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5.24.21

dry brushing leg for lymphatic system

A complicated network of fluid-filled nodes, vessels, glands and organs, the lymphatic system touches almost every part of the body. Although we may not feel or see it, it’s one of the most important (and often forgotten) systems of the human body. Just like the liver, kidneys, and mouth, it’s important to give the lymph the attention it deserves.

Certified Nutritionist Lauren Felts breaks down ten beneficial lifestyle habits to support your lymphatic system below…

“The problem is that, unlike blood, lymph does not have a pump. It relies on the relaxation and the contraction of the muscles and joints to move it.”

The lymphatic system’s main function is to cleanse toxins and protect against harmful invaders. It works by carrying our body’s waste away from the tissues and into the bloodstream. It tackles toxins that are introduced to the body from both external means (food, air, personal care products, water) as well as internal ones (damaged proteins and cellular/metabolic waste), making it a key detoxification pathway. Once the toxins enter the bloodstream, they are purified through the largest lymphatic tissue in the body, the spleen.

Most of us don’t realize that the spleen is our main immune defense, fighting infection, holding a reserve of red and white blood cells and destroying worn-out red blood cells in the body.

Through lymph nodes and the lymphatic network, your immune cells can travel around fighting pathogens, such as bacteria and mold, and preventing disease and infection. This is why keeping your lymphatic system functioning properly is directly related to the overall health of the body: a stronger lymphatic system means a more resilient and reactive immune response and defense.

The problem is that, unlike blood, lymph does not have a pump. It relies on the relaxation and the contraction of the muscles and joints to move it. Your lymphatic system can easily become stagnant, especially when it becomes overwhelmed with toxic debris. This not only leads impaired immunity and disease, but the development of cellulite, edema (fluid retention), chronic pain and fatty deposits. A sluggish lymphatic flow can also be a root cause of chronic sinusitis; swollen glands, ankles and eyes; eczema; arthritis; upper respiratory, sinus and ear infections; throat problems; colds; tonsillitis; bronchitis and pneumonia.

The good news is that keeping the lymph moving doesn’t take much – just a few daily exercises, plenty of water, and the inclusion of raw foods and herbs. When the lymph is working well, we stay healthy; and if we’re ill, it helps us to regain our health again. It is never too early to practice prevention, especially when it keeps our skin youthful and cellulite-free!

10 Holistic Treatments For Your Lymphatic System

REBOUNDING Rebounding is one of the easiest ways to pump the lymph. Rebounding is the practice of jumping on a trampoline (yes, remember when we did this for fun!?) for ten to thirty minutes. This passively moves the lymph while stimulating the circulation of blood throughout the body. Numerous studies have proven its efficacy, and have even shown it to improve muscle tone.

TCM Pick: Let’s Bounce! The Benefits of Rebounding

INVERSION TABLE An inversion table is a padded table that allows one to invert upside down while strapped in by the feet. The inversion process decompresses the joints of the body and stimulates the lymphatic and circulatory system. This brings blood and oxygen to the tissues, which helps to clear the muscles of toxic build-up. By inverting, gravity works with, not against, the body, encouraging the movement of the lymph. It also improves spinal health by rehydrating the discs, reducing pressure on the nerves and relaxing tense muscles.

TCM Pick: Ironman Inversion Table

LEMON WATER Lymph is about 95% water, making water essential for its health. Stay hydrated by drinking half your weight in ounces of water a day. Without adequate water, lymphatic fluid cannot flow properly. And one of the most common causes of lymph congestion is dehydration. Water, and only water, can adequately rehydrate the body, but if you want to expedite the process, add lemon to your water. Lemon is an alkaline fruit that helps to mineralize the body and lymph. Try sipping on warm lemon water throughout the day, but don’t forget your straw! This protects the teeth’s enamel from the lemon.

TCM Pick: Glass Drinking Straw Set

ENZYMES Enzymes are produced by the body to break down food substances and to expedite countless metabolic processes. They are also utilized by the body to clear toxic-waste buildup in the lymph and blood, making their supplementation a key way to improve lymphatic health. Using proteolytic enzymes between meals can help to “digest” or breakdown organic debris in the circulatory and lymph systems, increasing lymphatic flow. They also help to ease the burden of allergy-like compounds, freeing the immune fractions traveling in the lymph system for other work.

TCM Pick: Wobenzym capsules

MASSAGE We all love a good massage, and here’s just one more reason why. Lymphatic massage is a special form of massage that specifically targets the flow of lymph in the body. It uses a specific amount of pressure and rhythmic circular movements to stimulate the lymph, encouraging its movement towards the heart for the drainage of fluid and waste. Lymphatic massage has shown in studies to push up to 78 percent of stagnant lymph back into circulation. This mobilizes toxins for clearance, lessening the burden on the lymphatic system.

TCM Pick: Learn from lymphatic health pro, Lisa Gainsley about a daily self-massage routine. 

HERBS Many herbs have proven to be effective in improving lymphatic health, whether in their ability to increase lymphatic flow and drainage or in expediting the clearance of toxic substances. Red clover is a popular herb for the lymph, increasing flow, which helps to detoxify the body and reduce inflammation.

Cleavers is another herb to try. Also known as clivers or goosegrass, it has been used for centuries and considered one of the best tonics to stimulate and help drain the lymphatic system.

