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Understanding the lymphatic system provides insights into the body’s profound ability to care for itself. In Ayurveda it is the first system we treat, but in the West, it is simply not addressed until a frightening diagnosis is made.
Perhaps the most forgotten, under-studied, and least understood system in the body is the lymphatic system. The lymph travels with the nerves, arteries and veins and is by itself twice as big as the arterial blood supply system – and maybe twice as important.
The lymphatic system removes waste from every cell in your body while regulating the immune system.
When I co-directed an Ayurvedic center with Deepak Chopra, one of my jobs was to train and certify medical doctors in Ayurveda. My students were constantly telling me, “We were never taught such details about the lymphatic system!”
They knew it was a place where impurities reside and were taught the medical treatments, but the purpose of this system was never really discussed.
Treating the Cause
In the West, when we go to the doctor for a blood test and are told we have high cholesterol, we are prescribed a statin drug to lower the cholesterol and prevent heart disease. However, this doesn’t address why you have high cholesterol in the first place.
While lowering cholesterol is important, combining western medicine strategies with natural strategies including lifestyle and diet is also important.
One of the most important questions that often eludes western medicine is, “What is the cause of cholesterol imbalances?”
The cause may be related to excess stress, which leads to poor drainage of the lymphatic system. This system drains waste from the blood and just about every other cell in your body.
Doesn’t it make sense that if we measure the blood as it goes into the cell, we should also measure the filtered blood plasma or lymph as it leaves the cell? The ability for the blood to enter and leave a cell and intracellular spaces as lymphatic fluid is one of the most important processes in the human body.
Your lymph is your body’s biggest drain – keep it unclogged!
Keep Your Body’s Drains Clean
The lymphatic system is like the drains in your house and the blood is like the faucets. If the drains are clogged in your sink or toilet, do you only clean out the faucets? Of course not! You would clean the drains.
The biggest drain we have in the body is the lymphatic system, which can stay clogged for many years. This forces us to adapt to an environment of toxins that stress and weaken immunity and other important pathways of detoxification.
As we all age, it is the ability to detoxify well and eliminate waste efficiently that will determine longevity and optimal health.
When the lymph system becomes congested and loses its ability to remove waste efficiently, the body will start to speak to us; the signs of circulatory congestion ensue. The key is to learn to listen while the body is still whispering, and not wait until it starts screaming.
Symptoms of Lymphatic Congestion
Do you experience any of these lymphatic congestion symptoms?
- Rings get tight on fingers
- Soreness and/or stiffness in the morning
- Feeling tired
- Bloating
- Itchy skin
- Holding on to water
- Breast swelling or soreness with each cycle
- Dry skin
- Brain fog
- Cold hands and feet
Almost every one of these health concerns can be linked to poor waste removal in the lymphatic system.
The lymphatic system is unique because it has more than one function. Not only is it designed for detoxification, the immune system’s B and T cells are most active in the lymph nodes of the body. If the lymph is boggy and sluggish our immune response may be compromised.
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3 Major Causes Of Lymphatic Congestion
- Stress has been identified as the cause of about 80% of all chronic health issues. The chemistry of stress is degenerative and lymph congesting.
- Digestive imbalances may irritate intestinal villi, which is a classic reason for lymph congestion. As the majority of the lymph in the body surrounds the gut (Gut Associated Lymphatic Tissues – GALT), the quality of the villi are critical for proper lymph flow, detoxification, assimilation and immunity.
- Iodine deficiency is also a common cause of lymphatic congestion. Iodine helps to mitigate the effects of a toxic environment and supports the lymph at the cellular level.
Stress Creates an Acidic Environment
When under stress, the body is forced to manufacture and secrete excess stress-fighting hormones to boost energy. The waste products of these hormones are called free radicals, which may be a leading cause of pre-mature aging.
What’s worse is that these hormones and the free radicals are very acidic, which alters the blood and cellular chemistry to become less alkaline and more acidic.
Eat with the Seasons
The lymphatic system drains best in a more alkaline environment. This is illustrated in nature when we watch squirrels eat nuts in the winter. Nuts are an acidic, warming food that help insulate the squirrel during a cold winter. Acidic foods that are typically harvested in the winter help the body hold onto fats, proteins, minerals and vitamins.
If a squirrel ate broccoli during a cold Vermont winter they would alkalize their systems, trigger a lymph detox, and likely freeze to death! Fortunately, broccoli doesn’t grow in Vermont in the winter, so most squirrels don’t run into this problem.
Humans, on the other hand, did not get this memo. We seem to eat anything anytime and have truly lost our connection to nature. The harvest is our link to nature, and the preventive medicine which ensures that our delicate balance with nature is always maintained.
If you are interested in digging deeper into the relationship of our health and nature’s harvest, please read my book The 3-Season Diet.
How to Treat Stress
Stress creates an exhausting chemistry, and often leaves us depleted. Once exhausted, the body does not have the energy required to stay calm under stress and to sedate ourselves so we can stay asleep at night. This can lead to chronic fatigue, mood issues and irritability.
Hydrate to De-congest Your Lymph
While still wrapping up winter and preparing the body to cleanse this spring, there are a few lymph-moving techniques that are very appropriate and necessary for this time.
One of the most common causes of lymph congestion is dehydration. Water, and only water, can adequately rehydrate the body. The best lymph-moving rehydration technique is to sip hot water every 10-15 minutes throughout the day. Do it religiously for one day.
If by the end of that day you are experiencing a dry mouth and are now thirsty for this once tasteless sip of hot water, this is a good indication you are dehydrated and your lymph is congested. If this happens, try this rehydration therapy: sip hot water every 10-15 minutes for 2 weeks straight. Keep a thermos of hot water nearby to make it easy to follow this protocol.
In addition to sipping hot water as part of the lymph-moving rehydration technique, try to drink 1/2 your ideal body weight in ounces per day for two weeks as well. For example, if you weigh 140 lbs, drink 70 ounces of water (almost 9 glasses) per day.
