The lymphatic system is a critical part of the immune system and it's the human body's inner 'drainage system'. It consists of lymph vessels, lymph nodes and lymph organs (thymus, tonsils, adenoids and spleen), which weave through almost all of the tissue and organs in the body.

The lymphatic system has the primary role of protecting the body against outside threats such as infections, bacteria, viruses and other pathogens - all while helping keep fluid levels in balance. The lymph contains a high number of white blood cells called lymphocytes, which are responsible for fighting and filtering out these infections. Once it has filtered these toxins out, it returns the fluid back to the blood.

Unlike the heart, the lymphatic system does not have a pump to move waste out of the body, which is why daily movement is so important! When the lymphatic system is healthy, we don't experience any painful swelling or water retention. However, when areas in the body become congested, lymphatic flow slows down which allows more time for the fluid to become more stagnant and toxic.

With that said, here are the top 10 symptoms of lymphatic dysfunction and 8 natural solutions to support the lymphatic system!

Top 10 Signs of Lymphatic System Dysfunction

1. Cellulite

2. Brain fog

3. Inability to sweat

4. Feeling puffy

5. Constant sore throat

6. Eczema or skin rashes

7. Headaches

8. Recurrent infections

9. Tonsil stones

10. You feel sick or hurt when you dry brush or get a massage

8 Natural Solutions to Support the Lymphatic System

1. Exercise / sweat - daily movement such as walking, swimming, yoga, running or dancing all target large muscle groups that support muscle contraction and pumping, which increases lymph flow and enhances drainage of lymphatic fluid throughout the body. 

2. Staying hydrated - certain minerals such as magnesium, potassium, sodium, and calcium are all essential for proper hydration and support of the lymphatic system. My favourite product that has all of these minerals is Saltique Celtic Sea Salt. You can sprinkle it on top of your food or my personal favourite, adding a pinch to your water.

3. Tongue scraping - is an Ayurvedic practice to remove bacteria, food debris and dead cells from the surface of the tongue. When you sleep, your mouth produces less saliva which means there's more of an opportunity for bacteria and other pathogens to thrive. Removing bacteria and pathogens from the tongue prevents them from being reabsorbed into the body which means less work and filtering for the lymphatic system. This is one of my favourite practices! The first thing I do every morning when I wake is use my copper tongue scraper and it's been a game changer. Here are some of the benefits I've noticed - fresher breath, better digestive health and less inflammation.

4. Lay on the floor and put your legs up on the wall - I recently just traveled to Africa and after 24+ hour travel day, when I arrived in Tanzania my ankles were SO swollen. The first thing I did when we got to our bed & breakfast, legs up on the wall for 10-15 minutes. When I woke up the next day, I had ankles again! Elevating the legs assists in moving lymph fluid from the legs and lower body back to the heart, which helps with the removal of waste products and toxins. Here are some other health benefits: reduces swelling, improves circulation, decreases inflammation, promotes relaxation and reduces stress.

5. Infrared sauna - regular use of an infrared sauna has several health benefits for the lymphatic system including enhanced detoxification (by inducing sweat which can help expel toxins from the body), improved circulation (enhances lymph fluid), supports the immune system, promotes muscle relaxation and reduces stress. If you've never tried an infrared sauna before, start with just a few minutes and build up your time and don't forget to hydrate!

6. Dry brushing - a practice that involves brushing the skin with a dry, natural-bristle brush. The gentle brushing motion helps stimulate the movement of lymphatic fluid, encouraging its flow towards lymph nodes where it can be filtered and detoxified. Here's a YouTube video on how to dry brush for lymphatic drainage.

7. Facial gua sha - rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, gua sha is the practice of massaging the skin using a tool to release facial tension, increase absorption of skincare products, reduce puffiness and improve skin appearance. This practice helps to stimulate the movement of lymphatic fluid, promoting better circulation and drainage in the facial area and enhances blood and lymph flow. Here's a YouTube video on how to use your facial gua sha tool.

8. Use natural / clean products - natural products typically contain fewer synthetic chemicals which means fewer toxins for the lymphatic system to filter and eliminate. One of my favourite natural/clean products that I've been using is a Lymphatic Lotion by Rowe Casa Organics.

I've tried all of these natural solutions and products and still incorporate a lot of them into my daily/weekly self-care routine. There are still so many other ways to naturally support the lymphatic system so there may be a part 2 to this blog in the future!

***The information provided in this post is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. None of my services shall be used to diagnose or treat any health problem or disease. I cannot and do not provide medical advice. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician. The information provided in this plan should not be used in place of a consultation with your physician or other health care provider. I do not recommend the self-management of health problems. Should you have any healthcare-related questions, please consult your physician or other health care provider promptly. You should never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it because of the information provided in this plan.