Today we will talk about beauty again, but instead of testing new face creams and masks, we will turn our attention deep into the body, namely, we will study the lymphatic system, lymphatic drainage and their impact on beauty and health in general.
The skin is of great importance for us, and not only because it is well-groomed and beautiful, it makes us beautiful. The skin performs many different functions - protection from harmful external influences, maintains the temperature of internal organs, softens the harmful effects of sunlight on the body as a whole, toxic waste products of the body are constantly released through the skin. In other words, the skin is an intermediary between the body and the external environment.
The respiratory and excretory functions of the skin are vital to health. If the normal functioning of the skin stops, poisoning of the body can occur. Skin disease always affects the health of the body, in the same way, a disease of any organ affects the condition of the skin. By acting on the skin with various medical means, it is possible to influence the entire body, for example, hydrotherapy, massage, etc.
And so, everything in our body is interconnected. When we talk about skin care, we always start with cleansing, then moisturizing, and so on. But most importantly, if the body is not cleansed from the inside, then all efforts with skin rejuvenation will be in vain. So let's think about health first. What we are going to talk about now will tell us what efforts and where each of us needs to make in order to combine beauty and health. 
Today we will talk about such an important system that plays a special role in the human body, this is the lymphatic system. In order for you to seriously think about how important it is for the skin and the whole organism as a whole, you will have to delve a little deeper into the structure of your body. Perhaps then many of us will understand what prevents our skin from having a beautiful color, being elastic, elastic and velvety.
The lymphatic system is part of the vascular system in the human body. The lymph circulating in the body moves slowly under slight pressure, since the lymphatic system does not have an organ that acts as a pump, which the heart does in the circulatory system. The speed of its movement is 0.3 mm/s. Lymph moves in one direction - towards the large veins.
It plays an important role in the metabolism and cleansing of the cells and tissues of the body. Thus, we already see where the cleansing of the body begins, and in particular the skin, which we take care of in the first place.
The lymphatic system includes:
Lymphatic vessels and capillaries
The lymph nodes
Lymph trunks and ducts
Tonsils, thymus, or thymus.
How is lymph formed and in general, what kind of structure is it?
Even the ancient Greek doctors discovered that in addition to the red liquid, there is also a transparent liquid in the human body, which they called lymph, which means “clean water, moisture” in Greek.
As a result of contraction of the heart, the liquid part of the blood penetrates the walls of blood vessels, tissue fluid is formed. Part of the tissue fluid returns to the blood again. Since the heart works, and blood constantly flows through the vessels, the difference in fluid pressure outside the vessels and inside always exists.
It looks like a perpetual motion machine that works while the heart lives... But part of the tissue fluid, washing the cells, enters the lymphatic capillaries that penetrate the tissues of the whole body, so lymph is formed. Tissue fluid nourishes the cells, removes their waste and moisturizes the body.
The fluid that enters the lymphatic system is already called lymph. The smallest lymphatic capillaries merge into lymphatic vessels, which have thin walls and valves that prevent the outflow of lymph. Lymph moves in one direction along the lymphatic vessels, along which there are also lymph nodes.
Lymph nodes, these soft and small internal structures, produce immune cells. It is the nodes that act as filters in which microbes are neutralized. When there is a threat to our body from an infection, and various bacteria enter the lymph, the lymph nodes increase the production of protective cells that are actively involved in the destruction of microbes and foreign substances.
From the lymph nodes, filtered lymph through the lymphatic vessels enters the veins, that is, it returns to the blood. The largest lymph nodes you can feel yourself, they are in the cervical regions. Large nodes are also found in the axillary, popliteal and inguinal regions. When you get a sore throat, there is an increase in the lymph nodes - the tonsils, because it is here that the battle between microbes and the protective substances of the body takes place.
The lymphatic system contributes to the redistribution of fluid in the tissues of the body, since its capillaries drain all tissue intercellular spaces. From here we see that the lymphatic system not only cleanses our body, but also moisturizes it. And we hope to achieve skin hydration only with the help of moisturizing creams, when all this directly depends on the lymphatic system.
If everything is in order in our body, there are no failures, tissue fluid does not accumulate in excess in the tissues, since the lymphatic system moves it through the lymphatic vessels and returns it to the blood. Otherwise, fluid accumulates in the intercellular space, and edema occurs.
For example, in cellulite, the accumulation of fluid in the tissues is often associated with the presence of toxins in the body. Thus, the lymphatic system cleanses and moisturizes all tissues of the body, and also transports nutrients.