Some Common Symptoms of Lymphatic Congestion
• Soreness and/or stiffness in the morning
• Feeling tired
• Bloating / Holding on to water
• Itchy skin
• Weight gain and extra belly fat
• Swollen glands
• Low immunity
• Brain fog
• Dry skin
• Mild rash or acne
• Hypersensitivity
• Mild headaches
• Elevated histamine and irritation due to common environmental allergens
• Occasional constipation, diarrhea, and/or mucus in the stool
De-congesting Your Lymph
If you are experiencing any of the lymph-related symptoms mentioned in the chart above, please consider preparing your body for a cleanse this spring, or with an herb called Manjistha, which means ‘red root.’ Please read up on Manjistha, as it is my favorite lymph de-stagnating herb and may be just the right support to start getting your lymph moving now.
Remember, before you jump into a cleansing program of any kind, be sure that the detoxification channels – namely your lymph – are moving. Detoxifying the body into a congested lymphatic system is one of the main causes of detox and cleansing reactions, which are easily avoided with the right preparation.
Eat Red Foods
All red-staining foods tend to be great lymph-movers. Manjistha is a red root traditionally used as a dye that is known for its great lymph-moving properties. Berries, cherries, pomegranate, beets, and cranberries were all traditionally used as dyes and as natural lymph moving and detoxifying agents.
Beets in particular also have one other very important property that make them the top food on my list right now. They thin the bile. Bile is responsible for about 80% of the immune response in the gut, it regulates the stool, digests good fat and gets rid of bad fat. Beets also scrub the villi of the gut, which is where the digestive lymph originates. Beets make a great food for your lymph. (1)
Make sure you eat your red foods for optimal lymph function!
T W says
I have moderately sluggish heart valves, lower extremity edema & a swollen abdomen, even after a raw food diet. Doctors don’t know the cause. Any suggestion? Thank you so much. T W
LifeSpa Staff says
Hi T W,
We would recommend that you consult with your physicians to figure out what the root cause may be. There may be more testing they can do to help determine the root cause. Once you work more with them and have updated testing, consider booking a consultation with Dr. John directly.
Here are some articles that you may be interested in:
This lymph quiz can help you determine which lymphatic areas to concentrate on with your doctor:
https://lifespa.com/cleanse-lymphatic-system/
This one has information on the best herbs for cleansing the lymphatic system:
https://lifespa.com/best-herbs-cleanse-lymphatic-system/
This one has information on ways to move the lymph with Garshana gloves:
https://lifespa.com/garshana-ayurveda-electrostatic-ozone-lymph/
Best,
LifeSpa Staff
Suzana says
Have chronic sinus infection and high blood pressure for a long time. it is all connected to lymphatic congestion. Many things work, however it comes back as soon as I stop taking them. It is also climate dependant. I know I need to clean body memory cells to heal, but I don’t know how.
Any advice for this horrible condition is greatly appreciated.
Thank you a lot
Irena says
Hi Susana, read the Detox Miracle Surcebook by Robert Morse. My name is Irena and I am 4 weeks in juice/herb detox led by one of his student. I had chronic sinusitis for 4 years, did a surgery that helped, but I still had to flush my sinus 2x a day. Now I am 5 days without flushing anythig and I think it is getting better. Send me an email if you want more info [email protected].
Sandra Mount says
Dear Dr.,
My mom has been suffering from cyclical rashes for almost 4 years after spending 3 consecutive days outdoors cleaning a yard in June 2015. She has always been sensitive to the sun.
We live in New Mexico. Super dry & extremely hot. UV Index is off the charts during the summer. Mom has always been super healthy. Doctors always compliment her on her health and healthy lifestyle. Exercises daily. Practically vegan. Joyful spirit. Infinity/Air nature. Energetic. Just turned 75 and aside from her rashes, very very healthy.
The doctors here have diagnosed her with EPP.
(Definition: Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a form of porphyria, which varies in severity and can be very painful. It arises from a deficiency in the enzyme ferrochelatase, leading to abnormally high levels of protoporphyrin in the red blood cells (erythrocytes), plasma, skin, and liver. )
She has slightly elevated levels of protoporphyrins in her blood…no where else.
She doesn’t feel the typical symptoms of a person with EPP when exposed to the sun unless she “hangs out in the sun too long”.
Last summer, she moved away to Oregon to escape and lived rash free for 4 months while she was gone. The moment she returned, the cycles returned even though she didn’t go out into the sun.
Fast forward to now. She began using a “zapper” per the advice of a Homeopathic doctor in Texas whom scanned her with biofeedback and advised that she had parasites in her body and recommended the use of the zapper. She was rash free for 2 months straight and felt amazing. She decided to wax her eyebrows. 24 hours later had an inflammatory flair up that made her eyes almost non-visible. She flaired up like a blowfish.
Backing up a bit…
When she spent those 3 days outdoors in June 2015, she had rashes all over her body. Different ones. I called it her “popcorn rashes” because every day she had a different rash it seemed. After about 6 months, the body rashes dissipated, but the ones on her face never stopped.
Her rashes are typically itch + underlying reddness + heat (a lot of heat) + tight skin + dry skin + peeling skin, and these things just repeat over and over.
This last rash (after waxing) was the same as described above except it starting with extreme swelling. (I don’t think she will ever wax again…even if the waxing was not the culprit).
I know you focus on the lymph.
I remember when her rashes were really bad, she had large “bruise-like” patches at the top side/bend of her elbow & also below her ears/behind the jaw bone. I realize now that those are lymph areas.
I don’t understand the lymph very well.
I feel that the trauma that her body endured with overexposure to the sun triggered other things in her body. I feel like her lymph might be clogged at the face region. Part of me feels like she needs assistance stimulating her lymph, but I am afraid to make her worse.
Is any of this making any sense at all?
Can you lend some direction/advice?
We are desperate.
Marie Jardine says
Manual lymph massage would be excellent. Get a practitioner then do some self treatments. Lots of self-help video on line.
Paula says
Hi I have a indolent follicular lymphoma. I am also a vegan for about 10 years. Someone on facebook recommended your website, and Ayurvedic herbs and supplements, such as Manjistha.
Do you think these would be helpful to my condition?
