The existence of the lymph system has been known since the time of Hippocrates (460-370 BC). Its purpose was drought to be related to digestion and elimination, but its precise function and mechanics remained obscure for many centuries.
Just as the cardiovascular system circulates blood throughout the body carrying oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and cells, the lymphatic system transports lymph, a relatively clear liquid that naturally drains from our tissues and cells. Lymph is comprised of white blood cells (phagocytes and lymphocytes) and other immunerelated cells, protein molecules, glucose, salts and other minerals, fats and nutrients. The lymph system regulates our bodily fluids and also serves as the major “garbage collection” system in the body.
Above all, the lymphatic system plays an integral role in the body’s immune functions. Two kinds of lymphocytes predominate in lymph: Tlymphocytes (T cells) manage the body’s immune system responses, and B lymphocytes (B cells) make antibodies.
T cells attack and destroy tumor cells and abnormal or infected cells. B cell antibodies attack and neutralize viruses, bacteria and other dangerous foreign substances. B cells also have what’s called a secondary immune