Beauty machine for lymphatic drainage
If, after reading, you understood everything, then you will be able to answer the question why is it so important for our body, at least morning exercises? The answer is simple. After all, the lymph moves very slowly. But if there is no “pump” in the lymphatic system, then how does it move, no matter how due to muscle contraction, which pushes the lymph further along its difficult life path.
Lymphatic capillaries and vessels penetrate the muscle tissue, the muscles contract - the lymph is pushed through, but there is no way for it to go back, the valves in the lymphatic vessels do not pass. But if the muscle around the vessel does not work, then where does the movement of the lymph come from? Now you understand what movement means and, in general, physical activity.
Stagnation and damage to the lymph from the fact that the muscles are lazy, because we are too lazy to do exercises, leads to sad consequences. Physical exercise significantly speeds up the movement of lymph. And this, in turn, improves the condition of tissues with edema and stagnation.
A sedentary lifestyle combined with a heavy meal leads to an overload of the lymphatic system, and often for this reason, various diseases and immunity disorders occur.
From all that has been said, we see that the lymphatic system
Redistributes fluid in the body;
Protects the body from infections and diseases by removing and destroying various bacteria in the lymph nodes; human immunity depends on it;
Removes foreign substances and waste products;
Transfers nutrients from tissue spaces to the blood.
Now imagine that the lymph nodes are clogged, what will happen then, because they are the body's filter? Then, let's say, dirty lymph cannot pass through the lymph node, and the body throws it out, onto the skin. What will you see on your skin? - There will be dermatitis, furunculosis, acne, acne, diathesis, psoriasis ... Probably enough to list.
When we catch a cold, we get a runny nose and stuffy nose. Since the body is fighting microbes, and lymph is directly involved in this, before it enters the blood, it must be cleansed of toxins. The lymph gets rid of this rubbish through the mucous membranes and skin. Therefore, you should not use vasoconstrictor drops for a long time during a runny nose, we interfere with the work of the lymphatic system.
The second example, when we deliberately disrupt the work of the lymph nodes, is a sweat deodorant. Sweat is the release of not just moisture from the body, but also toxins. If you constantly use deodorant that blocks sweat, you are harming your body by leaving harmful substances in tissues in certain areas, such as underarms. In this zone, the mammary glands are very close. And then you should understand a lot.
And what will help the work of the lymphatic system, except for charging?
In Russia, treatment with a steam bath with a broom, tea with currant leaves or raspberries has long been used. The use of the bath should be consulted with a doctor.
Breathing techniques can also stimulate lymph flow, improving your health.
The movement of the lymph is also helped by massage, which increases the outflow of tissue fluid. However, the massage should be in the form of light and gentle circular strokes and kneading. In addition, you need to know for sure that massage is not contraindicated for you.
The main reason for contraindications may be malignant neoplasms (cancer). After all, massage movements make the lymph move, and with it the malignant cells, which contributes to the formation of metastases. And in general, any procedures that affect the lymphatic system are unacceptable for cancer.
How does massage affect the lymphatic system?
Accelerates the movement of lymph in the lymphatic vessels. Massage movements should occur in the direction of the outflow of lymph to the nearest lymph nodes. Pressure on muscle tissue facilitates the penetration of tissue fluid through the walls of blood vessels, and this prevents or reduces swelling.
Harmful substances that easily pass through the walls of the lymphatic vessels are removed from the body faster. Massage movements - stroking, pressing and squeezing should be gentle. With swelling of the legs, the outflow of fluid will help if they are raised, since in this case the movement of fluid and lymph will be helped by gravity.
A professional massage therapist can make a lymphatic massage with benefit, and not harm. You can do it yourself at home, but for this you need to get instructions on the basic techniques from a specialist. Thanks to massage, the volume of lymph flow can be increased by 20 times, which means an increase in the ability of the lymphatic system to remove toxins and harmful bacteria, and strengthen the immune system.
Lymphatic drainage massage is useful not only for problems with the lymphatic system, but also when you have a cold or just want to relieve fatigue. All touches should be gentle and soft.
Massage with essential oils such as geranium, rosemary and juniper, grapefruit, Atlas cedar and lemon oils is effective to activate the movement of the lymph and reduce swelling. And also essential oils of anise, orange, basil, cloves, oregano, ginger, hyssop, cypress, coriander, lavender, lemongrass, carrot, nayoli are used.
Carrier oils can be wheat germ oil, almond oil, avocado, peach oil, jojoba, macadamia oil, safflower oil.