Christian Angelo says
Hi. Just read ur article. Thanks for the info doctor. Could u help me im having trouble with my lymphatic system. I have a lot of swollen lymphnodes all over my body. Groin. Armpit. Neck. Collar bone. And im having joint pain, stiff neck, swollen abdomen, feel full, tingling of arms and legs. And i went to the doctor they said its normal. I did blood test, xray and ultra sound it came normal. I suspect its lymphoma could u help me doctor what to do
Robert says
Hello,
An interesting article with some good information. I am surprised at any one-size-fits all diet approach, since, as you know, Ayurveda does not do that. Also surprised to find a reference to the old myth that cholesterol causes CHD, since that was very well debunked decades ago and was never a part of Ayurveda.
All in all, I like most of your articles.
K hal says
It seems like I might have cleared a blockage about a year ago and it has been “draining” ever since. Sometimes it is quite intense and feels like my whole head is going down the drain. Had a CT scan on sinuses but the docs said they were absolutely pristine. I’m thinking it might be the lymph system, but really concerned about the length of time it has been draining! I feel like it might have become blocked from an injury i had when quite young. I’m just not sure what else it could be at this point. Sometimes it drains so fast, my stomach gurgles. It is the most odd predicament I have ever had. Saying that, my jaw that has popped for years whenever I opened widely now does not do that! So it seems something has happened positively. Thank you for your assistance
Adewale says
Hello Doctor,
I have a swollen mandibular lymph-nodes after a short asthmatic attack. Thats is like since 4 months now. The Lymph stayed swollen till date and dint change in size.. I have a lot of postnasal mucous discharge every day and each time i force to expel the discharge i suffer simultaneously from ear. The swollen Lymph-node is situated under my jaw and its been bothering me so much. Do you think using Manjistha Tablet will bring the swollen area back to normal? If yes, how soon would the tablet react since its an homeopathic medicine? If not, do you have any recommendation for me? Im frustrated. 🙁
Maryjane says
I didn’t see a response to Karen 10/03/2015. I have the same problem as she. Lymphedema caused by lymph node removal during breast cancer surgery. I, like she, need to know if manjistha is recommended to help with lymph drainage. I, too , use compression sleeve and glove along with twice daily use of compression machine to keep the swelling down to a minimum. Response would be greatly appreciated.
John Douillard says
Thank you for reaching out. Manjistha and Lymph Cleanse may be very helpful. In general it is best to discuss direct prescriptions for specific cases via a consult, please research what we offer at the clinic: https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/
Helen says
I read things in a magazine or two, recently, that led me to believe a good lot of my problems are lymph related. So, I followed some of their advice – I ate 1 cup of blueberries first thing in the morning, which was supposed to help get the lymph fluids more fluid and, allegedly, be a help to move the belly fat that has stuck with me through losing around 90 lbs (and regaining about 20) Because, literally, 90 lbs and my waistline changed about 1″.
Well, I did lose about 3″ off my rib cage “waistline” and eventually I even lost about 2″ off my waistline. Then, the feeling better, and, the having more bowel movements and all stopped. Which is when I read about using pomegranate juice and vinegar together.
They just mentioned white vinegar, but, other people said they used apple cider vinegar and I keep meaning to use it, again, so I started doing that after the berries. Found out it seems to be more effective if sipped very slowly than if drunk faster. But, even though my skin cleared up and I did feel a little better, there was not much going on in the bathroom and certainly nothing happening at my waistline. In fact, during the time I was doing these things, separately and together, I gained fat and most of it was on my belly, but not directly on my waistline.
I had also taken up using the rebounder that I owned to do health bounces, so called, and a little bit of jogging. Allegedly this helps with moving the lymph in such a way that this chronic tiredness and belly fat would both budge.
Instead, I got really ill and missed a lot of life for about two weeks. Maybe not from doing these things, but, it was weirdly coincidental.
Now, I am back and trying to find some answers. I will say that I took up purposely drinking a lot of water and it has helped me to feel better. I feel less cravings for sugar and starches, for instance, and, often more clear-headed and less headachy. But, I’m still very swollen up, after a week of really drinking up, and, my body feels very, very tight and I lost about 2″ in height as a result of everything tightening up.
I said that wrong. The loss of height definitely did not happen because of drinking more water. I feel like it is helping, actually, quite a bit, but, it’s very slow going and I still feel dehydrated, even when I drink a whole gallon per day.
I’m not sure where to go from here. I’m really tired of swelling up and it does get really bad. Apparently, the blueberries and pom-vin drink are more about detox than moving the fluid along, as they seem to have backfired and given me a larger belly.
How does one know when it is safe to do things like drink hot lemon water, or whatever else, for detoxification? Is it just as simple as i being whenever one can drink a goodly amount of water for the day and not feel dehydrated?
Katherine Matthews says
I have seen a naturopath, MD ND for the last year and 1/2 for weight gain and chronically slow metabolism. He has treated this on and off for a decade but this time I returned I had been in menopause for 9 years already. He has not been able to crack the code unfortunately despite serious investment of time, money and diet/exercise. In the past 4 months my right arm pit is swollen with water retention. After every blood test and mammogram we cannot find the cause. I suspect lymph drainage is clogged. I have taken Iodide for 1 1/2 years. I will buy a rebounder, but is there anything else I can do?
John Douillard says
Hi Katherine. Thank you for reaching out. Check out my training on some of the new science behind the lymphatic system, it is currently free: https://lifespa.com/wp/video-thumbnail-registration-lymph In order to address the root causes of your concerns, and to fully understand your history, I would need to talk with you via phone or skype. Find out more about our consultations here: https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/ayurvedic-clinic/ Be well.
sarah kenyon says
Hi I ama 45 year old woman who lives in new zealand…i love your articles and information. I am having a recurring issue for the last 4 months. ive been very sick with phlebitis …well that was what the doctor said it was. but i get better for a week or two and then i go down hill with a new inflammation. my stomach was also going into extreme spasms for hours on end. i bought probiotic capsules which helped my spasms but now im still battling “phlebitis” after reading your website and listening to your videos I am suspicious that it might be my lymphatic system being clogged. both my inner elbows are swollen and there are lots of lumps there, shooting pains under my arms and burning sensations from elbow to underarm. also sore feet and burning sensations down the fron of shins. swollen glands in the groin and severe headaches with swollen ares on sides of my skull. also my eyes are dry and becoming irritated. im starting to think my lymph is blocked. oh,, and theres a hard lump that doesnt move in behind the elbow of my right arm. doctor thinks this is a thrombophlebitis but it hasnt moved. changed or resoved in 3 months. could that be where the lymph has become congested? it seems to be the point where the pain first started.
