The lymphatic system is a network of tissues and organs that are part of the circulatory system and that help the body remove toxins, waste and other unwanted materials. The system’s primary role is to transport lymph, a fluid with white blood cells that fight infection throughout the body. The lymphatic system and the immune system work together to remove and destroy waste, debris, dead blood cells, pathogens, toxins, and cancer cells.
A lymphatic system that does not function well is associated with chronic disease and it can manifest in health reactions such as soreness of breast, fatigue, eczema and other skin problems, cold limbs, bloating, headaches, and physical rigidity. Good health and wellbeing depend on a well-functioning lymphatic system. As such, detoxifying the lymphatic system, as well as other systems in the body, should be given extreme importance and it should be part of a healthy lifestyle. The following strategies can improve the health and function of the lymphatic system:
1. Exercise
»» Exercising regularly is one of the easiest ways to promote a healthy lymphatic system. It stimulates blood circulation and helps to transport oxygen to the tissues and cells in the body.
2. Stress Management
»» Managing stress with yoga, meditation, stretching, breathing or other forms of relaxation are necessary to maintain a well functioning lymphatic system. Herbs like Ashwagandha, Ginseng, Rhodiola, Reishi Mushroom or Holy Basil can help reduce stress levels.
3. Sauna
»» Sauna can promote detoxification, better circulation and skin purification thereby supporting a better lymphatic system. Sauna also helps alleviate pain and lower blood pressure while promoting relaxation.
4. Herbs
»» There are herbs that are effective in cleansing various organs and systems in the body, such as dandelion, organic milk thistle, black walnut, cilantro, peppermint, eucalyptus, and stinging nettle.
5. Spices
»» The most powerful cleansing spices include ginger, cinnamon, oregano, turmeric, cumin, cilantro, fenugreek, fennel, cayenne pepper, black pepper, clove, parsley, and rosemary. These should be part of a healthy diet for ongoing health benefits.
6. Essential Oils
»» The top essential oils for detox include clove, lemongrass, lemon, rosemary and myrrh, among others. Use of essential oils require care and caution due to their potency. Applications usually involve inhaling antioxidant compounds or mixing them with a carrier oil for topical application.
7. Dry Brushing
»» Considering that the skin is the largest elimination organ, dry brushing provides an easy and pleasant way to promote circulation and detoxification of the body. It improves the appearance of the skin by eliminating dead cells and helping new skin to regenerate.
8. Juice Fasting
»» This is a great way to ensure not only a detoxification of the body systems, but also an effective way to prevent detrimental effects of less healthy alternative foods. A juicing fast can facilitate the absorption of key detox nutrients into the system.
9. Massage
»» The use of strokes and pressure to muscles, tissues and organs during massage help stimulate the circulatory system and expel toxins to the circulatory system for elimination. It is important to drink water after massage to help remove these toxins from the system.
10. Body Wraps
»» These are made of sea clay or other ingredients and help tighten the skin while removing toxins accumulated in the body. They also help with weight loss as well. Body wraps detox the body and make your skin feel good.
11. Hydrotherapy
»» Hydrotherapy refers to the use of water (hot tubs, cold showers, ice packs, hot springs, water massage, etc.). Hydrotherapy immersion waters used in spas can be rich in minerals and enhanced by essential oils. It promotes detoxification and circulation.
