Made by god - lymph in you. How is lymph formed? Outflow, movement, cleansing, stagnation, composition and functions of the lymph

About the circulatory system, as the most important system of the human body, almost everyone knows. But about the lymphatic system, no less important for the body, not much is known. It is time to fill this gap in knowledge, and find out: what function the lymphatic system performs in the body, why clean it and what methods of cleaning lymph are most effective.

What is the lymphatic system

The system of movement of the lymph is very similar to the circulatory system, because both the one and the other are involved in metabolic processes. It also has blood vessels and capillaries, but unlike the blood system, it has a number of significant differences. First, the lymphatic system is not closed, it is formed from the extracellular fluid, which is absorbed into the capillaries, then into the large lymphatic vessels and ends with the flow into the bloodstream. Secondly, the system of movement of the lymph does not depend on the heart, which would accelerate it through the body. The movement of this biological fluid is carried out from the bottom up, and this happens due to the contraction of the diaphragm (respiration), contractile activity of the muscles, as well as the pressure difference in the intercellular space and capillaries. But even more interest is the activity of lymph in the body.

Why do I need the lymphatic system

The main function of the lymphatic system is to disinfect and clean the body of external "debris" and poisons accumulated inside. In fact, the system under consideration is the main element of the body’s defense, on which the immune system, and therefore life, depends.

From the foregoing, it can be understood that the lymphatic system is the body's wastewater treatment plant, which saves us from many health problems. However, here we must take into account that proper nutrition, sedentary lifestyle, exposure to a harmful environment and other adverse factors lead to disruption of lymph movement and accumulation of pathogenic microflora in it. In this case, the lymphatic system begins to act against the body, spreading viruses and fungi, bacteria and other pathogens to tissues and organs.

This condition turns into serious diseases, such as: decreased immunity and cellulite, loose skin and psoriasis. Moreover, if the lymph is poorly retracted or stops cleaning the intercellular fluid, the person's limbs become swollen, and the increased load on the heart turns into serious problems that start with varicose veins and hypertension, and end with heart failure.

Ways to cleanse the lymphatic system

Diet for cleansing lymph

The simplest, but at the same time the most effective way  cleansing the lymphatic system is special diet. The products that support the normal operation of this biological fluid include:

• lettuce leaves, leafy greens;
• various fruits and berries (avocados, apples, peppers and cranberries);
• seaweed (spirulina);
• almonds and walnuts;
• linseed oil.

These products contain essential lymph vitamins, trace elements and antioxidants, phytonutrients and fatty acids, which activate lymphatic drainage and facilitate the speedy cleansing of the lymph. In addition, it is necessary to monitor the amount of fluid consumed. Normally, an average person needs to drink 6–8 glasses of pure water per day.

We should also mention herbal teas, as well as drinks based on them, which have a beneficial effect on lymphatic drainage. In this regard, a powerful effect on the flow of lymph differs: red clover and echinacea, Canadian yellow root and calendula, table-picker and indigo root. Well proven in terms of speeding up lymphatic drainage flowers and leaves of mullein. Ideally, these herbs should be used in the complex, brewing the plants, taken in equal proportions, and taking them in a glass of 2-3 p / day.

On the contrary, the products that slag the lymph and contribute to its pollution with toxins include:

• smoked meat and too salty foods;
• refined products;
• bakery and sweets;
• food with artificial additives (preservatives, stabilizers, flavor enhancers and flavors);
• carbonated drinks.

Massage to cleanse the lymph

Today, many salons offer a procedure called lymphatic drainage or lymphatic drainage massage. Indeed, massage is a highly effective way to “revitalize” the lymphatic system; however, it can only be performed by highly qualified specialists and exclusively in medical institutions. This process can not be trusted questionable specialists massage parlors.

The fact is that the lymphatic system is very delicate and fragile. Not knowing all the nuances of this procedure, an unqualified massage therapist can easily damage the lymph nodes, vessels, channels and ducts of the lymphatic system. This massage is performed from the bottom up, only in the direction of the lymph, and the specialist must know exactly where the main lymph channels are and where the lymph nodes are located.

