We know just how important our lymphatic system is to keeping our body functioning optimally, and we’ve learned a few techniques to get that lymph a-flowin’. In addition to movement and dry brushing, consuming certain herbs can be a nice way to boost lymphatic flow as well.
Medicinal herbs can be used in a variety of ways:
*Ingesting through teas
*Ingesting through tinctures (either alcohol- or glycerin-based)
*Ingesting by eating the herb (not all herbs should be eaten as some are deadly!)
*Ingesting by swallowing a capsule
*Applied topically (aka on the skin) through a liniment (usually soaking a cloth with a medicinal tincture or infused oil, placing it on a body part, and letting it hang out there for a while)
*Applied topically through a salve or balm (usually blended with beeswax and various different herbal-infused oil options)
Most herbs have a few main healing properties but can also help the physical and energetic bodies in other side areas. It’s kind of like when you go grocery shopping (with food being the main focus) but you can also buy a stuffed animal while you’re in the store. There are many herbs that help with the lymphatic system and also do additional good things to other body parts or systems.
For example, take Red Clover. This plant is great to help move some lymph, and it’s also fantastic when it comes to menstrual and menopausal symptoms. And, along those lines, it’s also *not* great for women who are pregnant or lactating.
Calendula is another herb that helps promote lymph flow. It is also amazing for skin conditions such as rashes and eczema and even helps with bug bites. Its additional qualities include aiding with GI inflammation, boosting the immune system, as well as giving some love to the liver and gallbladder. Just like Red Clover, Calendula *shouldn’t* be used if you’re pregnant or lactating.
Another very common herb, Echinacea is an incredible way to support your lymphatic system. You’ve likely seen it used in cold and flu remedies because it’s also a powerhouse when it comes to boosting your immune system. One thing to keep in mind when working with this herb, however, is to avoid using it if you have an autoimmune disease, as it will kick your immune response into high gear due to its strong immunomodulatory properties – something those of us with autoimmune issues are better off staying away from.
Wrapping up a few of the main herbal allies for the lymphatic system is Ocotillo. This incredible plant, found in the desert Southwest of the U.S., is slightly alarming when you come across it in person. Tall and super pokey, its thorns will do some serious damage to your skin if you get too close. But don’t let its sharp outside fool you. Ocotillo has an affinity for the emotional heart, such as someone suffering from heartbreak, as well as the pelvic region (think hemorrhoids, liver, and gallbladder).
Feeling drawn to begin working with plant medicine? Great! Before creating your own concoctions, consider buying some pre-made lymphatic support goodness from a trusted source such as Desert Tortoise Botanicals. I’ve known John Slattery, the owner of DTB, for several years, and I can attest to his credibility and wisdom. https://www.desertortoisebotanicals.com/ If you’re interested in trying some pre-made teas, check out the selection from Mountain Rose Herbs. I’ve ordered from this company for almost 10 years, and they have some really great products available. https://mountainroseherbs.com/catalog/teas/herbal
It’s worth mentioning that not all herbs work the same way in every body, and some can be contraindicated with meditations. Be sure to consult with your doctor before sipping medicinal teas or ingesting tinctures (or any capsules or applying any topicals) to make sure they’re safe and appropriate for your body’s unique needs.