For the Love of Lymph

This article was previously published in the Community Food News in the Dec/Jan 2006 issue.

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For the Love of Lymph: Options for Keeping A Healthy Lymphatic System

By Rebecca A. Kinman

What it is:

The lymphatic system, sometimes referred to as the immune system, consists of the spleen, the thymus, the tonsils, lymph nodes, and lymph. This protein-rich fluid moves throughout lymph vessels, which extend throughout the body much like blood vessels.

What it Does

The main function of the lymphatic system is to produce lymphocytes, the fighter cells that terminate invader cells in the case of an infection. These are more specifically known as T-cells and B-cells. The lymphatic system also helps with fluid balance and pulls nutrients from the small intestine so that they may circulate throughout the body.

What you can do:

Because wintertime is a playground for viral and bacterial infections, it’s prime time to show some appreciation for our hard-working lymphatics.

Keep it Clean:

Proper hygiene is essential in lymphatic health, especially if you have a cut, scrape or wound. Applying tea tree oil diluted in almond or grapeseed oil directly to the cut immediately after it happens is a great way to prevent infection.


Drink Water:

If your lymphatics are working overtime to fight all the foreign substances we are exposed to every day, water retention can result. Eliminate this problem all together by throwing back 8-10 full glasses a day.


Antibacterial herbs:

These herbs increase the production of lymphocytes, giving your lympatics a little more backup. Here are just a few.

Red Root: Take this herb to increase T-cells, platelets and to generally tonify the blood and lymphatic system.

Oregon Grape: High in the antibacterial constituent berberine, this liver tonic is a great substitute for goldenseal, which is highly expensive and considered endangered.
Usnea- This is a lichen also known as old man’s beard. It has antibacterial, antiviral and expectorant properties, making it a great candidate for preventing and assisting cough.

Get the Blood Flowing

When we are calm and warm, the blood vessels expand, allowing more efficient bloodflow. Exercise 3 times a week or more. Get a massage. Do yoga. Take a hot bath. Lymph is essentially filtered blood. If you circulate blood, you are circulating lymph, thus spreading fighter cells all over to protect you from infection, and in turn protecting every one around you as well.