Ayurvedic Treatment Of Swollen Lymph Nodes With Herbal Remedies
Abstract
Swollen Lymph Nodes occur due to certain bacterial and Viral Infections, sometimes it can occur due to certain overgrowth or due to Cancer. You might notice some swelling on the sides of your neck when you’re not feeling well, such as when you’re sick. To the touch, such lumps are most likely delicate and mushy, and they might even ache a little. Your neck’s lumps are enlarged lymph nodes. Swollen lymph nodes are referred to as lymphadenopathy or adenopathy in medicine. And the Swollen Lymph nodes are a sign that the body is fighting with an illness and infection. In this article, we are going to discuss what are lymph nodes and the causes of lymph node swelling along with its Ayurvedic Concept in detail.
Introduction
Lymph Nodes are small, bean-shaped organs which filter the substances in the body. It is a complex network of nodes and various vessels. The lymph node contains immune cells which are known as Lymphocytes which destroy the bacteria and the filtered fluid returns back to the blood. Lymph glands are an integral part of the immune system and are present all over the body but are mainly found in the Neck region, Groin, Armpit and behind the ear. The Lymph glands play a very important role in the body for fighting against infections as they filter and trap the viruses and bacteria which infect the whole body.
Lymphadenopathy is common but there are pea-sized lymph nodes which are part of the Lymphatic system as they filter to help get rid of germs and other foreign bodies which pass through the lymph fluid. The Lymph fluid is yellow in colour and is made of white blood cells, Proteins and Fats. Along with the Lymphatic system, the Spleen, Tonsils and Adenoids are useful in protecting it from harmful germs.
Causes Of Swollen Lymph Nodes
The most common cause of Swollen Lymph Nodes is Infection which can be a Viral Infection such as the Common Cold, other causes are as follows-
1. Common Infections
- Strep throat
- Ear infection
- Skin wound
- Cellulitis
- HIV (Human immunodeficiency virus)
2. Uncommon Infections
- Tuberculosis
- Sexually Transmitted infections
- Toxoplasmosis (parasite infection or due to uncooked meat)
- Cat Scratch Fever (bacterial infection due to cat scratch)
3. Immune System Disorders
- Lupus- Chronic inflammatory conditions which affect joints, skin, and kidney
- Rheumatoid Arthritis- Inflammatory condition which targets the tissues.
4. Cancer
- Lymphoma
- Leukaemia
- Metastasis of the lymph nodes
5. Medications
- Anti-seizure (Phenytoin) and the various preservatives of Malaria.
Symptoms Of Swollen Lymph Nodes
The most common symptoms of Swollen Lymph nodes are as follows-
- Tenderness and Pain in the Lymph Nodes
- Lymph nodes reach the size of a Kidney bean or larger than that
- Runny Nose
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Swelling of clusters of lymph nodes in the body
- Pus discharge
- Unexplained Weight Loss
- Malaise
- Warmth is felt on the site of the Lymph node
- Night Sweats
Diagnosis Of Swollen Lymph Nodes
- History
- Physical examination near the surface of skin, tenderness, warmth and texture
- Blood Tests
- X-ray
- CT Scan
- Biopsy
- MRI
- Ultrasound
- PET SCAN
Treatment Of Swollen Lymph Nodes
- Antibiotics or Antiviral medications such as Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen which relieve pain and inflammation.
- If the cause of Swollen lymph is Cancer, then accordingly the treatment proceeds.
Prevention Of Swollen Lymph Nodes
- Practise proper Dental hygiene
- Wash your hands frequently
- Get properly vaccinated for flu and Shingles.
- Avoid having any personal items or beverages or any personal items which can be contagious.
- Avoid your pets from playing outside
Ayurvedic Concept Of Swollen Lymph Nodes
Lymph nodes are commonly known as Granthi (Knots), which are the small clusters of cells which are the vast lymphatic system which are mainly responsible for draining the wastes within the body and thus maintaining immunity. Tridoshas (Vata, Pitta and Kapha) affect the Mamsa Dhatu (muscles), Blood, Meda (Fat) and Sira (Blood vessels and Veins) which causes swelling which is Round and Knotted. This swelling is commonly known as Granthi.
