In our fast-paced world, where the lure of quick fixes and instant results often reign supreme, we tend to overlook the healing power that exists within us. Increasingly, many are looking for answers in ancient healing practices and new ways of life. Among these emerging therapies, Lymphatic Enhancement Therapy (LET) is gaining momentum due to its ability to support our internal healing responses. But does LET live up to its growing reputation?
Using a combination of sound waves, electrostatic currents, and light therapy, LET stimulates the lymphatic system, promoting detoxification and overall health. It’s an inspiring solution to many of today’s health problems we often face—constipation, fatigue, and general laziness. These are all signs that our bodies may not be functioning properly, and that we may need support to get back to a place of good well-being. LET offers a powerful option, promoting the movement of stagnant fluids and metabolic waste while strengthening our immune system.
Featured image from our interview with Janessa Leoné by Teal Thomsen.
Lymphatic Enhancement Therapy: A Treatment You Need to Know About
To dig deeper, I spoke with Brooke Taylor, founder of The Road in Austin, Texas, which specializes in skin care and Chinese medicine. With her extensive background as a beauty expert and global skincare educator, Brooke offers her insight into the transformative power of LET and its role in our overall health. In our interview, he sheds light on what drives this treatment and explores its benefits, helping us better understand how LET can fit into our health journey.
Brooke Taylor LAc, MAcOM
Brooke created The Road in Austin, Texas to share her knowledge in holistic skin care, acupuncture and Chinese medicine to enhance our own internal healing responses. Previously an esthetician and global skincare educator and product manager, she pursued her expertise in Chinese medicine to help heal others on a deeper level.
What is Lymphatic Enhancement Therapy (LET)?
Taylor describes Lymphatic Enhancement Therapy (LET) as “a new method of lymphatic drainage.” This Cutting-Edge treatment uses an electronic device that combines various frequencies, including sound waves, electrostatic currents, and light therapy. “By stimulating the lymphatic capillaries, LET improves fluid movement,” he explains, which is important for removing metabolic waste and breaking down protein-rich fluids in our tissues.
What are the most common health problems or conditions that can benefit from LET?
LET offers significant benefits for a variety of health issues and conditions. According to Taylor, “LET helps to mix stagnant hormones and fluids, while also breaking up fibrocystic changes in the tissues.” This is very important as it promotes the body’s natural detoxification and healing processes, strengthening not only the lymphatic system, but also the digestive system, liver, and gallbladder.
“LET is considered more powerful than manual lymphatic massage, and is intended to complement the manual process.” – Brooke Taylor
Taylor emphasizes that “patients often find LET an invaluable resource,” especially when dealing with persistent conditions. Many use this therapy to support their recovery from allergies, scar tissue, and post-surgery complications, showing an important role in improving overall health and well-being.
What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have about the lymphatic system and its role in overall health?
Misconceptions about the lymphatic system often stem from a lack of understanding of its important role in overall health. Taylor points out that “the importance of the lymphatic system lies in its close connection with the immune system,” serving as an important defense against disease and infection. For a long time, this system was neglected, despite its important role in initiating immune responses by using nodes and vessels that prevent the formation of toxins.
Many people may not realize that symptoms such as brain fog, water retention, and fatigue can be indicators of lymphatic stagnation. As Taylor notes, these problems can manifest in a variety of ways, including dry or itchy skin, constipation, and a weakened immune system. It’s a reminder of how interconnected our body systems really are.
Additionally, there is a common misunderstanding of how the lymphatic system works. Unlike blood, which circulates in a closed loop in the heart, “the lymphatic system relies on the movement of fascia and muscles to flow,” explains Taylor. This makes physical activity very important for lymphatic health. Even simple activities like walking and stretching can greatly improve lymphatic function. Engaging in deep breathing exercises that activate the diaphragm can also have profound benefits.
Lymphatic Health for the Brain
The importance of lymphatic health, especially in the brain, is becoming more and more recognized, especially as we age. Taylor emphasizes that “the focus will be on glymphatic health,” referring to the lymphatic system in the brain. “At Desert Canary, we have introduced a specific method designed to improve glymphatic function, which is especially beneficial after injuries such as concussions or strokes.”
