Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) + Brain Lymphatics (Glymphatics)
The brain and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are crucial to our health and happiness. Read on to learn more about how they work and how to keep them healthy.
Did you know that your brain has its own lymphatic system (called glymphatics) and that there are easy ways to keep it running smoothly?
I have written numerous articles on the newly discovered lymphatic vessels that drain toxins from the brain while you sleep (three pounds per year!). But this is just the tip of a massive health iceberg. I am super excited to share the latest developments regarding the best ways to detox your brain.
For me, the most exciting part is how the ancient practices of yoga and Ayurveda, which directly address brain cleansing, are now supported by scientific studies linking cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow to glymphatic drainage.
Boosting CSF has been linked to improvement in cognitive function and reduction of cognitive concerns in the elderly.8 In one study, aging was associated with a 50% reduction in CSF production in otherwise healthy adults.1
When we move and breathe, CSF is pumped inside the spine and brain like a brain-washing fluid. It may not be a coincidence that the practice of yoga classically employed breathing, movement, and spinal flexibility—all of which directly impact CSF flow and healthy brain lymphatic drainage.
Let me start with a short overview of how the brain washes itself . . .
The Brain-CSF-Cleansing Process
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulating inside the spinal canal and throughout the brain is a type of lymphatic fluid. This is not a closed system, as once believed. It dynamically interacts with the rest of the lymphatic system, draining into the lymph within the central nervous system (CNS) from the sinuses at the top of your brain to the tailbone.1
Lymph in the brain and spinal cord washes the brain and CNS while you sleep, as well as during certain CSF-moving, brain-cleansing activities.1, 2
CSF is believed to be primarily created by a concentration of blood vessels at the base of the brain, called the choroid plexus. Blood vessel pressure causes CSF to filtrate out of these vessels, similar to the way lymphatic fluid is created from blood vessels and circulates throughout the rest of the body.
As this fluid is created in the center-base of the brain, it literally washes the brain of toxins, moving through brain circulation pathways called ventricles. Most cerebrospinal fluid is rinsed through the brain, directed to the brain’s outer areas and into lymph-carrying vessels in the superior and transverse sagittal sinuses. Along the way, CSF cleanses the brain of toxins and delivers nutrients, much like the function of the lymphatic system.1
Glymphatic vessels wrap like a sleeve around the veins in the sagittal sinus, just beneath the skull, in a pattern like a mohawk haircut. (This is exactly where Ayurveda described these lymph channels thousands of years ago!)
Learn more about brain lymphatics and Ayurveda here.
Glymphatics absorb old cerebrospinal fluid and toxins and direct them into either cervical lymphatics in the neck or nasal mucosa vessels.
Best Ways to Detox the Brain, Boosting Cerebrospinal Fluid + Brain Lymph Flow
Ayurvedic Brain Cleanse
There is an ancient Ayurvedic technique called nasya, where herbalized oils are sniffed into the nasal mucosa. This technique was designed to cleanse brain lymphatics, called rasa, as well as brain ventricles and sinuses, called tarpaka.
The brain’s glymphatic system drains into two major locations: the cervical lymphatic vessels in the neck and in the nose.9
“In particular, extensions of the subarachnoid space that follow the olfactory tracts, cross the cribiform plate, and project into the nasal submucosa alongside olfactory nerves, have been shown to be responsible for 15–30% of the removal of CSF solute. There is a dense lymphatic network within the nasal submucosa that then drains this CSF and solute to the deep cervical lymph nodes. Up to 50% of radioiodinated serum albumin (RISA) injected to the caudate nucleus drains via the olfactory-nasal submucosa.”10
I have used nasya techniques in my practice for 30 years and have witnessed how nasya supports mental clarity, memory, and flushing of old toxic emotions. Thousands of years ago, ancient Ayurvedic texts suggested that such brain congestion is directly linked to neurological and emotional concerns.
Today’s science has linked optimal glymphatic function to cognitive health, restful sleep, stable mood, and immunity.3-5 Pretty fascinating stuff!
Nasya can be as simple as sniffing a few drops of sesame oil to lubricate the sinuses or it can be a much more elaborate Ayurvedic therapy directed at supporting healthy brain lymphatic drainage. I have detailed articles and videos on how to do this technique at home.