Im wondering if chemicals in my house could be the cause? My landlord had new carpet installed and flame resistant curtains which really smell badly. ive just taken the curtains down as they are so toxic, but im stuck with the carpet. if this is the cause (as i got sick 5 months after living with strong chemicals being released int he house) then what can i do to mitigate the chemicals toxifying my environment? also would manjishta be better to take in a capsule or fresh? Thankyou for any helo you can give me…..kind regards sarah
alla says
Sarah for pollution from carpets and curtains get some peace lilly plants indoor (google air pollution plants detoxify) and also charcoal pillows you can get off amazon. And open doors and window every day for at least 15 mins (I have done this since moving to a new house a year ago and no health side effects0
BarleySinger says
It is important not to forget that disturbance to the gut flora, which can have profound impacts on the lymphatic systtem (and therefor the liver, bile production and the ability to make use of the cholestetol that the body produces).
A number of man made substances (glyphosate; “2-4, d”; Triclosan in those horrid antibacterials, artificial emulsifiers like polysorbate 80) as well as the antibiotics used in raising meat animals (and overused in medicine) all upset the balance of gut flora.
Glyphosate (think weed killer and “Roundup Ready” crops) and “2-4, d” don’t just ruin the soil biology by killung the soil microbes that plants need in order to get nutrition out of the soil. Once in the soil or on a plant, they stick around & build up in the soil. They kill microbes indescriminatly – including the mucrobes that live in us. There are 10 times as many if those non-human cells, living in us, than we have human cells.
They help us digest oyr food, keep the gut wall intact, regulate immunity & inflamitory systems and so forth. When used in soil or on plants they are INSIDE every cell of those plants, not jyst on the outside. They can’t be washed off. They are then inside of us. The sprays used in agriculture are now in ALL surface water, in the rain, and in mothers milk straight from the breast.
The balancing act of : gut flora, gut permiability, villi, imunity, innflamation, bile, the production & use of cholesterol by the liver (a key component of every hormone… reproductive, brain, fight or flight, mood… frankly most every part of the body, as well as the detoxification system of the human bidy and the ability of the body to destroy & remove the occasional malignant cell (which we all make … due to cell devision errors) – – – All of these are reliant on one another.
Disturbances to any system can easily take the other systems down too. We live in a very poluted world. Every one if those bodily systems is under assault due to unwise & irresponsible, greed driven, corporate chemistry. The side effects of greed are, quite honestly, killing us.
We all need to be caring for these intertwined bodily systems.
Fi says
Hello, a very thorough and informative post you’ve written here, do you have any knowledge on repopulating the gut with good bacteria? Or the use of probiotics?
Kind regards,
Fi
LifeSpa Staff says
Hi Fi,
Thanks for your question. Yes, Dr. Douillard has been a strong proponent of non-transient probiotics. Check out some of the articles he has written!
https://lifespa.com/ayurvedic-supplement-facts/probiotics/
https://lifespa.com/gut-health-body-type-vata-pitta-kapha/
https://lifespa.com/gut-revival-back/
Be Well.
Cheri says
You are right on about the Glyphosate!! I SO wish more people would talk about this subject! It makes so much sense! We can’t keep spraying and eating these severely cell altering chemicals and go unharmed!!
I am a huge believer in moving Lymph but with hydrating fruits that also detox the body. If we don’t detox the body then what’s the sense of moving Lymph? We’ve got to get this junk out of us, right? Wether it’s Glyphosate or years of chemicals from a job or mess or environmental. Even if one is detoxing the body to move Lymoyh, at least we are that much more ahead of where we would have been had we not detoxed the body. In other words, it all helps.
I just hate to see people fall for supplements or gadgets to get better when it’s really the foods we eat that assist the body to do its own miraculous cleaning and healing!
See Dr Robert Morse’s videos. He is a genius and there’s so much info on his videos! Almost too much! Ur anyone that listens for a while will eventually catch on.
I’ve been on fruit only for 10 months now and many serious things have healed! Under active Thyroid and on meds for over 30 years. Now… no more 220 Mcgs of Synthroid for me! Gallbladder bile duct dilation.. the docs wanted to biopsy why the bile ducts were blocked! Thank God, No surgery for me! The pain is gone too. And speaking of pain… I have several discs herniated, spinal cord nerve injury, two torn shoulders and two town knees. Oh, and hernias. All of these issues have pain but I’d say atleast 80% of my pain is gone! Just from eating the fruit. The detoxing world!! I’m not saying it’s all roses. Not at all. I went through many healing crisis ESP while detoxing.
The Rheumatoid Arthrits, this has taken the longest, but nonetheless the improvements are amazing!! Maybe if I could afford to eat Organic fruits (which mean non-GMO, which mean non-Glyphosate!) ) I’d be even further along, but I can’t afford organic. I also have not been able to afford any herbals. Inafine where I’d be if I could use those??
Everything I’ve done is by myself on grocery store fruits.
I don’t recommend this. I recommend having consults with Dr Morse or staff, using the herbals, etc. I’m praying for the day I can do so myself. I just wanted to say, anyone can do something no matter where you are. The most powerful thing of all is our own bodies. Give them hydrating fruits and watch the healing begin.
God bless you all.
Penny Shaw says
How can I give manjistha powder to my 3 year old? Only way he takes it willingly is mixing with curd. Is it ok to mix it with curd? He won’t take it directly or mixed with rock sugar or milk.
He has peanut and tree nut allergies. Also, for last 3 months he has been struggling with bronchitis and asthmatic cough. He is currently on albuterol and budesonide treatments.
John Douillard says
Hi Penny, I don’t recommend herbs for children under 4 years of age. For kids age 4 and up I use the formula age divided by 20 to find the percentage of an adult dose to give.
Be well,
Dr. John
Linda says
How long do we need to take Manjistha to know if it’s working or not? How will we know it’s working? Thanks!
