Functions of the Lymphatic System

The main functions of the lymphatic system are:

1. Removal of bacteria and any abnormal material
2. Helps prevent infection
3. Drains away excess fluids which are then eliminated from the body

Lymph is colourless, clear, and similar to a watery fluid resembling blood plasma which it supplies to tissues for their metabolism. It is filtered through the walls of the capillaries. In the spaces between the cells where there are no blood capillaries lymph provides nourishment.

It also carries lymphocytes; these are a type of white blood cell. There is also another type of white blood cell present which lines the inside walls of the lymph nodes. Macrophages destroy and engulf any debris, bacteria or foreign bodies carried in the lymph. They also manufacture antibodies to fight bacteria, which pass into the blood stream along with the circulating lymph. When we suffer from an infection, the lymph nodes that are nearest to the infectious site will swell (oedema) and as the white cells fight the bacteria the area tends to become tender.

The lymphatic system has no muscular pump (heart) as does the blood circulation. The lymph moves through the vessels and gets around the body through the movements of the large muscles contracting. Lymph travels in one direction, from body tissue back towards the heart.

Through massaging the body, the lymph flow is stimulated, the flow is assisted and the removal of waste products increased.