Cleansing the lymphatic system at home

Purification of licorice syrup and Enterosgel

To speed up lymphatic drainage, lymph dilution is necessary. For this purpose, licorice root is ideal, 1 tbsp. which must be diluted in a glass of hot water, and then drink on an empty stomach. This will contribute to the dilution of the lymph, and literally in an hour all the wastes from the body will be collected in the intestine, where the largest number of lymph nodes are concentrated. That is why an hour later, you need to drink 1 tbsp. Enterosgelya, do not forget to wash it down with a glass of water. Enterosgel is perhaps the best enterosorbent that effectively removes toxins and wastes from the body, leaving it with vitamins and minerals. In the absence of at hand this drug, you can use the well-known all activated carbon. The main thing is to abstain from eating within 1.5–2 hours after the procedure. The duration of daily treatment with these drugs is 14 days.

Due to the combined effect of two drugs, a person's immunity is strengthened and allergic manifestations disappear, puffiness is eliminated and pressure is normalized, cough passes and skin is cleansed, psycho-emotional state is normalized and overall health improves. According to reviews, the tool perfectly helps in the fight against sinusitis, quickly clearing the maxillary sinuses.

Walker cleansing

This method of cleansing lymph is suitable for persons suffering from coronary artery disease  heart, chronic thrombophlebitis and osteochondrosis, as well as pain in the joints and congestion of the paranasal sinuses.

A day before the start of treatment, which lasts 3 days, 3 l of spring water is frozen in the freezer. After thawing, the water must be drained, separating the melt water from the sediment. For the preparation of medicines mixed 900 g of grapefruit, 900 g of orange and 200 g of lemon juice, to which then add 2 liters of melt water.

• 1st stage. First you need to clean the intestines, putting a cleansing enema.
• 2nd stage. Accept 100 ml of pure water, with 1 tablespoon diluted in it. Glauber's (laxative) salt. Then within 15 minutes should take a hot shower, steaming the body.
• 3rd stage. Take 200 ml of the finished product, which leads to excessive sweating and the desire to empty the intestines.
• 4th stage. We take a mixture of 100 ml every 30 minutes until the tool is over.

On the second and third day, all stages of treatment are repeated. Transition to normal nutrition  after such a cleaning should be gradual. First, you can drink vegetable juices, eat light cereals and vegetable soups, steamed vegetables, and only then switch to regular food. It is possible to carry out such a cleansing of the lymphatic system no more than once a year. It should only be borne in mind that such procedures are contraindicated for people with diabetes, as well as people who are allergic to citrus fruits.

Peeling onions and garlic

The process of purification by this means is extremely simple: it is enough to take finished product  half a cup twice a day 30 minutes before meals. And so that the medicine does not deteriorate, you need to store it in the refrigerator. It is only important to remember that during the entire course of cleansing the lymph from the diet should be excluded dairy and difficult to digest food. The course of treatment is 4 days, and it should be repeated 2 times a year.

As you can see, the process of cleansing the lymphatic system is quite simple, and the benefits of it for the health of the body and strengthening the immune system is obvious. The main thing to remember that any of the proposed methods of purification should be carried out only after consultation with your doctor.
  Good health to you!

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The information on our website is informative and educational in nature. However, this information is by no means a self-medicinal benefit. Be sure to consult your doctor.

The circulatory system is not the only vascular system in our body. In most organs in the human body, in addition to the blood vessels lymphatic vessels. They contain lymph – clear and almost colorless liquid .

Lymph features

The amount of lymph in the human body is about 2 liters. In her almost no red blood cells, contains much less protein compared to blood plasma. But she contains many lymphocytes.

Lymphocytes – a variety of white blood cells, having the form of a ball, on the surface of which there are many villi similar to tentacles. With their help the lymphocyte studies the surface of other cells and searches for foreign compounds - antigens . It is lymphocytes that protect the body from bacteria and viruses.

After a person has eaten fatty foods, the lymph changes its color to milky white. This is due to the fact that much of the fat is absorbed from the intestines.

Lymphatic system composed  of lymphatic capillaries , lymphatic vessels   and   knots .

From the blood plasma is formed tissue fluid which washes all cells and tissues, giving them nutrients and oxygen. Then a part of the tissue fluid is absorbed into the lymphatic capillaries and forms the lymph.

Lymphatic capillaries begin blindly, sometimes taking the form of club-shaped extensions. Their walls are formed by only one continuous layer of epithelial cells, so tissue fluid easily penetrates into them.

Lymphatic capillaries are present in all organs and tissues of the body, except the brain and spinal cord, cartilage and bone marrow.. They have a larger diameter than blood capillaries, up to 0.2 millimeter. Lymphatic capillaries are interconnected and form lymphatic networks .

