The lymphatic system, the largest circulatory system in the body, has been under-investigated for years, due the difficulty in measuring its flow.
The good news is that we are learning more every day about the purpose and function of the lymph!
In a new study published in Scientific Reports, doctors identified what they think may be the body’s 80th organ: the interstitium.
The interstitium is a widespread network of connective tissue that surrounds nearly every organ system in the body. It is mostly found surrounding the digestive and respiratory systems and under the skin—these are all concentrations of lymphatic tissue.
Previously thought as simply dense connective tissue, researchers discovered that the interstitium is actually a series of interconnected, fluid-filled sacs. According to the study, the interstitial space is the primary source of lymph and a major fluid compartment for the body.
Keeping the lymphatic system or “the drains” of the body clean is critical to optimal health and longevity. Here’s why:
- It is both a detox system and nutrient delivery system, and the home of the immune system. (7) Life cannot exists without it.
- It delivers fats as fuel for in-between-meal energy, in the form of triglycerides. (6,7) When not functioning optimally, this is a major cause of fatigue.
- Any proteins and fats that are too large to enter the bloodstream go undigested into the stomach and small intestine and are picked up and processed by the lymphatic system. This is directly linked to weight gain. (8)
- It drains waste from every cell and organ in the body, including the heart and digestive system. (7)
- It provides an immune detox defense for any toxins passing through the intestines, skin, respiratory tract and more. (7)
- The lymph system is vulnerable to the formation of scar tissue and distortion as we age, much like the cardiovascular system. (11)
- It drains 3 pounds of plaque and other toxins from the brain each year. (9)
- Poor lymph drain from the brain and central nervous system has been linked to psychological, cognitive and immune concerns. (9)
- The lymphatic system moves primarily via muscular contractions or exercise. Lack of regular exercise can congest the brain and CNS lymphatic channels that drain the brain while you sleep. (7)
Ayurveda linked the lymphatic system to optimal health and longevity thousands of years ago, and also discussed the importance of detoxifying it.
There are many strategies to keep the lymph healthy, but in the West, as a result of years of processed foods, environmental toxins, comfort foods and a lack of exercise, the lymph has become severely congested in many people.
The 5 Best Herbs to Cleanse the Lymphatic System
For the reasons above, I developed a unique formula designed to boost and detoxify the lymphatic system, called Lymph Cleanse.
I have found that many people need a 2-3 month lymph cleansing, scrubbing boost to get the lymph up to optimal function.
Herbs like manjistha, brahmi and our Lymph-Vein HP are powerful herbs for the lymph, but do not provide that deep lymph scrubbing or cleansing that many folks need.
Lymph Cleanse is best taken for a 2-3 month period any time of the year to thoroughly detox the lymphatic system.
It combines five powerful time-tested, lymph-cleansing herbs: Red root, Ocotillo bark, Ginger root, Stillingia and Astragalus. Below, I describe the reasons I chose these specific herbs.
1. Red Root
Red root is perhaps one of the best lymph decongestive herbs available. It works best for congested lymph and to offset age-related accumulation of fibrous tissue which can compromise optimal functionality. (1) For sleepiness and heaviness after meals, mild swelling of the extremities and reduced digestive fire, red root scrubs the intestinal lymphatic-collecting ducts that deliver fats and proteins to the blood and supports a healthy and efficient drainage system. (1)
2. Ocotillo stem
Extracts of this shrub are traditionally used by Native tribes of the Southwestern United States as a lymph de-stagnator and to support lymphatic detox. (2)
3. Stillingia root
Also called queen’s root, stillingia is indicated for a congested lymphatic system and mucous membranes. It is an effective detox agent for a congested lymphatic system. (2)
4. Astragalus
A rejuvenating scrub for the lymph. It is particularly beneficial for the Skin-Associated Lymphatic Tissue (SALT) and a powerful boosting agent for the lymphatic system. (3,4) When the lymphatic system is congested or toxic, the immune system is stuck in traffic. This can result in hypersensitivity reactions all over the body.
5. Ginger root
Ginger is called the “universal spice” in Ayurveda. It provides a natural scrub to the lacteals or collecting ducts of the intestines, and a natural boost and cleanse to the lymphatic system as a whole. (5)
D. Lanasa says
I was looking for Goosegrass which has a root that is a permanent red dye. The same as red root, I wonder?