Coming from the Ayurvedic tradition is manjistha. Manjistha is an herb that is primarily utilized for its ability to de-stagnate lymph. It does this by detoxifying the tissue and supporting lymph flow.

Finally, bupleurum and rehmannia are herbal tonics known to treat lymphatic conditions in traditional Chinese medicine. These herbs are famous in Asia for maintaining the cleanliness of the lymphatic system and thus for naturally removing toxins from deep within the body on an on-going basis.

TCM Pick: Organic Lymphatic Blend by MaryRuth’s

DRY BRUSHING Dry skin brushing is a favorite TCM practice. It’s a technique commonly utilized in Ayurveda for assisting in lymphatic flow and boosting circulation. You simply take a dry brush with coarse bristle and brush the skin towards the heart. This stimulates the sweat glands, opens pores, and gets rid of dead skin cells. It also encourages the movement of lymph and blood in underlying organs and tissues of the body, which helps clear built-up toxins. As a result, it can be beneficial in improving skin conditions and reducing cellulite.

TCM Pick: Natural Bristle Body Brush

EAT RAW FOODS Incorporating raw foods into the diet is an easy way to keep the lymphatic system healthy on an ongoing basis. Raw foods offer high levels of naturally occurring enzymes that break down toxic buildups and promote the clearance of harmful substances in the body. Eating foods raw, in particular fruits and vegetables, is also a great way to boost the water levels in the body. Finally, raw foods are primarily alkaline, which help neutralize harmful pathogens, lessening the burden on the lymph.

TCM Pick: Raw Fall Harvest Soup

GO WIRELESS Just like tight-fitting clothes, underwire bras can impede normal lymphatic flow. One of the largest clusters of lymph nodes is located in the armpit and upper chest area, and those nodes act as a source of drainage for the breast, arm, and upper chest. If a bra is too tight, or if the underwire is too restrictive (for most of us this is the case), the lymph is constricted, preventing normal drainage. Some researchers believe that over a period of time this can cause long-term impairment of the lymphatic function, and may contribute to an array of conditions including fibrocystic breast tissue, swollen lymph nodes and breast cancer.

TCM Pick: Lively’s ‘The Spacer’ Wireless Bra 

PRACTICE YOGA Yoga works in multiple ways to increase the flow of the lymph, relieving congestion and encouraging its detoxification. To start, inversions such as handstands, headstands and shoulder stands, and even placing the legs up the wall, reverse the effect of gravity. Much like the inversion table, this helps to drain the lymph towards the heart, escalating the rate in which it’s cleaned and filtered. Twists are also a great way to stimulate lymphatic flow. Through the practice of twisting the abdomen, the organs and muscles are squeezed, forcing the lymph out of the tissues. Finally, the natural dynamic flow through the yoga poses cause the muscles in the body to contract and relax, which is the primary way lymph moves through the body. This allows for a free flow of lymph, which prevents its stagnation and accumulation of toxins.

TCM Pick: A 5 Minute Yoga Flow with Yogi Claire Grieve

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Comments


  1. I am a medical anthropologist breast cancer researcher, and co-author of Dressed To Kill: The Link Between Breast Cancer and Bras. It is not just underwired bras that are the problem. Any bra that leaves red marks or indentations is too tight and can be interfering with lymphatic circulation. Bra-free is the best, and women should try being bra-free for 30 days to see for themselves how much healthier they feel without the constriction. Bras also cause breasts to droop, as the natural suspensory ligaments within the breasts atrophy and weaken due to the artificial support. Women who eliminate the bra discover that their breasts tone and lift within a few months. For more, see my website KillerCulture dot com.

    Sydney Ross Singer | 02.24.2015 | Reply
    • Thank you Sydney for adding that! Great tip.

      Lauren Felts CN | 03.02.2015 | Reply
      • Wow God bless you because you confirmed my gifts and abilities to know my body and I feel a lot better knowing why I had chooses to stop wearing them

        Lisa Chavers | 01.12.2018 | Reply
    • Bra-free is the best 😀

      Senka | 04.12.2015 | Reply
    • Sydney, I am 68 years old, and my breast size is 40C. My breasts hurt if I got through the day w/o some type of support to hold them. If I take an aerobics class or if I am out doing a fast walk, my breasts are flopping up and down. So uncomfortable and embarassing. Can you give me the name of a bra that I can wear, since I have these issues. If I had smaller breasts, I would not be asking. Thank you for any suggestions. Angie Perry, Greensboro, NC 4/18/2015

      Angie Perry | 04.19.2015 | Reply
      • Anita Active makes good sports bras that are not too constricting and are breathable. Also check out Fabletics sports bras; they have a great selection for comfort and control when exercising.

        Kirsten | 06.25.2015 | Reply
    • I have your book. I remember hearing someone speaking of this at Lupin, Los Gatos, years back. Finally, I got up and joined in: brilliant talk by you and your wife, who is an optometrist, if I remember correctly. Thank you for all the great work.

      Karen Ferguson | 01.08.2016 | Reply
    • All we have to do is look at tribes where women have never worn bras to know that this is not true. The proof is very easy for us to find out.