Types Of Granthi
Granthi is of 5 types which are well explained by Acharya Sushruta
- Vataj Granthi – If Vata doshas are predominant there will be various types of Pains such as Pulling (Aayamyate), Pricking type of Pain and Churning (Mathya) and the shape of this granthi is Smooth and black in colour.
- Pittaj Granthi – There is excessive bleeding and a burning sensation. The colour is yellow-red in colour and the discharge is usually blood which is hot.
- Kaphaja Granthi – Kaphaja Granthi is slightly discoloured and is mainly appearing with Pain and Itching. The growth is slow and tardy which is mainly hard like a stone and breaks down and discharges a white-like pus (Infected).
- Medoja Granthi – It is a large swelling with a lot of pain and itching and can increase or decrease in size.
- Sira Granthi – When the Vata doshas get aggravated due to excessive exercise they dry up the Sira and cause narrowing which causes pain. The vitiated vata doshas cause round-shaped nodes in the Siras.
Herbs Useful In Swollen Lymph Nodes
- Triphala – Triphala (Amalaki, Haritaki and Bhibhitaki) is helpful in restoring and rejuvenating the immune system. Triphala is useful in stimulating the function of Neutrophils, it reduces inflammation and is useful in the treatment of various ailments such as bacterial and viral infections. Contains various anti-oxidants which perform the various protective functions of the body.
- Guggul – Guggul (Commiphora mukul) is a small tree which grows at a height of 6 metres and protects the body and manages the Vata doshas thus removing the Ama doshas from the body. Guggul has anti-inflammatory properties which are helpful in lymph node swelling, supports the proper functioning of the lymphatic system and balances Kapha doshas.
- Ginger – Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has anti-inflammatory properties which break and reduce the toxins from the lymph nodes which further leads to swelling. Ginger has various antioxidants which are effective in reducing the swelling of the lymph nodes and protecting it against various infections.
- Varuna – Varuna (Crataeva nurvala) is a deciduous medium-sized plant whose leaves are green-white in colour. The bark of Varuna is Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic and carminative in nature. Varuna Chaal has Anti-inflammatory properties which treat the infected lymph nodes and balance Kapha and Vata doshas. Varuna is useful in removing the extra phlegm and scraping the extra fat from the body.
Herbal Remedies For Swollen Lymph Nodes By Planet Ayurveda
Ayurveda is the world’s ancient medical system and it is accepted as the country’s healthcare ideology. The origin of Ayurveda in India is around more than 3,000 years ago. This system works on the concept that with the help of herbs, the disease can be cured without any side effects. Moreover, the Indian government and many other institutes all over the world encourage laboratory research on Herbs.
Here we are talking about the Planet Ayurveda which also works in accordance with ancient Ayurveda. This company’s main emphasis is to provide health benefits along with the treatment of disease. All the products provided by this company are free from preservatives, starch, colours and additives and completely safe for mankind.
Planet Ayurveda provides the best combination of effective herbal remedies such as the Swollen Lymph Nodes Care Pack for the Ayurvedic treatment of swollen lymph nodes. These herbal remedies are prepared by using best quality herbs and strictly follow the principles of Ayurveda. All these herbal remedies of Planet Ayurveda are 100 percent pure, natural and vegetarian. These are free from chemicals, additives and preservatives. These are safe to use as they are free from side effects.
Swollen Lymph Nodes Care Pack
- ASHWAGANDHA CAPSULES
- KANCHNAAR GUGGUL
- CURCUMIN CAPSULES
Products Description
1. Ashwagandha Capsules
Ashwagandha capsules are a Single herbal formulation which is manufactured by Planet Ayurveda using Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera). Ashwagandha is helpful in balancing Tridoshas of the body but mainly it may pacify Vata and Kapha doshas. Ashwagandha has anti-inflammatory properties which are effective in providing strength to the lymphatic system. Has various rejuvenative properties which provide relief in the case of Swollen Lymph nodes.
Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily after meals with plain water.
2. Kanchnaar Guggul
Kanchnaar Guggul is an herbal tablet formulation which is prepared by Planet Ayurveda using various ingredients such as Kanchnaar Bark (Bauhinia variegata), Varuna (Crataeva religiosa), Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), Guggul (Commiphora mukul) and more. Kanchnaar Guggul has various properties such as Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory which is useful in the swelling of lymph nodes. Kanchnaar is helpful in keeping the immune system strong, creates a barrier and prevents the antigens from entering the body. Kanchnaar contains Phenolic acid which is useful in reducing the inflammation in the lymph nodes. Phenolic acid is suppressing the inflammation and contains various antioxidants.
Dosage: 2 tablets thrice daily after meals with plain water.
3. Curcumin Capsules
Curcumin Capsules are a single standardised extract of Hardira which is prepared by Planet Ayurveda using Haridra (Curcuma longa). Hardira is useful in purifying blood disorders and protects the body from the various damages caused by free radicals. Curcumin has various inflammatory leukotrienes and is useful in inhibiting the production of Lipoxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase which promotes and maintains the inflammation in the body. It is also useful in inhibiting the proliferation, apoptosis and diffusing large beta cell lymphoma which is regulating the MiR-21/VHL axis.
Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily after meals with plain water.
Conclusion
The body’s lymph nodes, which resemble tiny beans, filter the things that enter it. It is an intricate network made up of several vessels and nodes. The immune cells called lymphocytes found in the lymph node eliminate the bacteria, allowing the filtered fluid to return to the bloodstream. White blood cells, proteins, and fats make up the yellow-coloured lymph fluid. The lymphatic system is helpful in warding off pathogens, as are the tonsils, spleen, and adenoids. Granthi, also referred to as knots, are the tiny cell clusters that make up the extensive lymphatic system, which is primarily in charge of eliminating waste from the body and preserving immunity. Further, we discussed various causes, symptoms and types of Lymph nodes along with the herbal supplements which are helpful in swollen lymph nodes without causing any side effects.
FAQs
1. What are Lymph Nodes?
Lymph Nodes are the oval-shaped masses of tissue found in the body which plays an important role by protecting the body from infection and diseases.
2. Why do these Lymph Nodes get Swollen?
Lymph Nodes get Swollen because of illness, infection, or stress. Swollen Lymph Nodes are an alert that our Lymphatic system is working hard to protect the body from foreign bodies.
3. Where are Lymph Nodes located in the body?
The network of organs, Lymph Nodes and vessels is called the Lymphatic system. The vessels and Lymph Nodes are found throughout the body and in groups. The Lymph Nodes are located in- the armpit, groin, neck, pelvis, and abdomen. The Lymph node located in the neck is felt like a pea or small bean. Areas like abdomen or the chest, Lymph Nodes are located deeper and cannot be felt.
4. What Does an Enlarged Lymph Node Mean?
Enlarged or Swollen Lymph Nodes is the indication that infection, cancer, or another disease are affecting the immune system. Usually, Swollen Lymph Nodes are related to the infection with which the immune system is fighting.
5. What are the causes of Swollen Lymph Nodes?
- Ear infection
- Cold or flu
- Sinus infection
- HIV infection
- Infected tooth
- Mononucleosis (mono)
- Skin infection
- Strep throat
- Mouth sores
The other causes are –
- Gingivitis
- Hodgkin’s disease
- Leukemia
- Metastasized cancer
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
- Measles
- Tonsillitis
- Toxoplasmosis
- Tuberculosis
- Sézary syndrome
6. What are the symptoms seen in one having Swollen Lymph Nodes?
- Tenderness and pain in the Lymph Nodes
- Swelling
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Respiratory infection
- General swelling of Lymph Nodes throughout your body — which may indicate the infections like- HIV or mononucleosis, or an immune disorder, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