John Douillard says
It is recommended to take Manjistha for 1-3 months. Lymphatic stagnation can cause so many different health issues relating to immune to mood, skin and hormones. Some people will see some of these issues clear up very quickly within a few days, for others it can take a few months. For specific advice please feel free to e-mail [email protected]
johanna says
Loved your video. My 12 year old daughter has been told by a chinese medical partitioner that she has lymphatic congestion. A knesiologist has also been treating her. I am worried it will develop into M.E . What is the time scale of getting better after a detox? Should she undergo a detox at her age? Her symptoms are severe headache and intolerance to any noise, sore and cold chest and throat and feeling awful for about a week. Any advice would be gratefully received. Awaiting results from bloodtests. Anitbiotics did no good. The doctors seem lost. Thank you so much
Dave says
I’ve noticed that I’m having more wrinkles on one side of my face, the sinus gets clogged on that side of my face, my eye has a rash next to it in the mornings on that side, and I have acne on that side of my face more than the other side. I’ve been searching the internet to find answers why, frustrating. I’m now wondering if it isn’t my lymph system not draining properly, is that a reasonable assumption?
Stephanie says
Be sure to keep your pillow cases very clean. Try pure silk ones to help with the wrinkles.
Jourdan says
I have the exact same symptoms and was just diagnosed with Lymphatic Congestion. Strange acne, redness, and rash near the eye on one side. I went to an ENT doc and I was treated for a sinus infection with antibiotics which did not help. If you do the rebounder, excercise, and change your diet, not to mention lymphatic massages, I bet it would help.
Carolyn says
Hey!
I am on day 2 of a 3 day juice cleanse…mid-day of day 1 I started getting a pounding headache and my posterior lymph nodes started to swell. I also got the chills and am extremely exhausted. Today I feel the same, but worse. Can juice cleansing cause your lymph nodes to well? Should I stop juicing?
Thanks,
Carolyn
Cheri says
Carolyn, I can’t give advice about you but I certainly experience a lot of those symptoms when I’m detoxing my body.
Keep educating yourself. If you can afford it, contact Dr Robert Morse or staff for a consult. God bless.
Carolyn Stephenson says
Dear Dr Doulillard:
I’m a diabetic of many years,I’ve had to heart attacks and my heart is weak my blood pressure is controlled with medication, my feet swells constantly, I have gout controlled will lymph detox help me
John Douillard says
Hi Carolyn,
Thanks for writing. Dr. John has written a great deal on the topics of blood sugar (https://lifespa.com/category/blood-sugar/) and lymph (https://lifespa.com/category/lymphatic-detox/). If you need to receive personalized advice for your situation, it is necessary to set up a consultation with either Dr. John or Tauna (https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/clinic/).
Haley says
Hi, first of all this was a great article. I have several of the symptoms of boggy lymphatic system listed here, especially the acne. I have suffered from horrendous breakouts for going on 20 years now, and no traditional or allopathic methods have seemed to help. The only time I was free from acne (which is worst during my cycle) was during pregnancy and the following 10 months post-pardum when I was breastfeeding the most. Now, even though I am still nursing, the cycle and the acne are back. Breast tenderness, bloating and cramping, and huge, red, sore pimples that take ages to go away. Help!
Karen says
Hello Doctor Douillard,
I am a breast cancer survivor, and had lymph node involvement, therefore had lymph node dissection of all nodes in left side, which has left me with lymphedema. It is fairly well controlled. I wear compression sleeves daily and have a compression pump/sleeve that I also use daily as well as seeing a lymphedema therapist about once a month.
My question concerns Manjistha. Would it be of any help to me to use it considering that the cause of my lyphedema is due to the disruption of the lymph channels? I am very interested and motivated to control this although it seems to be more and more difficult as time goes by. If Manjistha would be of any help, I would gladly try it. I could not find any information about it being used for this purpose. Thank you for your thoughts.
Matthew says
Hello. I’d like to know if you got an answer to your question somewhere else. My wife is in the same situation as you. Thanks.
Jane says
I am in the same situation and frustrated with my sluggish drainage. I lost 24 lymph nodes in breast cancer surgery. The medical side says it is lifelong and only manual drainage and compression sleeves is the answer, but I’m still looking for help. I haven’t seen my elbow in 3 years! Is there anything I can do?
Trina says
Electro-lymphatic drainage treatment is miraculous. It totally opens all your lymph drains and gets your lymph moving sending the old “sticky” lymph to the drains. I always follow my electrolymphatic treatment with a colonic which allows the lymph flyid that was drained to exit the body. With the closed colonic systems You can actually see when your body releases the old lymph. It’s an amazing healing tool.
Verna Shook-Dunn says
Dr. Douillard
My name is Verna, I am 51 yrs old. I have had Hodgkin’s lymphoma at age 14. I had non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma at 27. At age 49 I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s again. I am 51 presently. Can you please help me not ever get this disease again. Please! I believe you can truly help me. The creator lead me to you. I would love to speak with you if possible. Thank you, Verna.
Susie says
Can I take Manisha now I know my lymphatic system is clog because my ankles are puffy swollen and round on the side I need help now I also want to know how much beet juice to take I also have been bouncing for 9 mo on a mini trampoline I have noticed some improvement. I am tring to be patient and am trying to eat better but I know that I have had this for many years and could take time I don’t really get cold but I am getting older I also had conic diarrhea for about 22 years that was about 10 ago I am working on improving my health every day
venessa says
So Dr. So the lymphaid roll on work r not???
Connir says
Do you think there is any connection between. The lymphatic system. And vulvodynia Have it for 9 years now tried everything I could no luck!!!
SALLY ABSETZ says
HELLO- I HAVE ATTEMPTED & FAILED TO COMPLETE THE “SHORT HOME CLEANSE” TWICE NOW. The first time I tried to do just kitchari and the morning of the 2nd day I felt weak & dizzy and decided it was too much for me. The 2nd time I added some protein & veggies to my lunch & dinner. The morning of the 3rd day I woke with a terrible headache & sick to my stomach & had to call in sick to work. That was this morning & I slept until noon, I haven’t eaten anything (except cantaloupe) drank a ton of water. I still feel ill, but much better. I haven’t taken any supplements today. I read that the Manjistha is supposed to help with healing crisis, but in my case it seems to have caused the healing crisis. Am I really toxic or just having a bad reaction to the supplements? I was thinking I would reduce the amount by half, but I’m just now feeling better & not ready to try again just yet. I posted this comment here because I haven’t seen any other comments about healing crisis & I am curious if anyone else has had a similar experience. I thought a 4 day cleanse would be easy, but it is not! I recently had melanoma surgery where they injected me with radioactive dye in order to remove a few lymph nodes. Maybe that is causing my severe reaction. Any thoughts on how to approach my 3rd attempt?