      Charlotte | 01.25.2018 | Reply
  2. I’ve never heard of those herbs. I’ll have to check them out. Thanks!

    Adrea | 02.24.2015 | Reply
  3. Such a great article! I appreciate that you gave us such a comprehensive look at lymph drainage. I had my spleen removed because of an accident and for 35 years have been told it doesn’t matter. I always knew that there must be something I should to do to compensate for the loss of such an important organ. Through trial and error (and chronic illness), I discovered many of your suggestions (inversion, rebounding, massage, enzymes and the highest quality food) to be imperative to my well-being but the tip about the bra… this is a welcome epiphany. Striking a match now!

    Andrea | 04.14.2015 | Reply
  4. My brother had a hip replacement due to serious osteo-arthritis overtaking all his joints….as a result, he wound up with extreme lymphedema which caused his legs to become like elephants, and because the fluid has no place to go, it breaks through the skin….like for the last 7 years….it’s amazing he hasn’t taken his own life, the pain and suffering he’s in constantly. It’s painful to see him like this…..as of today, he’s lost all the skin on his calves….he has to keep his legs wrapped to “help” the situation…..due to doctor’s who only address the symptoms, and not the cause…..they spoke of amputating his legs a year or so ago, because they’re so clueless…..can you help ? He puts absolute faith in these doctors of his and rarely listens to any advice, which impedes helping him to any degree, but maybe he’d listen to someone with more knowledge than myself…..thank you….sorry, this doesn’t include the bra scenario…..he’s 63 yrs old, with a poor diet at best, and drinks soda, and beer. Yay. Thank you…..

    margaret | 08.14.2015 | Reply
    • your accounting of your brother’s experience mirrors that of a friend caught in a web of drainage-only treatment. should feedback here to you have proved beneficial, if you’d be so kind as to post the +’s and -‘s in bullets, we would be grateful. thank you.

      h lynch | 12.13.2017 | Reply
  5. Great article, many thanks for posting. I thought if I’d share my own experience it might help someone. I have a problem with a knee at its back, it’s often swollen and sore. What helps me is a simple exercise adapted from Katsuzo Nishi system. The one has to lay down on the floor and raise his/her hands and legs up. Then trying to relax them and shake vigorously, counting till 40, then small break to catch breath and repeat counting till 40 again. Word of caution: rest for couple minutes after the exercise and get up slowly. I even experienced intoxication like symptoms, just drink water and sit down for a while. After some research today I realized that I have problem with lymph and lymph node at the back of the knee, and that exercise stimulates lymph drainage from hurt knee, that is why it’s helping. I obviously need lymph detox. So thanks a lot for great tips on the matter, I get some herbs now. :)))

    Nataliya | 08.17.2015 | Reply
  6. Wonderful article, thank you! I do have a question…How is lemon and alkaline fruit? It is a actually a very strong acid, citric acid. And how can citric acid mineralize anything? I’m not sure those statements are correct.

    LucyJane | 10.25.2015 | Reply
    • Hi LucyJane,
      It’s a counterintuitive way of looking at things, but the “acid” aspect of lemons is misleading. Lemons are, in a sense, acidic, but when you’re looking at raising the Ph of the body, lemons actually help to alkalize the body, and therefore, help with the overall health of the lymphatic system. They help the body get to a Ph of about 7.0 (which is ideal) and therefore help with overall functioning. Ph levels will vary throughout the day but 7.0 is about the sweet spot on average.

      Nathan | 12.15.2015 | Reply
  7. lookie here

  8. Thank you, I have all of these symptoms

    Chelle Coffee | 03.20.2016 | Reply
  9. I too suffer from lymphnodes and have an enlarged spleen. Some days are better than others. I really would like to try the hanging upside down treatment. Thanks for all that you post and thank you to all of the others here that left a reply. Knowing you are not a lone means a lot. I hope the best to all of you as well! Recovery is possible though it may take some time and that’s the hard part….Time!

    Zabo | 06.21.2016 | Reply
  10. Many women with breast implants have enlarged lymph nodes at some point. One of the problems is that all kedical,implants are know to form Biofilm, which is usually am undetectable low grade infection from mycotoxins and bacteria that hide behind the Biofilm. This creates toxin overgrowth and affects the immune system lymph nodes etc. If possible, medical devices need to be removed, ot constantly replaced for the body to fight infection. Despite Biofilm being a well documented illness, and a known link to all medical implants, doctors are trained to believe that problem are “rare” and there is no standard protocol for treating these toxins in the body. Breast Implant Illness involves thousands of women who have removed implants filled with mold and mycotoxins. Other have had silicone gel bleed with heavy metals in their lymph nodes, even with the new “safe” silicon implants. These are women who have had to take their health concerns into their own hands because doctors aren’t being trained in health. They are being trained in peddling industrial medicine.

    Michelle | 06.27.2016 | Reply
  11. I have breast implant illness from 27 year old textured saline implants. My lymph nodes in the armpits were all removed due to silicone that flaked off from the toxic shell. I am 5 months now from explant. These tips for my lymphatic system I will try. I will invest in the small trampoline and drink more water!

