In a world obsessed with detoxing, lymphatic drainage remains a top priority. So it’s no surprise that lymphatic drainage drops have become the natural progression (read: viral sensation) in our journey for healthy lymphatic flow.
Lymphatic drainage drops are liquids made of different herbs that are known for their immune-boosting and “detoxing” effects to improve your lymphatic flow. It sounds great in theory, but experts aren’t so quick to co-sign them. As Sandra Chiu, L.Ac., DACM, founder of Lanshin, explains, lymphatic drainage has moved far beyond its original use of helping people with lymphatic impairment and is now synonymous with de-bloating and de-puffing, which leads many people turning to methods that aren’t necessary in the first place.
“People see facial puffiness or bloating in the body and assume it means their lymphatic system is congested, even when they’re perfectly healthy,” Chiu tells Vogue. “I see the term ‘lymphatic drainage’ being used to sell everything from facial massage and gua sha to body sculpting, detox products, and now herbal supplements.”
So before clicking * add to bag * to the lymphatic drainage drops you discovered via an algorithm, you might want to read this first.
Do lymphatic drainage drops actually work?
Experts are skeptical of all the claims. “I don’t see any evidence that lymphatic drainage drops actually increase lymphatic circulation,” says Amanda Kahn, MD, board-certified internist and longevity medicine specialist. Dr. Kahn goes on to explain that lymphatic flow is driven by skeletal muscle contraction, physical movement, breathing, and gravity. The most proven methods to encourage that type of lymph movement include exercise, compression, and manual lymphatic drainage. While some of the ingredients in these drops may have a mild diuretic effect, she says losing water through your kidneys and urinary tract is not the same thing as lymphatic drainage.
“Some may take the drops and genuinely notice that they feel a little less bloated or puffy, but this doesn’t necessarily mean the supplement has increased lymphatic flow,” she adds. “The evidence isn’t strong enough for me to recommend lymphatic drainage drops specifically to improve lymphatic function.”
“Lymphatic drops don’t have a clear goal that you can measure or feel, which is why I’m a bit dubious and suspicious,” Chiu agrees. “Herbs are powerful and should be used for specific, targeted reasons.”
Do lymphatic drainage drops have any benefits?
While some of the herbs found in these drops are linked to certain benefits such as strengthening your immune system, improving your bowel function, and stimulating better blood flow and circulation, Chiu says that the link between using an herb for a swollen lymph node or gland to treat facial puffiness is a pretty big stretch. “The herbs technically have benefits, but herbs only have a benefit if you actually need them,” she says. “‘Lymphatic drainage drops’ speaks more to marketing than sound herbal practice.”