- Hard nodules
- Rapid growth of Nodes
- Growth indicating a tumor
- Fever
- Night Sweats
7. What are the complications because of Swollen Lymph Nodes?
- Abscess formation- Formation of pus in the Swollen Lymph Nodes
- Bloodstream infection (bacteremia)- Leads to Sepsis (a life-threatening condition because of infection)
8. How are Swollen Lymph Nodes diagnosed?
Swollen Lymph Nodes are palpable and may be rubbery or hard to touch. Usually to find out the cause behind the Swollen Lymph Nodes certain methods are used:
- Medical history
- Physical exam
- Blood tests
- X-Ray or CT scan
- Biopsy of Lymph Nodes
9. How does treatment work on Swollen Lymph Nodes?
The treatment works on the aspects mentioned below –
- Infection – To treat the cause of infection due to which the Lymph Nodes are Swollen.
- Immune Disorder – Other than infection lupus or rheumatoid arthritis which are the immune disorders which can be the cause of Swollen Lymph Nodes. These conditions are treated accordingly in the symptomatic manner.
- Cancer – Swollen Lymph Nodes can also be the result of cancer. Therefore the treatment will be given by knowing the stage and type of cancer.
10. There are how many Lymph Nodes in your body?
There are around 501 and 700 Lymph Nodes in our body and it can also vary person to person. Half of them are found in the stomach or abdominal area. There are around 100 Lymph Nodes near armpits and groin.
11. Do Swollen Lymph Nodes mean cancer?
Multiple Swollen Lymph Nodes are categorized as Lymphadenopathy. This can be the result of infection, immune disorder, medicines or cancer. In every case it is not due to cancer and the other conditions mentioned above can also result in Swollen Lymph Nodes.
12. What are the signs that you have a cancerous Lymph node?
- Enlarged Lymph Nodes.
- Chills.
- Weight loss.
- Fatigue (feeling very tired)
- Swollen abdomen (belly)
- Feeling of heaviness or full after having a small amount of food.
- Chest pain or pressure.
- Shortness of breath or cough.
13. Are cancerous Lymph Nodes movable?
The cancerous Swollen Lymph Nodes are very hard, like rocks, and they are not movable.
14. Is Lymph node cancer curable?
Yes, it can be treated and cured by Ayurveda depending on the stage and type of cancer.
15. Are cancerous Lymph Nodes painful?
Yes, the cancerous Lymph Nodes are painful and Swollen.
16. Can Lymph Nodes grow back?
Yes, the Lymph Nodes can grow back when they are removed by surgery because there are chances to leave the part of it at the affected area during surgery.
17. What are the natural treatment for the Swollen Lymph Nodes?
- Garlic
- Apple cider vinegar
- Turmeric
- Honey
- Castor oil
- Coconut oil
18. How is Garlic helpful in Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Garlic is a herb that has antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. The anti-inflammatory property of the garlic can help in reducing the swelling and inflammation in the Lymph node. The antibiotic property present in it helps to cleanse the body and ease the symptoms of the Swollen Lymph node.
How to take –
- Eat a 2-3 clove of garlic daily on an empty stomach. You can also include garlic in your cooking.
- Put a few drops of garlic oil in your hands and massage gently over the Swollen area for 2-3 times in a day.
19. How is Turmeric beneficial in Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Turmeric is a therapeutic herb which is used in the treatment of many body ailments. The herb has anti-inflammatory property. It helps to reduce the swelling in the Lymph node and fight against the various foreign bodies which attack the body. Turmeric has a natural analgesic property which makes it helpful in relieving pain in your body.
How to take –
- You can mix one tablespoon of turmeric powder with a few drops of honey and make a paste.
- Apply this paste on a Swollen area and wait 10 minutes, after 10 minutes rinse off with warm water and do this twice daily for one week.
- A glass of warm turmeric milk daily can be also helpful.