    Kacynthia | 06.27.2016 | Reply
  12. I have a diagnosis of Merkel. Merkel is a skin cancer that spreads quickly and often described as deadly.
    My malignant was manifested on my right ear lobe after biopsy. The surgeon repaired and removed three lymph nodes in my neck. The report indicated only one LN has less than one percent of Cancer. I am doing a CT Scan and a MRI tomorrow. Surgeon is recommending major surgery after results of all Tests. I have a friend who is
    a Health Person and has recommended I go with Raw Food, Lemon Water, Trampoline, Etc. Doing Nutri Bullet approach and Juicing. Is there anything more you could recommend. I thank you in advance.

    Aaliyah Salaam | 07.27.2016 | Reply
  13. Great article. I took some notes thanks for sharing.

    Florence | 07.31.2016 | Reply
  14. AAliyah Salaam…you are most surely on the right track! Research using apricot kernels, aka vitamin B17, for cancer. Combine with the bromelain in raw pineapple. You can also purchase a bromelain supplement. The bromelain softens and weakens the outside of the cancer cell, allowing the B17 from the kernels to more effectively kill the cell. Research also: ChrisBeatCancer dot com, and web search Ty Bollinger from The Truth About Cancer. Chemo and radiation are both toxic to the body – killing your immune system. (Chemo was derived from mustard gas!) Build/strengthen your immune system instead of breaking it down only to have to rebuild it after the ‘treatment’. God designed the immune system to tackle illnesses…why let it be destroyed because big-pharma wants to get rich off of people? Read all the ‘possible’ side effects of any post-treatment drug…and ask if you are willing to risk doing any of that to the only body God gave you.

  15. If you had Malignant Tumours in 2 Lymph Nodes in the Mediastinum would Lymph drainage massage be useful or would it be a danger to stir them up,,,Thanks,,Pete

    Pete | 08.09.2016 | Reply
    • Hi Pete, what did you find out? I just got diagnosed with cancerous lymph nodes in my medialstinal cavity

      Sandy | 03.12.2018 | Reply
      • You can obtain absolute valuable information on YouTube, Dr. Robert Morse ND helped me tremendously.
        He has hundreds of YouTube videos addressing everything you need to know! Please take a look.

        Olivia | 08.03.2018 | Reply
  16. This was a revelation. The past couple of years I’ve been run down, sick in that annoying way of not being actually sick but always having a sniffle or sore throat, hated wearing under wire bras and have horrid embarrassing spot like cysts directly over my lymph glands on my neck. Reading this was like a light bulb going off -all the comments of “just rest” or “take a paracetamol” didn’t fit and now I have a solution that makes sense and is something I can positively commit to. Thank you. THANK YOU xx

    Cathryn | 10.06.2016 | Reply
  17. I’ll grateful to be confirmed in my ideas of how to handle lymph health. I do skin brushing, yoga, inversions, drink warm lemon water, and I either don’t wear a bra, or I wear an “Un-Bra” (made by Decent Exposures). I’ll add one other easy thing: an Ayurvedic technique called oil pulling. Take a teaspoon of organic coconut oil, hold it in your mouth until it melts, then swish it around in your mouth for a good 10-15 minutes. (I do it the whole time I’m in the shower.) Do not swallow! The oil will draw toxic stuff out of your system and you do not want to swallow that. When done, spit the oil into a garbage pail (not down the sink where it will coagulate and get stuck).

    Deborah-Miriam | 10.15.2016 | Reply
  18. Will adding lime to water instead of lemon be just as effective?

    Dawn | 11.04.2016 | Reply
  19. have extensive cancer history from past years, at present time dealing with congest heart-failure! 79 yrs old! Have self- learned about natural health for years! Dr’s are amazed that I am still alive. Have all 4 valves in heart blocked now.,but so far I am managing. Last year , i survived Hospice home-care. how-ever I know, I am that I am slowly going down-hill, but I do not let that bother me , I try to busy and live a normal life, eat a gluten-tree diet1 Attitude and not giving up is important, I think. Leona

    Leona Johnson | 01.04.2017 | Reply
    • Hi Leona! im not a dr. I was just reading through and wanted to let you know, you are inspiring. Thank you for sharing your story. sending you lots of love and positivity keep your smile on.

      matthew | 02.27.2018 | Reply
  20. I have just been diagnosed with breastcancer for the second time. Had a previous mastectomy and reconstruction.
    Treatment 5 years of tamoxifen. Yesterday I was told that after a CT scan on 2/1/17 the Found another cancer in the armpit And cancer of the lymphnodes in the centre of the chest. They told me that they cannot operate because of the cancer in the lymphnodes Centre of chest. They would like to do a biopsy on the cancer in the armpit to find out if that cancer is related to the breastcancer. They have prescribed Letrozole a Hormonetherapy to take daily. My left axillary lymphnodes were removed. Can you help? Traditional medicine is not offerring much. Is It OK to have lymphmassage with my situation. Any healing techniques anything I can help my lymphatic system With. I am a positive healthy 65 Year old female. I want to live. Is there a cancer homeopatic And naturopatic Centre you know of? Should I ask for the implant of previous reconstruction to be removed. I believe in nature’s and God’s powerful healing forces. Thank you Gee

    • Look up Dr Morse videos on U Tube or google them. Just look up Dr Morse on breast cancer or lymphoma. He is a well known naturepath that can explain t cause and how to heal any medical condition including cancer. He was a blessing in my life and many others and has opened my eyes on how to have real health and I now have my life back and u can too.

