By Kathleen Regan, ND

“What is lymphatic drainage?” This therapy has become a popular part of natural treatments and is mentioned for health promotion, detoxification, digestion, fluid retention, immune dysfunction, injury support and chronic pain. Treatments that may stimulate lymphatic drainage range from herbal supports to self-care routines to manual therapies like lymphatic drainage massage.  But what is the lymphatic system and why is it important?

The lymphatic system consists of a network of lymphatic vessels, lymph nodes, and lymphatic organs such as the spleen and thymus. It helps to defend the body against infections, maintains fluid balance by returning excess fluid from tissues to the bloodstream, and assists in the absorption of fats from the digestive system.

The Lymphatic System Consists Of:

  • Lymphatic Vessels: These are like the veins of the lymphatic system. They transport a clear fluid called lymph, which contains white blood cells, especially lymphocytes, which help fight infections.
  • Lymph Nodes: These small, bean-shaped structures filter lymph and trap bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances, which are then destroyed by white blood cells.
  • Lymphatic Organs: These include the spleen, thymus, adenoids, tonsils, Peyer’s Patches in the small intestine and the bone marrow. These organs produce and store cells that fight infection and disease.
  • Lymph: This is the fluid that circulates through the lymphatic system. It is collected from tissues throughout the body, filtered through lymph nodes, and eventually returned to the bloodstream.

The lymphatic system and the blood circulatory system are closely related and work together to maintain fluid levels, support the immune system, transport nutrients, and remove waste from the body. This is how the lymphatic system and blood work together:

  • Fluid Balance: The lymphatic system helps maintain fluid balance by collecting excess fluid, called interstitial fluid, from tissues. This fluid is then transported as lymph through lymphatic vessels and eventually returned to the bloodstream, preventing swelling (edema) in tissues.
  • Immune Function: Lymph nodes filter lymph to trap and destroy pathogens such as bacteria and viruses. Lymphatic organs, like the spleen and thymus, produce and store white blood cells that are crucial for the immune response. The blood circulates these immune cells throughout the body, allowing them to reach and protect various tissues.
  • Nutrient Transport: The lymphatic system assists in the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins from the digestive system. These nutrients are transported through lymphatic vessels called lacteals in the intestines and eventually delivered to the bloodstream for distribution to the rest of the body.
  • Waste Removal: Both systems work together to remove waste products from tissues. The lymphatic system collects waste materials and excess proteins from tissues, while the blood transports these waste products to the kidneys, liver, and other organs for excretion.

The lymphatic system can be damaged by chronic infections, inactivity, being overweight or working a job that puts too much weight or pressure on the body, certain chronic heart conditions, certain autoimmune processes, cancer and conventional therapies such as radiation therapy. Signs that the body may need lymphatic support include:

  • Swelling (Lymphedema)
  • Frequent Infections
  • Chronic Inflammation and Pain
  • Skin Changes such as acne and some forms of dermatitis.
  • Fatigue
  • Swollen Lymph Nodes
  • Weight fluctuations throughout the day or within a short period of time

Lymphatic Drainage is any therapy that helps to move fluid through the lymphatic system. Due to the close relationship between the blood and the lymph, any activity or therapy that increases circulation can also support lymphatic drainage.

Therapies That May Help Encourage Lymphatic Flow:

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

This is a specialized massage technique designed to stimulate the movement of lymph fluid. It involves gentle, rhythmic strokes and light pressure, applied in a specific sequence to guide lymph toward lymph nodes and the heart.

Regular Massage Therapy (without MLD technique)

While specialized techniques like Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) are specifically designed for this purpose, and general massage therapy generally works more on the muscles – a regular massage can also help to stimulate lymphatic flow and circulation

Acupuncture and Cupping

Acupuncture is thought to stimulate the flow of lymph by promoting circulation and reducing inflammation. It can help to clear blockages in the lymphatic system and improve overall fluid movement in the body. Cupping can help move stagnant lymph fluid, reduce swelling, and promote the removal of toxins. Learn more here.

Lifestyle Choices:

Exercise

Regular movement or physical activity, particularly exercises that involve muscle contractions, can help stimulate lymphatic circulation. Activities such as walking, swimming, yoga, and rebounding (jumping on a mini-trampoline) are beneficial.

Hydration

Staying well-hydrated is essential for maintaining optimal lymphatic flow, as it helps keep the lymph fluid moving smoothly through the lymphatic vessels.

Deep Breathing

Deep, diaphragmatic breathing can help stimulate the flow of lymph. This is because the movement of the diaphragm during deep breathing creates pressure changes that help propel lymph through the vessels.

Dry Brushing

Using a dry brush to gently massage the skin in the direction of lymph flow (towards the heart) can help stimulate lymphatic circulation and exfoliate the skin.

Healthy Diet

A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can support lymphatic health. Reducing the intake of processed foods, salt, and sugar can help minimize fluid retention and inflammation.

Herbal Therapies

There are herbs such as cleavers, calendula, echinacea, poke root, burdock and more that can be used to stimulate lymphatic flow, they should be used under the guidance of a naturopathic doctor or registered herbalist.

Encourage Lymphatic Flow with Innate Wellness

The lymphatic system is a network that plays an important role in the body’s health and functioning. When it becomes congested or dysfunctional, it can lead to various issues like swelling, frequent infections, chronic inflammation and pain, fatigue, and weight fluctuations. At Innate Wellness Naturopathic Medical Centre, we offer a range of natural therapies that can help support and stimulate the lymphatic system. Our registered massage therapists use gentle techniques that can promote lymphatic drainage, while our acupuncture and cupping treatments work to improve circulation and reduce blockages. Additionally, our naturopathic medicine services provide personalized herbal and nutritional support to nourish the lymphatic system. Contact us today for more information on what is lymphatic drainage or to learn more about how our services can support your lymphatic health.