Lymphatic diseases
Lymphatic diseases range from mild congestion to malignant lymphoma. The most common disorder is lymphatic insufficiency, or lymph edema, which is a swelling that occurs when damaged lymph vessels can't drain fluid. The lymphatic system is important because it picks up fluid that is lost from the circulatory system and returns it. It is the first line of defense against disease and infection and it absorbs fats from food in the gastrointestinal tract.
Symptoms
Symptoms of lymphatic diseases may include swelling, especially of the feet and legs or arms. Enlarged lymph nodes, inflammation, breakdown of skin tissue and trauma may be noticed. The lymph system may be involved with ear infections, chest, breast and other infections as well. Fatigue, localized fluid retention, skin discoloration and sometimes deformity may occur. In lymphoma, anemia, upset stomach and a change in bowel movements may also be noted. Some things that may indicate you need to care for your lymph system include being overweight, bloating, abdominal pressure, have cellulite, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, lupus or multiple sclerosis.
Causes
Some lymph disorders are hereditary, and some are due to injury. They can also be caused by some medications like Tamoxifen, or by surgery, parasitic infections and cancer.
Cautions
Severe cases of lymphatic diseases like elephantiasis may eventually lead to deformity or venous insufficiency.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
- Pokeroot take the tincture for acute lymphatic congestion and infection in a dose of 20 drops daily.
- Cleavers this herb is a lymphatic cleanser and helps to rid the lymph system of toxins. Use as a tea or tincture.
- Calendula used to treat inflamed or congested lymph glands. Drink an infusion of 4 grams dried flower heads in 1 cup boiling water, steeped for 5 minutes 3 times a day.
- Echinacea this herb stimulates the immune system and can help when the lymph system is overloaded. Take this herb as a tincture, capsule or tablet.
- Figwort this cleanser of the lymph system helps heal problems by removing toxins. Take the tea daily.
- Red root this herb cleanses the lymph glands and nodes to remove waste that may be accumulating. Take as a tincture.
- Yellow dock - acts as a blood cleaner and recommended for treating chronic enlargement of the lymph glands.
- Dandelion this herb is a natural diuretic, which helps if you're retaining fluid. Take as a tea or supplement.
- Corn silk this is another herbal diuretic that helps the body release excess fluid. It supports the lymph system. Other herbal diuretics that can perform in a similar fashion include goldenrod and juniper.
- Butcher's broom this herb is beneficial for lymphatic diseases and venous problems. Take 300 to 450 mg per day of the plant extract along with vitamin C and hesperidin.
- Horsetail this diuretic can help reduce mild cases of edema.
- Black walnut a traditional remedy for lymphatic problems, this herb also has antiviral properties and may be antibacterial and antifungal as well. Do not use during pregnancy.
- Horse chestnut this herb strengthens the tissues of the lymph vessels and nodes. Strengthening these tissues can prevent excessive leaking of lymph fluid and edema. Take horse chestnut extract as directed on the label for the best results.
- Gotu Kola - take internally to treat lymph disorders.
- Bilberry - prescribed by medical herbalist to strengthen capillaries and treat lymphatic diseases.
External Applications
- Pokeroot a lotion made from this herb can be applied topically to lymphatic swelling. Make the lotion by diluting the tincture or dried powder into some water.