Lymphatic - Two lymphatic formulas

by Paul Bergner

Medical Herbalism 09-30-93 5(3): 6

The following is a traditional lymphatic formula used in naturopathic medicine for serious glandular problems such as tonsillitis or mastoiditis.

Phytolacca decandra (phytolacca) Commiphora myrrha (myrrh), Echinacea spp. (Echinacea)

Equal parts

Phytolacca is specifically used for the lymphatic system. Myrrh is a warming herb, antiseptic and stimulant. Echinacea is an immune stimulant. This is a very strong formula, better-suited to acute conditions, and should not be used for more than three to five days without a physician’s supervision. Phytolacca is potentially toxic and is generally not available to the lay public.

The following formula is sold to physicians in Germany as a lymphatic system formula:

Lymphdiaral

Taraxacum off. (dandelion root)         8 g

Calendula off. (pot marigold)         4.5 g

Leptandra virginica (leptandra)         3 g

Echinacea purpurea (echinacea)         3 g

Hydrastis canadensis (goldenseal)         1 g

Sanguinaria canadensis (bloodroot)         1 g

This formula has similar actions to the first, but is milder and depends primarily on the alterative herbs (dandelion and marigold). Leptandra is a cholagogue, stimulating the liver. Bloodroot, which contains potentially toxic alkaloids, is a stimulating expectorant, but is given in low doses as a tonic. The formula would be of value without it, and would be safer for long term use. This formula is better suited for chronic conditions than the one listed above.
 

Copyright 2001 Paul Bergner    239