      Diane M Rangel | 11.03.2017 | Reply
  21. I am curious about detoxing lymph nodes. I was diagnosed with CLL (chronic lymphoid leukemia )2 yrs ago. I’ve been in the watch and wait mode with blood work every 4 mons. My numbers are stable. I changed diet to no processed food, no added sugar except a bit on maple syrup, eating organic veggies, little fruit, and am fairly active, etc. I’ve been seeing a nutritionist for 7 months and take supplements. Recently after a PetScan my oncologist thinks that one of my lymph nodes near my kidney may be transforming into large cell lymphoma…I will have another Pet Scan in one month and a possible an biopsy. Do you know if these detoxing methods for the lymphatic system will drain\kill the cancerous cells? I don not want to be put on any targeted treatment (pills) because they can have terrible side effects and one can become resistant to the treatment. Thank you

    BonnieP | 01.31.2017 | Reply
    • Dr Morse can explain how cute ur problem, naturally. He has a u tube channel or u can google his name and ur medical problem. Helped me survive many illnesses. Good luck to you.

      Diane M Rangel | 11.03.2017 | Reply
  22. Try bio feedback has been known to cure cancer

    Mushi helm | 03.12.2017 | Reply
  23. This all started with a cyst in my leg crease from waxing and riding the bike afterwards. The doctor I went to decided that it was better for me to take antibiotics instead of cutting it out. So I was put on Omnicef which helped somewhat but not all the way, shortly after my medication was done this thing came back! Went to a different doctor in the same clinic who then said it was a swollen lymph node. After some blood tests I was prescribed Doxycycline Hyclate. TWICE. During both time while taking medication I threw up twice, which I told my doctor after the first round of doxycyline hyclate and she simply told me to take the meds with some food. didn’t help, I still threw up. After the meds the lymph node got smaller but did not go away all the way. It’s now March 2017, I had some alcohol over the weekend and this lymph got really big the next day but seems like its getting smaller. Also seems like it moves from one spot to another. MY POINT BEING. If you ever get a cyst, just get it cut out instead of taking antibiotics. I feel like I’m going to develop cancer because my doctor was too lazy to cut out my cyst which turned into this lymph node.

    p.s. I call it a cyst because there was abscess coming out the first time this came around.

    Audra | 03.20.2017 | Reply
  24. Hello, I have Hashimoto thyroditis and eat a gf diet with as much organic products financially possible. Lots of wild caught cod, certain greens and hormone free chicken. Will increase water. Very large busted so will need to find an underwire free bra. My main concern is swollen lymph nodes near and above ear and across forhead. Lo grade fever. So resting , using warm cloths on swelling gargling with sea salt, and massage all head, neck and ear areas. Feel very fatigued(hypertension) but walk and do circuit training for strength. If I went to primary she would recommend antibiotics and I am not comfortable with that so going to try to add more raw foods and add water with lemon. This has been occurring for two weeks.

    Grandma Suzy | 03.31.2017 | Reply
  25. Wonderful insight! Thank you for posting!

    Jessica | 04.03.2017 | Reply
  26. My breast are very large. It would not be a good look for me to walk around braless. Will I receive any benefits if I eliminate bras for 14 hours a day?

    Robin W. | 05.08.2017 | Reply
  27. Very interesting article. Most doctors are not up to date with what the lymph does and how it can contribute to many chronic diseases. I have suffered for 20 years with chronic sinusitis but told nothing is wrong and to live with it! !

  28. your thoughts… Naprapathic Medicine is the Science art of connective tissue manipulation. Utilizing the hands and assistive devices such as muscle stimulation, therapeutic ultrasound and other modalities the Naprapath (Doctor) is able to evaluate and treat connective tissue disorders. Diet and nutritional assessment as well as herbal therapies are part of the treatment process. Naprapaths are trained to evaluate the root cause of the problem and treat that cause. Expect a high success rate. Naprapaths are mainly found in the Midwest and West coastal regions of the United States. More information on the wonders of Naprapathic Medicine can be found on the internet. Dr. Charles E. Greer, D.N.(Doctor of Naprapathic Medicine)

    Dr. Charles E. Greer, D.N. | 05.13.2017 | Reply
  29. treatment for lymph behind my ear

    scaly | 05.22.2017 | Reply
  30. I just wanted to say that Super Reishi pills ,coffee and maitaki drops have all shrunk my moles. My family history of cancer is unbelievable. My mother’s brothers and sisters(12) and my mother have all had cancers twice. Two different types. Now the gene pool has jumped a generation and my daughter (37) had just been diagnosed with breast cancer. All of the information here is most helpful. I have black moles that are inverted and growing that the doctor missed because it was behind a bra strap. Most interesting. I was first informed of Super Reishi years ago but it was very hard to attain and expensive. Recently I came across it at eBay and Amazon.com very reasonable. I started taking all three. Two pills, two cups of the coffee and 6 drops of the condensed maitaki oil. Within three days my moles have shrunk and turned pink. It is interesting to know that other moles I have, have not changed much. I have chronic disease and have been on medicine for years. I have been able to cut back on my pain meds from 4 a day to one half a tablet. I don’t know if this could help anyone but I thought it amazing and I have amazing energy. I went from laying in the recliner to sleeping at night and waking at 3 or 4 in the morning and making a day at work without nodding and being able to actually getting my work done. I just thought this quite amazing! Godspeed and God bless!