John Douillard says
Hi Sally,
Sounds like it is probably best to stop the herbs entirely until you feel better. If you decide to try the cleanse again, introduce the herbs slowly so that you will know if you are reacting to one of them. No need to push yourself too hard on the first cleanse. Definitely stick with the Nourish Meal Plan (adding protein and veggies) and keep your ghee dosage low until you feel comfortable.
Let us know how it goes and feel free to write ([email protected]) or call (303-516-4848) with any questions.
Nicole says
Great article. I have a lot of swollen lymph nodes, mrsa, candida and many food allergies. Needless to say, I am VERY toxic. I am going to try several things to unclog my lymph system however I was wondering if I should do colon and then a liver cleanse before. Any input would be appreciated.
John Douillard says
The Short Home Cleanse and the Colorado Cleanse both address lymph, liver and colon. When you are ready for a cleanse, you might try one of those.
Anyelina says
I’m curious as to why you don’t suggest manual lymphatic drainage for decongesting the lymphatic system?
Paula says
Dr. JOHN,
In your opinion, is there any correlation between a clogged lymph system and hyperthyroidism (Graves disease)? I appreciate your addressing this. Thank you.
Teresa says
Hi,
Thank you for the great article. I have been dealing with some health issues the past few months with no concrete answers from my doctors. It started as allergies (which I have never before had and I am 50) and now has progresse into vertigo. I had a CT scan that was clear. My thoughts have been leaning toward my lymphatic system. I have the manjistha already but have been a little fearful of having side effects. Is it gentle? I don’t do detoxes well either as I get so many side effects so it makes me even more certain that it’s my lymphatic system. Any thoughts? Thank you.
John Douillard says
Hi Teresa,
Though Manjistha does not usually have negative side effects, everyone responds to herbs differently. Check with your doctor before beginning an herbal regimen and begin with a low dose. LifeSpa’s Manjistha is a whole herb formula rather than an extract so it is gentler on the body and less likely to cause side effects.
Teresa says
Thank you! I do have your product so I will show it to my doctor.
Victoria says
Hi Teressa, might be worth you looking at a condition called Gluten Ataxia which is food related. This is something I’m currently undergoing diagnosis for and I began experiencing issues such as vertigo, problems with movement and other strange (at least to me) but serious symptoms related to the peripheral neuropathy that can come along with GA. Of course it is triggered by gluten as the name suggests. Since going GF (and sadly I really don’t just mean sticking to all foods under the Coeliac safe level of 20 ppm which gives a product legal use of the label ‘gluten free’, but really going GF – those with GA have an even lower sensitivity level than Coeliacs), my symptoms have mostly resolved. Obviously, as soon as I ingest gluten again, they return over a 1-5 day period. The higher the frequency of exposures within a period of time and/or the gluten level, the more serious my neurological and muscle problems get. Now I’ve been GF for a while we (my doc and I) see there is an excellently clear symptom ‘schedule’ (I.e. of what symptoms appear when) whenever I get things wrong. However, the important point is that before going GF, and actually keeping a food and symptoms diary, I never recognised the patterns from this problem I’d been suffering from in increasing severity for at least 15yrs before-hand, probably all my life even. Speak to your doctor before going GF though since if it’s Coeliac (which has also now been found to cause neurology problems), you need have eating gluten for about 6/7 weeks before the diagnosing blood test.
jyoti says
Hi
My dad is suffering with kidney disease and water retention in his lungs. Currently he is on dialysis.
He is 78 years old and he do not like dialysis.
Can you help me how to reduce water retention and increase HB.
Can help me how to improve lymph system.
John Douillard says
Hi Jyoti,
A consultation might be a good idea for your dad for specific advice. For sure check out the ‘Detox and Lymphatic Health’ section of the article library (https://lifespa.com/articles-videos/browse-category/) for many articles on the topic.
Be well.
Bryan says
hello, Doctor
I am 17 years old and I have been experiencing swollen glands around my neck and face area, and I believe it’s due to the fact that I have a terrible diet (I do not eat the best foods), nor have I been getting much physical activity. What can I do to help this?
John Douillard says
Hi Bryan,
The Free Short Home Cleanse is a great place to start for many people. You can download the free ebook and see if it sounds right for you. The cleanse addresses lymph as well as digestion and cravings. https://lifespa.com/cleansing/short-home-cleanse/
I hope that helps!
Bryan says
Thank you very much! I will definitely look into it and see how it works for me!
Bryan says
Thank you very much! I will definitely look into this and see how it works for me!
Gale says
Hi Dr John:
i have had my gall bladder removed, is it safe in this case to do the Colorado Cleanse?
John Douillard says
Hi Gale,
Yes, many people do the cleanse without a gall bladder. Just use coconut oil instead of ghee for the oleation and use prune juice instead of Epsom salt for the laxative. The details on these instructions will be in your Colorado Cleanse book as well. Let us know if you have other questions.
khalid says
hello
thank you for this article , just i want to ask : are there any correlation between lunar cycle and lymph stagnation ( congestion ) ?
thank you
Holl says
Dear Dr,
I have been having a weird pain in the right side of my neck, which feels like it could be the tendon ( feel it more with movement). This seemed to happen after having a bad throat infection (white tonsils, swollen, couldn’t breath swallow, eat) now this pain is still evident, but have now also got a left sore, aching, larger left breast.
I don’t like to go for the traditional method of visiting the doctor as they just prescribe medication where I am.
I am 25 year old female with 2 children… Could this be the lymphatic system?
Thanks holl
John Douillard says
Hi Hollie,
I am sorry to hear that you have been in pain for awhile. If you would like to set up a consultation (in-person, by phone or on Skype) with either Dr. John or Tauna to delve into your health history and for specific advice, you can do so online or by calling 303-516-4848 for scheduling.
