Originally published in Everything Knoxville in October, 2015

The lymphatic system is an under appreciated part of the circulatory system that is essential for healthy living. Its major functions are to return volume to the blood stream after delivering nutrients to the cells, and to sustain the immune system. Without it, your body would quickly become a toxic waste dump unable to function. The organs and tissues that make up the lymphatic system include the spleen, the tonsils, lymph nodes, and lymphatic vessels.