Lymphatic drainage of the face and body at home
At home, you can use a bath with a lymphatic drainage mixture, which includes:
geranium -3 drops
lemongrass - 3 drops
hyssop - 2 drops
naioli - 2 drops
wild carrot - 2 drops
If you add 30 ml of grape seed oil to this mixture, you can do self-massage with it.
Malfunctions in the functioning of the lymphatic system are indicated not only by edema or cellulite, but also by other diseases where there is an inefficient removal of harmful substances from the body. For example - frequent colds, headaches, skin problems, etc.
Lymphatic drainage will help in stimulating the immune system, removing toxins from the body, with poor complexion, aging skin, and bruising under the eyes. After a course of lymphatic drainage, cell nutrition usually improves, the body is cleansed, metabolism improves, skin regeneration processes are stimulated, its dryness is eliminated, bags under the eyes disappear, wrinkles are smoothed out.
Now you see the necessity and importance of the lymphatic system, on which human immunity depends. Immunity is life!
The part of the vascular system that frees the tissues of the body from metabolic products, infectious agents and their toxins is called the lymphatic. It contains vessels, nodes, ducts, as well as organs involved in the formation of lymphocytes.
With insufficient immune protection, tumor and microbial cells can spread along the lymphatic pathways. Stagnation of lymph leads to the accumulation of excretory products in the tissues. To improve the drainage function of the lymphatic system, massage and special cleaning methods are prescribed.
Read in this article
The composition of the lymphatic system includes capillary, intraorganic and stem vessels, nodes and lymphatic organs.
Vessels
Inside the organs there is a network of small lymphatic capillaries, they have very thin walls through which large particles of protein and liquid easily penetrate from the intercellular space. In the future, they are combined into vessels similar to veins, but with more permeable membranes and a developed valve apparatus.
Vessels from the organs carry lymph to the nodes. In appearance, the lymphatic network is similar to beads. Such a structure arises due to the alternation of areas of narrowing and expansion at the site of attachment of the semilunar valves. The penetration of tissue fluid into the capillaries is explained by the difference in osmotic pressure (the lymph is more concentrated), and the reverse flow is impossible due to the valves.
Knots
They have many incoming vessels and 1 or 2 outgoing vessels. The shape is similar to a bean or a ball about 2 cm. They filter the lymphatic fluid, linger and inactivate toxic substances and microbes, and the lymph is saturated with cells of the immune system - lymphocytes.
The fluid that moves through the lymphatic vessels has a whitish or yellowish color. Its composition depends on the organ from which it comes.
The following elements penetrate into the lymph:
- water;
- proteins (large molecules);
- destroyed and tumor cells;
- bacteria;
- particles of dust and smoke from the lungs;
- fluid from the abdominal cavity, pleura and pericardium, joints;
- any foreign particles.
Basic functions in the body
The biological role of the lymphatic system is associated with the following activities:
- the formation of lymphocytes responsible for cellular and humoral (with the help of special blood proteins) immunity;
- delay in the lymph node of mechanical impurities, microbes and toxic compounds;
- return to the venous vessels of purified blood;
- transfer of fats from the intestinal lumen to the blood;
- additional tissue drainage to reduce swelling;
- absorption from the tissue fluid of large protein molecules, which themselves cannot enter the blood vessels due to their size.
Watch the video about the human lymphatic system and its functions:
Lymph movement pattern
The initial absorption of tissue fluid occurs in the organs by lymphatic capillaries. The resulting lymph through the network of vessels enters the nodes. Purified and saturated with lymphocytes, the fluid from the lymph node moves into the trunks and ducts. There are only two of them in the body:
- chest - collects lymph from the left upper limb, the left side of the head, chest and all parts of the body lying under the diaphragm;
- right - contains fluid from the right arm, half of the head and chest.
The ducts carry lymph to the left and right subclavian veins. It is at the level of the neck that the lymphovenous anastomosis is located, through which the penetration of the lymphatic fluid into the venous blood passes.
For the promotion of lymph, the simultaneous action of the following factors is required:
- the pressure of the fluid that is formed continuously;
- contraction of the smooth muscles of the vessels between the two valves - the muscular cuff (lymphangion);
- fluctuations in the walls of arteries and veins;
- muscle compression during body movements;
- suction effect of the chest during breathing.
