Lymphatic Medicine in Fall: Why this is the Best time of the year to Support Drainage
As the trees drop their leaves, mother nature reminds us that letting go is a vital part of health and vitality. Just like those spent leaves drifting to the ground, our bodies, too, are ready to release what’s no longer serving us. In other words, fall is the perfect season to focus on lymphatic support and drainage.
Why Lymphatic Health Matters
Your lymphatic system is one of the most overlooked yet essential systems in the body. It’s like your internal river carrying away cellular waste, toxins, and excess fluid, while also playing a key role in immune function. When the lymphatic system is flowing well, you feel energized, clear-headed, and resilient.
But when it’s sluggish or congested, that river starts to stagnate and symptoms often show up in subtle (and not-so-subtle) ways.
Common signs of lymphatic stagnation include:
Puffiness or swelling (especially around the face, under eyes, or ankles)
Chronic fatigue or low energy
Frequent colds or infections
Brain fog or mental sluggishness
Skin issues like acne, eczema, or dull complexion
A feeling of heaviness or “toxic” stagnation in the body
How to Help Your Body “Shed Its Leaves”
Hydrotherapy
Alternating hot and cold water in the shower or with compresses stimulates lymph flow and wakes up your circulation. Brave the ocean for a cold dip or experiment with some blasts of cold water in your shower and see how you feel! I recommend ending on ‘warm’ this time of year!
Bitters
Bitter herbs and foods, like dandelion root, arugula, chicory, and artichoke, stimulate bile flow and digestive function, both essential for lymphatic drainage.
Dry Skin Brushing
A simple morning dry-brushing routine helps mechanically move lymph, exfoliate the skin, and invigorate you to start your day. Brush toward the heart with light, upward strokes.
Rebounding
One of the simplest and most fun ways to get your lymph moving is rebounding. You can gently bounce on the balls of your feet, or on a mini trampoline. The rhythmic motion helps open and close lymphatic valves, encouraging drainage. Just 2-5 minutes a day can do wonders for circulation, mood, and energy.
Movement & Exercise
Unlike your circulatory system, your lymphatic system doesn’t have a pump… it relies on YOU to move. Running, swimming, playing sports, walking, yoga, stretching, dancing, and even deep breathing all help mobilize lymph and keep your internal “river” flowing. Consistent movement, especially in the morning, is one of the best ways to keep your body’s detox pathways open and clear.
Castor Oil Packs
Ricinoleic acid in castor oil is believed to help to move lymph. While no formal conclusive research confirms this yet, many people experience relief from their symptoms by using castor oil packs. Applying a warm castor oil pack over the liver or abdomen enhances circulation, reduces inflammation, and promotes gentle detoxification. Think of it as a cozy ritual that signals your body: it’s time to clear house.
Supplements & Herbal Supports
(Always consult a health care provider before taking any new supplements or herbs for dosage and appropriateness)
Cleavers: A time tested “lymph mover,” known for gently stimulating lymphatic flow and clearing stagnation. Best used as a tea.
Turmeric & Ginger: Anti-inflammatory supports that reduce lymphatic congestion caused by chronic inflammation, and they taste great!
Omega-3s & Magnesium: Support circulation, reduce swelling, and maintain fluid balance within tissues. Look for a high quality fish oil, and magnesium biglysinate.
Supporting lymphatic flow this fall helps your immune system stay strong, your energy steady, and your mood bright through the darker months ahead.
Let go, flow, and make space for what’s next, just like the trees.