From the capillaries the lymph enters in more large lymphatic vessels. The movement of the lymph occurs from the bottom up, from the tips of the fingers and toes.  therefore on the inner walls of the lymphatic vessels are located valves that prevent the backflow of lymph. Thanks to the valves, the blood moves in one direction.  Lymphatic vessels end in humans right lymphatic  and thoracic ducts.

Both ducts pour lymph into the superior vena cava of the great circle of blood circulation near the heart. From 1 to 3 liters of lymph is returned to the blood per day.

In the course of the lymphatic vessels are special education - the lymph nodes. Some of them in the form of rounded seals can be found under the lower jaw. There are many of them also in the armpit and popliteal cavities, in the groin and among the internal organs. In humans, there are more than 460 lymph nodes. Outside they are covered with capsules, from which the partitions extend into the node. Between the septa are clusters of lymphocytes that neutralize microorganisms.. Lymphocyte maturation occurs in the lymph nodes.

Here the lymphatic vessels break down into numerous narrow ducts in which lymph cleansing, dead cells and bacteria are filtered out. So the lymph nodes play filter role. They enter the human immune system because lymphocytes are formed in them.

If many bacteria linger in the lymph nodes, they grow in size, become inflamed and become painful.

The cause of inflammation of the lymph nodes can be infectious and bacterial diseases.

Movement of the lymph through the vessels. Lymph flow occurs due to contractions of the muscular wall of the lymphatic vessels, compression of the lymphatic vessels by the contracting muscles and pulsation. blood vessels. The lymph moves slowly through the vessels, since there is no pump in the lymphatic system that is similar to the heart.

Lymphatic system. She is provides communication between organs and tissuesIt transports many substances that are absorbed in the digestive organs, such as fats. The lymphatic system complements the work of the circulatory system and provides the return of proteins, fats, water and minerals from the tissue fluid to the blood. Provides outflow of fluid from organs. Lymphocytes in the lymphocytes perform a protective function, ensuring the constancy of the internal environment of the body.

The result of the lesson.  The lymphatic system begins blindly closed lymphatic capillaries, into which the tissue fluid enters and forms the lymph. Next, from the capillaries, the lymph enters the lymphatic vessels, along which the lymph nodes are located. They are cleansing lymph.

Lymphatic system

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels penetrating organs and tissues containing a colorless liquid - lymph.

Only the structure of the brain, the epithelial lining of the skin and mucous membranes, cartilage, the parenchyma of the spleen, eyeball  and the placenta does not contain lymphatic vessels.

The lymphatic system, being a part of the vascular system, carries out along with the veins the drainage of tissues through the formation of lymph, and also performs specific functions for it: barrier, lymphocytopoietic, immune.

Lymphocytopoietic function of the lymphatic system is provided by the activity of the lymph nodes. They are the production of lymphocytes, which enter the lymphatic and bloodstream. In the peripheral lymph that forms in the capillaries and flows through the lymphatic vessels before they enter the lymph nodes, the number of lymphocytes is less than in the lymph flowing from the lymph nodes.

The immune function of the lymphatic system lies in the fact that plasma cells are formed in the lymph nodes, producing antibodies, B-and T-lymphocytes, responsible for humoral and cellular immunity.

The barrier function of the lymphatic system is also carried out by the lymph nodes, in which foreign particles, microbes, tumor cells coming in from the lymph are retained, and then absorbed by phagocytic cells.

The blood flowing in the blood capillaries has no direct contact with body tissues: tissues are washed by the lymph.

Coming out of the blood capillaries, the lymph moves in the interstitial crevices, from where it passes into the thin-walled capillary lymphatic vessels, which merge and form larger trunks. In the end, the entire lymph through two lymph trunks flows into the veins near their confluence with the heart. The number of lymphatic vessels in the body is many times greater than the number of blood vessels.

Unlike the blood that moves freely through the vessels, the lymph flows through special accumulations of connective (lymphatic) tissue, the so-called lymph nodes (Fig. 4).

The lymph flow through the lymphatic vessels is determined by numerous factors: a) the constant pressure of the lymph that forms; b) contraction of the walls of the lymphangions; c) pulsation of blood vessels; d) the movement of various segments of the body and limbs; e) reduction of smooth muscles in the walls of organs; e) the suction effect of the chest cavity, etc.