Organs of the lymphatic system
Lymphoid tissue is found in various structures. They are united by the fact that they all serve as a site for the formation of lymphocytes:
- the thymus is located behind the sternum, ensures the maturation and "specialization" of T-lymphocytes;
- bone marrow is present in the tubular bones of the limbs, pelvis, ribs, contains immature stem cells, from which blood cells are subsequently formed;
- pharyngeal tonsils are located in the nasopharyngeal region, protect against microbes, participate in hematopoiesis;
- the appendix departs from the initial section of the large intestine, cleanses the lymph, forms enzymes, hormones and bacteria involved in the digestion of food;
- spleen - the largest organ of the lymphatic system, adjacent to the stomach in the left half of the abdominal cavity, acts as a filter for bacteria and foreign particles, produces antibodies, lymphocytes and monocytes, regulates the functioning of the bone marrow;
- lymph nodes of internal organs (single or clusters) take part in the formation of cells for immune protection - T and B lymphocytes.
Types and groups of diseases
In diseases of the lymphatic system, inflammatory processes can occur:
- lymphangitis - capillaries, vessels and trunks that are in contact with the focus of suppuration are affected;
- lymphadenitis - lymph nodes are involved, the infection penetrates with lymph or directly through the skin (mucosa) in case of injuries.
Lesions of the organs of the lymphatic system can manifest as tonsillitis when the tonsils are infected, appendicitis (inflammation of the appendix, appendix). Pathological changes in the thymus lead to muscle weakness, autoimmune processes, tumors.
Violation of the bone marrow causes a variety of changes in the composition of the blood: cell deficiency with a decrease in immunity (), clotting (), oxygen supply (anemia), malignant blood tumors.
Enlargement of the spleen (splenomegaly) occurs in diseases of the blood, liver, typhoid fever. An abscess or cyst may also form in the tissue.
Stagnation of lymph fluid leads to the development of lymphedema (lymph edema). It occurs when there is an obstruction in the vessels of a congenital (structural anomaly) or acquired nature. Secondary lymphedema accompanies injuries, burns, infections, and surgical interventions. With the progression of lymphostasis, elephantiasis of the lower extremities occurs, requiring surgery.
Elephantiasis of the lower extremities Tumor processes involving lymphatic vessels are more often benign. They are called lymphangiomas. They are found on the skin, in the subcutaneous layer, as well as in places of accumulation of lymphoid tissue - the neck, head, chest, abdominal cavity, inguinal and axillary regions. With malignancy, lymphosarcoma is located in the same areas.
Causes of disorders in the body
Inflammatory and tumor processes occur when the immune system malfunctions, when it ceases to cope with the body's defense function. This may be due to external factors:
- unfavorable climatic conditions,
- moving (disruption of adaptation),
- radiation,
- air pollution, water pollution,
- nitrates in food
- prolonged exposure to the sun
- stress.
Chronic foci of infection in the body, as well as a weak function of the excretory organs, contribute to an excessive load on the lymphatic system. The result is a decrease in its essential functions. Of no small importance for the lymphatic flow is the state of the circulatory system, of which the lymphatic system is a part.
Stagnant processes occur in the following pathological conditions:
- circulatory failure - arterial (weakness of cardiac activity) and venous (,);
- physical inactivity, obesity;
- diseases of the kidneys, liver, intestines;
- congenital anomalies in the development of the organs of the lymphatic system;
- injuries and operations, burns.
Symptoms of the onset of diseases
If the movement of lymph in the lower extremities is disturbed, swelling occurs, especially after intense exercise. If treatment is not carried out at this stage, then tissue edema (lymphedema) becomes dense, there is heaviness in the legs, cramps and soreness.
Inflammatory diseases of the vessels and nodes of the lymphatic system are manifested in the form of regional redness, swelling and thickening of the skin. This is accompanied by high fever, chills and headache. With deep lymphangitis, there are no external manifestations, but the affected area increases in volume due to tissue edema. Lymph nodes with lymphadenitis become painful, dense, they can be easily felt.
Submandibular lymphadenitis Condition Diagnostics
In order to examine the patency of the lymphatic vessels and the outflow blocking zone, the following methods are used:
- X-ray controlled lymphography, CT or MRI determine valvular insufficiency, structural anomalies. A normal lymphogram has the appearance of uneven accumulations of a contrast agent in the form of beads.
- Lymphoscintigraphy with technetium allows you to detect foci of radioisotope concentration in the zone of lymph stagnation.
- Ultrasound with - areas of vasoconstriction, changes in the nodes.
- Computer thermography is used for differential diagnosis with phlegmon, phlebitis and osteomyelitis.
- Biopsy of the lymph node - reveals blood tumors, cancer metastases.
- Blood tests - with inflammation, leukocytosis is noted, when sowing, it is possible to determine the causative agent of the infection.
If tuberculosis is suspected, tests with tuberculin (Mantoux) and chest x-ray are performed.
