Lymphatic System 101

The lymphatic system is one of the most important undercover systems in our body. This system works in coordination with our cardiovascular and immune system to aid in circulation of our interstitial fluid. It is also considered an essential part of our circulatory system. Lymph nodes are the primary “organs” that comprise the lymphatic system, with up to 700 throughout the body. There is no pumping mechanism, like in our heart, to keep things flowing smoothly. The pressure created from the movement of our muscles keeps fluid flowing smoothly.

Benefits of Detoxing Lymphatic System

The main function of our lymphatic system is to cleanse toxins from our body and protect against invaders by carrying waste from our tissue to the bloodstream. It is comparable to a toilet that automatically flushes – it collects all the wastes from the cells in our body so that they don’t accumulate and cause disease. These toxins are filtered through the largest lymphatic tissue, the spleen, which is our main immune system defense. Some conditions associated with dysfunction of the lymphatic system include cellulite, swollen glands, arthritis, lymphedema (swelling of the legs), and other chronic illnesses. Below we list some ways to make sure your system doesn’t get “backed up”.

Therapies

1. Lemon water The lymph system is composed of about 95% water, which is why it is essential to stay hydrated. You should be drinking half of your body weight in ounces daily. Squeezing lemon into your water will speed up the detoxification process since it is an alkaline fruit. 2. Lymphatic massage This is a special form of massage targeted towards your lymph system. It is very light pressure as the system is mostly superficial with specific movements to stimulate the system. Studies have shown it can vastly improve circulation and aids in pushing waste back into the bloodstream. We have a certified massage therapist at our center if this sounds interesting to you. 3. Dry brushing This is an ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine practice and is commonly taught in Ayurvedic medicine. Take a coarse, dry bristle brush and brush your legs, arms, and torso in the direction of your heart. This assists in the movement of lymph and blood which will help clear out built up toxins. Bonus: It also gets rid of dead skin cells!