In her facial care training, Taylor sees a common mistake: many people use too much pressure when trying to move lymphatic fluid effectively. explains: It is important to open the channels in the right order, work in the right way to promote fluid flow. For those with puffy eyes or heavy eyelids, he advises focusing on moving the lymph back to the skin and sides of the neck. “This is huge,” he notes, especially since many people participate in gua sha but often neglect to continue the movement until the haircut.
Some practices stimulate the lymph, such as body brushing, dry brushing, guasha, etc. How is LET different from other types of lymphatic drainage methods?
“This is a big difference for LET,” Taylor said. Unlike methods that rely solely on manual manipulation—whether with hands, brushes, or gua sha—LET uses technology to improve lymphatic flow. Although manual methods usually follow certain patterns and directions to stimulate fluid movement, practitioners can have different styles when working with the lymphatic pulse to deal with stagnation.
In contrast, LET uses waves delivered by bulbs to stimulate lymphatic movement, especially in sluggish areas. “The doctor can feel when the flow is developing and the waves by the way they behave on the skin,” explains Taylor. After the affected areas receive LET treatment, the doctor returns to manual techniques to fine-tune the flow, building on the initial stimulation provided by the device. “This is a very powerful way to do lymphatic massage,” he concluded, showing how LET improves traditional practices for more effective results.
How to Maintain a Healthy Lymphatic System Between Sessions
Movement
DIY home remedies such as dry brushing and self-massage can effectively support lymphatic health, especially when paired with exercise. “Movement during the day is key when we spend hours sitting,” notes Taylor, stressing the importance of standing, stretching, and walking. For those with circulatory disorders, he recommends wearing compression socks, especially during long flights. “There are a lot of new companies in the market that are making trendy socks to appeal to a younger crowd,” he adds.
Nutritious food
Nutrition also plays a supportive role. Taylor advises avoiding common health problems, such as seed oils, sugar, and refined foods, to promote lymphatic health. He lists certain tinctures, such as Zuma Nutrition Lymphatic Cleanse with cleavers, figwort root, and cayenne, that can improve drainage. “Always staying hydrated with clean water is very important for circulation,” he emphasizes, as the lymphatic system depends on proper hydration to function. To help absorption, you refer to the book Turn offwhich suggests eating fiber-dense foods, such as apples, before drinking water. “A sluggish lymphatic system can be seen as dry skin, no matter how much water you consume,” he explains, emphasizing the importance of holistic methods of lymphatic care.
Self care
Sharing her personal routine, Taylor revealed, “I like to dry brush before I shower, and I don’t let the water get too hot.” She finishes her shower with cold water and uses a moisturizer from Jolie Skin Co. to remove chlorine and heavy metals. “I also do the Big 6 and put a compression stocking on one leg that has a lot of problems with lymphatic flow,” he says. Taylor also incorporates red light therapy, which is believed to improve blood circulation. “One side effect of lymphatic massage therapy is to urinate a lot afterwards,” he notes with a laugh, as the fluid leaves the system as intended. He also uses fascia techniques developed by his colleague Kaita Mrazek, founder of The Listening Movement, to improve lymphatic efficiency.
Contraindications for LET
“AKE is not for everyone,” Taylor emphasized. He notes that certain conditions may pose risks, explaining, “Not recommended for pregnancy, active cancer, or undiagnosed lumps, tumors, or nodules.” Additionally, he cautions against its use in those with implanted medical devices, such as pacemakers, or people with heart failure.
He warns: “Open wounds, ulcers and skin infections are also contraindications. Taylor encourages open communication with your provider, saying, “Always talk to your doctor if you’ve recently had injections, breast implants, or any other implants.”
Preparing for Your LET Session
- Clean dry skin is best. Minimize or avoid lotions, oils, and thick deodorants.
- Stay clean before and after your session.
After the Session
- Hydrate, rest, or engage in gentle movement. Don’t overdo it!
- LET works well with manual lymphatic massage therapy, red light therapy, cupping therapy, and acupuncture, which have been shown to enhance the effects of lymphatic massage to move fluid and discharge.