Treatment Options
In the initial stages of lymph stagnation, predominantly non-drug methods are used - massage, magnetotherapy, wearing compression stockings. A good effect was obtained from mechanical pneumocompression and laser treatment for diseases of the lymphatic vessels.
With severe lymphedema, appoint:
- phlebotonics (Detralex, Cyclo-3-fort, Aescin);
- enzymes - Wobenzym, Trypsin;
- angioprotectors - Trental, Quercetin;
- - Lasix, Trifas (no more than 2 - 3 days).
If there is a threat of sepsis, then ultraviolet blood irradiation can be used. At the stage of resorption or with sluggish inflammation, local compresses, dressings with Dimexide, Dioxidine, Chymotrypsin, and mud treatment are indicated.
The progression of lymphatic stagnation with the formation of elephantiasis of the limbs is treated by laying outflow paths during microsurgical operations.
How to cleanse the lymphatic system
To improve the movement of lymph in the body, traditional medicine, massage techniques are used. An important condition for the prevention of diseases is the motor mode - the load should be at least 30 minutes, the normal walking in nature, breathing exercises have a healing effect.
For the accelerated removal of metabolic products from the body and the neutralization of toxic compounds, use:
- sauna (steam room, bath);
- bath with warm water and sea salt;
- saturation of tissues with clean water;
- restriction of dairy, meat products, white bread, starch;
- juices from cherries, blackberries, grapes, cranberries;
- salad of fresh beets and red cabbage with lemon;
- adding parsley and dill, lettuce and fresh garlic to food;
- herbal tea from clover, elderflower, nettle (a teaspoon of one of the herbs in a glass of boiling water three times a day);
- tincture of echinacea or eleutherococcus 15 drops in the morning;
- chicory instead of coffee;
- spices - ginger, turmeric, fennel;
- instead of sweets - currants, blackberries, lingonberries and blueberries;
- Swedish bitter tincture - 10 g of juice from aloe leaves, a tablespoon of wormwood, rhubarb and senna leaves, on the tip of a knife - turmeric and saffron. Pour a liter of vodka and insist for 15 days. Drink a teaspoon with tea.
The impact of massage
Lymphatic drainage is enhanced by the use of strokes on the lymph flow. Since its movement occurs only from the bottom up, then the massage movements should have a similar direction.
In this case, the following changes occur in the tissues:
- accelerates the movement of fluid from the tissues into the lymphatic capillaries;
- puffiness decreases,
- products of metabolic processes are removed faster.
Pressing and squeezing works deeper into soft tissues, and vibration enhances microcirculation. Massage is contraindicated in any acute process in the body, and especially in the presence of a purulent focus, since in these cases, accelerated lymph flow will lead to the spread of the lesion to other organs and tissues.
The lymphatic system has a drainage function, is involved in metabolic processes and the formation of cells of the immune system. In case of overvoltage (due to external factors or against the background of diseases), immunity fails, which contributes to inflammatory or tumor processes.
Antibacterial drugs, venotonics, angioprotectors can be used for treatment. In severe cases, surgery is indicated. To cleanse the lymphatic system, you need to adjust your diet, move as much as possible, drink herbal teas, take a course of lymphatic drainage massage.
Read also
Acute vascular insufficiency, or vascular collapse, can occur at any age, even in the smallest. The reasons may be poisoning, dehydration, blood loss and others. The symptoms are worth knowing to distinguish from fainting. Timely emergency assistance will save you from the consequences.
Under normal conditions, there is a balance in the body between the spine of lymph formation and the rate of lymph outflow from the tissues. The outflow of lymph from the lymphatic capillaries is carried out through the lymphatic vessels, which, merging, form two large lymphatic ducts that flow into the veins. Thus, the fluid that has left the blood in the capillaries returns to the bloodstream again, bringing a number of cellular metabolic products.
IN lymph movement a certain role is played by rhythmic contractions of the walls of some lymphatic vessels. These contractions occur 8-10 and even, according to individual researchers, 22 times per minute. The movement of lymph during contraction of the vascular wall due to the existence of valves in the lymphatic vessels occurs only in one direction.
Some lower vertebrates, such as frogs, have special organs in the lymphatic system - lymphatic hearts, which serve as pumps that ensure the movement of lymph.
In the movement of lymph, negative pressure in the chest cavity and an increase in the volume of the chest during inspiration, which causes the expansion of the thoracic lymphatic duct, which leads to suction of lymph from the lymphatic vessels, are of great importance.
Lymph movement, as well as venous blood, contribute to the flexion and extension of the legs and arms during work and walking. During muscle contractions, the lymphatic vessels are compressed, which causes the lymph to move in only one direction.
