Lymphatitis – Lymph Glands

Please note: A number of other websites refer to using bentonite clay. Please DO NOT substitute their guidelines or product for ours. Our clay is stronger in its action than a lot of other clays, different in its texture and the way it behaves. Our guidelines are designed to work with our products.

This guideline has been written by our practitioner Sarah Beesley (MHD Hons) to provide a comprehensive approach. The best result is gained when the whole guideline is followed. Please be aware that results may vary and that if you have any other  pre-exisiting conditions, we advise working with a trained practitioner. 

The following information is not intended to diagnose any condition or to replace the advice of your doctor.  

What is Lymphatitis?

Lymphatitis is an inflammation of the lymphatic vessels or lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are an important part of the immune system and general body cleaning system. They act as little “filters” which screen out bacteria, viruses and general debris from the blood. White blood cells can become concentrated in the lymph nodes when there is an influx of infectious organisms or debris in the glands which can then cause the glands to swell and become painful. The lymphatic system relies upon movement to keep the lymphatic fluid moving and working efficiently. Poor circulation to a tissue or area of the body, a lack of movement and an imbalance in body fluid movement in  and out of the cells can all contribute to a lymphatic problem. 

Shifting the Congestion

• We have had excellent results using clay baths for gentle and effective lymphatic stimulation and detoxification. Baths expose the majority of the skin surface to the clay and the warmth of the bath will aid blood circulation which increases waste removal and nutrient supply. Baths can be used safely at 20 – 30 minutes for children over 3 months old. For adults we recommend a 30-60 minute bath, starting with 15-30 minutes for the first 2-3 baths. For how to make and use a Clay Bath Click here
• We recommend starting with a bath every 2-3 days. These can be increased after the first week if desired, and then reduced in frequency after the problem resolves.
• Follow the baths with Purely Earth Vitamin E Cream. This is a non-chemical natural cream that nourishes and feeds the skin and will help to soothe and heal any stressed areas of the skin surface.
• We recommend that Endura Electrolytes be taken while in the bath to replace any electrolyte minerals that are removed during the bath process. This particular formula also assists with the removal of wastes from the cells, making the baths even more effective.
• Use Purely Earth Essential Detox Minerals to supply the most commonly deficient minerals required to ensure good cell and enzyme function. Use 2 -3 ml of the liquid per day for adults and 1 drop per kilo of body weight for children under 10.  Put into the Electrolyte drink, water or diluted juice.
• Gentle exercise, lymphatic brushing or massage are also recommended in addition to the baths.
• If you have an area which is especially problematic such as the underarm area after lymphatic nodes have been removed, please pack this area with healing clay for 1-2 hours a day.  For how to make and use a Clay Pack Click here

Digestion is Important

• Ensure you are passing bowel motions every day. If you are not, get advice from an experienced practitioner as to how to get your bowel moving.
• Address any signs of weak digestion such as reflux, bloating, gas and indigestion. Digestion may be improved by using Betaine HCL or 1 tsp of apple cider vinegar (ACV) in water before each meal which increases the uptake of minerals through the digestive system. For those with a history of ulcers or who are using antacid medications, we recommend an appointment with our practitioner Sarah before you try either of these.
• Avoid foods which bloat you. Use our Food and Chemical Sensitivity Test to assist with identifying and removing inflammatory foods and substances.

Stress

Do not underestimate the effects of stress on your body. This can be stress due to a chronic inflammatory condition (think pain, tenderness, redness, swelling or aching), being over-busy, not breathing properly, eating foods that cause you problems, a lack of sleep, dehydration, infection, loneliness, or feeling emotionally vulnerable or unsupported.

Take Steps to Nourish Yourself

• Assess what must stay in your life and what can go.
• Assess whether the things that you think must stay, nourish you or deplete you and reassess if necessary.
• Provide a quiet space in every day that does not involve electrical devices. This allows your nervous system time to unwind.
• Seek out things, animals or people that make you laugh.
• Eat mainly food that does not come in a packet. Nature knows best how to provide balance; manufactured food does not.
• Eat regularly through the day and make good food a priority, not an inconvenience to be squeezed in amongst other activities.
• Avoid inflammatory foods – things you know you are intolerant to, or which make you feel sluggish, moody, affect your bowel or cause flare-ups of a health condition.
• Move your body without the exercise stressing it further. Exercise in a way that makes you feel good, not tired. Increase the exercise level gradually as your energy level builds.
• BREATHE DEEP. Breathing deep sends a signal to your body that you are safe. Shallow or fast breathing does the opposite. Your stress glands and nervous system will respond accordingly.
• Go to sleep before 10 pm and get up before 7 am. Your body clock requires this of you even if your head says otherwise. 1 hour of sleep prior to 12 am is worth 2 hours after 12 am in terms of the rest it provides. Avoid interaction with electrical devices (phones, computers, TV, play station, X Box, iPad, iPod and the like) for 1 hour prior to sleep and remove as many electrical devices from your bedroom as you can. DO NOT sleep with a light on and cover all digital light displays in your room, or even better, remove them.