Fig. four.  Direction of lymph flow to lymph nodes

The lymphatic vessels under the influence of the nervous system are capable of active contractile function, i.e., the size of their lumen can be changed or the lumen is completely closed (off from the lymphatic drainage). The tone of the muscular layer of the lymphatic vessels, as well as the activity of the blood vessels, is regulated by the central nervous system.

Lymph nodes are organs of lymphocytopoiesis and the formation of antibodies located along the lymphatic vessels and constitute together with them the lymphatic system. Lymph nodes are located in groups.

Of the numerous lymph nodes head and neck  note the superficial lymph nodes located on the back of the head (occipital nodes); submandibular lymph nodes under the lower jaw and cervical lymph nodes along the lateral surfaces of the neck. Through these nodes are the lymphatic vessels, originating from the cracks in the tissues of the head and neck.

AT intestinal mesentery  dense accumulations of mesenteric lymph nodes are located; through them pass all the lymphatic vessels of the intestine, originating in the intestinal villi.

From lymphatic vessels lower limbs It should be noted superficial inguinal lymph nodes located in the inguinal region, and femoral lymph nodes located slightly below the inguinal nodes on the front inner thighs, and popliteal lymph nodes.

Lymph nodes chest  and upper extremities, it is necessary to pay attention to the axillary lymph nodes, which are located rather superficially in the axillary region, and the elbow lymph nodes, located in the cubital fossae, near the internal biceps tendon. Through all these nodes are lymphatic vessels, originating in the crevices and tissues of the upper extremities, chest and upper back.

The movement of lymph through tissues and vessels is extremely slow. Even in large lymphatic vessels, the rate of lymphatic current barely reaches 4 mm per second.

Lymphatic vessels merge into several large vessels - the vessels of the lower extremities and the lower part of the body form two lumbar trunk, and the lymphatic vessels of the intestine form the intestinal trunk. The merging of these trunks forms the largest lymphatic vessel of the body - the left, or thoracic, duct, into which the trunk collects the lymph from the left upper half of the body.

The lymph from the right half of the upper body is collected in another large vessel - the right lymphatic duct. Each of the ducts flows into the general blood flow at the junction of the jugular and subclavian veins.

Inside the lymphatic vessels, as well as the veins, there are valves that facilitate the movement of lymph.

The acceleration of lymph flow during muscular work is a consequence of an increase in the area of ​​capillary filtration, filtration pressure and the volume of interstitial fluid. Under these conditions, the lymphatic system, by diverting the excess capillary filtrate, is directly involved in the normalization of hydrostatic pressure in the interstitial space. The increase in the transport function of the lymphatic system is simultaneously accompanied by stimulation and resorption function. The resorption of fluid and plasma proteins from the intercellular space to the roots of the lymphatic system increases. The movement of fluid in the direction of the blood - interstitial fluid - lymph occurs due to changes in hemodynamics and increased transport function (ability) of the lymphatic bed. Removing excess fluid from the tissues, redistributing it within the extracellular space, the lymphatic system creates conditions for the normal transcapillary exchange and weakens the effect of a rapid increase in the volume of interstitial fluid on the cells, acting as a kind of damper. The ability of the lymphatic channel to both remove and partially deposit liquid and proteins leaving the blood capillaries is an important mechanism for its participation in the regulation of plasma volume under physical exertion.

Changes in the neurohumoral support of muscle activity and lymphatic circulation processes, changes in the functional state of the organs, motor activity of skeletal muscles, and parameters of external respiration are among the central mechanisms that play a large role in lymphatic phase changes during dosed muscular work.

Currently, there is a real possibility of active influence on the functional state of the lymphatic system (Yu. E. Mikusev). Physical lymphostimulants include:

Local irritants (compresses, mustard plasters, cans);

Remedies physical therapy;

Eastern reflex therapy methods;

Electromagnetic fields;

Hyperbaric oxygenation.

Methods of stimulation of lymph formation and lymph circulation:

1. Lymph-stimulating substances. Substances that have an effect on hemodynamics:

A. Increases the hydrodynamic pressure of the blood and reduces the osmolarity of the plasma (creating a water load).

B. By virtue of their molarity, the flow of fluid into the vascular system and thereby an increase in the hydrodynamic pressure of the blood.

C. Influencing the rheological properties of blood and lymph.

2. Means affecting the system of microlemphohemocirculation:

A. Altering the permeability of cell membranes.

B. Influencing receptor structures of the microvascular bed (? - mimetics,? -Adrenoblockers).

3. Drugs that affect the central and intermediate regulation of general and local hemodynamics (vasomotor center and heart).