The amount of lymph returning during the day through the thoracic duct into the blood is about 1200-1600 ml in a person.
The speed of the lymph flow is very low: for example, in the cervical lymphatic vessel of a horse it is 240-300 mm / min (in the veins, the blood travels the same distance per second). D. A. Zhdanov determined the rate of lymph flow in large human lymphatic vessels. The object of observation was a man with a wound of the thoracic lymphatic duct. 3 minutes after the introduction of 2 ml of the dye solution into the superficial inguinal lymph node, the discharge of colored lymph from the thoracic duct began.
Morphological studies have found nerve fibers leading to large lymphatic vessels, and physiological experiments have shown the effect of sympathetic nerves on the lymph flow. Thus, Rushnyak and his collaborators observed, upon stimulation of the sympathetic border trunk, contraction and spasm of the lymphatic vessels so strong that the movement of the lymph in them ceased. In the laboratory. A.P. Polosukhin showed that the lymph flow changes reflexively with painful stimuli, with an increase in pressure in the carotid sinus and with irritation of the receptors of many internal organs.
On average, a human body with a mass of 60 kg contains about 40 dm 3, of which 25 dm 3 is located in the intercellular and interstitial spaces. In a day in an adult, 1200-1500 cm 3 of lymph flows through the left thoracic duct at rest and on an empty stomach.
Colorless liquid, alkaline reaction, containing 3-4% albumin proteins, globulins, fibrinogen): about 1.0% glucose, 0.8-0.9% mineral salts. The viscosity and its density are less than . It contains lymphocytes, monocytes and eosinophils. The composition of the lymph is not constant, it changes depending on the organ from which it flows. After eating a meal containing a lot of fat, the lymph flowing from the digestive canal acquires a milky white color due to the content of emulsified fats in it, from the liver - contains more proteins, from the endocrine glands - hormones. Lymph can coagulate, forming a loose clot.
Lymph flowing from small lymphatic vessels enters two ducts: right and left. The left thoracic duct collects lymph from the vessels of both lower extremities, from the entire abdominal cavity, from the left half of the chest, the left upper limb and the left half of the head and neck.
The right duct collects lymph from the rest of the body. Both ducts flow into large veins, as a result of which the lymph flows into the venous vein and, together with it, enters the right heart. The lymph flow is very slow, in large lymphatic vessels its speed is 0.25-0.3 mm/min.
Lymph moves due to rhythmic contractions of the walls of large lymphatic vessels (10-20 times per 1 minute), in which valves allow it to pass only in one direction. Large lymphatic vessels are innervated by sympathetic nerve fibers, which cause their reflex constriction in case of pain, emotions, irritation of the receptors of internal organs, and increased pressure in the carotid sinus. The movement of the lymph is enhanced by the suction action of the chest and contractions of the skeletal muscles. The formation of lymph increases with an increase in the difference in osmotic pressures in capillaries and tissues and decreases with an increase in the oncotic pressure of proteins in the bloodstream.
Lymphogenic substances include albumoses, chicken, histamine, extracts of crayfish, strawberries, etc., which increase the lymphatic function of capillary walls. They also include solutions of salts, sugar and urea, which increase the osmotic pressure of the blood.
The amount of lymph is increased by: 1) increased blood pressure, 2) increased arterial blood flow, 3) venous stasis, 4) an increase in the total mass of blood, 5) increased activity of the organ.
Functions of the lymph nodes
Lymph nodes are located along the course of the lymphatic vessels, which are innervated by sympathetic nerves. In the lymph nodes, lymphocytes are formed and phagocytosis of microbes and foreign substances occurs. Some of the microbes that have entered the lymph node are phagocytosed by cells of the reticular
Today we will talk about beauty again, but instead of testing new face creams and masks, we will turn our attention deep into the body, namely, we will study the lymphatic system, lymphatic drainage and their impact on beauty and health in general.
The skin is of great importance for us, and not only because it is well-groomed and beautiful, it makes us beautiful. The skin performs many different functions - protection from harmful external influences, maintains the temperature of internal organs, softens the body as a whole, poisonous waste products of the body are constantly released through the skin. In other words, the skin is an intermediary between the body and the external environment.
The respiratory and excretory functions of the skin are vital to health. If the normal functioning of the skin stops, poisoning of the body can occur. Skin disease always affects the health of the body, in the same way, a disease of any organ affects the condition of the skin. By acting on the skin with various medical means, it is possible to influence the entire body, for example, hydrotherapy, massage, etc.
