Ways To Support Your Lymphatic System + Lymph Congestion Tea Recipe
One of our staff members and fellow herbalist Diana, had recently gone through an operation where she wanted to support her lymph system to help with her recovery. Supporting the lymph system seems to be coming up a lot, whether on social media, or massages offered by your massage therapist or facial esthetician.
Many of the herbs that support this system are also now in bloom, reminding me that I too need to support this important system in our body. In this blog I will dive into what the lymphatic system is and does and how we can support it, along with providing a tea recipe to make at home to help support this often overlooked but important system.
What is the lymphatic system?
The lymphatic system is a primary component of our immune system. It supports elimination by transporting metabolic waste from the organs and carrying infection from the body. Unlike the cardiovascular system it has no pumping system so relies on movement and exercise or massage to move the fluid along.
If the lymph glands become congested and flow is obstructed, the area surrounding the glands becomes overly acidic creating a domino effect of cascading pathology.
How do we support our lymph nodes?
1.Supportive Herbs
Calendula is considered one of the best herbs for nourishing and cleansing the lymphatic system. It can be combined with other herbs like cleavers, red clover, burdock and violet leaf which all have an affinity to the lymph and can help stimulate its movement . This tea sent to me by Diana is a recipe from Rosemary Gladstar’s: Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health and is an aid to support lymphatic drainage.
Lymph Congestion Tea Recipe:
2 teaspoons calendula (Calendula officinalis)
2 teaspoons red clover (Trifolium pretense)
1 teaspoon cleavers (Galium aparine)
1 teaspoon spearmint or any flavourful herb of your choice
Mix together.
Add 1 teaspoon to hot water and infuse
Drink 3 to 4 cups per day
2. Neck, Chest + Breast Massage
The breasts have a high concentration of lymphatic tissue and glands. For health of the body and breasts regular massage is important to keep the lymph system flowing freely. Our Herbal Hug Baby Oil has lymph supporting calendula, castor and calming lavender and lemon balm. Use the oil to self massage around the neck, chest and or breast to nourish the skin and help support your lymphatic system at the same time.
3. Dry Brushing
Dry brushing is another great way to stimulate the lymphatic system and to increase blood circulation all over the body. It also exfoliates the more rough top layer of skin and reveals the softer layer of skin beneath. It also has an added benefit of creating a relaxing sensory experience, helping you to take a few moments to engage in a gentle ritual of care for your body. Dry brush in gentle strokes, starting at your feet and moving upwards towards your heart. A great time to do this is right before you hop in the shower, allowing your dead skin to wash away. Remember you don’t need to go too hard, you won’t get any extra benefits from going too hard. Easy does it!