Would you like to meet a monsters from SW Baltimore, one of which probably took my book of notes on my studies from NIH. Fred or Jay or Judy probably took the notes. A years worth of work for the poverty they subject me to and needing my Wishington to succeed better; is there a web site that talks of crime gaining on the American makers? I sometimes feel enslaved by their endless greed and loveless inconsideration, and total disregard for the rights and subjectivity of another; they are numbers people who depopulate to survive. I am discouraged, having such a difficult time to even get to the library with limited resources. Pray for my son and I; he is brilliant and they impoverish us.
Mary Osarume says
Hello, Please can we get your products in Nigeria or Ghana? If there is please give me the contacts. Thank you
Wendy says
Only thing I have is please see your dentist. Have your teeth cleaned and look for any problems especially with bacteria infection. More than one person I know has had many problems that were indirectly caused by tooth infections clogging lymph system. Just saying. It’s another goid place to start.
Samimah houston says
I agree this is how it happed with me… after my last baby about 19 years ago my teeth where ruined. three weeks ago I was steal fighting a swollen lymph behind my ear.. so I made a mouth wash with clove oii, and tumeric and use it three times a day… my mouth dont hurt anymore and my teeth look great. Now Im beginning the process of oil pulling using oils essential oils to drain my lymph node by compression.. Im 43 and have ill since a child… I wasnt eating according to my blood type and all that food made me ill… I eat proteins, seed, and carbs… little to light sugar now… fought stage 3 cervical cancer for the past 10 years 11 others have died in my family from cancer… I WILL NOT… the healing began with me healing my mouth first… IMAGINE THAT 🙂
Dawna Martich says
Are there any specific effects that should be experienced when taking Lymph Cleanse and Lymph-Vein HP? Loose stools? increased urination? Fatigue? Runny nose? Any additional information regarding expected effects would be helpful.
Thank you.
Sarah A says
I’ve had an war ache for over 6 years. At the base of my skull, the occipital lymph nodes, is swollen. I have seen numerous doctors over the years to figure this out. Today I have seen a doctor at an ER that seems to believe there’s something there. I have this ear ache, I have severe food allergies, severe medicine allergies, I’m dizzy, nauseous, see black floaties in my eyes, sometimes my eyes get “cloudy”, I’m super sleepy, it causing me to be depressed could this all be caused from a bad lymphatic system?
Deb says
I had stage 2 breast cancer with one lymph node affected. When I had my mastectomy they removed 12 lymph nodes, so I have issues with my lymphatic system at times. Would your product work for this? I eat a very clean diet and use my rebounder every day, so can’t figure out why it keeps clogging up. I didn’t do chemo or radiation.
steve says
I love the Manjistha and take it daily. I also had been taking Thorne Diosmin/Hesperidin but they discontinued it.
I tried the lifespa lymph cleanse liquid and it irritated my bladder (I have IC). I assume it’s the Red Root that bothered me.
I also take Brahmi Brain to clear lymph from the brain.
Novi says
There’s a tonic on iHerb with all of these herbs at a great price called Lymphatonic! They also have great prices on Cleavers and Red Clover tinctures! Combined with fresh fruits, berries, leafy greens, fresh celery and beet juices, yoga, rebounding, and a hot sauna we can all move that Lypmh!!! Xo
Jacqueline Illanes says
Dr.
I need your help. I was told I have Lymphoma wich is growing slowly. I am worry and afraid. Can you tell me what can I buy and do to get better? Both of my legs I fell like goosebumps and aches I don’t know if it is because of the lymphoma or something else. Thank you. I will appreciate so much if you can give advice
LifeSpa Staff says
Hi Jacqueline,
We would like to help support you through this with a personalized consultation with one of our Ayurvedic practitioners: https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/
We also highly recommend working with medical specialists to seek the treatment they can provide.
Be Well
Preese says
Would appreciate your advice on PRECAUTIONS for Some on the use of ASTRAGALUS when negatively reactive & overstimulation from taking Astragalus ?
Also in Autoimmune conditions.
Do you have this formula without Astragalus ?
Also for those of us who cannot take items that are Acid – Like Vit C or high Vit C in an herb due to Interstitial Cystitis …. which items in your 6steps would we need to steer clear of and how can we best substitute them ?
I have had to stop taking all forms of Vit C and citrus bioflavonoids
for the past year and greatly need a good substitute.
Also what is your recommendations for Rebounding ?
Especially for those who are homebound and need rest but effective exercise to move lymph ?
Thank you for your good & helpful article(s).
Preese says
Would appreciate your advice on PRECAUTIONS for Some on the use of ASTRAGALUS when negatively reactive & overstimulation from taking Astragalus ?
Also in Autoimmune conditions.
Do you have this formula without Astragalus ?
Also what is your recommendations for Rebounding ?