    Judy Sadler | 05.22.2017 | Reply
  31. I’m 55. I had implants removed 7 months ago and I am battling silicone in my lymph nodes (mostly left armpit). I have heard of some of these. I have never heard of rebounding. I was taking the suggested herbs in a supplement capsular but I am now changing it to herb tea. I have not seen any improvement since my surgery, but I will continue until I am forced to remove the lymph nodes. FYI, I also use Healing Indian Clay as a deodorant and I bought a sauna suit to try and sweat more. I read a lot of informational articles, yours was one of the best. Thank you.

    lg willard | 06.20.2017 | Reply
  32. great site, thank you.

    Carol Coleman | 07.08.2017 | Reply
  33. Has anyone come across any research regarding the effects of lymph removal and subsequent lymph fluid stagnation? I had tonsils/adenoids removed as a child, and have flexible joints/tissues (so-called joint hypermobility syndrome, but it really should be called tissue-hypermobility syndrome) which means low blood pressure (and slower body processes) among other things. It seems that as long as I am engaged in rigorous exercise, the lymphatic fluids are flowing. However, during winter months, or if I sustain an injury (doesn’t have to be sports related, just something that prevents regular exercise for a spell), I see immediate cellulite again, and feel tired and have
    a stuffy nose every morning, etc. It seems like I need to work harder than the average person to get the lymphatic fluids moving again. It appears logical that when your body only has 80% of its lymph glands, it should not be performing at 100% effectiveness – but I have never seen any documentary evidence of such. Any research links or references available would be much appreciated.

    Lynda Lovejoy | 07.10.2017 | Reply
  34. Thank you so much for the information. Would you update your picks for items, for instance the Inversion Table is no longer available. The Herbs that you recommend are from a company no longer in business. There are many tinctures out there for Lymph, but what was it about the one you selected that you like best?
    Thanks!

    Laura Parras | 07.13.2017 | Reply
  35. Man i wish this was the case for me.. i have not wore a bra in a year amd see no difference lol and i have a toddler so u would think my upper chest would be bigger..haha nope

  36. I’m 41, I too have had my implants removed in June 2017 and have multiple infected lymph nodes both sides one of them in my left armpit measures 3cm, not sure if I should have it removed, so scared of lymphodema but I’m in so much pain also. Xx

  37. More specifically—what makes a food “acidic” or “alkaline”, really meaning does it increase your body’s acidity or alkalinity—is what it boils down to once it is digested and metabolized. Even though lemons are acidic as mentioned, citric acid, once metabolized their residue is alkaline, and that is why they contribute to alkalinizing the body.

    diana seaward | 10.05.2017 | Reply
  38. I suspect I may have some lymph congestion. I swell almost daily. When I was doing crossfit, most of the swelling problem went away. I am not able to do high impact exercises anymore due to plantar fibromatosis on my left foot. I also suffer from eczema and psoriasis on my scalp. I had come across an ad for a Kansa Wand. Do these work. I did try the lemon water for a while but it stirred up reflux. Been trying some yoga, but it is difficult right now until I become more flexible. So I was wanting to know if this wand would work as I seek out a low impact work out routine. I tried dry brushing and that seems to work, but that needs to be done before rising out of bed first thing in the morning and my morning bladder won’t hold through the brush routine. Thanks for your input.

    Elaine | 12.21.2017 | Reply
    • Try an exercise called the Egoscue Method. I too suffer from swelling daily and eczema my entire life. The Egoscue method is exercise that is designed to optimize the body without putting strain on your limbs. It has relieved me of the plantar fasciitis and is moving the lymph system. Any small trampoline will do. you can purchase one at Target for $32.00. The point is to get your body to move and the lymph system working. As for the lemon in warm water, it can only be helpful. Drinking water is the optimum thing for anyones health. Lemon is good for you. If you have another ailment that arises from drinking the lemon water, then something else is effecting you and is using the lemon water to bring it to life. BTW, the eczema itch in my head has improved greatly.

      Andrea | 01.09.2018 | Reply
  39. Physiologically this article is incorrect, whilst the general concept is on the right track it you read any anatomical textbook on lymphology you will see this article to be incorrect.

  40. love the article

    Rita | 01.30.2018 | Reply
  41. thanks for your article, its interesting to know that by just swisting your body your actually benefiting. pls help me, i have a painful arms, very painful and painful thighs-upper part. i went to doctors but all in vain. the xrays did not show any problem. sometimes i am not sure if the problem is in the muscles or bones. but its a dull pain that is deep deep. pls help me.

