Lymph is a pale fluid that performs many important functions within your body, such as helping to regulate your fluid balance and remove bacteria from your tissues. Your lymph fluid travels throughout your body through a system of lymphatic channels and ducts. Lymph contains two very important immune system cells: lymphocytes and macrophages. Herbal remedies may be helpful in improving your lymph flow, but you should always clear the use of herbs with your doctor before using them.
Lymph and Lymph Flow
Lymph fluid, states KidsHealth.org, enters your lymph nodes, where your macrophages battle pathogens such as bacteria and remove them from your bloodstream. Once these pathogens have been appropriately filtered, your lymph fluid exits your lymph nodes and travels back to your veins, where it joins your bloodstream. In some cases, your lymph flow may be congested or stagnant. There are several diseases that may affect your lymph nodes, including lymphadenopathy, lymphadenitis and lymphomas.
Common Herbal Remedies
Some of the most commonly used herbs in improving lymph flow possess lymphagogue action. A lymphagogue, states Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic doctor and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," is a supplement that promotes activity of your lymph system and helps treat your lymphatic stasis. Commonly used lymphagogues include poke root, cleavers, ocotillo, blue flag, queen's root and wild indigo. Further scientific testing may be required to determine the true health effects of these herbs.
A Helpful Lymphagogue
Poke root may be one of the most helpful lymphagogues. According to naturopathic physician and herbal medicine expert William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," the whole poke root plant may be used medicinally to help treat numerous ailments, including lymphatic stasis, glandular inflammation, chronic tonsillitis and inflammation of your eustachian tube -- the tube that links your pharynx to your middle ear. Poke root, notes Mitchell, also helps increase the number and effectiveness of white blood cells.
Considerations
Although herbal remedies have long been used in improving lymph flow, not all herbs may be appropriate for this health purpose. Always use caution when taking herbal remedies for this health purpose, especially if you are pregnant or are nursing your infant. Herbs, like prescription drugs, may contain powerful active constituents that cause significant changes within your body. Always ask your doctor about dosage and possible side effects before using supplements to improve your lymph flow.
References
- Britannica.com: Lymph
- KidsHealth: Spleen and Lymphatic System
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
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