Lymphatic Health

 

What is the Lymphatic System?

 

The lymphatic system helps rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. The primary function of the lymphatic system is to transport lymph, a fluid containing infection-fighting white blood cells, throughout the body.  It is made up of Lymphoid organs, lymph nodes, lymph ducts, lymphatic tissues, lymph capillaries and lymph vessels that produce and transport lymph fluid from tissues to the circulatory system.   The lymphatic system is important for the optimal functioning of our general and specific immune responses. The lymph nodes monitor the lymph flowing into them and produce cells and antibodies which protect our body from infection and disease. The lymphatic system plays an important role in the absorption of fats from the intestine. 

 

When the lymphatic system is not healthy or has been damaged by emotional toxins (stressors such as: grief, fear, anger, guilt etc.) and physical toxins (such as coffee, alcohol, unhealthy foods, allopathic drugs, surgery, X-rays, flu shots etc..)  they wreak havoc at the cellular level causing unpleasant symptoms. Most of the lymph flows-up, against gravity, towards the neck, so the lymphatic system must rely primarily on the body’s musculoskeletal system to circulate. Through movement and muscle contraction, the lymph fluid is able to circulate and do the immune work it needs to do to help prevent disease.

 

Some of the signs that lymphatic fluid is not moving effectively and that toxins may be building up in your body are:

 

 

• Fatigue

• Swollen glands

• Puffiness in eyes or face

• Swelling in the fingers (tight rings) or ankles

• Bloating or holding on to water

• Headaches

• Sinus infections

• Skin issues, such as dry or itchy skin

• Soreness or stiffness upon waking

• Constipation

• Weight gain and extra belly fat

• Breast swelling or tenderness

• A sense of fogginess in the brain

• Worsened allergies

• Food sensitivities

• Increased colds or flu

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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As you can see, the lymphatic system is one of the body’s immune and detox system heroes. When lymph is flowing well, it helps to maintain a healthy and balanced state in the body. Incorporate some of the easy activities and lifestyle changes I’ve outlined here into your daily routine to improve immune and detoxification function. With a little bit of work each day, you can keep your immune and detoxification systems going strong. Consult your health practitioner for more information. 

 

 

 

Ways to promote a healthy flow of lymph

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• Exercise: Lymph vessels are activated when you move your body. All exercise and any activity that moves the arms, legs, and torso will help to move lymph. 

 

• Oil pulling: Oil pulling is one of the best ways to remove bacteria and promote healthy teeth and gums. In fact, it’s been proven to be even more effective than flossing, and it’s one of the best ways to naturally whiten your teeth. Its simply done by swishing a tablespoon of oil (typically coconut oil, olive or sesame oil) in your mouth for 10–20 minutes first thing in the morning. Aside from the oral benefits,  it is also effective in helping: Reduce inflammation, boost immune system, improve acne, soothe throat dryness.

 

• Master Cleanse detox: This is a simple beverage recipe that takes only minutes to prepare and includes key ingredients for natural detoxification, including lemon juice, maple syrup and cayenne pepper. It’s both refreshing and energizing and a great way get lymph moving. Start your Master’s Cleanse in the morning. Upon waking, preferably after a bowel movement, mix the following ingredients in a glass and drink down: 2 Tablespoons Fresh Lemon Juice, 2 Tablespoons Rich Maple Syrup, 1/10 Teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Powder – or to taste (as much as you can stand), 8 ounces (250 milliliters of Pure Water). Drink 2-3 litres of pure water all day and supplement with herbal teas as needed in the colder months.  

 

• Dry skin brushing: Dry skin brushing promotes lymph flow and improves skin tone, which includes reducing the appearance of cellulite. All you need is a natural bristle brush and about 5 minutes before getting into the shower to effectively stimulate your lymphatic system, aiding in detoxification.

 

 

 

 

Sources:

https://www.annelemonswellness.com/blog-1/2018/2/9/2lv2hwnt0gs2im2204xc784edhvhqj

https://draxe.com/oil-pulling-coconut-oil/

http://arcanum.ca/2010/01/24/purification-how-to-go-about-a-prinicipled-detoxification/