The lymphatic system is responsible for moving lymph -- a fluid that contains white blood cells -- throughout your body. Nodes, ducts and various structures such as your spleen, thymus, tonsils and adenoids comprise your lymphatic system, an important component of your immune system. Lymph nodes generate immune cells that help fend off infection. Some herbs may improve lymph flow, also referred to as lymph drainage. Before using herbs, however, discuss this treatment method with your physician.
Lymphatic System
Your lymphatic system performs a nonstop cleansing function that acts at the cellular level. The system drains the fluid located between cells, helping remove metabolic waste products, toxins and other debris from your body's tissues. The lymph flows into the lymph nodes, where undesirable elements, such as bacteria, are destroyed or filtered out before the rest of the lymph -- including proteins and the excess fluid between your cells -- is returned to venous circulation. In some cases, lymph flow may become obstructed, preventing the fluid from bathing your body's cells.
Important Herbs
Important herbs for lymph drainage -- or lymph congestion, more accurately -- must possess lymphagogue action. Expert herbalist and naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," writes that lymphagogues are herbs that stimulate the activity of your lymphatic system. Examples of herbs with lymphagogue action include figwort, cleavers, wild indigo, pau d'arco, red root and queen's root. Other helpful herbs include dandelion, black radish, boxthorn seed and goldenseal.
A Potent Herb
Mullein is a potent herb in the treatment of lymph congestion. Nutrition researcher and certified nutritional consultant Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," writes that mullein is helpful in clearing congestion throughout the body, and that it is used to treat asthma, bronchitis, breathing problems and many other ailments. Mullein may also effectively treat facial nerve pain, whooping cough, constipation and hoarseness. The leaves of the mullein plant contain many medicinal ingredients and are used in herbal remedies.
Warning
Before taking herbs to improve lymph drainage, gather as much herb-related information as possible so that you may make informed decisions about your health and treatment. Herbs, though used for many years to treat various ailments, may not be right for you, depending on your condition and other factors, such as certain types of prescription medications you might be taking. Consult a naturopathic physician or a medical doctor trained in herbal medicine before ingesting herbs.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lymph System
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