And so, everything in our body is interconnected. When we talk about skin care, we always start with cleansing, then moisturizing, and so on. But most importantly, if the body is not cleansed from the inside, then all efforts with skin rejuvenation will be in vain. So let's think about health first. What we are going to talk about now will tell us what efforts and where each of us needs to make in order to combine beauty and health.
Today we will talk about such an important system that plays a special role in the human body, this is the lymphatic system. In order for you to seriously think about how important it is for the skin and the whole organism as a whole, you will have to delve a little deeper into the structure of your body. Perhaps then many of us will understand what prevents our skin from having a beautiful color, being elastic, elastic and velvety.
The lymphatic system is part of the vascular system in the human body. The lymph circulating in the body moves slowly under slight pressure, since the lymphatic system does not have an organ that acts as a pump, which the heart does in the circulatory system. The speed of its movement is 0.3 mm/s. Lymph moves in one direction - towards the large veins.
It plays an important role in the metabolism and cleansing of the cells and tissues of the body. Thus, we already see where the cleansing of the body begins, and in particular the skin, which we take care of in the first place.
The lymphatic system includes:
Lymphatic vessels and capillaries
The lymph nodes
Lymph trunks and ducts
Tonsils, thymus, or thymus.
How is lymph formed and in general, what kind of structure is it?
Even the ancient Greek doctors discovered that in addition to the red liquid, there is also a transparent liquid in the human body, which they called lymph, which means “clean water, moisture” in Greek.
As a result of contraction of the heart, the liquid part of the blood penetrates the walls of blood vessels, tissue fluid is formed. Part of the tissue fluid returns to the blood again. Since the heart works, and blood constantly flows through the vessels, the difference in fluid pressure outside the vessels and inside always exists.
It looks like a perpetual motion machine that works while the heart lives... But part of the tissue fluid, washing the cells, enters the lymphatic capillaries that penetrate the tissues of the whole body, so lymph is formed. Tissue fluid nourishes the cells, removes their waste and moisturizes the body.
The fluid that enters the lymphatic system is already called lymph. The smallest lymphatic capillaries merge into lymphatic vessels, which have thin walls and valves that prevent the outflow of lymph. Lymph moves in one direction along the lymphatic vessels, along which there are also lymph nodes.
The lymph nodes, these soft and small internal structures, produce immune cells. It is the nodes that act as filters in which microbes are neutralized. When there is a threat to our body from an infection, and various bacteria enter the lymph, the lymph nodes increase the production of protective cells that are actively involved in the destruction of microbes and foreign substances.
From the lymph nodes, filtered lymph through the lymphatic vessels enters the veins, that is, it returns to the blood. The largest lymph nodes you can feel yourself, they are in the cervical regions. Large nodes are also found in the axillary, popliteal and inguinal regions. When you get a sore throat, there is an increase in the lymph nodes - the tonsils, because it is here that the battle between microbes and the protective substances of the body takes place.
The lymphatic system contributes to the redistribution of fluid in the tissues of the body, since its capillaries drain all tissue intercellular spaces. From here we see that the lymphatic system not only cleanses our body, but also moisturizes it. And we hope to achieve skin hydration only with the help of moisturizing creams, when all this directly depends on the lymphatic system.
If everything is in order in our body, there are no failures, tissue fluid does not accumulate in excess in the tissues, since the lymphatic system moves it through the lymphatic vessels and returns it to the blood. Otherwise, fluid accumulates in the intercellular space, and edema occurs.
For example, in cellulite, the accumulation of fluid in the tissues is often associated with the presence of toxins in the body. Thus, the lymphatic system cleanses and moisturizes all tissues of the body, and also transports nutrients.
Beauty machine for lymphatic drainage
If, after reading, you understood everything, then you will be able to answer the question why is it so important for our body, at least morning exercises? The answer is simple. After all, the lymph moves very slowly. But if there is no “pump” in the lymphatic system, then how does it move, no matter how due to muscle contraction, which pushes the lymph further along its difficult life path.
Lymphatic capillaries and vessels penetrate the muscle tissue, the muscles contract - the lymph is pushed through, but there is no way for it to go back, the valves in the lymphatic vessels do not pass. But if the muscle around the vessel does not work, then where does the movement of the lymph come from? Now you understand what movement means and, in general, physical activity.
Stagnation and damage to the lymph from the fact that the muscles are lazy, because we are too lazy to do exercises, leads to sad consequences. Physical exercise significantly speeds up the movement of lymph. And this, in turn, improves the condition of tissues with edema and stagnation.
