9 Essential Oils for Lymphatic Drainage Support!
If you're looking to unlock the benefits of lymphatic drainage, you should consider using essential oils! Essential oils have been shown to help improve lymphatic drainage, and they can provide a range of other benefits as well. In this article, we will discuss 9 of the best essential oils for lymphatic drainage. We'll also talk about how to use these oils and some of their potential benefits.
How Can Essential Oils Support the Lymphatic System?
Essential oils have been used for centuries as traditional but effective treatments for inflammation-related conditions. According to several textbooks on aromatherapy, specific essential oils are particularly successful in reducing swelling in tissue because of their lymphatic stimulation and anti-inflammatory properties which help to promote free lymph circulation [1]. These include oils such as juniper berry, cypress and geranium rose, all known for their powerful effects in this area. It is important to note that the topical application of these essential oils along with proper massage techniques can yield the best results for reducing inflammation in the body's tissues.
With so many essential oils to choose from, it can be difficult to know which to try. We reviewed numerous reviews on Amazon and identified the top 9 most appropriate essential oils to support lymphatic drainage. Continue reading below to find the oil that most resonates with you!
We hope you find your essential oil to facilitate lymphatic drainage to support your wellness journey from the list below! Each product was independently selected by our team. BiohackingBeat may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something (that's how we fund our research). Happy shopping!
Gya Labs Lemon Essential Oil
Essential Oil Overview
Lemon is not just a tart, sour addition to summer drinks and desserts; it has also been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. Having a similar chemical makeup to grapefruit, its high monoterpene content make this citric acid fruit a powerful antimicrobial and antibacterial agent. Traditional Chinese medicine has long utilized lemon oil for stimulating acupuncture points in the body. As such, lemon is an excellent tool in stimulating lymph movement and fighting germs, viruses, and bacteria without relying on antibiotics. With age-old evidence to back up its claims of efficacy, lemon should be considered an essential item when looking to improve one's holistic health regimen.
Suggested Use
For a simple and natural skin care remedy, try making a lemon body scrub. All you need to do is combine 10 drops of lemon with a tablespoon of jojoba oil and an ounce of Himalayan salt. Once the ingredients are blended together, they can be used in the shower all over your body. For extra relief, particularly on swollen areas, you can give these areas a more intensive lymphatic drainage massage with the scrub. Although it takes little time and effort to make the scrub, you’ll enjoy its refreshing results that come from using natural ingredients!
Cliganic Organic Pink Grapefruit Oil
Essential Oil Overview
Grapefruit is an exceptionally versatile member of the citrus family with its powerful cleansing properties and antibacterial qualities. Studies have revealed it to be particularly effective at reducing lymphedema when used in combination with lymphatic fluid drainage massage and lymph-stimulating exercises, making it the perfect addition to a variety of cellulite creams and body scrubs designed for detoxification and decongestion. Its benefits make grapefruit essential oil an indispensable part of any health and wellness regime.
Suggested Use
Practices such as dry brushing are fantastic for stimulating lymph fluid movement. This is especially true when combined with a post-dry brush body oil, which you can easily make and apply at home! All you need is 15 drops of ruby grapefruit and 1 oz. of a skin-friendly carrier oil, such as rosehip seed. Once blended, massage the oil onto your body thoroughly to experience all the benefits of this process! Enjoy the feeling of having healthier skin and a cleaner living system.
Plant Therapy Egyptian Geranium Essential Oil
Essential Oil Overview
Geranium essential oil is well-known for its therapeutic properties. Not only is it a lymphatic stimulant and anti-inflammatory agent, but geranium has also been used as a diuretic. This helps support the body in eliminating excess toxins through urinary system. Additionally, geranium's marvelous scent can provide calming aromatherapeutic benefits; with its pleasant floral essence, it can aid in relieving stress, depression and anxiety. Its non toxic nature makes it suitable for skin care applications as well, since using this oil can help balance the production of sebum for both dry and oily complexions while protecting skin integrity from any possible lymphatic swelling damage. All-in-all, this precious essential oil brings a range of free radical fighting and anti-aging benefits to its users.
Suggested Use
Geranium essential oil is the perfect remedy for stimulating your lymphatic system. When added to bathwater, body oils and skin creams, it can help your body to regulate fluids and encourage healthy blood circulation. Furthermore, releasing its sweet and delightful scent helps relax your mind while delivering a powerful massage that further helps stimulate your lymphatic system. Note that when using geranium essential oil on the skin, make sure it is properly diluted with a carrier oil to avoid any potential adverse reactions. Try blending it in your beauty regimen today for best results!
doTERRA Guaiacwood
Essential Oil Overview
Guaiacwood essential oil is a real wonder ingredient to have in any home apothecary as its benefits are many. Its anti-inflammatory properties come mainly from its high guaiazulene chemical composition, making it an effective treatment for fluid retention. On top of that, it has an impressive shelf life of up to eight years, so you’ll still be getting the same great effects when using it years down the line. Guaiacwood essential oil really epitomizes the saying ‘quality over quantity’ and certainly deserves more recognition than it currently receives.
