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Eliminating Skin Conditions

 
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So many skin problems can be traced back to poor lymphatic function. This complex network of nodes, vessels and immune cells is responsible for distributing and draining lymph fluid throughout the body. Waste from cellular metabolism and toxins from the bloodstream are extruded into lymph fluid for removal. A build-up of toxins and metabolic waste can typically occur in a lymphatic system that is overworked and congested. This results in an increased risk of inflammation and reduced immune function. 

The lymphatic system lies just below the skin and this directly influences the skin’s capacity to act as an organ of elimination. A congested lymphatic system puts an increased burden on the skin, as it tries to deal with this build-up, contributing to inflammation, poor complexion and other skin problems. 

Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system has no pump. It requires the action of surrounding skeletal muscle to keep things moving. In other words, exercise is vital for healthy lymph and skin. Dry skin brushing, deep breathing exercises, massage and a clean, vegetable-based diet can all contribute to improved lymphatic and skin health. 

From a herbal and nutritional medicine perspective, we have some important therapeutic choices. A well considered formula that addresses all channels of elimination, including lymph, lungs, liver, gut and kidneys offers tremendous scope for improving skin health. Herbs such as burdock, echinacea, cleavers, poke root and yellow dock as well as nutrients including zinc and vitamin A, in the right balance, can be highly effective treatments.

In this infographic we take a closer look at these therapeutic agents and their roles in improving detoxification and skin health.

REFERENCES

  1. Nemer K, Ramirez M, Murrell D. Managing rosacea. Australian Doctor 2013. Viewed 27 Oct 2014, www.australiandoctor.com.au/clinical/therapy-update/managing-rosacea
     
  2. Bone K. A clinical guide to blending liquid herbs. St Louis: Churchill Livingstone, 2003.
     
  3. Natural Medicine Comprehensive Database 2014. Viewed 17 Oct 2014, www.naturaldatabase.com
     
  4. Knott A, Reuschlein K, Mielke H, et al. Natural Arctium lappa fruit extract improves the clinical signs of aging skin. J Cosmet Dermatol 2008;7(4):281-289. [Abstract]
     
  5. Braun L, Cohen M. Herbs and natural supplements: an evidence-based guide, 3rd ed. Sydney: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier, 2010.
     
  6. Sharma M, Schoop R, Suter A, et al. The potential use of echinacea in acne: control of Propionibacterium acnes growth and inflammation. Phytother Res 2011;25(4):517-521. [Abstract]
     
  7. Mills SY. The dictionary of modern herbalism. Melbourne: Lothian Publishing Company, 1985.
     
  8. Higdon J. Vitamin A. Micronutrient information center, Linus Pauling Institute 2003. Viewed 14 Oct 2014, http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/vitaminA/
     
  9. Gupta M, Mahajan VK, Mehta KS, et al. Zinc therapy in dermatology: a review. Dermatol Res Pract 2014:709152. [Full text]
     
  10. Mills S, Bone K. Principles and practice of phytotherapy. 2nd ed. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone, 2012.

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The information provided on FX Medicine is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided on this site is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you have read here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.

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Melissa Lee
Melissa is a designer turned nutritionist, who has combined the two modalities to create purposeful designs for various health publications and websites. Having initially studied Multimedia Systems Design, she then went on to complete a BHSc in Nutritional Medicine which led to her involvement in the integrative medicine industry and eventually to FX Medicine.