Judging from a recent Facebook post I made which was seen by over 166,000 people (more than any other post I’ve ever done!), there is a huge amount of interest in lymphatic health, especially for breast cancer patients and survivors. I promised to share more information about the lymphatic system so that everyone can understand it better, how it operates and which herbs and other things you can do that will benefit your lymphatic health most.

First, some clarification on what the lymphatic system is and how it works.

The lymphatic system is part of your immune system and a pretty efficient organ of elimination. The lymphatic system performs three main functions in the body:

1. To help pull fluids from tissues back into circulation so it doesn’t build up and result in swelling and lymphedema;
2. To deliver nutrition to cells in the form of fats and fat-soluble nutrients like vitamins A, D, E and K from the diet);
3. To carry wastes and proteins produced by cells to the blood for removal from the body and to facilitate immune responses, filtering and destroying invaders including bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells which may be present in lymphatic fluid.

The lymph is a clear fluid (the word lymph is derived from the Latin “lympha” which means clear waters) which moves through lymphatic vessels, similar to your blood vessels.

In a nutshell, here’s the journey of lymph fluid:

Collection: Lymphatic capillaries collect excess fluid known as lymph that has leaked from blood vessels into tissues throughout the body.

Movement: Unlike blood, lymph doesn’t have a central pump like the heart. Instead, its flow relies upon the contraction of muscles in the lymphatic vessels and external pressure from the movement of skeletal muscles, deep breathing, and exercise. One-way valves in the vessels prevent lymph from flowing backward.

Filtration: The lymph flows through larger lymphatic vessels to lymph nodes, which are small, bean-shaped organs that act as filters. Lymph nodes are located all over the body, but especially in the groin, armpits and mammary glands. Inside the nodes, lymphocytes (described below*) destroy waste products, bacteria, cancer cells, and other harmful substances. During acute and chronic infection, the lymph nodes become swollen with cellular debris, white blood cells, and viral or bacterial wastes.

Return to Bloodstream: After being filtered, the lymph is transported by larger lymphatic vessels which eventually converge to form two main channels: the right lymphatic duct and the thoracic duct.

Final delivery: The right lymphatic duct collects lymph from the right side of the neck, chest, and arm, while the thoracic duct collects it from the rest of the body. Both ducts empty the filtered lymph into large veins near the left and right sides of the neck, respectively, returning it to the circulatory system and the bloodstream. The waste is then removed from the blood by the liver and kidneys, and ultimately eliminated from the body through urine and stools.

*Lymphocytes located in the lymph nodes are white blood cells of the immune system responsible for recognizing foreign cells and substances, microbes, and cancer cells. T cells in lymph fluid destroy intruders by causing them to rupture or by releasing cell-killing substances. B cells differentiate into plasma cells that secrete antibodies which are proteins that combine with and cause destruction of specific foreign substances which are then carried out of the body.

Problems Within the Lymphatic System

When problems occur with the lymphatic system, it is considered to be due to (a) over-activity of the immune system, and (b) lymphatic stagnation or weakness. If the system gets overworked and has trouble keeping up, it is considered in naturopathic medicine that its internal waters have become muddied and congested. What we see then are lymph nodes swelling with stagnation and often limbs will also swell.

Symptoms and signs that the lymphatic system maybe be overworked and stagnated can include:

– Swelling in lymph nodes (especially in the throat, armpits or groin)
– Anxiety and brain fog
– Muscle aches and pains
– Joint pain
– Acne
– Chronic inflammatory conditions such as eczema, asthma, arthritis, sinusitis
– Allergies and hay fever
– Hormonal issues like endometriosis, PCOS, reproductive and menstrual issues
– Fatigue
– Frequent flu and colds, or other recurrent immune issues
– Headaches
– Swollen or puffy limbs, abdomen, face or neck
– Post-surgical swelling
– Itchy skin, dermatitis

When these conditions are noted, it’s a sign that we need to do a few things to support the lymphatic system. I have listed a number of things that we can do below.

