will help soothe the throat, boost the immune system, and settle all types of cough.
TO USE: Adults take 1–2 tablespoons. Children (ages 1+) take 1–2 teaspoons every 4 hours or as often as needed for cough. (Children under the age of 1 should not ingest honey.)
Rowe Casa Organics Children’s Relief
$21.60 with discount | For your first Rowe Casa Organics order, use discount code “JUSTTHEINSERTS” for 20% off.
Inflammation is found at the root of most pain, so we developed a formula that combines the most anti-inflammatory agents into one bottle.
⚠️ Please Note: Curcumin naturally provides the same effects as blood pressure and diabetes medications. Anyone with these conditions should take extra precaution. We recommend checking with your doctor before making any changes to your dietary routine. Children’s Relief is recommended to use during pregnancy due to willow bark in the adult version.
Dr. Green Mom Temperature Tamer™
$21.59 with discount | “JUSTTHEINSERTS” for 10% off
Temperature Tamer™, by Dr. Green Mom, is a USDA Organic Certified blend of the most beautiful herbs synergistically chosen to support the immune system, provide calming comfort, and promote relaxation, when baby & child need it most!
- Intended for temporary relief of discomfort caused by mild fever.
- Calming herbs promote relaxation & rest
- Supports a healthy immune defense
- Physician Formulated, cGMP, Third Party Tested,
- Alcohol Free, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Soy Free, Dairy Free, Vegan, Kosher
This herbal supplement does not suppress fever or treat fever.
Dr. Green Mom Immune Liquid Vitamin C (For Infants, Kids & Adults)
$19.79 with discount | “JUSTTHEINSERTS” for 10% off
- Great-tasting liquid Vitamin C supplement can be taken straight or easily mixed into water, juice or smoothies
- Vitamin C is important for super immunity, stress management, healthy skin, strong bones and more
- cGMP, Third Party Tested
- Alcohol Free, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Soy Free, Dairy Free, Vegan, Kosher
Urban Farm Collection x Sufficient-C High Dose Vitamin C
$25.50
The therapeutic effects of a Vitamin C megadose range anywhere from illness prevention to a boost in collagen production! While there are varying opinions about the acceptable upper limit of intake of Vitamin C, this immune-booster is water soluble, and excess is flushed out by the body.
In large doses, Vitamin C may help with illness prevention and recovery, as well as supporting the health of your bones, mitochondria, lungs, and skin. A powerful antioxidant, Vitamin C scavenges the body for free radicals to remove pollutants, environmental toxins, and other threats. Many studies have found that Vitamin C may reduce the severity of depressive disorders in both children and adults, as well as improve the mood of healthy individuals. While you should not take a megadose daily for extended periods of time, a large dose of vitamin C may greatly help with illness recovery, exercise recovery, poor mood, and illness prevention. Consult your doctor prior to use.
Dr. Green Mom USDA Organic Immunity Boost (Infants & Kids)
$17.09 with discount | “JUSTTHEINSERTS” for 10% off
USDA Organic Immunity Boost for Kids, drops may be given straight in the mouth, or in juice or water.
- USDA Organic Certified echinacea, elderberry, astragalus and vitamin C provide a welcome boost to the immune system
- Gentle enough for long-term use in healthy kids throughout the “sick season,” during travel, when daycare bugs are going around, and any other time the immune system needs to rise to the occasion!
- Third Party Tested
- Alcohol Free, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Soy Free, Dairy Free, Vegan, Kosher
Dr. Green Mom Bronchial Calm (Infant & Kid’s Cough)
$17.09 with discount | “JUSTTHEINSERTS” for 10% off
This bestselling formula contains an intelligent blend of herbs geared towards diverse aspects of respiratory health including thinning phlegm and mucus, improving immunity, soothing spasm, and clearing out gunk. Can be used for temporary relief of occasional cough or phlegm.
Zarbee’s Baby Soothing Chest Rub
Zarbee’s petroleum-free chest rub for babies features a blend of eucalyptus & lavender oils in a beeswax & shea butter balm; helps soothe baby without harsh chemicals or toxins. Made for infants 2 months+; this non-irritating balm is specially formulated for baby’s sensitive skin. Massage it onto the chest; neck; back; & bottom of the feet.
Rowe Casa Organics Antioxidant Infusion
$21.60 with discount | For your first Rowe Casa Organics order, use discount code “JUSTTHEINSERTS” for 20% off.
This Antioxidant Infusion combines fresh aronia berries (highest antioxidant berry), blueberries, and cranberries to protect your body & promote health at a cellular level! These powerful berries have been used for centuries and are known for their antibacterial and antiviral properties as well as cellular regeneration, reducing inflammation, & supporting detoxification.
TO USE: Shake well. Adults take 1–2 tablespoons daily. Children (ages 1+) take 1–2 teaspoons daily. At the onset of symptoms or exposure to illness, take every 2–3 hours. After opening, refrigerate and use within 2–3 months.
Rowe Casa Organics Baby Immune Support
$17.60 with discount | For your first Rowe Casa Organics order, use discount code “JUSTTHEINSERTS” for 20% off.
When our little ones get sick, we need something quick, powerful, and effective to instantly fight against outside invaders trying to attack their body.
This easy-to-use blend is packed full of oils known for their antiviral, antibacterial, antiseptic, and antifungal qualities. They are great to use reactively or proactively for those struggling to stay healthy.
TO USE: Dispense 1-2 pumps and apply to bottoms of feet daily.