Herbs For Lymphatic Congestion

The lymphatic system consists of hundreds of glands that manufacture, filter and transport lymph fluid, which delivers nutrients, electrolytes and salts throughout the body. The lymph nodes are an important component of the immune system. In fact, lymphatic congestion occurs when fluid collects in mucous membranes in response to harmful microorganisms. Some herbs are reputed to help. However, since lymphatic congestion may indicate a chronic disease, see your physician for a complete evaluation of your condition and your treatment options.

Red Clover

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, red clover is traditionally used to treat respiratory complaints because the herb is thought to help the body eliminate excess fluid and mucous congestion. The "Physicians' Desk Reference for Herbal Medicines" includes expectorant properties among the pharmacological effects of red clover.
Red clover is traditionally used to treat whooping cough in children. However, since the plant contains isoflavones that produce estrogen-like effects, the University of Maryland Medical Center stresses that red clover preparations should not be given to children without the supervision of a physician. In addition, pregnant or nursing women, as well as those undergoing hormone replacement therapy, or treatment for a hormone-driven cancer, should also avoid this herb. Red clover may also reduce the effectiveness of oral birth control medications.
Another potential action of red clover is to thin the blood, which means this herb may increase the risk of bleeding if combined with anticoagulant medications.

Goldenseal

The active compounds in goldenseal are hydrastine and berberine. Hydrastine is an ingredient found in some nasal decongestant sprays, while berberine is attributed with broad-spectrum antibacterial properties. The University of Maryland Medical Center also notes that berberine may boost immunity by enhancing the activity of white blood cells. Goldenseal is often included in herbal preparations intended to reduce mucous congestion associated with seasonal allergies, sinusitis, rhinitis and respiratory infections.
However, the medical center cautions that goldenseal may produce a number of side effects. There is evidence to suggest that goldenseal may reduce the effectiveness of tetracycline antibiotics, increase the effects of blood thinning drugs and interfere with the metabolism of other medications. Check with your doctor before using goldenseal if you take any medications or have a history of high blood pressure, liver disease or heart disease.

Echinacea

This is another herb traditionally used to decrease symptoms of lymphatic congestion, such as runny nose and postnasal drip. While some studies indicate that echinacea effectively addresses these symptoms, the University of Maryland Medical Center says that the combined results from clinical trials are mixed.
Echinacea may produce allergic reactions in individuals with a known sensitivity to plants in the daisy family. This herb may also interfere with certain medications, especially those designed to suppress the immune system. This means that organ transplant recipients should not take echinacea, as well as those with a history of liver disease or an autoimmune disease, such as HIV or AIDS.