The first thing that a naturopath or herbalist will do will be to utilize herbs that cleanse the lymphatic system. Traditionally called “blood purifiers”, these herbs are now referred to as lymphatics, lymphagogues, alteratives or depuratives.

These herbs do a number of things in the body, including assisting in the movement of lymph, increasing lymphatic flow, moving fluid and proteins away from areas of inflammation so that fresh lymph, rich in nutrients and oxygen needed for tissue repair, can move more freely.

The Best Herbs for Supporting the Lymphatic System

Burdock Root (Arctium lappa) – Promotes the flow of lymph throughout the body, ideal for swollen glands. In addition, 2020 research on breast cancer cells discovered it had numerous anti-cancer effects. [1] Several other studies concurred [2] [3] [4]

Cleavers (Galium aparine) – A very useful and supportive herb for the lymphatic system, aids in the elimination of toxins, and its diuretic action makes it helpful for edema. In addition, a 2016 cell study [5] found that cleavers had anti-cancer activity against both ER+ PR+ metastatic breast cancer cells and triple negative breast cancer cells, while leaving healthy cells alone.

Poke Root (Phytolacca americana) – a/k/a Pokeweed, a very toxic plant if not prepared properly – never eat it raw and always purchase it from a reputable herbalist or herbal shop. Native Americans traditionally used poke root to treat breast ailments, gastrointestinal disorders, rashes, and inflammation. It has also been shown in a cell study to be toxic to colon cancer cells. [6]

Red Root (Ceanothus americanus) – Known chiefly for its action on the lymphatic system, red root has a long history of use in North American herbal traditions, particularly among Native Americans. Interestingly, during the American Revolutionary War and American Civil War it became a replacement for hard-to-obtain Chinese tea. Herbalists often refer to it as a “lymph mover” for its affinity to the lymph nodes and spleen and hold it in high esteem for its excellence for swollen lymph nodes and lymphedema.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis) – An antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory herb that helps the lymphatic system clear waste, and reduce inflammation in lymph nodes. (And besides that, it’s awesome for preventing damage to the skin caused by radiation – see my article on that: How to Protect Your Skin During Radiation Treatment for Breast Cancer ) In addition, a 2023 preliminary study with cells [7] found that calendula extract was able to strongly inhibit the rapid growth of triple negative breast cancer cells.

Echinacea (Echinacea spp) – There are nine species of Echinacea, three of which are commonly used for their therapeutic properties, being Echinacea angustifolia, Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea pallida. Among other properties echinacea is an immune stimulant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and also helps to ease congestion in lymph nodes and the lymphatic system. A 2020 review of herbal studies [4] noted that while it did exhibit some anti-cancer activity in some studies, it also appears to interact with conventional anti-cancer drugs such as anastrazole, tamoxifen, and doxorubicin, so that should be taken into consideration when using echinacea.

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) – A blood cleansing herb, and a diuretic which means it is beneficial when swelling and edema are present. It keeps fluids moving through the lymphatic system and supports elimination of wastes. There has been concern that red clover may be unsafe for those with a history or high risk of estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer, however it has not been demonstrably proven to be unsafe or that it increases incidence of ER+ breast cancer. A 2021 systematic review of 80 articles on this herb [8] revealed that red clover constituents show antioxidant and anti-cancer effects, and “Furthermore, they exude beneficial effects on cardiovascular function and improve symptoms of menopause. Also, these compounds can regulate blood glucose and lipid markers.”

Baptisia (Baptisia tinctoria) – a/k/a Wild Indigo. Stimulates the immune system, improves circulation within the lymphatic system, and its antiseptic properties help to cleanse the lymphatic system. Herbalists use this for treating enlarged and inflamed lymph nodes. Typically this herb is not used on its own but in low doses as a part of a good herbal formula with other herbs.

Chickweed (Stellaria media) – Chickweed has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine in Europe and North America. It is anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, a diuretic (among other things). It is considered a “juicy” herb, aiding in lubrication of the tissues of the body. It supports the lymphatic system, gently clears lymphatic stagnation and assists with swollen glands.

