The Mechanism of Action of the Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is an integral component of the body's natural disease-defense mechanism. This contributes to the flow of fluids and other substances, including white blood cells, into the body. Everyone understands that we have blood in the body, as it flows from the wound when we cut.
Yet not everyone knows we have a second lymphatic channel, called the lymphatic system.
This system includes an almost transparent fluid called lymph, which circulates throughout the body via different sizes of lymphatic vessels. This attacks and eliminates "invaders" from the body, such as viruses and bacteria.
It is an integral component of our natural mechanism of protection-the immune system-and it helps us combat infections. The lymphatic system helps to transport cells, proteins, nutrients, and products for absorption through the body.
In particular, it contains white blood cells, including the distinctive white cell type called lymphocytes.
Occasionally, when we get cold, we notice that the "glands" under the jaws are increasing and expanding.
Such structures are a lymph system component and are referred to as lymph nodes.
There are about 100 lymph nodes in the body and are easily seen in the axilla, groin, and neck.
In the lymphatic stream, white blood cells circulate, looking for and killing foreign threats such as viruses or toxins. To eliminate the detected invaders, the lymph nodes flush out the lymph and block their entry into the bloodstream. It reaches the bloodstream and the general circulation after the lymph has been "cleaned" by the lymph nodes.
The bloodstream regulates the supply of oxygen and nutrients to tissues, which requires a net fluid leakage at the capillary level outward.
One of the lymphatic system's essential functions is to absorb this fluid and return it to the bloodstream to
maintain the overall balance of fluids.
The fluid is also at subatmospheric pressure in the interstitial spaces, and the entry points into the venous system are at demands of approximately 20 cmH2O.
The successful pumping of collecting lymphatic channels, which contain closely spaced one-way valves and contractile muscle cells within their walls overcome this adverse pressure difference. Squeezing of passive vessels triggers further pumping.
Experimentally and mathematically studied the dynamics of lymphatic pumping, revealing complex behaviors that suggest system output is robust to minor pressure and flow disturbances.
More severe disruptions can result in incurable tissue swelling, called lymphedema.
As a cohesive system, the lymphatic system comprises many organs whose relationship as a group is not readily apparent. Lymphoid organs include spleen, thymus, and tonsils; the bone marrow, where white cells are formed, is also a vital component.
The lymph system is the largest circulatory network in the body, and it operates in tandem with the circulatory system to adhere to a healthy fluid flow throughout the body.
The lymphatic system is both a mechanism for food delivery and a detox mechanism for the body and the location of the immune system.
It drains waste from various organs and cells in the body and provides defense against immune detox for toxins that pass through the skin, respiratory tract, or intestines.
The secret to maintaining overall health and longevity is to keep the lymph system safe and clean.
There are several ways to preserve balanced lymph.
In many cases, an unhealthy lifestyle and environmental contaminants cause congested lymph and need lymph to cleanse. Timely detoxification of the lymph system will improve the optimal function of the organ.
General Organization of the Human Lymphatic System
The fluid originated from capillary filtration flows preferentially through the tissue channels, the “microcirculatory highway” of the interstitium. After absorption of the interstitial fluid by the initial lymphatics, lymph is transported through progressively larger and structurally more complex vessels until its final destination into the blood system. All along the way, short chains of capsulated lymphocytes, the lymph nodes, filter the lymph and are responsible for another essential role of the system: the immune response (Rouvière 1981).
According to Kubik, lymphatic vessels can be classified in a crescent order of size and complexity in lymph capillaries, pre collectors, collectors, and trunks; the first two are denominated initial lymphatics (Kubik 1998).
The structure of lymph capillaries whose prime function is the absorption of fluid and macromolecules, differ from blood capillaries is some essential features: their format resembles glove fingers, have an incomplete basal membrane, and are larger than the correspondent blood capillary vessels (Andrade 2000). Their endothelial cells have a small number of open junctions, not found in blood vessels (except for sinusoidal capillaries and injured vessels). In some areas, adjacent endothelial cells partially overlap, creating a point of entry for interstitial fluid and, at the same time, acting as an antireflux mechanism. Anchoring filaments are a unique anatomical feature presented by lymph capillaries; these structures are extensions of the endothelial cells and originate on the outer surface of the intercellular contact area between two adjacent cells. Their adhesions to interstitial elastic and collagen fibers open the intercellular space when interstitial volume increases and are a significant feature of lymph absorption.