Especially for those who are homebound and need rest but effective exercise to move lymph ?
Thank you for your good & helpful article(s).
Don martin says
Edema on both sides of neck
Agwe says
Hello
Am new here and wondering,how effective is your herb medicine,what more diseases she cures…?
Eddie says
I recently received my Lymph Cleanse. Should I drink extra water during the cleanse? Also, should I take it easy the day I take it or just continue as normal? Any suggestions are appreciated.
Thanks,
Eddie
LifeSpa Staff says
Hi Eddie thanks for reaching it. It is a good idea to increase your water intake, especially given it’s summertime. You can continue with your normal routines, if you start to feel fatigued or depleted etc then listen to your body and either back off the herb or back off the exercise. It’s not a one size fits all, we suggest strongly paying attention to the signals you get from your own body. Keep us posted along the way. A nice thing to incorporate during lymph cleansing is making sure you’re doing a daily oil massage. You can use coconut as nice cooling oil in the hotter months, sesame works well too. Check out how to go about this here: https://lifespa.com/ayurvedic-daily-home-oil-massage-abhyanga/
mike smith says
I’m an 18 yr old male that needs to clear out chest lymph glands. I have natural muscle and I’m very careful about what I eat and drink.. Lots of broccoli, milk thistle and beets, not helping! What do you think? Mike…
Ed says
Strong good-quality echinacea helps me breathe better and clears out chest obstruction. Take it at least 10 days in a row.
Ted says
Hi John.
Last year I was using a decoction consisting of Manjistha and Neem for about 3 months. I felt an immediate change like relieve of pain in my muscles and joints (knees), more energy.
But I also discovered foam in my urine. I was checking this with my medical doctor with a urine sample, but there was nothing wrong with me!
Can this foam be rests from congested kapha? There are still some foam even after I stopped using the herbdecoction.
I also wonder if there is any problem for people with high bloodpressure and that are on bloodpressure medication, to use Manjistha / Neem?
Best regards
Ted, Sweden
Esrher says
I have lymphoma, what would be best for me? If any!
Alison Martin says
I have lympheodema in both of my legs and pelvic region caused by removal of lymph nodes due to having cervical cancer .im very swollen and in pain .i go on a compression pump daily that helps a little would the lymph cleane help me ?
Candice says
Curious if this would help me I have lipedema no other medical issue
Bonnie Roe says
Sorry Metagenics is the company name above
Bonnie
Bonnie Roe says
I have had thermography and a lot of inflammation, have mod. heat in my breast as well as very sluggish lymphatics all over.I have been advised dry brushing, lymphatic drainage, cleavers, cats claw, high quality turmeric and Matagenics Inflavanoid Intensive Care.
How does this fit with your recommendations.
Bonnie
John Douillard says
Hi Bonnie, to get to the root cause and give a personal prescription we would have to have a consultation. Tauna or myself would be happy to meet with you. You may want to research what we offer at the clinic: https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/ Be well. Daily self massage after dry brushing may be beneficial, see here: https://lifespa.com/ayurvedic-daily-home-oil-massage-abhyanga/
Vee says
Hi Bonnie my daughter also had a breast thermography and has inflammation and toxins. What course of action did you take to relieve your symptoms? Thank you.
Vivek says
Hi John,
Would a liver cleanse (as suggested in Andreas Moritz amazing liver and gall bladder flush) help to naturally cleanse the lymph system as well?
Thanks,
Vivek
Elaine Richard says
Dr. Douillard,
I recently purchased the Lymph Detox package and started a lymph cleanse. All was well the first few days and elimination increased. After about 6 days, I was having terrible indigestion. Meals weren’t digesting at all and there was constant burping. I cut back to 2 of the products, but digestion didn’t improve.
Ultimately after stopping all the products, it took 2 days for my digestion to return to normal. I am kapha/pitta. Can you give me insight into what was wrong?
Thank you for all the good data you give us.
John Douillard says
Hi Elaine. Thank you for reaching out. In order to help you fully I’d need to know some history and a bit more detail. It’s always best to back off the herbs if you have an adverse reaction. We offer consults here in the office via skype and phone, or in person. Find out more here: https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/ Be well.
Ev Ita says
Hi there,
I am having swelling in the lymph on my head, neck and clavicle areas. My blood work looks fine. Going in for more tests ultrasound, ct scan etc. No insurance 🙁 I study herbalism and I’m nervous to treat with anything. I am wondering if it is safe to move the lymph with a product like this if I don’t know what I’m dealing with yet? I’ve read your work on the lymph previously and am grateful that I knew where come back to now that I am having issues. Thank you.