Please note that if you wish to utilize the power of herbal medicine, you should always work with a qualified herbalist or naturopath to ensure that the herbs you wish to take are right for you and do not interfere with any pharmaceutical medications you may be taking.

Food Also Plays a Role in Lymphatic System Health

In addition to herbs, the right food can act as medicine to support the lymphatic system. Hydration is especially important to keep the lymph flowing.

* Drink a minimum of 2 liters of filtered water or coconut water per day
* Drink plenty of green tea because it’s a potent breast cancer fighter and also benefits the lymphatic system with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and it supports immune cells
* Eat a diet rich in whole foods – fresh, locally grown and sourced, and when possible, organic
* Consume healthy fats from foods like coconut and olive oil, flaxseed oil, nuts and seeds, and avocado
* Include warming herbs and spices in your meals, because they have a good effect on circulation and lymphatic flow. Include whenever possible culinary herbs like turmeric, ginger, garlic, cinnamon, rosemary, cardamom, and black pepper
* Avoid foods that cause inflammation and introduce toxins into the body like processed foods, highly processed meats, prepackaged foods, GMO wheat, sugar and alcohol, and any foods to which you are sensitive.

Here Are 10 High Vibe Things You Can Do to Support the Health of Your Lymphatic System:

1. Daily movement – walking, stretching, yoga, bouncing on a mini trampoline/rebounder

2. Drink plenty of filtered lemon water or coconut water, and eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables

3. Make a point to sweat regularly with hot baths, saunas, exercise (avoid heat though if you have lymphedema)

4. Dry brushing – here is my video on how to do that: How To Do Dry Skin Brushing

5. Lymphatic massage – either via the services of a trained and certified Manual Lymph Drainage therapist (the best route if the problem is chronic and edema is present) or if you just want to help lymphatic flow, you can also effect some good changes yourself using the techniques in this video: How To Do Your Own Amazing Lymphatic Drainage Massage 

6. Deep breathing

7. Herbal medicine to support the lymphatic system (described above)

8. Good quality sleep to help clear the build-up of toxins in the brain (the brain has its own lymphatic system called the glymphatic system and meningeal lymphatic vessels) [9]

9. Use a biofrequency device with inbuilt programs for the lymphatic system (message me if you need help with this).

10. Essential oils can also be extraordinarily beneficial for lymphatic health. See my article Good Massage Oil Recipe for Lymphedema

Note: I am a breast cancer coach and a certified herbalist, not a doctor. Posts in this website are for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Before using any herbs, check for appropriate dosage, drug interactions, and contraindications. Information contained herein is not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prescribe. Please consult your primary care physician and/or herbalist and/or naturopath regarding your specific health concerns.

References:
[1] Proapoptotic and Antiangiogenic Activities of Arctium Lappa L. on Breast Cancer Cell Lines – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32509375/
[2] Arctigenin, a lignan from Arctium lappa L., inhibits metastasis of human breast cancer cells through the downregulation of MMP-2/-9 and heparanase in MDA-MB-231 cells – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27878294/
[3] Arctigenin Attenuates Breast Cancer Progression through Decreasing GM-CSF/TSLP/STAT3/ß-Catenin Signaling – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32887217/
[4] Medicinal Herbs Used in Traditional Management of Breast Cancer: Mechanisms of Action – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7460502/
[5] Effects of Galium aparine extract on the cell viability, cell cycle and cell death in breast cancer cell lines – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27085941/
[6] Impact of Phytolacca americana extracts on gene expression of colon cancer cells – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23553997/
[7] Different Extraction Procedures Revealed the Anti-Proliferation Activity from Vegetable Semi-Purified Sources on Breast Cancer Cell Lines – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37371972/
[8] Pharmacological and therapeutic properties of the Red Clover (Trifolium pratense L.): an overview of the new finding – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34392659/
[9] The Lymphatic System In The Brain Clearance Mechanisms – New Therapeutic Perspectives For Alzheimer’s Disease – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10190136/