Collector vessels and trunks present structure similar to veins, even though their three layers – intimae, media, and adventitia – are thinner and have a less evident separation than those observed in the venous system. They have semilunar valves, more numerous and histologically similar to the vein valves, formed by folds of endothelium, smooth muscle and connective tissue. There is also a valve at the lymphatic confluence at the jugulosubclavian junction, thus avoiding blood reflux to the significant lymphatic ducts (Jacomo and Rodrigues Jr 1994).
The lymphatic system, according to its topography, can be divided into superficial, deep and visceral. The superficial system drains skin and subcutaneous tissue whereas the deep lymphatic system is responsible for the subfascial tissue drainage. The visceral system can also be considered a part of the deep system. Perforating vessels cross the fascia and connect the superficial and deep systems. Some authors consider another group of vessels: the communicating vessels, which communicate areas drained by different bundles. Lymphatic collectors of the limbs, both superficial and deep, accompany neighboring vessels (Andrade and Jacomo 1999); drained volume through the superficial system being far more critical to the lymphatic drainage of the extremities.
Lymph nodes consist of an agglomerate of lymphoid tissue surrounded by a capsule of dense connective tissue and some smooth muscle fibers and its inner framework is formed by trabeculae, extensions of the inner aspect of the capsule that limit lymph follicles. After reaching the lymph node, lymph flows through its sub capsular space and is filtered in the network formed by the trabecular and medullar sinuses. Lymph nodes are arranged as chains found in reasonably constant areas of the body and contain a variable number of nodes; the total number of lymph nodes in humans is estimated to be around 600 to 700 (Kubik, 2003). The shape of the lymph nodes is usually spherical or round and can considerably vary in size and may reach a normal diameter of up to one inch. Structurally, they have a small depression called hilus and an opposite convex surface. Efferent lymph vessels and nodal arteries and veins are found in the hilus whereas afferent lymph vessels reach the lymph node in many points along its convex surface. Afferent lymph vessels are generally smaller and more numerous than the efferent vessels (Rouvière 1981).
The same as in lymph vessels, lymph nodes groups or chains can be classified according to their location as superficial, when they are embedded into the subcutaneous tissue or deep, situated under the muscular fascia or inside abdominal or thoracic cavities (Andrade and Jacomo 1999).
Herbs and Essential Oils for the Lymphatic System
Yellow Sweet Clover (Melilotus officinalis) -
Yellow Sweet Clover (Melilotus officinalis) -
Yellow Sweet Clover (Melilotus officinalis) -
Sweet clover is an aromatic herb.
Medicine is produced using the flowering branches and leaves.
The herb has shown an increase in venous reflux and improvement in lymphatic kinetics.
Sweet clover is used to increase water loss from the body through the urine (as a diuretic).
This is also used to treat varicose veins and to alleviate signs of impaired blood circulation
(chronic venous insufficiency), including discomfort and heaviness in the legs, night cramps, itchiness, and fluid retention (edema).
Together with daily medications, sweet clover is often used to treat blood clots in the veins.
Particular applications include hemorrhoid diagnosis and lymphatic system blockage.
The lymphatic system filters out tissue fluid.
For bruises, some people add sweet clover directly to the skin.
Melilotus officinalis is a member of the Fabaceae family,
also known as yellow melilot or sweet yellow clover.
It is a biennial herb, native to Europe and Asia,
and has been considered a medicinal plant since ancient times.
The father of the medicine, Hippocrates, used a sweet clover herb to
treat skin ulcers, and Dioscorides described melilots as emollient and anti-ematose remedy.
Goosegrass (Galium aparine)
Yellow Sweet Clover (Melilotus officinalis) -
Yellow Sweet Clover (Melilotus officinalis) -
Goosegrass sitmulates the function of the lymphatic system and it enhances its ability to eliminate toxins, reducing congestion and inflammation
The herb was used traditionally to treat obesity. Culpeper says 'It is familiarly taken in broth to keep them lean and lank, that we apt to grow' and 'It is a good remedy in Spring, eaten (being first chopped small, and boiled well) in water-gruel, to cleanse the blood, and strengthen the liver, thereby to keep the body in good health, and fitting it for that change of season that is coming'.