Suggested Use
Combining guaiacwood with cistus into a carrier oil is an excellent way to give yourself a lymphatic massage. This remedy has therapeutic and aromatic benefits, making it a great choice for those looking to establish a self-massage ritual that promotes detoxify and reduces inflammation in the body. For best results, try combining these oils with sesame or sunflower oil as your carrier, as these are two natural choices which will help nourish your skin as you massage yourself.
Gya Labs Organic Bay Leaf Essential Oil
Essential Oil Overview
Popular in the ancient Roman Empire, bay laurel was highly regarded for its symbolization of both wisdom and peace. It has a distinct scent that is both fruity and camphorous, often used for sustained energy and to support lymphatic drainage and immunity. Recent studies have also concluded that bay laurel has antioxidant and antibacterial properties, making it an effective treatment for infection in some cases. Despite its beneficial qualities, people who are pregnant should avoid using it due to limited research on whether it is safe during pregnancy or not.
Suggested Use
Add four drops of this oil to an ounce of sweet almond or jojoba oil to help reduce system-wide inflammation and provide relief from discomfort. By massaging it directly into the nodes, you can ensure that those agents reach the source more efficiently than with other methods. Doing this regularly helps promote a stronger, healthier lymphatic system and overall well-being.
Plant Therapy Organic Juniper Berry Essential Oil
Essential Oil Overview
Juniper berry is a powerful oil with a healing range of uses, making it a key ingredient in DIY skincare and cleaning products. Distilled from the berries and needles of some juniper species, its value is often underestimated. It detoxifies the body to reduce edema, stagnation, and swelling while also showing strong antimicrobial characteristics that help fight off infections. Thanks to its natural antibacterial properties, it can be added to DIY cleaners to naturally boost your immune system. Ultimately, juniper offers a range of benefits that make it invaluable when looking after your home or creating effective skincare routines.
Suggested Use
Rubbing juniper oil onto specific areas of the body is a simple and effective way to experience its energizing benefits. Whether it's feeling run-down from prolonged desk-based work or needing more focus for an upcoming presentation, adding juniper into an ounce of sweet almond or avocado oil can help restore energy. For greater effect, consider adding two drops of black pepper and two drops of geranium as well. Not only will its invigorating scent awaken the senses and stimulate vitality, but also its anti-inflammatory properties would help to reduce any temporary discomfort in the area. Experience newfound power naturally with a juniper-infused massage.
Rosemary Creek Organic Mastic Essential Oil
Essential Oil Overview
Mastic is a lesser known yet highly beneficial natural ingredient that can do wonders for the body. Its primary benefit is in helping to reduce edema and treating spider and varicose veins, but its powerful anti-inflammatory properties can also lend themselves to relieve pain and discomfort caused by many different health issues. Not only this, but it has also been proven to possess antimicrobial properties, which can be helpful when dealing with respiratory ailments. All of these attributes make mastic an unmistakably valuable ally when looking to improve one's overall health naturally.
Suggested Use
Mastic essential oil is a powerhouse immune and respiratory support, especially when blended with other compatible oils. For best results, try mixing 6 drops of mastic oil with an ounce of aloe vera gel, which creates an effective topical solution when applied to affected areas. Additionally, mastic oil can be pleasantly and safely combined with cedarwood or other complementary essential oils to further boost the relief experienced from respiratory and immune ailments.
Gya Labs Pure Cypress Essential Oil
Essential Oil Overview
Cypress essential oil has remarkable qualities, including anti-inflammatory and decongesting abilities, making it an ideal choice for aromatherapy. Additionally, the oil is highly effective due to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties [2]. Not only does cypress essential oil assist in calming inflammation and fighting infection, but it can also energize and revitalize one's Qi (life force) according to Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Suggested Use
Incorporating the essential oil into baths or diffuser blends can be stimulating, promoting energy flow while also assisting with stagnation. Cypress's grounding yet stimulating scent will have you feeling invigorated as well as grounded at the same time.
Plant Therapy Organic Blue Yarrow Essential Oil
Essential Oil Overview
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium), which has been used since ancient times, is remarkable for the way its morphological aspects resemble the circulatory system. Its leaves present a striking resemblance to the veins and capillaries that run through our bodies. This strong correlation between morphology and systemic functioning is found in many plants, but Yarrow stands out for its particular similarity. Furthermore, it seems that this plant's restorative properties extend beyond just mimicking the circulatory system. Studies have revealed that when the circulatory system is bolstered by essential oils derived from Yarrow, the parallel lymphatic system also appears to respond positively - suggesting that any sort of remedy which influences one, will influence both.
Suggested Use
Consider incorporating yarrow either alone or with other oils into a carrier oil for a massage essential oil blend. See the DIY recipes at the end of this post for some suggested blends.