A sedentary lifestyle combined with a heavy meal leads to an overload of the lymphatic system, and often for this reason, various diseases and immunity disorders occur.
From all that has been said, we see that the lymphatic system
Redistributes fluid in the body;
Protects the body from infections and diseases by removing and destroying various bacteria in the lymph nodes; human immunity depends on it;
Removes foreign substances and waste products;
Transfers nutrients from tissue spaces to the blood.
Now imagine that the lymph nodes are clogged, what will happen then, because they are the body's filter? Then, let's say, dirty lymph cannot pass through the lymph node, and the body throws it out, onto the skin. What will you see on your skin? - There will be dermatitis, furunculosis, acne, acne, diathesis, psoriasis ... Probably enough to list.
When we catch a cold, we get a runny nose and stuffy nose. Since the body is fighting microbes, and lymph is directly involved in this, before it enters the blood, it must be cleansed of toxins. The lymph gets rid of this rubbish through the mucous membranes and skin. Therefore, you should not use vasoconstrictor drops for a long time during a runny nose, we interfere with the work of the lymphatic system.
The second example, when we deliberately disrupt the work of the lymph nodes, is a sweat deodorant. Sweat is the release of not just moisture from the body, but also toxins. If you constantly use deodorant that blocks sweat, you are harming your body by leaving harmful substances in tissues in certain areas, such as underarms. In this zone, the mammary glands are very close. And then you should understand a lot.
And what will help the work of the lymphatic system, except for charging?
In Russia, treatment with a steam bath with a broom, tea with currant leaves or raspberries has long been used. The use of the bath should be consulted with a doctor.
Breathing techniques can also stimulate lymph flow, improving your health.
The movement of the lymph is also helped by massage, which increases the outflow of tissue fluid. However, the massage should be in the form of light and gentle circular strokes and kneading. In addition, you need to know for sure that massage is not contraindicated for you.
The main reason for contraindications may be malignant neoplasms (cancer). After all, massage movements make the lymph move, and with it the malignant cells, which contributes to the formation of metastases. And in general, any procedures that affect the lymphatic system are unacceptable for cancer.
How does massage affect the lymphatic system?
Accelerates the movement of lymph in the lymphatic vessels. Massage movements should occur in the direction of the outflow of lymph to the nearest lymph nodes. Pressure on muscle tissue facilitates the penetration of tissue fluid through the walls of blood vessels, and this prevents or reduces swelling.
Harmful substances that easily pass through the walls of the lymphatic vessels are removed from the body faster. Massage movements - stroking, pressing and squeezing should be gentle. With swelling of the legs, the outflow of fluid will help if they are raised, since in this case the movement of fluid and lymph will be helped by gravity.
A professional massage therapist can make a lymphatic massage with benefit, and not harm. You can do it yourself at home, but for this you need to get instructions on the basic techniques from a specialist. the volume of lymphatic flow can be increased by 20 times, which means increasing the ability of the lymphatic system to remove toxins and harmful bacteria, and strengthen immunity.
It is useful not only for problems with the lymphatic system, but also in the case when you have a cold or just want to relieve fatigue. All touches should be gentle and soft.
Massage with essential oils such as geranium, rosemary and juniper, grapefruit, Atlas cedar and lemon oils is effective to activate the movement of the lymph and reduce swelling. And also essential oils of anise, orange, basil, cloves, oregano, ginger, hyssop, cypress, coriander, lavender, lemongrass, carrot, nayoli are used.
Carrier oils can be wheat germ oil, almond oil, avocado, peach oil, jojoba, macadamia oil, safflower oil.
Lymphatic drainage of the face and body at home
At home, you can use a bath with a lymphatic drainage mixture, which includes:
geranium -3 drops
lemongrass - 3 drops
hyssop - 2 drops
naioli - 2 drops
wild carrot - 2 drops
If you add 30 ml of grape seed oil to this mixture, you can do self-massage with it.
Malfunctions in the functioning of the lymphatic system are indicated not only by edema or cellulite, but also by other diseases where there is an inefficient removal of harmful substances from the body. For example - frequent colds, headaches, skin problems, etc.
Lymphatic drainage will help in stimulating the immune system, removing toxins from the body, with poor complexion, aging skin, and bruising under the eyes. After a course of lymphatic drainage, cell nutrition usually improves, the body is cleansed, metabolism improves, skin regeneration processes are stimulated, its dryness is eliminated, bags under the eyes disappear, wrinkles are smoothed out.
Now you see the necessity and importance of the lymphatic system, on which human immunity depends. Immunity is life!