    Thembi Maqutu | 02.24.2018 | Reply
  42. I put alot of credence in the fact that my underwire bra was the source of my problems. I was promoted from an eight hour a day job to one that required 18 hours a day. So I was trapped in my bra an extra 10 hours a day. The pain started after 2 years right wear my ribs come together. I first I thought it was gallbladder but the test ruled that out. The pain started spreading up into my chest to above my collar bone, then up the sides of my neck and jaw. With the pain in jaw I was convinced it was now heart problems. Ruled that out also. Started realizing the pain would start withing an hour of putting on my bra. After much research discovered it could be my lymphatic system. Had lymphatic massages that ended up being very painful as all the fluid would collect at the sluggish points. Decided to ditch the bra and wear tank tops or several layers of clothing to hide the fact. My lymphatic system has improved greatly and at times will get sluggish if I lay around the house too much and not get enough moving around exercise, like in the winter. I never had a clue about the importance and inbundance of the lymphatic system in the body until I did some research. If you take care of anything in your body the lymphatic system should come first, before the heart, stomach or brain!

    Lisa Hall | 03.08.2018 | Reply
  43. such an informing article. Gave me guidelines to detox my lymph system. Thank you for the great work!!!!

    leah | 04.23.2018 | Reply
  44. Such an informing article. Provided guidelines for my lymphatic detox. Thanks for the great job!!

    leah | 04.23.2018 | Reply
  45. Thank you for providing this helpful, healthy alternative to conventional medicine.

    Jacqueline Clark | 04.29.2018 | Reply
  46. Was told to look into lymphatic drainage which never knew we had a lymph nodes system but given advice for my children’s disease of HELL Intracranial Hypertension neuro disease where there is excess cerebral fluid on brain. On top of hearing FLUCUATIONS temp vision loss migraines etc etc have weakened immune system w/chronic sinus ear throat etc infections . Some one out of US said common thing for this disease but never even heard of this here not surprised learning US not interested in solving or finding cause of diseases mostly just treat never ending hell symptoms . This looks amazing I’m soooo excited as 2, of 3 kids chronic bronchitis in winter too etc. This could help with SOOO MANY SYMPTOMS!! THANKS FOR THIS ARTICLE!!

    Cyndria Alnett | 06.18.2018 | Reply
  47. Totally agree with this article thank you. If you had breast cancer and they want to remove a couple of lymph nodes.. doesn’t that compromise the lymphatic system. My surgeon wants to remove them to see what stage of cancer I have. If your lymphatic system is working.. shouldn’t cancer in the lymph nodes be a good thing as it’s removing them from your breast tissue.

    Tracie | 08.08.2018 | Reply
  48. Thank you – I am currently studying herbal medicine – this was a great insight to my study on the lymphatic system that I will share with fellow students.

  49. I wanted to question the wisdom of bombarding the Axillary lymph nodes with radiography ! what if non of them have cancerous cells.?

    Anna Marshall | 11.28.2018 | Reply
  50. Hi, very interesting reading. The herbs you mention are not good for my blood type (red clover) and I’ve never heard of the others. My question is since my blood type is A Positive which herb I can use.

    Marlene Coley | 12.04.2018 | Reply
  51. Great! Concise, informative, supportive (all the vendor links). I think I have a new idol.

    Gwen | 12.13.2018 | Reply
  52. I have a strong family history of immunological diseases including Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, MS and Sjogren’s Syndrome. My sister passed at age 44 from Lupus. My mother had RA and Sjogren’s Syndrome. After seeing so many in my family suffer from these issues I have been incredibly proactive in preventing these problems from manifesting in myself. Unfortunately due to injuries, a lymphadenopathy to remove a benign lymphatic cyst and incredible stress due to the loss of my husband to terminal cancer, I developed severe lymphedema in my lower extremities after a marathon 62 hour study session with virtually no breaks and/or movement. I would like to offer a wonderful remedy that helped me stay out of the hospital and minimize tissue damage due to the lymphedema. I followed the lymphatic massage protocol, but due to the massive swelling and lymphedema present, that was insufficient. I found if you use one of the heated handheld massagers to stimulate lymphatic flow you can drastically reduce the time it takes to remove the edema from your tissues. Basically the heat thins the lymph to a more liquid viscosity and the controlled and systematic movement of lymph in a particular pattern from the head, and extremities into the torso using the vibrating massage was a miraculous aid in getting all of the lymph flowing again and working through my spleen and kidneys. Due to blockages of my lymphatic system at key injured areas of my body, I must use the heated massager to basically “squeegee” the liquified lymph from my head and extremities to my torso and filtering organs (spleen, kidney and liver) to increase the flow of lymph both within my lymphatic system and out of my body. I have successfully forestalled countless bouts with lymphatic swelling of my lymph nodes and the resulting infections without the use of any medications at all. Water, acidic foods to promote an alkaline balance in the body, inversion therapy, lymphatic massage and daily stretching and weight bearing exercises have drastically improved my pain, swollen nodes and sinus issues. I can wholeheartedly recommend the addition of regular heated massage in the order specified in numerous lymphatic drainage forums as a major treatment and prevention technique in managing this chronic condition.

    Wendy Roden | 01.07.2019 | Reply
  53. We read Anthony William and u can find him on uTube too. What he advocates is immune building i.e. fresh and fruits i.e. non-gmo and organic when possible and that will be ok by u eventually as u can salivate over the difference…give it time (redirecting your funds or lack of as I call it). He talks a lot of detox; given the reminders here on the lymphatics role in being another of the human bodies super highways…I am reminded once again in taking out our human trash (Dr. Terry wahls is another great author and must read on cellular rebuilding) i.e. detoxing, naturally, feeding ourselves living nutrition, and abstaining via will power and using good judgement from processed chemicals whether masked in pretty packaging or hidden in the crowded beef And chicken grown quickly. Dr. William Davis, MD Author of wheat belly has another book out: undoctored. These fine posts of real accounts who drs. Have clearly put little time in seeking actual healing (pharma must be thrown in their laps) are good examples of the subject matter in Undoctored. Keep sharing, asking, exploring, reading lables, demanding quality, and healing! And thank u for valuable reminder and info!