FAQs
What are the causes of lymphadema
There are many causes of lymphadema, including:
- Surgery
- Trauma
- Infection
- Radiation therapy
- Cancer
- Chronic inflammation
- Obesity
Lymphatic obstruction is the most common cause of lymphadenopathy. More than 80% of all cases of lymphadenopathy are due to an obstruction or dysfunction of the lymphatic system. The majority (approximately 75%) of these obstructions are caused by tumors. Other causes include infections, trauma, and congenital abnormalities.
What are essential oils and how can they help improve lymphatic drainage?
Essential oils are natural oils that are extracted from plants. They have a wide range of benefits, including helping to improve lymphatic drainage.
The lymphatic system is a network of lymphatic vessels and nodes that helps to remove waste and toxins from the body. It also helps to transport white blood cells, which are important for fighting infection.
Lymphatic drainage is the process by which the lymphatic system drains fluid from tissues. This fluid contains waste products and toxins that need to be removed from the body.
Essential oils can help to improve lymphatic drainage by stimulating the lymphatic system and improving circulation. Some essential oils that are effective for this purpose include lemon, grapefruit, rosemary, and cypress.
To use these oils for lymphatic drainage, add a few drops of your chosen oil to a diffuser or massage it into your skin. You can also add a few drops to a bath or add it to lotion or cream before applying it to your skin.
What are some of the best essential oils for lymphatic support?
Lymphatic drainage is an important part of the body's immune system, and there are a number of essential oils that can help to improve its function. Some of the best essential oils to support lymphatic drainage include lemon, lavender, rosemary, and eucalyptus.
Lemon oil is known for its cleansing and detoxifying properties, and it can help to stimulate the lymphatic system. Lavender oil is also thought to be helpful in stimulating the lymphatic system. Rosemary oil has antimicrobial properties and can also help to improve circulation. Eucalyptus oil is another effective oil for stimulating the lymphatic system and improving circulation.
How do you use essential oils for lymphatic drainage?
Essential oils can be used for lymphatic drainage by applying them topically to the swollen lymph nodes or by inhaling them. The most effective essential oils for lymphatic drainage are those with diuretic, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory properties. Some of the best essential oils for lymphatic drainage include juniper berry oil, geranium oil, lemongrass oil, and rosemary oil. To use essential oils for lymph drainage, mix together a few drops of each oil in a carrier oil such as jojoba oil or coconut oil. Then, massage the mixture into the lymph nodes or apply it to a warm compress and place it over the lymph nodes.
What are some of the potential benefits of using an essential oil for lymphatic drainage?
There are many potential benefits to using an essential oil for lymphatic drainage. One of the most significant potential benefits is that it may help to reduce swelling and inflammation throughout the body. Additionally, using essential oils for lymphatic drainage may help to improve circulation and promote overall health and well-being.
Are there any precautions you should take when using essential oils for lymph drainage?
When using any essential oil for lymphatic drainage, there are a few precautions you should take. First, it is important to choose the right oil. Some oils, such as eucalyptus and peppermint, can be stimulating and should be avoided if you are trying to calm the lymphatic system. Second, always perform a skin patch test before applying any essential oil to a large area of your body. This will help to ensure that you do not have an adverse reaction to the oil. Finally, always dilute essential oils before applying them to your skin. Undiluted oils can cause irritation and should be avoided.
What are some simple ways to improve lymphatic health?
There are many simple ways to improve lymphatic health. Some of the simplest are to drink plenty of fluids, eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep.
Drinking plenty of fluids is important because it helps the lymphatic system flush toxins from the body. Eating a healthy diet is important for the same reason, as well as for supplying the body with essential nutrients that support good lymphatic health. Exercising regularly helps improve lymphatic drainage and circulation. And getting enough sleep is important for an overall healthy lifestyle, including ensuring good lymphatic function.
DIY Recipes to Stimulate the Lymphatic System
Below are a few recipes you can try to support your lymphatic system. These oil blends can be used in the following ways:
- Add 10 ml of the blend to a warm bath, and relax in the bath for at least 15 minutes. Make sure to avoid splashing in the eyes.
- A lymphatic massage may be one of the most effective applications of these blends to stimulate a sluggish lymphatic system.
Recipe 1
- 6 drops of Chamomile
- 4 drops of Tea Tree
- 2 drops of Neroli
- 30 ml of Sweet Almond oil (only if there is no nut allergy)
Recipe 2
- 6 drops of Rosemary
- 4 drops of Thyme
- 2 drops of Sandalwood
- 25 ml of a carrier oil such as coconut oil
Recipe 3
Final Thoughts
We hope our review has armed you with the information you need to decide what essential oils to try to support your lymphatic system. Tap the button below each product to check prices and find the best oil for you. We hope you achieve success in your wellness journey, and thanks for reading!
Citations
[1] Battaglia, S. (2007). Battaglia, S. (2007) The The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy. (2nd ed.). Australia: The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy.
[2] Selim SA, Adam ME, Hassan SM, Albalawi AR. Chemical composition, antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity of the essential oil and methanol extract of the Mediterranean cypress (Cupressus sempervirens L.). BMC Complement Altern Med. 2014 Jun 2;14:179. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-14-179. PMID: 24890383; PMCID: PMC4052795.
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