Lymph nodes are the glands of the lymphatic system, where the lymphatic fluid, or lymph, which detoxifies the blood, cells, organs and tissues of the body, is filtered. Sometimes these toxins build up in the lymph nodes, at which point glands can swell, health problems can trigger, and detoxification or lymphatic cleansing could be beneficial. One way to do this, says herbalist David Hoffman in his book, "The New Holistic Herbal," is through herbal therapy. Among the herbs he names as most beneficial for cleansing lymphatic system are cleavers, echinacea, marigold and poke root. None of this information should be taken as medical advice. Herbs should only be used as an adjunct to proper medical care from your doctor.
Cleavers
Hoffman cites cleavers as possibly the single most effective herbal tonic for the lymphatic system. Aided by properties as an alterative, a classification of herbs once referred to as "blood cleansers," and a diuretic, meaning it helps the body flush out toxins through its urine, cleavers help with the detoxification of the lymph nodes on multiple fronts. When ulcers or tumors result from poor drainage of the lymph nodes, cleavers are particularly beneficial. They're also useful for adenoid problems, tonsillitis and swollen glands in any part of the body, all of which are other common symptoms of poor lymphatic drainage.
Echinacea
A common ingredient in many popular herbal cold remedies for the same reasons that make it a potent lymphatic cleanser, echinacea is a powerful antimicrobial that kills viruses and bacteria and fights infection. Echinacea helps strengthen certain kinds of cells in the lymph nodes called macrophages, which filter the toxins out of the lymph.
Marigold
Also known as calendula, marigold helps cleanse the lymphatic system in a number of different ways, including helping reduce inflammation, strengthening the immune system and relieving fungal infections. Its anti-inflammatory action can be used to reduce inflamed lymph nodes. Its immune support helps keep the lymph nodes consistently filtering and flushing toxins from the system. Its properties as a cholagogue, increasing bile flow, and a depurative, purifying the blood, also help move detoxifying lymph through sluggish lymph glands.
Poke Root
Poke root is beneficial for all the glands, although it is used most often in support of the lymphatic system, particularly in cases of swollen lymph nodes. It is most effective on the lymph nodes of the throat, and is frequently indicated in cases of adenitis, mumps and strep throat. When symptoms of lymphatic toxicity include swollen glands, poke root can be of particular benefit. A powerful anti-catarrhal as well, it can also be used to remove mucous buildup in the membranes of the nose and throat. Poke root is often used in combination with cleavers and blue flag, an alterative and diuretic that performs its detoxifying functions by acting on the liver, the primary organ for detoxification in the body.