John Douillard says
Hi thanks for reaching out. To make an informed decision I would need to know your history and review the test results. Learn more about our consults here: https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/ Manjistha may be a good herb to research, and our return policy can be found here: http://store.lifespa.com/Return-Policy_ep_41-1.html Be well.
Brenda says
Where can I buy your lymph cleanse??…..
John Douillard says
Lymph cleanse can be found here: http://store.lifespa.com/lymph_cleanse.html
Mary Ellen Moses says
Hi there Iva,
In addition to contacting Dr. Douillard for a consult, you might want to look for a Vodder style Manual Lymph Drainage Therapist in your area. This light pressure technique stimulates the flow of your lymphatic fluid and may help to cleanse your swollen lymph nodes. It is a natural, non-invasive treatment.
Dr. Douilard, I hope you don’t mind me making this suggestion on your site. I believe Ayurveda and Manual Lymph Drainage go hand in hand. 🙂
Susan Pierce Freeman says
Good Morning,
I wonder what your thoughts are on the cause of lipomas?
Thanks so much.
John Douillard says
According to Ayurveda, when under stress, both toxic fat-soluble chemicals and toxic emotions store in our fat cells until we can convince the body that it is safe enough to release those toxins. The most effective way I have seen to accomplish this is to force the body to be a better fat burner. The idea of cleansing toxins and reducing fat cell accumulation could be potentially beneficial in preventing lipomas.
Karlie says
Hi dr john, I am predominantly a vata, and do suffer from anxiety . I do get stressed easil and burn out fairly easy if I don’t balance the pace of life well. ( I have done consultations with you , and that has definitely helped , but I’m still healing) . I have many symptoms of lymph congestion , and have had many cases of Lyme as well as a very bad case of mono…. So I’m sure I have a congested lymph system. Would you recommend lymph cleanse to someone who is strongly vata ? And does this formula usually cause strong cleansing symptoms?
John Douillard says
Hi Karlie. Thanks for the comment. The new lymph cleanse tincture is strong and potent, and can be drying. To understand your needs for it’s use I’d need to discuss your symptoms and get to a root cause. Research the consultations we offer here: https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/ Be well.
Amanda Osborne says
What do you mean by the tincture can be drying? Thank you
LifeSpa Staff says
It’s important to drink enough water and eat lubricating foods when addressing detoxing the lymph. Be well.
Susan says
I’ve heard about ginger root and red root being two of the best detoxifying and cleansing herbs for the lymphatic system. Are they good for general energy and vitality?
Ross says
Research astragalus. I’ve used it with good results. However, I’m going to try Dr. John’s product for lymph cleanse because, of all the so-called ‘alternative doctors’ I follow, Dr. John is at the top in lymph system knowledge and sharing education.
John Douillard says
Hi Susan. Thank you for commenting! As these herbs target the lymphatic system, if it is extremely congested it may take time to detox before feeling energizing effects. Be well.
maria says
Hi I am Diagonsed from nov 2015 with Temporlais Artit. I am used to healthy food and Ajurveda medication. For some years ago I went to an Ajurvedic Dr as gave me Neem to clean the lymphatic system. I got much better.
For some weeks ago I took Neem tablets just one in the morning ( I also eat Prednisolon/kortison 20mg). I got strange numbness in mu toung, a very scary feeling. I went to Dr but didnt dare to tell I was eating Neem as Dr is very traditional and don,t belive in herbs. Next day same thing happend, I had stop taking Neem tablets but started using Neem toothpaste. Same thing happend toung got swollen and numb. When I stoped taking Neem products all was gone. I really am in need to find some Medication to cleanse up my blood so I can get health back. When I read about Manjistha and Brahmi I was hoping this could be something for me. What do you think can this product work for me? If so how much do you recommand me to take? Regards Maria sweden
John Douillard says
Hi Maria. In order to help you determine the root of your health concerns I’d need to consult with you via phone or skype. You can find more info here https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/
Alexandria says
I am not familiar with some of these herbs. Are any contraindicated for predominantly vata constitution? Or do they balance well for use by any constitution?
John Douillard says
Hi Alexandria. This combination of herbs should be used in severe cases of lymphatic congestion. The Lymph Cleanse tincture can be quite drying. Adding marshmallow root tea daily can help counter this effect. To understand your personal imbalances it is best to consult with a practitioner, you can learn more about what we offer here https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/
Krystal J James says
Hi so i went to a general surgeon because i have hidradenitis boils and cyst in my inner groin panty line he said that i have lypmh blockage i had 17 surgeries to remove these cyst in this area does this sound like lypmh nodes being blocked ??