Sleep Matters
Science on the glymphatic system sees a significant increase in drainage during sleep that is more efficient when sleeping on one’s side.3 So make sure you are getting enough sleep on your side, and also getting it at the right time. It may be old-fashioned, but early-to-bed and early-to-rise has been linked to some emerging health benefits.
In one study, those who got to bed early and woke up early had healthier weight and lower body mass index than those who went to bed late and slept in.6
Learn more about the amazing benefits of nose breathing while sleeping here.
Breathing / Pranayama
Significant CSF flow or brain cleansing has also been linked to deep breathing exercises. Studies show a specific boost in CSF flow during inspiration (inhalation), and even more during forced inspiration.1
This research supports the predicted benefits of pranayama or yogic breathing exercises. Nose breathing exercise research I did years ago (see Body, Mind, and Sport) saw a significant increase in meditative (alpha) brain wave activity during nose breathing versus mouth breathing.
Mouth breathing was linked to increased fight-or-flight sympathetic nervous system activity, while nose breathing was linked to increased parasympathetic nervous system activity, also known as the rest-repair-digest nervous system.7
Learn more about nose-breathing exercise here.
Fight-or-flight stress is linked to a reduction of CSF flow, while parasympathetic activation is linked to a boost in CSF flow, making nose breathing exercise and yoga critical practices for better CSF and brain lymph flow.2
Yoga, nasal-breathing exercise, and meditation are all linked to better CSF flow, which means better brain drainage. In fact, my One-Minute Meditation (a breathing meditation) is a double boost of CSF flow, as it employs forced inspiration followed by meditation (for parasympathetic activity).
Optimal brain health is just a breath away—and you breathe 26,000 times a day. What could be easier?
How to Boost CSF Flow1
- Chiropractic spinal adjustments
- Osteopathic Therapy / Craniosacral therapy
- Yoga
- Massage
- Breathing Exercises
- Lymphatic Massage
- Nose-Breathing Exercise
- Nose-Breathing Sleeping / Mouth Taping
There are so many easy and pleasurable glymphatic supports to make sure your brain stays healthy and detoxing—I hope you take advantage of them!
E. Deville says
I have iih, that’s idiopathic intercranial hypertension, that’s where my CSF tries to drown my brain. Often when I have too high of CFS pressure my lymph nodes in my neck puff up and my shoulder hurts so badly on the left side. Even before I read this I knew something, somewhere was not draining correctly. I’m not asking you for a cure all just if you think these techniques will help my problem. There are days I can’t get out of bed from high pressure even with my rx meds. Those are pure poisonous by the way and I’m aggravated with the long list of side effects. My husband does yoga and I’m willing to join him, but I want to know if there is a routine that’s best for my situation. Thank you and I look forward to your reply.
LifeSpa Staff says
Hi E,
If you are unable to tolerate yoga then I would not try these Ayurvedic techniques unless you were supervised by your medical doctor who knows your situation more precisely.
That said, before starting any new techniques I would get approval from your doctor.
Be Well,
Dr. John
Chetankumar Naik says
Can nasya help with brain edema in brain tumor patients?
LifeSpa Staff says
Hi Chetankumar Naik,
Dr. John has not seen any studies to support this benefit.
