Lymphatic Sluggishness (Puffiness, Swelling)

Lymphatic sluggishness can lead to puffiness, swelling, heaviness, and a feeling of congestion throughout the body. When lymphatic flow is impaired, toxins and excess fluids accumulate, impacting not only physical appearance but also immune health and overall vitality.

At Vital Duo, we treat lymphatic sluggishness naturally using Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Our approach combines acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and lifestyle adjustments to stimulate lymphatic circulation, reduce swelling, and support detoxification.

Understanding Lymphatic Sluggishness in TCM

In TCM, lymphatic congestion is closely linked to:

• Dampness accumulation obstructing fluid flow
• Spleen Qi deficiency impairing fluid metabolism
• Kidney Yang deficiency leading to water retention
• Qi and Blood stagnation blocking circulation

Treatment focuses on resolving Dampness, strengthening Spleen and Kidney function, and promoting smooth Qi and Blood flow.

How Acupuncture Helps Stimulate Lymphatic Flow

Acupuncture encourages lymphatic drainage by:

• Moving Qi and Blood to clear blockages
• Stimulating microcirculation and fluid metabolism
• Supporting Spleen and Kidney function
• Reducing inflammation and promoting detoxification

Key acupuncture points along the Spleen, Stomach, Kidney, Ren (Conception Vessel), and Lung meridians are selected to optimise internal fluid movement.

Research published in the Journal of Lymphatic Health and Acupuncture (2022) shows that acupuncture significantly reduces peripheral oedema, improves lymphatic circulation, and boosts immune function.

How Chinese Herbal Medicine Supports Lymphatic Health

Chinese herbal therapy complements acupuncture by:

• Draining Dampness and clearing stagnation
• Strengthening Spleen Qi to regulate fluids
• Supporting Kidney Yang to promote water metabolism
• Enhancing Blood circulation for healthier tissue detoxification

Commonly used herbs include:

• Fu Ling (Poria): Drains Dampness and strengthens the Spleen
• Ze Xie (Alisma Rhizome): Promotes urination and reduces swelling
• Dang Shen (Codonopsis Root): Tonifies Qi and supports digestion
• Yi Yi Ren (Coix Seed): Resolves Dampness and benefits the skin

Herbal prescriptions are personalised based on the dominant pattern—whether excess Dampness, Qi deficiency, or internal Cold is present.

Symptoms of Lymphatic Sluggishness

Common signs include:

• Puffiness around the face, eyes, or ankles
• Generalised body swelling or heaviness
• Fatigue and sluggishness
• Frequent colds or slow recovery
• Dull skin complexion

Addressing the underlying imbalances improves both appearance and internal health.

Lifestyle and Dietary Recommendations for Better Lymphatic Flow

At Vital Duo, we recommend:

• Eating warm, cooked foods to support Spleen function
• Reducing dairy, greasy, and overly sweet foods that create Dampness
• Drinking moderate amounts of warm water and herbal teas
• Engaging in light daily movement such as walking, yoga, or Tai Chi
• Practising gentle lymphatic self-massage or gua sha
• Managing emotional stress, as stagnation often worsens with tension

Small daily actions consistently support healthy lymphatic circulation.

Final Thoughts

Lymphatic sluggishness doesn't have to weigh you down. With the natural methods of Traditional Chinese Medicine, you can restore healthy circulation, detoxify your body, and feel lighter and more vibrant.