Ask the doctor.

What supplements should one take for a lymphatic system that does not function well? I am a 40-year-old female.

--LM via email

Herbal remedies work in freeing up the flow of lymph and detoxifying fire lymphatic system. Herbs such as iris versicolor, mullein, red root bark, burdock, echinacea, cleavers, red clover, ginger, yellow dock, sarsaparilla, elder flower and yarrow are good lymph movers and detoxifiers.

Because lymph, unlike blood, doesn't have a heart to pump it through the body, it relies on muscle movement. Walking and jazzercise, for instance, actually milk lymph or push it through the lymphatic vessels. Using a dry skin brash to brush the body gently in the direction of the heart is also good for freeing up stagnant lymph flow. There are massage therapists who specialize in manual lymph drainage massage, and this is a wonderful technique for lymph health.

Avoid caring sugar- and flour-based foods, red meats, greasy and fatty foods, alcohol, vinegar and pickles, dairy products, artificial additives, preservatives, colorings and flavorings. Although a 2- to 3-day fasting diet that consists of eating only fruits and vegetables with high water consumption would be best, you may also eat white meat and fish, fresh green vegetables and fresh fruits with an emphasis on oranges, grapes and apples. Reintroduce other foods gradually after you've completed your cleanse.

As for herbs, one preferred formula for lymph detoxification is 4 ounces each of dried red clover and lemon peel, 2 ounces each of dried red root and echinacea root, and I ounce of ...