Is it bad to drain your lymphatic system?

Author: Kara Wiza  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Lymphatic drainage is usually safe and can help with lymphedema. It might not be a good idea for you if you have other conditions, including: Heart problems. Kidney failure.

Can lymphatic drainage be bad for you?

Healthcare providers won't do lymph drainage massage directly over cancerous tissue or skin that's damaged from radiation therapy. Few people have negative reactions to lymphatic massage. But some people develop side effects like fatigue, headaches or nausea. If this happens, let your healthcare provider know.

What comes out of your body during lymphatic drainage massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage is a form of gentle massage that encourages the drainage of lymph nodes and the movement of lymph fluids around the body. It can help relieve symptoms of lymphedema. The fluid in the lymphatic system helps remove waste and toxins from body tissues.

Can you overdo lymphatic drainage?

Yes, it's possible to overdo lymphatic massage. While lymphatic drainage massage offers numerous benefits, more is not always better. Overdoing it can lead to bruising and swelling, especially if the massage is too aggressive or the pressure too high.

What happens when you detox your lymphatic system?

Lymphatic detoxification promotes and improves the function of the lymphatic system. Lymph circulation is significant for the balance and intercommunication of the overall organ systems through fluid balance in the body and toxin elimination.

The lymphatic drainage system | Cancer Research UK

Do you poop a lot after lymphatic drainage?

Possible side effects of lymphatic drainage massage can include: Increased urination/bowel movements: after the massage, the lymph waste will need to be removed from the body. This leads to an increase in urination and bowel movements, as these are the methods the body uses to eliminate lymph waste from the body.

How to tell if your lymphatic system is draining?

With severe swelling, the lymph fluid can drain through small breaks in the skin or cause blistering. Skin changes. In some people with very severe lymphedema, the skin of the affected limb can thicken and harden so it resembles the skin of an elephant.

Do you lose weight after lymphatic drainage?

Lymphatic drainage massage may improve the appearance of cellulite but will not get rid of it completely. The most likely cause of weight loss immediately following the massage is the loss of excess fluid and potential bowel movement that occurs afterwards.

When should you avoid lymphatic drainage?

Lymphatic drainage should be avoided if a person has a fever or active infection. Manual stress to the tissue should be avoided in an area undergoing radiation treatment or over a known cancer site.

How do I drain my lymphatic myself?

Massage your chest to aid in lymph drainage from your neck and chest to your lymph nodes under your arms. Continue down toward your ankles. Stroke upward and down through the ankles and feet. Finish the massage by gently pushing the fluid in your toes upward with your fingers.

What is the best drink for lymphatic drainage?

Here are our top picks for the best teas to keep your lymphatic system flowing beautifully:
  • Yaupon Tea. Yaupon tea, a unique herbal tea made from Ilex vomitoria, is a fantastic option for lymphatic drainage. ...
  • Ginger Tea. ...
  • Chamomile Tea. ...
  • Peppermint Tea.

Where does lymphatic fluid go when it drains?

Functioning almost like a sponge, the lymphatic system absorbs excess lymph fluid from the body's organs and returns it to the blood stream. In a healthy body, the lymphatic channels from the liver and mesentery drain toward the thoracic duct, which is the main lymphatic vessel responsible for lymph drainage.

Is lymphatic drainage real for a double chin?

The takeaway. Lymphatic drainage facial helps encourage circulation in the face, which makes the skin look brighter, reduces puffiness, and helps with double chin, eye bags, and breakouts.

Why do I feel sick after lymphatic drainage massage?

If things aren't able to leave our body as quickly as they are accumulating, we may experience something known as a "Detox Flu" after our MLD session. This is due to the temporary strain that detoxification puts on our body, and can include a low-grade fever, chills, and body aches. It's rare, but it can happen.

What is the best lymphatic drainage tool?

The best products for lymphatic drainage, at a glance:

Best Dry Brush With Handle: Goop Beauty Dry Brush, $25. Best Gua Sha for Body: Skin Gym Sculptural Body Gua Sha, $52. Best Handheld Dry Brush: OSEA Body Brush, $28. Best Jade Gua Sha: Mount Lai The Jade Gua Sha Facial Lifting Tool, 29.

What are the symptoms of a poor lymphatic system?

Symptoms of lymphoedema
  • an aching, heavy feeling.
  • difficulty with movement.
  • repeated skin infections.
  • developing hard, tight or thickened skin.
  • folds developing in the skin.
  • wart-like growths developing on the skin.
  • fluid leaking through the skin.

What are the negative side effects of lymphatic drainage?

Risks of Lymphatic Drainage Massage
  • Heart problems.
  • Kidney failure.
  • Blood clots.
  • Infection.

What is the FDA approved lymphatic drainage device?

Ballancer®Pro is an FDA-approved compression therapy* system designed to provide various therapeutic benefits to the body.

How do I know if my lymphatic system is clogged?

The main signs and symptoms of lymphoedema are: swelling in your arm, leg or other affected area — clothes, shoes or jewellery may seem tighter than usual. a feeling of heaviness or tightness in the affected area. aching and discomfort in the affected area.

Is lymphatic drainage legit?

“Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle massage that targets the lymphatic system, which resides just beneath the skin,” said Mae Murakami, a physical therapist at Cedars-Sinai. “It can be a powerful tool for people whose lymphatic system is compromised from surgery, illness or injury.”

Where does fat go after the lymphatic system?

The resulting mixture of lymphatic fluid and fats – a milky-white substance known as 'chyle' – is carried through the lymphatic network and into the largest of the lymphatic vessels – the thoracic duct and thenceforth directly into the heart. It is only at this point that the fats we have eaten enter the bloodstream.

When not to do lymphatic drainage?

Lymphatic drainage massage is typically considered safe and low-risk. 13 However, this technique may not be safe for people with conditions that can move lymphatic fluid back to the heart or kidneys. These conditions include: Blood clots.

What does lymphatic build up feel like?

Lymphedema is a build-up of lymph fluid in the fatty tissues just under your skin that causes swelling (edema). Lymph fluid travels throughout the body and is part of the lymph or lymphatic system.

Is cellulite related to the lymphatic system?

Without a properly functioning lymphatic system, waste can build up in tissues. This buildup can lead to various health issues, including conditions like cellulite. Poor lymphatic drainage may cause skin changes and uneven texture. Maintaining a healthy lymphatic system is vital for overall wellness.

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