Goosegrass is a beneficial plant and a good cleaning remedy, it can be used as a diuretic, and it helps the lymphatic system to detoxify the body.
The drug is used to treat swollen lymph glands, tonsillitis, glandular fever, and infections with recurrent throats.
It can also be used in the
treatment of eczema, psoriasis, arthritis, and seborrhea.
Galium aparine L. is a herbaceous climbing
plant in the Rubiaceae family.
The plant is recognized as a highly morphologically and physiologically versatile multicultural weed capable of colonizing
a variety of natural and anthropogenic environments, such as trees , shrubs, wastelands and arable lands.
Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)
Yellow Sweet Clover (Melilotus officinalis) -
Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)
The lymph-stimulating properties of this herb make it
significant to improve the body's natural lymphatic drainage.
It promotes detoxification and
filtration of the lymphatic system.
Devil's claw is used as a tonic to relieve arthritis, rheumatism, reduce fever, relieve sore muscles, and reduce cholesterol.
It is also used to cleanse the lymph system and remove toxins from the blood.
Devil's claw contains harpagoside that reduces the inflammation that is responsible for, or irritation, injury, or infection.
Inflammation generally results in pain, redness,
and swelling in the area of injury.
It can occur both within the body
tissues and on the surface of the skin.
Devil's claw is also useful
in increasing appetite and improving digestion.
Devil's claw extracts are thought to reduce blood sugar levels somewhat, and some of the chemicals in the devil's claw appear to affect blood pressure,
heart rate, heart rhythm, and heart contraction. Actions: anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, analgesic, digestive, sedative Other indications include rheumatism, arthritis, gout, myalgia, fibrositis, tendonitis, lumbago, anorexia.
Bitter glycosides stimulate appetite and digestion,
making it valuable in dyspepsia and anorexia.
Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
Narrow-leafed pale Purple Cornflower (Echinacea angustifolia)
Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)
Calendula has a wide variety of uses; it is used mainly for swollen lymph nodes, for body tissue cleansing, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Marigold's therapeutic properties are beneficial in various medical uses for thousands of years.
Calendula officinalis is one of the predominant herbs for the treatment of skin and mucus membranes.
It heals wounds, relieves inflammation, increases beneficial immune responses, is mildly antimicrobial, and protects the skin from radiation damage.
Calendula officinalis has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine and has been licensed as herbal medicine by the European Medicines Agency since 2008. Both Calendula flowers and leaves are also used in folk medicine as anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic, to treat poorly healing wounds, minor burns, bruises and rash, and also to alleviate stomach ulcer inflammation and oral and pharyngeal mucosa.
Its chemical composition contains a wide variety of substances, such as phenolic compounds ( e.g. flavonoids
and coumarins), hormones, terpenoids, carbohydrates , lipids, tocopherols, quinones, carotenes, essential oils, fatty acids and minerals.
Narrow-leafed pale Purple Cornflower (Echinacea angustifolia)
Narrow-leafed pale Purple Cornflower (Echinacea angustifolia)
Narrow-leafed pale Purple Cornflower (Echinacea angustifolia)
Echinacea has strong immune-stimulating properties and can also be used as an anti-inflammatory.
It may relieve congestion and bulge in the lymphatic system in combination with astragalus.
Echinacea is a member of the daisy family, a genus containing nine species.
In different herbal preparations, three species are found: Echinacea Angustifolia, Echinacea pallida, and Echinacea purpurea.
Native Americans considered this herb
as a blood purifier.
Preparations from Echinacea plants (family Asteraceae) are commonly
used in common colds in Europe and North America.
Eastern Purple Coneflower is native
to north east America.
In most of the eastern, southeastern and midwestern United
States, it's prevalent to some extent in the wild.
Many users and clinicians are not aware of the substantially different composition of goods available under the term Echinacea, primarily due to the use of variable plant material, extraction methods and inclusion of certain components.
Astragalus (astragalus membranaceus)
Narrow-leafed pale Purple Cornflower (Echinacea angustifolia)
Narrow-leafed pale Purple Cornflower (Echinacea angustifolia)
Astragalus offers several cleansing and cure benefits to the lymph system.