Best,
LifeSpa Staff
Mickey Johnson says
Anyone with anxiety (I have suffered 20 years) should start with 2 things for relief; 1. Quicksilver colorado cbd oil (CBd oil is useless unless nanoemulsified)
2. Charles Linden http://www.lindenmethod.com/?gclid=CjwKCAiA_f3uBRAmEiwAzPuaM7pijOEclS-VtzG-YCOYX7KUrULJaGuQRM7k6O9V8dDuS0k8UB1vyBoCpPwQAvD_BwE
Debbie Boyd says
I went to a neuromuscular therapist around 1995. She had offered me 2 treatments to show me her work. While laying on the table, without saying anything, she put gloves on and put her pinky finger deep into my nose and also working in my mouth near the soft pallet. I said, what are you doing? She said this was part of the cranial work and I would never be the same. Well, things went terribly wrong, I felt a shift/break way beyond the soft pallet. I left and went home and I had severe swelling in my sinus and could not breathe out of my nose for six months. It felt like something sharp were the break/shift/collapse was. I called her and she asked me to come back. I did and she did the same thing, which did not change anything. I developed a infection/high fever of 104 and could not move my neck and ended up in the ER, they thought I had spinal meningitis and wanted to do a spinal tap. I went to a ND and she said I should do a coffee enema. I did and it broke the fever. I was diagnosed with MS 2 years after this happened. Then went to a NUCCA chiropractor and she did not do anything with my nose, but did some adjustments on my neck. It was like she finished the trauma that the neuromuscular therapist started. I had sinus surgery 6 months before the NUCCA chiropractor., for an abcess that had developed were the shift/break was. I was using Neti pot and 3 months after the surgery I spit out the foul abcess! I developed herniated discs, and bakers cysts and it feels like I have tight rubber bands around my ankles. I have severe R leg sciatica and pain in the back of my head. I have had several steroid injections that have done nothing. I am now going to try lidocaine infusions for the pain. I am also using a walker, which I did not have a walker until this injury from these 2 therapists. I am now trying Cranio Sacral. I have signed up for 3 sessions. Hoping this helps. I also was diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome and both hands are wrinkling like they have been in water. If you have any therapies or suggestions that might help, I would love to know. I am in pain constantly Please help Thank you, for listening Debbie
Marc says
Great overview! I’ve done my share of (self) research on the brain and how imbalances relate to anxiety. But, I’ve never heard of the CSF flow before. Love the self-cleansing steps, I’m totally going to give this a try 🙂
alison says
I am recovering from shingles outbreak on the right side of my face from the eyelid up to the top of my head. I have noticed some nerve damage –skin sensation is a little deadened. Looking for best way to heal redness after scabs. Also seems to me brain cleansing would be good idea. Can you tell me best way to proceed.
Larry Sledge says
try natural beta carotene Carrot juice 2 or 3 ounces at a time 2 times daily
Dennis says
Hello. Have you had any success in helping people with cerebellar ataxia and dizziness? If so, could you explain?
Thank you kindly!
Tharien Bramhall says
Good day John, after reading this article, it all make sense in my studies as a yoga practitioner and Rolf practitioner in training. Why would you not include Myofascial therapy and Rolfing in your recommendations in processing the flow of fluids that are directly linked to your findings in Brain health and Glymphatic/lymphatic recovery.
I read your articles and learn so much as a natural healer and so grateful for the work you do. My sister had a triple anurism and I am doing my best to assist in her recovery, and she does not always see me as what I have become due to family history, and her belief in main stream medicine, as well as her deep Christian beliefs which have moved her away from natural healing. I still hold space for her 3 + year recovery since it happened at a young age of 52. Drugs, alcohol and dietary pills I feel have had a big contribution to her present situation.
Tharien Bramhall
Health Practitioner
Yoga Facilitator
My web site is under construction
Daniel says
You mentioned that your sisters deeply held Christian beliefs has moved her away from natural healing. In the case of judeo-churchianity (Television stars like Rabbi Hagee Rabbi Olsteen, ect) that may be the case, however if she is a Bible believing Christian she would know that Pharmakia, aka modern medicine, is a sin and that God has provided for us with natural medicine. Most modern medicine is derived from plants but manipulated, perverted and contaminated by man for money, the judeo way.. The bible continuously warns against shunning nature for man.
I am aware that you may have put that in there simply to be rude to Christians, but if not and your sister truly needs help trusting natural medicine please have her read the following:
Genesis 1:29 – And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which [is] upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which [is] the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.
Revelation 22:2 – In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, [was there] the tree of life, which bare twelve [manner of] fruits, [and] yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree [were] for the healing of the nations.
Genesis 9:3 – Every moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you; even as the green herb have I given you all things.
Revelation 22:1-2 – And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. (Read More…)
Ezekiel 47:12 – And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the sanctuary: and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine.
Ezekiel 4:9 – Take thou also unto thee wheat, and barley, and beans, and lentiles, and millet, and fitches, and put them in one vessel, and make thee bread thereof, [according] to the number of the days that thou shalt lie upon thy side, three hundred and ninety days shalt thou eat thereof.
Genesis 1:11 – And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, [and] the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed [is] in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.
1 Timothy 5:23 – Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach’s sake and thine often infirmities.
Psalms 51:7 – Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Exodus 30:34 – And the LORD said unto Moses, Take unto thee sweet spices, stacte, and onycha, and galbanum; [these] sweet spices with pure frankincense: of each shall there be a like [weight]:
Exodus 15:26 – And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I [am] the LORD that healeth thee.