John Douillard says
Yes. These cysts could be due to improper digestion and or congestion in lymph drainage. Please research the consults we offer at the clinic if you would like assistance in healing: https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/ Be well.
Kellie says
Do you sell a combo of these? I believe my lymph system is clogged, for the past year. My armpits are “fat”, I can feel swollen glands, and have swelling in my feet.
My primary, while good, says it edema from too much salt, which I rarely ingest, and too little water, which I drink a half to one gallon a day. Some times more.
I recently moved to a position at work that requires more sitting, but I try to get up and walk around as often as possible, or stand and walk in place. I regularly take ginger and Turmeric for pain and inflammation due to Fibromyalgia, bursitis in my shoulder and arthritis. Also, due to broken toes, it’s difficult for me to walk a lot or do much with my feet right now. I eat a salad every day for lunch and try to vary what I put in it. I try to make sure it is as colorful as possible and has at least one seed or nut.
I’ve been thinking about switching my salad to dinner and my guilty food to lunch (chicken strip fried in peanut oil, potato w/dipping sauce, water & iced coffee low caffeine).
Please help. I can’t find any docs that are covered on my insurance that practice Ayurvedic healing or naturopathic medicine.
Justin says
First, I dislike having to tell you this, but your diet isn’t the greatest. Fried foods are not good and their oils can cause lymphatic blockage. Second, peanut oil is a terrible oil. Peanuts and their oils should never be ingested. Third, potatoes are a nightshade, which are known to cause inflammation. Additionally, is that red sauce that you are dipping the chicken into? If so, tomatoes and peppers are also nightshades, further causing inflammation and lymphatic blockage. Caffeinated substances are best avoided as well for many reasons, and it would take a least another page to explain that right now, so it will have to be waited on for another time.
Additionally, have you been to a Lyme Literate Medical Doctor (LLMD) or Lyme Literate Naturopathic Doctor (LLND)? Many times, but not always, Fibromyalgia and Arthritis are misdiagnosed as such and turn out to by Lyme disease and/or one or more co-infections. You’ll be surprised how often this is the case. Kindly take note that Lyme disease and co-infections’ tests are not that accurate, that’s why it is best to see a LLMD and/or LLND. There’s so much more that can be said on this topic, but unfortunately it would be the length of a book. Hope that helps. Best wishes and God bless!
Karen says
Just read Yeast, fungus, mold can cause fibromyalgia.
Colby says
High dose MSM and vitamin C (amla or other whole-food choice) therapy, including celery juice – a great way to flush the glands and lymphatic system! Just juice celery (must be fresh juice), add a little more MSM than your body tolerates well, add amla juice, amla tea, or another suitable vitamin C source (not synthetic crystals). Sip some throughout the day, then drink a large portion about 45 minutes before dinner. Dinner should be a high fat meal, and no other food should be consumed during the day (skip breakfast, lunch, etc). Alternatively, people with low or regular blood pressure and blood parameters can use sodium bicarbonate and vinegar (combine them to make a high-sodium concoction), adding plenty of maple syrup or honey to usher sodium into the blood stream. Combined with MSM and vitamin C, this causes the liver and kidneys to suddenly dislodge stuck materials, and the lymphatic system to “dissolve” and excrete toxic waste. This method is usually pretty fast, but unfortunately can cause blood pressure fluctuations, so be on the guard. Dandelion root tea and healthful herbal sweets (cinnamon, licorice, etc), along with omega oils (flaxseed, etc) can also help. All sorts of cleansing affects the lymphatic system indirectly, especially colon irrigation/enemas and traditional emetic formulas (intended for cleansing). I like the idea of doing it gentle… but sometimes peoples’ diseases can be stubborn and unpredictable!
stars says
gosh thank you this makes sense
Alexis says
Do you have a recipe for this msm/vitamin c/celery juice concoction you are recommending? I tend to have high blood pressure. I have pretty bad swelling in my left leg and both arms. I know my lymphatic system needs cleansed (understatement) and I would really like to try this method.
Vanessa Wilson says
Hi I know this is an old comment, Colby would you be willing to share your knowledge? I am having lymph system draining problems, and I agree with you on the MSM and vit-c and celery juice. Been doing Thses lightly. Can you please send me info on where you gained this knowledge? I have quite a bit of my own, but also love more information. Thank you so much.
[email protected]
Vanessa Wilson (Huggins) on Facebook
Many blessings
Billy says
what is MSM?
rob c says
how do i injest this herb?