Lymphatic drainage drops are liquids made of different herbs that are known to improve your lymphatic flow. But do they actually work? Here, experts break down everything you need to know.Lymphatic drainage drops are liquids made of different herbs that are known to improve your lymphatic flow. But do they actually work? Here, experts break down everything you need to know.
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.
“The biggest issue is that ‘lymphatic drainage drops’ are a marketing category, not a standardized or medical treatment,” Dr. Kahn agrees. “Products may vary widely in terms of ingredients.”
What are the downsides?
Chiu says that you might be taking herbs that your body doesn’t need. Also, she points out that the category of herbs called “lymphatic drainage drops” is vague and says it is all just marketing. “The actual functions of the herbs don’t necessarily match with the promise of the name,” she says.
She also cautions those with weak digestion from taking these drops, as some of the herbs used in these formulas can cause more harm. Dr. Kahn adds dehydration and electrolyte imbalance as other potential side effects.
And if you’re taking any sort of medication, Chiu recommends consulting first with your doctor before adding any sort of herbal remedies as herbs are known to potentially interact with certain medications. Dr. Kahn agrees and says those taking diuretics or those with liver, kidney, or heart disease should avoid this altogether.
While Chiu says you can structure your days of taking herbs without professional guidance (“I recommend a structure like five days on and two days off so your body has regular breaks from the herbs,” she says), she thinks it’s best taken with a licensed professional looking over you rather than you trying to figure it out all on your own.
Should we use lymphatic drainage drops?
“No, I would not recommend lymphatic drops,” Chiu says. “As an herbalist myself, I know that the most effective and safest way to use herbs is to be precise.” She goes on to explain that a licensed herbalist selecting the right herbs to match your specific needs is more beneficial—and safer—than grabbing a pre-made formula that is more general.
“To give ‘lymphatic drops’ to someone who thinks their morning facial puffiness means their lymph drainage is off, is simply not how you practice herbal medicine,” she says. “It’s just not based or anchored in the principles of sound herbal practice.”
What actually works for lymphatic drainage?
Chiu says one of the best things you can do for a healthy lymphatic flow is walk, as regular movement and light exercise are easy ways to support lymphatic circulation. “I especially love it with nothing in your hands,” she says. “No phone, purse, bag, or backpack: just let your arms swing naturally and let your body move.”
Other options include breathing, as Chiu explains that the movement of the diaphragm and the pressure changes can also help lymph move through the body, and gua sha, which releases muscle tension to improve lymphatic circulation and boost blood flow.
Dr. Kahn agrees and adds that compression can also be helpful. Using compression leggings, for example, she says, may provide mechanical support for circulation and lymphatic movement. Or when in doubt, seek a certified therapist for lymphatic drainage. One can never go wrong with that.
Curious about a beauty or wellness trend? We want to know! Email Vogue’s senior beauty and wellness editor at beauty@vogue.com.
