Why Lymphatic Drainage is so Important and how to do Castor Oil Packs*
The proper functioning of the lymphatic system is critical to our body's ability to drain fluids, detoxify, regenerate tissues, filter out toxins and foreign substances, and maintain a healthy immune system and a poorly functioning lymphatic system can affect every part of the body. Here I want to detail how I do Castor Oil Packs.
The Importance of a Well-Functioning Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system is made up of organs, ducts, nodes and vessels and is considered a vital part of the circulatory system. The clear fluid called lymph is made up of white blood cells including lymphocytes which help the body’s immune system defend against harmful bacteria and cells. Lymph nodes which are found in the neck, abdomen, groin and armpit manufacture the cells that allow the body to remove cancer and fight off infections. (source)
I went to a detox retreat over two years ago and booked myself in for a lymphatic drainage massage treatment and my therapist advised me that it was an area I needed to be mindful of. I bloat easily, am very sensitive to changes in my diet and lifestyle but I’ve accepted it and since then I have made quite a few changes to my lifestyle that help all that as well as my lymph and wanted to share them here:
A WHOLE FOOD PLANT BASED DIET
I transitioned to a vegan diet and then lifestyle over nine years ago. As I increased my intake of plants and ate in a way my body started to love I felt better and better.
I have trained all around the world and now teach and share how delicious this way of life can be. To join my vegan cooking club with monthly recipes and videos, as well as access to all previous classes and my juicing course, see >Here<
REBOUNDING & HOME SAUNA
Rebounding is one of the easiest ways to pump the lymph. Rebounding is the practice of jumping on a trampoline for ten to thirty minutes.
I typically only do about 5 minutes at a time but I do it regularly. This passively moves the lymph while stimulating the circulation of blood throughout the body. Numerous studies have proven its efficacy, and have even shown it to improve muscle tone. I also love my Higher Dose Sauna Blanket. Using this a few times a month at home is both relaxing and I really feel the benefits in increased circulation afterwards.
INCREASE YOUR WATER
Lymph is about 95% water, making water essential for its health. Without adequate water, lymphatic fluid cannot flow properly. And one of the most common causes of lymph congestion is dehydration. Water, and only water, can adequately rehydrate the body, but if you want to expedite the process, add lemon to your water. Lemon is an alkaline fruit that helps to mineralize the body and lymph.
If you’re going to be sipping on warm lemon water throughout the day remember to use a straw as this protects your teeth’s enamel from the lemon.
DRY BRUSHING
To do dry skin brushing you simply take a dry brush with coarse bristle and brush the skin towards the heart. This stimulates the sweat glands, opens pores, and gets rid of dead skin cells.
It also encourages the movement of lymph and blood in underlying organs and tissues of the body, which helps clear built-up toxins. As a result, it can be beneficial in improving skin conditions and reducing cellulite. I do it before getting in the shower and I always finish off my showers with a cold blast.
Castor oil has been used to assist in healing the body throughout the world. It was used therapeutically in ancient India, China, Persia, Egypt, Africa, Greece, Rome, the Americas and in 17th century Europe.
By using castor oil packs, the flow of lymph is increased throughout the body. This helps to speed the removal of toxins surrounding the cells and to reduce the size of swollen lymph nodes. The effectiveness of castor oil may be due in part to its unusual chemical composition. Castor oil is a triglyceride of fatty acids. Almost 90% of its fatty acid content consists of ricinoleic acid. Research has shown ricinoleic acid to be effective in preventing the growth of numerous species of viruses, bacteria, yeasts, and molds. Due to the many beneficial aspects of this fatty acid component, castor oil can be applied topically to treat a wide variety of health complaints. It also works amazingly as an eyebrow serum to encourage growth.
A lot of the castor oil sold on the market today is from castor seeds that have been heavily sprayed with pesticides which can damage the beneficial phytonutrients and can contaminate the oil with toxins. I recommend purchasing organic castor oil and love the Pukka one as it’s organic and cold pressed.
Method
Pour about a tablespoon of castor oil onto your tummy. I like to take a few minutes to massage it in.
Place a flannel cloth over the oiled area. I use an old face cloth or you can cut up a towel into sections.
Cover flannel cloth with plastic - you can use cling film but I use reusable wrap.
Place heating pad or hot water bottle over plastic and set on low heat for 30-60mins.
Rest while the pack is in place. I find this deeply relaxing and often fall asleep. It’s an ideal time to meditate if you do but always set an alarm and be mindful of the heating pack.
When you are done gently cleanse the area with water.
The same piece of towel can be reused 3-4 times.
Take it very easy for the rest of the evening and eat very lightly, if at all. I typically have a herbal tea like the Pukka Relax or Mint tea.
It is advised not to do castor oil packs during pregnancy or when you have your period.
I don’t have a set routine as to when I do castor oil packs but whenever I do them I always make a mental note to be more consistent as from the very next day I generally feel so much better and as if an internal stagnation has moved.
EPSOM SALT BATHS
A bath is healing and warming. Epsom salt contains magnesium and may help the body get rid of toxins responsible for exacerbating inflammation while also reducing swelling, stiffness, and pain. I love adding them into a bath after dry skin brushing. It feels really tingly on your skin but I love it. An Epsom salt detox bath stimulates your lymph system and encourages increased oxygen and blood flow to your body. I always have a quick rinse off in cool water before getting straight into bed.
All of these are simple cost effective solutions that I find make a huge difference to how I feel overall. Working with a sensitive digestion and sluggish lymph, rather than fighting against it, has made a huge difference to my overall energy and how I feel and I really hope you find these tips useful!
*Thank you to Pukka for collaborating with me on this piece. For stockist information see pukkaherbs.com