Warmly,
[email protected]
Holl says
Aw that would be lovely, I am in the UK so Skype would be best. Regards Hollie
Amy says
In the UK there is a wonderful functional medicine practitioner who facilitates self-help by supplying information and any tests you need at cost. She consults by Skype or phone. Not expensive. Specialises in gluten sensitivity issues, but very good generally. First one in 30 years to sort me out. Also has a very good private Facebook group where people share ideas. http://www.purehealthclinic.co.uk
Shantel says
Dear doctor I just been told I have lymes disease please email me your thoughts. I do not want to do antibiotics
[email protected]
John Douillard says
Hi Shantel,
It is usually best to follow your doctor’s advice initially so that the disease does not progress. For personalized advice on specific issues, it is necessary to set up a consultation. You can schedule online (https://lifespa.com/about-lifespa/clinic/) or by calling 303-516-4848.
Amy says
There was a brilliant online summit about autoimmune diseases. It was called Autoimmune Secrets. They interviewed experts and doctors who treat these diseases holistically. And they give you a complete protocol, what diet to follow and what herbs and supplements to take. The free airing has finished but it is still available to buy. I bought the digital version, so if you can’t (or don’t want to) buy it I am happy to share it with you. I don’t think that is breaking any rules – they encouraged us to share it. Do not take antibiotics.
jobob says
hollie, you should get tested for Epstein barr virus.
Dorinda says
Can you help me with psoriasis. I have it over 70% of my body. love reading your articles I will start doing your videos. 70 pound over weight. please help me with this psoriasis.
Thank you
Dee
John Douillard says
Hi Dee,
Thanks for reaching out. If you would like to work on figuring out the root cause of the psoriasis, I am glad to consult with you. You can call Chelsea (303-516-4848) and she will help you book an appointment.
Be well.
jen says
I think a lot of skin conditions are caused by polymers in the body. There are polymers in our foods used as food preservatives (modified food starch has been found to be plastic materials) and our air is filled with plastic, our bpa cans etc. There is also syloxane, polyeurothanes, Teflon, silicone in our foods. I think when we take these in our bodies try to push it out. Essential oils and a substance called Dr. Willards Water clear breaks down plastics and they have a skin ointment as well. A toxicologist report can figure out if it’s plastic. I found out this material after searching for a remedy for cystic acne. I found out I was plastic by going to a toxicologist who put me under a black light in a dark room. My acne glowed fluorescent because it was silicone and other plastics.
Mary says
Is your water “fluoridated” Showering in fluoridated water could be the underlying cause. People do not realize that 75% of water municipalities fluoridate the water with an industrial waste chemical that includes fluorine, arsenic, aluminum, barium and other contaminants. I know my skin had a keritosis problem and when the town stopped fluoridating it vastly improved. Fluoride itself is more toxic than lead and slightly less toxic than arsenic. Hope this helps!!
Henry says
Yeah but how can you possibly remove fluoride from the shower?
I use clearly filtered to get the fluriode out of our water.
jobob says
have yo cut out all dairy products to see if that could be the cause?
jobob says
have you tried cutting all dairy out of your diet? this could be the cause.
Judy says
Be careful rebounding on a trampoline. I found it gave me knee pain after awhile. Try to do it, so you don’t bend your knees too much.
Also, don’t forget lymphatic massages.
Capt Hari Bhagat says
Dear Dr,
I am both astonished and surprised that you personally do not use a Trampolinee Rebounder and recommend it to your patients including their children as it will detoxify the body every day with a fun exercise
Capt Hari Bhagat says
Dear Dr,
I am both surprised and astonished that you have overlooked the best way to detoxify the Lymph is to exercise on the Trampoline Rebounder every day upto 1 Hour a day and it will transform the lives of your Patients.
Regards,
Capt hari Bhagat
John Douillard says
Thanks Capt hari Bhagat,
I have made that suggestion in earlier articles but thanks for the reminder.
Be well and jump high.
Enjoy,
John
Becky says
Do not use the tramp if you’ve had surgery to tack the bladder, as the g-force can pull it loose again! If not, though, this is a great thing for one’s health program.
Carmel says
I so totally agree with you. Just to clarify, a rebounder is a mini trampoline which is low to the ground is most suitable and safe for most ages. It is surely the most effective and simple answer to promoting healthy lymphatic drainage. Even a few moments in the day helps to clear the lymph glands. Obviously, a diet composed of the best quality organic foods with the emphasis on fruits and vegetables with the support of healing herbs will promote a huge and swift improvement in tandem with the use of a rebounder, the simple and most cost effective ways to heal have always proven to be the most successful.. In addition if funds are available, an infra red sauna is very helpful In clearing the lymph glands.
Karen Wong says
Watch for detaching retinas though!
Kathryn says
from the FI sauna or the rebounder?
Alexandra says
HI .. i had an equine accident and after several months almost years after I am still trying to figure out why my right side is swollen … after seeing holistic practitioners and western medicine doctors and numerous amounts of bloodwork .. the conclusion is lymphatic blockage 🙁 i have done EVERYTHING KNOWN TO MAN and nothing seems to help .. currently i get lymphatic drainage treatments … i am so so so frustrated !! What is someones SUPER secret to getting the blockage to GIVE !!!! i eat healthy, exercise, keep stress at bay…. i just want some relief ! my right breast is a size bigger than left and everything from my ear to my toe on the right side feels swollen! I drink LOTS of water … Any help or suggestions would be SOOO welcome 🙂
John Douillard says
Hi Alexandra,
It is difficult to say what will unblock the lymph, but we have to look upstream at the entire digestive process as well. I would suggest reading up on my digestive health, detox and lymph archived articles and videos. Of course the lymph movers to consider along the way are Manjistha and Lymph Vein HP. Perhaps those would be good to get started on.
Be well,
Dr John
Scott says
Greens such as lettuce (and others in the family, including weeds such as Sow Thistle and Dandelion, especially) and parsley, are superb for cleaning the lymph, and eliminating foods which clog the lymph such which is basically any grain which isn’t adequately sprouted; or, less effective, any grain which is only fermented but better than non fermented,… and of course worse, any grain which is only merely cooked, whether as popcorn or cooked grain however,… or corn tortillas,… but, they’re better than nothing; raw grains not being practical.
