DIY Lymphatic Cream

Have you ever sat at your desk feeling the achy, puffy, sluggish feeling building day after day? Even when you're eating well and getting enough sleep?

It can be SO frustrating. And many times, we can help ourselves move through it and feel clear again by supporting the lymphatic system.

Our lymphatic system keeps so many important functions running smoothly in our bodies—transporting nutrients, delivering hormones, helping keep the immune system strong, removing waste. And here's the thing: it doesn't have a pump, so it can only do its many crucial jobs when we physically move our bodies.

Yes, that does mean walking, jumping, dancing, and stretching, but even deep breathing helps keep lymph flowing, and self-massage can work wonders alongside exercise--especially with lymph-loving herbs blended into skin-nourishing oils.

If your lymph could use some support and you like to know exactly what you're putting on and in your body, then this simple DIY lymphatic cream recipe is for you.

What You'll Need

• 1/2 cup apricot oil
• 2 tbsp cleavers
• 2 tbsp ginger
• 1/4 cup castor oil
• 2 tbsp beeswax

How to Make It

Step 1: Infuse the herbs in apricot oil by mixing them together and either:

Quick method: simmering on low in a double boiler for 3-4 hours, or

Slow style: storing in a jar in a cool, dry place for 4-6 weeks, shaking to mix every few days.

Step 2: Strain through cheesecloth. 

Step 3: Mix infused oil, castor oil, and beeswax in a double boiler.

Step 4: Heat gently until beeswax melts and mixes into other oils.

Step 5: Pour mixture into tins or small amber jars.

Step 6: Store in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

How to Use It

The lymphatic system runs throughout the body, just beneath the skin. It only takes light pressure (much less than massaging the muscles) to help it flow—like smoothing out a sheet.

Rub a small amount on sore lymph nodes throughout the body. And for general maintenance, 1-3 times per week, gently massage cream into your whole body, always moving toward clusters of lymph nodes: armpits, elbows, groin, behind the knees.

Why This Lymphatic Cream Works

Cleavers have been used for generations to encourage healthy lymphatic circulation and support the body’s natural detoxification processes. They soothe irritated skin, too!

Ginger supports a healthy inflammatory balance and helps the body feel more comfortable during times of tension or stress.

Castor oil has long been used in herbalism to support lymphatic flow and a healthy detox process. It also nurtures and helps hydrate the skin.

Apricot oil is packed with vitamins and essential fatty acids that support the body’s natural healing processes.

Beeswax is nature’s moisturizing and nourishing gift to our skin, treasured by herbalists for centuries.

Too much going on right now to make your own? We get it. And that's why we make our Lymphatic Cream for the seasons when DIY is another thing on the list. Full of lymph-loving herbs and moisturizing oils, it's a soothing, comforting way to help your body move back into its natural, healthy flow.

FAQs

How do I know if my lymphatic system needs support?

Signs that your lymphatic system might need support are swollen lymph nodes, sluggishness, a heavy or "stuck" feeling in the body, achiness, and tension.

Why is it so important to support my lymphatic system?

A healthy lymphatic system is crucial for many functions in the body, including delivering nutrients, transporting hormones, and removing waste. And it relies on our movement to flow properly.

How does lymphatic cream help my body?

Lymphatic cream delivers herbal support through your skin to help encourage fluid movement, while nourishing and moisturizing your skin at the same time.