The Lymphatic System: Often Neglected and Misunderstood

The lymphatic system is often talked about, but its complex role in the human body is rarely understood. Without the lymphatic system neither the body, nor life could be sustained.  The lymphatic system works in close cooperation with other body systems, most importantly the immune system.

What is the Lymphatic System?

It’s an extensive and interconnected system of vessels and nodes which circulate Lymph throughout the body. Lymph is derived from blood plasma, except it has a consistency more like water and is able to seep through capillary walls into spaces within body tissue.  As blood is circulated through the body, lymph leaks out and penetrates tissues, taking harmful substances with it through the lymph nodes where the toxins are filtered before they are released back into the system. The lymphatic system is considered a defense mechanism that aids the immune system in eliminating pathogens and waste.

How Does the Lymphatic System Work?

We all know the pump of the circulatory system is the heart. Blood is pumped by the heart throughout the body and cleansed by the kidneys. However, the lymphatic system does not have a heart muscle to aid in its flow, so instead the system relies on skeletal muscle contractions to move lymph upward through the 600-700 nodes in the human body for filtration. This means exercise is an important factor in lymphatic health and immune strength. Body wraps use gentle compression and increased circulation to stimulate the body’s own natural lymph elimination functions.

What are the primary functions of the Lymphatic System?

• Filters disease causing organisms
• Sweeps toxins, bacteria, virus and germs from cells and tissues
• Delivers nutrients, oxygen and hormones to tissues of the body
• Generates antibodies
• Provides a way for cells to eliminate waste

How Do I Know if I Have a Sluggish Lymphatic System?

Those experiencing Fibromyalgia or chronic inflammation should consider a toxic, sluggish lymphatic system the culprit of water retention, muscle soreness and generalized inflammation. Other indications of lymphatic break down include chronic fatigue, allergies, swollen glands, cellulite, high blood pressure, headaches, excessive sweating, obesity, low back pain and more. Try to get 100% nutrition, supplement nutrients if needed, exercise, and schedule a body wrap to get your lymphatic system moving!

(Written by Kimmie Matsunaga of the M'Lis Company)