The lymphatic system, often an overlooked component of our anatomy, plays a crucial role in removing bacteria and combating infections. Rather than neglecting this important part of your body, consider these tips to cleanse your lymphatic system and optimize your body's performance.
WHAT IS LYMPH, EXACTLY?
You're likely familiar with your immune system, which produces white blood cells to defend against viruses, bacteria, or foreign bodies. However, the lymphatic system seldom gets mentioned. Lymph is a clear or whitish fluid within your lymphatic system, a vital part of your immune system. Interestingly, your body contains more lymph than blood.
Lymph nodes are responsible for producing white blood cells and filtering lymph fluid. When swollen, these bean-shaped nodes can sometimes be felt in areas such as your armpits and neck. During illness, a doctor may check for swollen lymph nodes around your throat as part of their examination.
WHY YOUR LYMPHATIC SYSTEM NEEDS CLEANSING
Lymphoma is the most well-known disease of the lymphatic system. There are various risk factors for non-Hodgkin lymphoma, including genetic predispositions that are beyond our control and environmental exposures that we can avoid.
Ensuring that your lymphatic system functions optimally is crucial for effective disease prevention. The lymphatic system aims to eliminate foreign substances, so not overburdening it allows it to work more efficiently for you. By not having to remove ingested chemicals, it can focus on fighting diseases.
Exposure to certain chemicals, infections, viruses, chronic immune system activation, and a poor diet can all increase the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Minimizing the load on your lymphatic system can help it stay healthy and better equipped to ward off serious diseases.
Here are 9 methods to cleanse the lymphatic system at home:
1. EAT CLEAN
Eating a clean diet can also purify your lymphatic system. As this system aims to eliminate any foreign substances, steering clear of processed foods can enhance its efficiency. This means avoiding chemicals, refined sugars, artificial flavors, colors, additives, preservatives, and similar substances.
2. ADD WATER
Lymph fluid, primarily composed of water, mirrors the human body's composition. Dehydration exacerbates stress on the lymphatic system, reducing its efficiency. Consuming your full daily water intake, particularly clean and clear water, supports the smooth functioning of your lymphatic system. It is recommended to drink a gallon of water each day to flush your system.
3. CASTOR OIL PACKS
Castor oil packs involve applying castor oil to a piece of clean cotton cloth and placing it on the body in an area requiring detoxification. This area is then covered with plastic and left for 1 to 1 1/2 hours, often on the abdomen to support the lymphatic system.
4. GET BOUNCY
Rebounding or jumping on a trampoline for 10 to 30 minutes activates lymph fluid circulation. This movement propels the lymphatic fluid to the lymph nodes for purification.
5. RELAX IN A SAUNA
Sauna therapy, through induced sweating, can enhance circulation, expel toxins, and promote the cleansing flow of the lymphatic system.
6. MASSAGE
Lymphatic drainage massage is a technique used to manually cleanse and detoxify the body. It is also effective in treating lymphedema, which involves the buildup of lymphatic fluid in the body following the removal of lymph nodes, such as after breast cancer surgery.
7. EXERCISE
Exercising to get the blood flowing aids the lymphatic system as well. A simple walk is an effective method to increase your heart rate and circulate lymphatic fluid to the lymph nodes for purification.
8. DEEP BREATHING
Focus on inhaling deeply to feel your diaphragm contract. This change in chest pressure propels lymphatic fluid from your extremities upwards, where it can be filtered and cleansed.
9. HERBAL TEA
Some herbs are particularly effective for lymph cleansing. A soothing herbal tea made from calendula, cleavers, and mullein can assist in eliminating lymphatic toxins.
Detoxifying your lymphatic system safely ensures its optimal function and enhances your immune health. By doing so, your body will be better prepared to combat any internal challenges it may encounter.
