Do Lymphatic Drainage Drops Actually Deliver Results?

In a beauty culture fixated on detoxing, lymphatic drainage has become a major talking point. So it makes sense that lymphatic drainage drops have emerged as the next viral product in the quest for better lymph flow.

These drops are liquid herbal blends often promoted for immune support and detox-style benefits, with claims that they can improve lymphatic flow. That may sound appealing, but specialists are far less enthusiastic. Sandra Chiu, L.Ac., DACM, founder of Lanshin, notes that lymphatic drainage once referred to helping people with lymphatic impairment, but it has since been stretched into a catchall term for de-bloating and de-puffing—prompting many people to turn to remedies they may not actually need.

“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.”

Before you hit add to bag on a pair of lymphatic drainage drops recommended by an algorithm, it may be worth taking a closer look.

Do lymphatic drainage drops actually work?

Experts remain unconvinced by the claims. “I don’t see any evidence that lymphatic drainage drops actually increase lymphatic circulation,” says Amanda Kahn, MD, a board-certified internist and longevity medicine specialist. She explains that lymphatic flow is supported by skeletal muscle contraction, movement, breathing, and gravity. The most established ways to encourage lymph movement include exercise, compression, and manual lymphatic drainage. Although some ingredients in these drops may act as mild diuretics, she says that losing water through the kidneys and urinary tract is not the same thing as lymphatic drainage.

“Some may take the drops and genuinely notice that they feel a little less bloated or puffy, but this doesn’t necessarily mean the supplement has increased lymphatic flow,” she adds. “The evidence isn’t strong enough for me to recommend lymphatic drainage drops specifically to improve lymphatic function.”

Chiu agrees. “Lymphatic drops don’t have a clear goal that you can measure or feel, which is why I’m a bit dubious and suspicious,” she says. “Herbs are powerful and should be used for specific, targeted reasons.”

Do lymphatic drainage drops have any benefits?

Some of the herbs used in these products are associated with possible benefits, including supporting the immune system, aiding bowel function, and promoting blood flow and circulation. Even so, Chiu says connecting an herb that may be used for a swollen lymph node or gland to the treatment of facial puffiness is a stretch. “The herbs technically have benefits, but herbs only have a benefit if you actually need them,” she says. “‘Lymphatic drainage drops’ speaks more to marketing than sound herbal practice.”