Essential Oils To Support Our Immune System

By Lorraine Rimando, RN, BSN, RA

Have you ever given thought to how your body comes into constant contact with external stressors, environmental and internal toxins and pollutants in the air we breathe? Good news is, our body has an incredible network of defense the lymphatic system and the immune system.

The lymphatic system is our body's cleaning system. It runs alongside our circulatory system. However, unlike the circulatory system, which has its' own pumping device (the heart), our lymphatic system depends on the pressure from normal activity of the surrounding muscles to circulate the lymph (excess fluid not reabsorbed by the circulatory system). The lymphatic system is an intricate detoxing system that includes lymph nodes that perform the function of defense and white blood cell formation. Lymph passes through nodes so that bacteria, cancer cells, and damaged tissue cells are removed; preventing it from entering the blood and circulating all over the body. Insufficient exercise and muscle movement can affect the lymph system's function. One example of this is the build-up of cellulite caused by the retention of toxins due to poor lymphatic circulation. It is also important to take care of the breasts, especially, due to the breast containing an extensive network of nodes that receive lymph from the breast.

There are many ways to support our lymphatic system. One way to naturally care for our body's cleaning system is through the use of aromatherapy and essential oils. There are many essential oils (such as grapefruit, atlas cedar, fennel, carrot seed and juniper berry) that have the ability to detoxify the body, stimulate the lymphatic system, support the immune system and assist with circulation. Grapefruit essential oil (citrus paradisi), is a great detoxifier and lymphatic stimulant that has a talent for decreasing cellulite. It is often used to assist with obesity issues and water retention because it also has diuretic effects. Atlas cedar essential oil also has the ability to assist the body with lymphatic drainage and the breakdown of accumulated fats. It can also work as a mild diuretic, decreasing edema. These essential oils not only smell great and decrease emotional stress, but also help to support your body's immune system.

Of course, taking multivitamins regularly, eating colorful foods from the garden and exercising are also important aspects of staying healthy and supporting your body's defense system. However, there are other natural ways, such as aromatherapy, that you can incorporate into your daily routine. It's a great way to detoxify your body, mind and spirit holistically.