Tina says
Re. promoting lymph circulation…aside from doing self-massage, please research the exercise known as “Rebounding”. You need to purchase either an official rebounder, which are pricy ($300) or just use one of those mini-trampolines sold for exercise at around $30. Essentially, you stand on one of those, raising up on your toes while still maintaining contact with your toes, and simply raise and lower your heels…sometimes with both feet together, and sometimes with alternating feet. In effect, it’s a gentle bounce without ever being airborne. This gentle pump action on the base of the feet is the best self-help exercise to stimulate lymphatic circulation throughout the body. Do this daily for about 30 mins…either at a stretch or in 2 separate sessions several hours apart. This has a very stimulating, cleansing effect on the body, by promoting lymph circulation. The literature for the official rebounders claim that only the pricy ones will get the job done…but this isn’t true…just marketing buzz. Their biggest advantage is that they have a built-in handle or waist support, so that the infirm or elderly can do this independently without losing their balance. There are many people who are unable to perform traditional exercises, for a myriad of reasons…too stressful on their joints, or whatever. Rebounding allows people to experience increased lymphatic circulation with the least amount on exertion and stress upon the body. These are the broad strokes..online research will provide more comprehensive details. Good luck.
John says
Thank you Tina! I realize your post is from Jan. however I only found this site yesterday while searching for lymphatic cleansing techniques. My MD/ND had suggested I do simple heel raises/toes lifts like we used to do in school ( some 45 yrs. ago for me ). I sort of shunned her advice as something being too simple but now that I read your post, I’ll be doing the heel/toe lifts whenever/wherever I can. I also hesitated on doing this simple exercise because I figure I’d experience more cramps in my calfs as I do sometimes in mornings when stretching while still in bed. For those with balance issues, just place your back up against a wall and with your feet together or a couple inches apart – whatever is more comfy for you – lift up on your toes as if trying to see over someone’s head at a parade. No equipment needed other than sneakers and a sturdy wall. Next for me is a liver/gall bladder cleanse but one that is simple and easy to follow/digest. Blessings to all and have a happy and safe LIFE; not just Holidays-:)
Judy says
The cheap rebounders are very hard on the feet and ankles. They also wear out easier. The more expensive ones have better mats and very strong springs. I have had both, and I wouldn’t waste my money on the cheap ones. Might be alright for kids, but not adults. I have had a $300+ one for almost 20 years and it’s still in good shape.
Joanne says
Thank you for this timely article. I did a very mild spring cleanse with my two kids a couple weeks ago. Just excluded wheat and dairy and ssugr. We don’t eat much processed food except tortilla chips and sprouted grain bread so it wasn’t too far from our regular diet. My one year old and I did great but my five year old got numerous swollen lymph nodes in his neck and along his rib cage as soon as we stopped the detox. He had one swollen lymph node since a bad cold in November so I am now thinking that he was cleansing well but the lymph was already congested. I may have still been using too many fats with him as well for the spring in the form of coconut oil and ghee. His little immune system has been working overtime this winter with kindergarten starting so I think he had a lot to get rid of. I have now Cut out added fats for the spring and added ACV and minerals and it seemed to help today but just a little. Can I use manjistha on a 5 yr old? I am going to make him some beet juice tomorrow. Thank you!
John Douillard says
Hi Joanne,
Yes, manjistha is okay for kids for short periods of time when there is congested lymph. However, I don’t think it a good idea to have them restrict fats or do detoxes (beyond eliminating allergens or sugar).
Hope that helps.
John
Joanne says
Thank you for your response. Yes, I have always given him healthy fats regular which is why I thought he was always so healthy. This stagnant lymph confused me since I only eliminated sugar, dairy and wheat for the spring and was giving him plenty of healthy fats, meat, veggies, fruit, rice and potatoes. I would never do a serious detox or cleanse on my kids. I thought maybe I was doing something wrong when the glands got swollen. I have always given my kids lots of healthy fats. I am ready your perfect healthy kids book now and have added back in the healthy fats including his daily cod liver oil. He is a winter type and I think he just got too dry this winter since we live in a very dry and cold area and it was aggravated by the spring. He has had a swollen lymph node since November so I think the lymph has been stagnant all winter. Even though we eat lot of protein and fat in the winter, I think with school he wasn’t eating well at lunch with their short lunch and got cold and dry. I like your suggestion of making him a big meal for after school. I’m trying this now. I had a consultation with Tauna and she recommended Brahmi instead of manjistha, but I would like to try manjistha as well. I didn’t see anything about Brahmi in your book. I have started the ear oil and massage as well as chyawanprash. We just got started this week. I am going to schedule a follow up consultation to make sure I am feeding him the right foods to help. I am concentrating on warming cooked foods for building strength and keeping him hydrated. I am now realizing that I need to keep him on the winter foods longer in the spring just like myself. Knowing his type really helps. I am thankful to have you and Tauna as a resource to help me correct this for him before it turns into a major problem. <3
John Douillard says
Hi Joanne,
I am glad to hear that you and Tauna were able to connect. It sounds like you have a good plan in place. Your kids are lucky to have such an attentive, health conscious mom.
jobob says
cod liver oil is toxic. I would never give that to myself or my kids!
Jubes says
Dr Robert Morse has a wonderful detox using fruits and suggests the acidic foods and high protein are the cause of congestion in the lymph. Check him out.
Joyce says
i RECEIVED A ARTICLE ON LYMPHAID TO ROLL ON UNDER YOUR ARMS AND IT SAYS IT WILL CLEANSE YOUR LYMPH NODES BUT I would also like to try a the drink mentioned above is there any truth in any of this
Veronika Angeloni says
does Lymhaid roll on under arm work? If so which is best?
trisha says
Hi,
Recently I found a recipe on google for a drink that will detox the lymph system.
The link has since been removed.
Can you suggest the quickest way to do a lymph detox?
Cheers, trisha
Alexandra says
What is a good detox plan along with manjistha ? I ordered it from you and have been taking it for a couple days. I eat a pretty wholesome diet and drink lots of water as well as exercise.
Thanks.