It relieves coughing and swelling and is a perfect all-around health enhancer in its own terms.
Astragalus, a lymph-rejuvenating cleaner, is an effective stimulating product for the lymph system and is primarily beneficial to the lymph tissue associated with the skin.
The toxic or congested lymphatic system may cause the immune system to stuck, resulting in bodywide hypersensitivity reactions.
Astragalus membranaceus is one of the
most common herbal medicines in China.
The main constituents of AM roots are polysaccharides, saponins, flavonoids, amino acids and trace elements
Astragalus membranaceus (AM) is considered to be a qi-tonifying
herb in traditional Chinese medicine or an adaptogenic herb.
This has been recommended for general fatigue and
chronic illnesses for decades in order to improve stamina.
There are various polysaccharides, saponins and flavonoids in the active pharmacological constituents of radix Astragalus membranaceus
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
Knotted Figwort (Scrophularia nodosa)
Knotted Figwort (Scrophularia nodosa)
Dandelion has been used as a purifying and detoxifying agent.
As a member of the Asteraceae family, it can grow in extremely contaminated environments and therefore has resistance to a range of harmful substances.
It's excellent for cleaning the lymph system of any built-up waste.
Dandelion is high in fiber as well as vitamins A, C, and K, while burdock is equally high in fiber and vitamin B6, potassium, and magnesium.
Taraxacum leaf is a highly potent diuretic and an excellent remedy for
water retention and edema, especially when cardiac or hepatogenic edema (ascites) is present.
Its action is comparable to that of the drug Frusemide.
The usual effect of a drug that stimulates kidney function is a loss of potassium from the body, which exacerbates any existing cardiovascular problems.
High potassium levels are particularly desirable when prescribing digitalis cardiac drugs because if potassium levels fall, the drugs will cause irritability of the heart muscle.
Knotted Figwort (Scrophularia nodosa)
Knotted Figwort (Scrophularia nodosa)
Knotted Figwort (Scrophularia nodosa)
This plant is used to treat inflammation and swelling of the lymph nodes, mouth, nose, and respiratory system. It may also be used to treat infections and help with general weakness.
Scrophularia, as its name suggests, is a remedy primarily used to treat skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, pruritis, and any skin conditions in which itching, discharge, and irritation occur.
Its purgative and diuretic actions enhance the cleaning effect. It may also be used as a mild laxative for constipation. It is used in chronic inflammatory conditions, especially when marked with swollen lymph nodes; it is believed to stimulate the lymphatic system.
Dermatological agent, alterative with circulatory stimulating properties, anti-inflammatory, mild diuretic, laxative, mild purgative, cardiac stimulant (increases myocardial contraction), circulatory stimulant. Its constituents are saponins, hesperetin, cardioactive glycosides, anti-inflammatory glycosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, iridoids (including aucubine), resins, sugar, organic acids.
Poison Hemlock (Conium maculatem)
Knotted Figwort (Scrophularia nodosa)
Poison Hemlock (Conium maculatem)
As the name suggests, this herb is highly toxic,
and should be taken only in small quantities.
It has a cooling, pain-reducing effect when used correctly and can give relief for swollen, bruised, and painful lymph nodes.
As a garden plant, it was originally brought over from Europe.
Hemlock usually grows in the spring, but may grow as year-round in some areas.
Hemlock poisoning happens when some portion of the plant is consumed, such as the seeds, bulbs, leaves, or fruit.
Yet, like any remedy in materia medica, Conium maculatum has more than one profile, more than one possible application, and in reality, a complete range of complementary characteristics, integrating the physical, mental, and emotional aspects.
Both parts of this plant contain toxic alkaloids, which can also be lethal in small amounts.
The alkaloids will impair the transmission of nerve impulses to your muscles and ultimately kill you through respiratory failure.
Given severe safety issues, medication is made using hemlock leaves, root, and seeds.
This is used for respiratory issues, including bronchitis, whooping cough, and asthma;
and for chronic conditions including childhood teething, swollen and sore joints, and cramps.
Hemlock is also used to cope with anxiety and mania.
Particular applications include treating tumors, spasms, skin disorders,
epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, Sydenham chorea (SC) , and disorders of the bladder.
Sometimes, Hemlock was used to cure strychnine poisoning.