What’s the Lymphatic System Up To?

by Susan Staley

The lymphatic system of the human body is often overlooked, even in some human biology classes. It is a “quiet” part of the body’s circulation, and sometimes the efforts of this system are totally unseen when it comes to immune health, general vitality, and cellular health. 
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Just as the cardiovascular system has capillaries that reach into the interstitial spaces between cells, so does the lymphatic system have lymphatic capillaries. Along the lymphatic vessels there are collections of lymph nodes that monitor lymphatic fluid for pathogens- these nodes identify and signal out to other aspects of the immune system for extra support as needed. Lymph nodes swell when they encounter a pathogen or infection that cannot be addressed on-site. This is why, at the first sign of illness, we may find swollen lymph nodes in the neck, armpit, and groin.

At certain crucial “check points” in the body we have these incredible lymphatic tissues called MALT (Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue). MALT are different from lymphatic vessels, and they serve as a kind of “alert” to the rest of the body when they encounter a questionable something from the “outside”. Some of these tissues located at the entrance to your throat, the tonsils, are perhaps the best known MALT tissue of all.

The only way to “move” your lymphatic system, which is very important to your wellness, is by actually moving your body. The lymphatic system doesn’t have a central pump like the cardiovascular system does (ie. the heart). Herbs support the lymphatic system, but they don’t “move it” per say. Below are a list of ways to support your lymphatic system:

• Physical movement: walking, dancing, jogging, laughing, pilates, etc.

• Herbs: lymphatics, alternatives, circulatory tonics, adaptogens, and immune tonics/stimulants.

• (Lymphatic) massage

• Dry brushing

• Hydrotherapy

You can learn more about the lymphatic system and ways to support this integral part of the body Thursday November 19th from 5:30-6:30pm for Demystifying the Lymph with Susan Staley. More info and sign up here https://www.railyardapothecary.com/store/p230/Demystifying_the_Lymph.html

Susan Staley is a clinical and community herbalist and staff member with Railyard Apothecary. She deeply values those herbs and plants commonly available in most grocery stores, and the where the edge blurs between food and medicine. She works with individuals with a variety of health goals including immune, digestive, and mood support. You can schedule a conversation with her or other members of Burlington Herb Clinic here.

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