20. Which foods are good in the Swollen Lymph node?
- NUTS – (to be soaked overnight or at least for 8 hours) 5 to 7 almonds, 2 walnuts and 2 figs (Soaked overnight)
- LEAVES & GRASS – Radish leaves, Mint leaves, Coriander leaves,
Spinach leaves, Rocket leaves, Lettuce, Kale,
Lemongrass, Wheatgrass, and Spirulina - STEAMED VEGETABLES – Potatoes, Cabbage, Bottle gourd, Pumpkin, round gourd, bitter melon, Peas, Beans, Broccoli, and Cauliflower
- JUICES – Green juice dhaniya leaves – few, pudina leaves- 4-5, Palak leaves-2, Basil-tulsi leaves – 2, Wheatgrass-gehu ke jware,Cap. Spirulina-Moringa-Green essentials-1, each can be added for better results.
20 ml or 2 tsp., twice daily can be taken.
21. What is the Ayurvedic concept about Swollen Lymph Nodes?
It is called as Lasika granthi shonth as per Ayurveda. It is caused due to vitiated tridoshas- Vata, Kapha and Pitta dosha. The diet that we take aggravates the doshas which leads to the blockage in Lymph and causing inflammation and other symptoms of Swollen Lymph Nodes.
22. How to treat Swollen Lymph Nodes in the neck?
- A warm compress-Give a warm, wet compress- a washcloth dipped in hot water and gives a compress on the affected area.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
- Get adequate rest.
23. What is the most common early symptom of Lymphoma?
- Chills/temperature swings.
- Fevers (especially at night)
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Loss of appetite.
- Unusual tiredness/lack of energy.
- Constant coughing.
- Breathlessness.
- Regular itch all over the body.
24. Can you die from Lymph node cancer?
The cancer cells travel from organ to organ through the bloodstream. If the cells move through the Lymph system, then the cancer cells can end up in the Lymph Nodes itself. Cancerous cells spread through Lymph to other organs which can lead to severe complications and ultimately death.
25. Can Inflammatory disease be the cause of Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and sensitivity to some medications can lead to inflammation which can result in Swollen Lymph Nodes.
26. What prevention can be taken to avoid Swollen Lymph Nodes?
- Visit your doctor for regular check-ups
- Maintain good hygiene (wash hands, etc.)
- Keep up with vaccinations
- Store and prepare food safely
- Drink clean water
- Avoid unprotected sex and STDs
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid a diet high in saturated fats and red meats
- Exercise regularly
- Don’t use intravenous drugs
- Should be noticed and taken care of new or regular symptoms or any other changes in your body
27. What are the types of Lymph Nodes?
- Cervical Lymph Nodes – Found in the neck
- Axillary Lymph Nodes – Found in the armpits
- Mediastinal Lymph Nodes – Found in the chest, near the heart
- Inguinal Lymph Nodes – Found in the groin
- Retroperitoneal and Mesenteric Lymph Nodes – Found in other different parts of the abdomen.
- Pelvic Lymph Nodes – Found in the pelvis.
28. What are the herbs used in the treatment of Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Our nature is full of herbs and it has treatment for all the health issues. For Swollen Lymph Nodes, the herbs are –
- Kachnnar – It has anti-inflammatory property
- Tulsi – It has antioxidant property
- Haridra – It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties
- Fenugreek – It gives a calming effect and is antioxidant by nature
- Giloy – It is antioxidant and antipyretic by nature
- Aloe vera – It is a detoxifier, has a cooling effect, and pacifies the Pitta doshas.
29. What is the Ayurvedic treatment for Swollen Lymph Nodes?
Planet Ayurveda has a herbal pack named SWOLLEN LYMPH NODES CARE PACK which is the combination of herbs which work to pacify the symptoms of Swollen Lymph Nodes and treat the cause of it. The pack includes
- Ashwagandha Capsules
- Kachnaar Guggul
- Curcumin Capsules
PRODUCTS DESCRIPTION
- Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Capsules are a single herbal capsule and maintain overall health.
- Kanchnaar Guggul Is in tablet form made with the combination of Guggul (Commiphora mukul) and Kachnaar (Bauhinia variegata). It has anti-inflammatory property
- Curcumin Capsules It is made with standardised extract of Haridra. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties
Dosage – 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.
Dosage – 2 capsules thrice daily with plain water after meals.
Dosage – 2 capsules twice daily with plain water after meals.