4. Substances that affect the mechanisms that produce lymph movement or contribute to it.

Biological methods of lymphostimulation:

Intravenous drip infusion of autologous blood;

Intravenous drip infusion central autolymph;

Application of a class of bio-organic compounds that perform the role of neurotransmitters.

On the upper limb  lymphatic vessels begin on the back and palm surfaces of the fingers transversely lying trunks. The latter, reaching the side surfaces of the fingers, gather in larger trunks, rising vertically to the palm (Fig. 5).

Fig. five.  The location of the lymphatic network on the upper limbs

This arrangement of the lymphatic pathways determines the method of stroking and rubbing the fingers. Massage techniques should be carried out as follows:

Under the influence of massage, there is an acceleration of movement of all body fluids, especially blood and lymph, and this happens not only in the massaged part of the body, but also in distant veins and arteries. For example, foot massage can cause redness. skin integument  heads.

The masseur needs to get acquainted in detail with the location of the network of lymphatic pathways and with the directions in which the massage should be performed.

On the palm and back surfaces - in the transverse direction;

On the side surface - straight up.

Next, the vessels of the back surface of the hand go mainly along the interosseous gaps and rise to the forearm, and the vessels of the palm are directed radially from the center of the palm to the elevations of the thumb and little finger. From the palm of the vessels pass to the forearm and shoulder almost vertically and reach the axillary nodes. From the back of the hand, the lymphatic vessels, bending around the shoulder, are also sent to these nodes; at the same time part of them goes around the shoulder in front, and the other part - behind. In the end, all the vessels of the upper limb pass through one of the axillary nodes and some of them also through the ulnar nodes.

Consequently, when massaging the forearm, the hand of the masseur should move in the direction of the nodes located in the elbow, and in the massage of the shoulder, in the direction of the nodes located in the armpit, and the nodes lying above the inner condyle.

On the lower limb  collecting from the back and plantar sides of the foot, the lymphatic vessels rise on both sides of the ankles; while in the inner side of the thigh and lower leg, the vessels go straight up to the inguinal nodes; vessels running along the front and outer surfaces of the extremities reach the inguinal fold, bending around the thigh in front; the vessels going along the back and the inner surface, bending around the thigh behind, also reach the same group of inguinal nodes. Part of the lymphatic vessels passes through two or three nodes located in the popliteal fossa (Fig. 6)

Fig. 6  The location of the lymphatic network on the lower limbs

In connection with the specified location of the lymphatic paths, the hand of a massage therapist during massages on the muscles of the lower leg is sent to the nodes located in the popliteal fossa, and on the muscles of the thigh to the nodes lying under the pupartic ligament.

Two large groups of axillary and inguinal nodes play the role of centers, not only all the lymphatic vessels of the extremities fall into them, but also the vessels of the common integument of the body.

So on lumbar spine level  there is a kind of lymph node: the lymph of the integument of the upper body and the whole lymph of the upper extremities passes through the axillary nodes, and the lymph of the lower extremities and the integument below the lumbar line through the inguinal nodes (Fig. 7)

Fig. 7  Lymphatic network at: but)  front surface of the body; b)  back surface of the body and the direction of massage movements

Consequently, the direction of movement of the hands of the massage therapist during a massage of the muscles of the chest, upper and middle parts of the back - to the axillary nodes of the corresponding side. When massaging the muscles of the lumbar-sacral area, the arms move towards the inguinal nodes.

On the neck, the lymphatic vessels lie above the sternocleidomastoid muscle and deep beneath it. They form a plexus that accompanies the carotid artery and the jugular vein and forms one common trunk near the lower end of this vein, which flows into the upper end of the thoracic duct.

During the massage of the head and neck, the movements of the masseur's arm are directed downwards (Fig. 8).

Fig. eight.  Lymphatic network: but)  side and back surfaces of the head and neck; b)  facial area and scalp

1. All movements during various massage techniques are performed along the lymphatic current in the direction of the nearest lymph nodes.

2. The upper limbs are massaged towards the elbow and axillary nodes; lower - towards the popliteal and inguinal; chest massaged from the sternum to the side, to the armpits; back - from the spinal column to the sides: to the armpits during the massage of the upper and middle regions of the back, to the inguinal - during the massage of the lumbosacral region; neck muscles are massaged in the direction of the masseur's hands, down to the subclavian nodes.

3. Massage of the lymph nodes do not produce.