Proverbs 15:17 – Better [is] a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.
Isaiah 38:21 – For Isaiah had said, Let them take a lump of figs, and lay [it] for a plaister upon the boil, and he shall recover.
Genesis 1:30 – And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein [there is] life, [I have given] every green herb for meat: and it was so.
Genesis 1:29-31 – And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which [is] upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which [is] the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat. (Read More…)
Song of Solomon 4:14 – Spikenard and saffron; calamus and cinnamon, with all trees of frankincense; myrrh and aloes, with all the chief spices:
Exodus 30:23 – Take thou also unto thee principal spices, of pure myrrh five hundred [shekels], and of sweet cinnamon half so much, [even] two hundred and fifty [shekels], and of sweet calamus two hundred and fifty [shekels],
1 Corinthians 10:31 – Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
Psalms 104:14-15 – He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth; (Read More…)
1 Corinthians 3:17 – If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which [temple] ye are.
Jose Manuel Soto Rivera says
Is cancer asociated with Lymphatic systematic?
Brenda Maginot says
What about a person who after 6 days of anesthesia is still feeling the effects of the drug and cannot walk without help. Mostly motor skills are effective. Will this treatment help rid of the drug used?
Vacheslav says
best thing to flush toxins and heavy metals is sulfur! 1 tea spoons, 30 mins before eating, twice a day, makes wonders!
sakthimuthukumar says
i heard cerebral palsy may not be fully cured
Any how it is related to brain problem so Nasya may help to some extent?
Expecting your answer doctor
Pam Olsen says
The website lessemf.com has a little mesh bag to put over your wifi router that blocks most of the radiation. I haven’t had any trouble with reception. I mean, really, how many of your neighbor’s wifi do you pick up? It’s way stronger than it needs to be.
Vacheslav says
here is a better idea, get yourself a ugreen usb to ethernet adapter and turn off the wifi completely (works on most android devices), wire all the house up and feel revived. until that moment, at least turn off the router before going to sleep!
Mark Shields says
Hi, Have you ever helped someone with Parkinsons from mold of metals?
Vacheslav says
again, sulfur, or cbd oil…
alison says
To Vacheslav: What form of sulphur are you referring? Please elaborate.
Dipa says
My 13 year daughter has reaction from taking Mefloquine in recent past. She is currently suffering from anxiety and paranoia due to that. I wanted to see if brain detox will help her to recover sooner.
Thanks! Looking forward to hear from you.
Vacheslav says
sulfur is … the answer!
Mickey Johnson says
Quicksilver nanoemulsified colorado cbd oil and http://www.lindenmethod.com/?gclid=CjwKCAiA_f3uBRAmEiwAzPuaM7pijOEclS-VtzG-YCOYX7KUrULJaGuQRM7k6O9V8dDuS0k8UB1vyBoCpPwQAvD_BwE
Elizabeth says
Hi sir I have a trigeminal neuralgia what can you recommend with this kind of disease
Bubbly says
Hi John Douillard!
If one is suspected of having bacterial infection in the brain, what are the symptoms? How would one detox from this?
Thanks!
🙂
John Douillard says
They may very from person to person. To understand the full medical history and current ailments it’s best to research the consults we offer: https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/ The brain lymphs would likely be addressed first. Be well.
Pushpa Choudhary says
Hi Sir, my son has autism .He iss a high functioning autistic but for d last few years he is depressed. He passeed his 10th exam 4 yrs back but now can’t even stand the books.he gets violent for 1 or 2 days and then normal for 20 to 25 days and then same again .Can lymph detox help him
John Douillard says
Hi Pushpa. Thanks for the comment. As this is a complex issue it’s easiest to directly help through consultation. Tauna and myself both have a lot of experience dealing with kids as well as autism. Research what we offer here: https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/ Lymph detox may be helpful, releasing unconscious emotional baggage as well. You may enjoy this article: https://lifespa.com/lighten-emotional-freedom-cleanse/
Alexandra says
I have been diagnosed with myoclonus, occurring at night keeping mr awake.
Can brain detox help that? And what method?
Thank you, Alexandra
John Douillard says
Hi Alexandra. We would have to look at the underlying causes for this situation. Please research the consults we offer at the clinic: https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/ Be well.