The human body is an incredibly complex organization of systems. In order for each organ to perform in a structured and synergetic matter, all the components of the body must be functioning properly and healthily. Most people may not know this, but the lymphatic system’s irreplaceable function within the human body serves many natural purposes, some of them still being relatively unknown.
The lymphatic system consists of lymphatic channels and an intricate capillary network. The lymph contains a clear fluid known as extra cellular fluid. This liquid closely resembles the blood plasma; however, its consistency is more diluted and adaptable.
This lymphatic fluid bathes our cell membranes and travels through the body, throughout the process exchanging fluids within the blood capillaries and circulating through bodily tissues. Through this process, the lymphatic fluids feed the bodily tissues and cleanse and protect the body against bacteria, viruses, cancer cells, and other unwanted or harmful substances. The lymphatic system’s main function is to purify the many fluids found within the human body and to ensure that the body’s cells have a healthy environment in which to thrive. The lymphatic system’s role within the body is essential in the process of fighting infections and developing immunities to diseases. In other words, the lymphatic system is an indispensable feature of the human body’s immune system and when something goes wrong, the lymphatic glands work overtime towards the maintenance of a healthy bodily environment.
Lymphatic vessels are discovered in nearly every organ of the body where blood vessels are found, which means they are present in virtually every nook and cranny of the human body. Non-vascular structures of the body such as cartilage, nails, cuticles, and hair have none, but with the exception of a relatively small number of body appendages, it is likely that most of the body permeates with lymphatic vessels.
The lymphatic vessel’s valves are formed from a thin layer of fibrous tissue covered on both surfaces with endothelium, which in essence is the same arrangement as on the valves of blood veins. The shape of the lymphatic valves are semilunar; they are attached by their convex edges to the wall of the vessels, the concave edge freestanding and directed along the course of the contained current. Usually two valves, of equal sizes, are found apposite one another, but occasionally exceptions occur, especially at or near the anastomoses of lymphatic vessels. Thus, one valve may be of a small size and the other proportionally much larger. In the lymphatic vessels, the valves are placed at much shorter intervals than in the valves of blood veins and the valves are most numerous near the lymph glands.
Lymph Glands
The lymph glands are small oval or bean-shaped bodies, situated in the course of lymphatic and lacteal vessels so the lymph and chyle may pass through them on their way to the blood.
The arteries of the glands enter at hilus, and either go at once to the gland pulp, to break up into a capillary plexus, or run along the trabeculae, partly to supply them and partly running across the lymph paths, to assist in forming the capillary plexus of the gland pulp.
Lymphatic Vessels
The lymphatic vessels are very delicate and thin, and their coats are transparent. Hemolymph nodes or gland and hemal nodes, which are so abundant in some mammals, are probably not present in humans.
It is imperative that we as health professionals learn as much as possible about the advantages of obtaining and maintaining a healthy lymphatic system. It is both useful and valuable to take a closer look at how the lymphatic system works microscopically. When observed, images of channels spread thoughout our body like spider arms appear, closely resembling the roots of a tree. It is phenomenal how this system washes away bacteria and impurities, feeding our cells, preserving the integrity and health of our bodily components. We can learn how to assist our body in the elimination of toxins via lymphatic means by physical exercise, as well as through lymph drainage therapy – a great and efficient method of treating innumerous skin conditions and other countless ailments.
Lymph Drainage Therapy
Lymph drainage therapy treatment can be done manually or electronically. Using electronic therapy, ultrasonic, suction wave-like movements rhythm with perfect depth and systematic direction to assist in the removal of toxins in the lymph. The primary function of this treatment is to stimulate the functioning of the immune system and the detoxification of the body.
However, it can also be applied for the regeneration of tissues, including burns, wounds, and wrinkles. It also has an anti-aging effect and tends to improve skin conditions such as acne and dry skin, along with the reduction of fluid deposits in the face (edemas), the improvement of cellulite, alleviation of adipose tissues in the subcutaneous level, and improves the skin tone.
Lymph drainage therapy is recommended pre-surgery to increase oxygenation, improve circulation for a quicker healing process, less bruising of tissue, easier regeneration of tissues post-surgery, reduction of fluid retention, and smoother scarring.
Activating circulation of the extra cellular fluids brought about by the therapy help to relieve sinus, allergy, and respiratory problems, and numerous chronic and sub acute inflammations.
Lymph therapy helps the cells bring more oxygen to the tissues, therefore improving circulation. When our tissues are provided with the proper amount of oxygen and nutrients, our bodies are able to function better. There are countless benefits that go along with this therapy, including reduction of the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, as well as being able to relieve conditions such as constipation, chronic pain, headaches, and neuromuscular issues.
Some others advantages known when circulation of the extra cellular fluids is activated are relief from sinus congestion, allergy and respiratory problems, and numerous healing properties attributed to the improvement of chronic and sub acute inflammations. Also by assisting in the detoxification process of the body, it often results in total well-being.
Edna Marcia Ribeiro Morman has over 13 years international experience in the aesthetic field. She is a licensed and medically trained aesthetician as well as a CIDESCO diplomat, and nutrition and fitness consultant. Ribeiro is now opening a spa Nnmed Amazilian Skin Care & Wellness, located in Closter, N.J. In this new venture as a spa owner, her main goal is to celebrate health and beauty from within. The spa will be introducing holistic products from the rain forest in Amazon and thigh end treatments. 201-280-7206, ribeiro2k@aol.com