    Lr, ar | 02.08.2019 | Reply
  54. Hi
    Is this an all ten should be done in one day kinda thing?
    Or a few things every day and a general of inclusion of the others?

    Thanks

    Stacey | 02.09.2019 | Reply
  55. Thanks so much for sharing!!
    Very informative.

    edyth | 02.11.2019 | Reply
  56. “Lemon is an alkaline fruit that helps to mineralize the body and lymph.”
    Lemon is alkaline? Where did you get your chemistry degree? Ever hear of citric acid? What, pray tell, is “mineralize”?

    Jung | 03.04.2019 | Reply
  57. Thanks informative

  58. I have been suffering from lymphatic filariasis for almost two years now. Can anyone share some thoughts on prevention and cure? Thank you

    Vapol | 04.09.2019 | Reply
  59. Years ago I did the Edger Cayce method of lymphatic drainage massage and incorporated hand and foot reflexology. I recommended that women not use anti-perspirants as they clogged the pores and would not allow toxins to be removed by the lymph system. I believe this is a major reason for breast cancer

    Paul M | 04.14.2019 | Reply
  60. I have just had a Lupus diagnosis from a blood test. I think I have a bigger problem going on because my lymph nodes on the sides and back of my neck have been a problem for about a month or so. I am supposed to see a Rheumatologist in about a month but plan to try some of your suggestions before then. I am not sure what type of doctor to see if I have lymphoma. I also have Hypothyroidism. Definitely not doing well. Thank you for this information.

    Lois J Motta | 04.24.2019 | Reply
  61. Great article because I just had a breast scan and the Doctor who read the results stated that I may have thoracic lymph congestion between my breasts. This is where there is a concentration of lymph nodes, I guess. Reading another article and this one, helped me to better understand what it is and the cause. Not only more water and no sodas (which is my problem ), but the proper “no” bra without underwire. I’ve solved this problem by ditching my awful uncomfortable compromising bra and switching to award winning Ruby Ribbon Full Support CAMIS…So darn AWESOME. Can’t say enough about them!!! I like my camis so much I became a rep for the company! I’m working with women all over and breast health people to educate women on how compromising bras can be to their health and showing them an alternative to their bra. I’m loving it!

  62. I bookmarked this article! I found it very interesting and will be trying many of the things listed. I had Non-Hodkins Lymphoma and need to keep those Lymph Nodes at peak performance!!! Thank you so much! I’ve been using apricot kernels for some time now!!!

    Pamela Kles | 09.27.2019 | Reply
  63. Hi. Please edit your rticle. Dry Brushing is never usued in Ayurveda and has nothing at all to do with ayurveda. If you have any doubts please try to find any reference to it is any actual ayurveda text. There is not. It is a western thing. It would not be used in ayurveda anyway for what your talking about. Please don’t harm ayurveda by turning it into something it is not. Thx.

    Brad | 10.01.2019 | Reply
  64. Thanks so much for this info – it is greatly appreciated. I will be following you!

  65. I have lymphedema in my lower legs and it has effected, altered, destroyed my life as I knew it. I am in constant pain/agony snd I have lost the ability to walk without crutches. An ulcer that developed on my ankle has turned into a drain for the lymphatic fluid. The fluid is extremely corrosive and eats away at my skin like battery acid. I wake up every morning with breakthrough pain and every morning it takes me two to three hours to get the pain controlled enough for me to breathe. I take so many pills my kidneys will probably explode sometime in the near future. (Fingers crossed!) Ive lost every friend I had because I do not have the ability to physically go anywhere or do anything. At 47 years old and I am basically an isolated shut in.

    Plz kill me | 09.29.2020 | Reply
    • Hi there, we urge you to look up Lisa Gainsley of the Lymphatic Message right away – sending our best.

      The Chalkboard | 09.29.2020 | Reply
  66. Hi I m 35 year old suffering from mesentric adenitis about an year. Please suggest how to cure mesentric adenitis . Pain is severe

    Prabh | 02.20.2021 | Reply
  67. So I have experienced many times and most recently violently and it scared me.. I took Cbd and meditated after massaging the base of my skull on the back of my neck and at the end of my meditation I felt what I believe was my lymph nodes moving upward into my skull.

    I cannot find any info on this. Please contact me

    Daniel | 05.30.2021 | Reply
  68. Please, your email address request is so tiny, can you think of people’s eyes when designing your web structures . Also, I didn’t have time to give you the full email address! Usually websites know the difference and STOP us or ask us to rewrite our address.

    I hope you can see my correct email address below!

    Thank you.

    Mireille Taar | 03.10.2022 | Reply
    • Thanks for the insights! Are you receiving our emails now? If not, we’ll add you to our list!

      The Chalkboard Editorial Team | 03.12.2022 | Reply

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