Adrenal Glands with Essential Oils
The adrenal glands are a pair of small, triangular-shaped glands located on top of each kidney.
They have two main parts:
- the outer adrenal cortex
- the inner adrenal medulla, which produce different types of hormones
The adrenal cortex produces several steroid hormones, including cortisol, aldosterone, and sex hormones such as testosterone and estrogen. Cortisol is a stress hormone that helps the body respond to stress and regulate metabolism, blood pressure, and immune function. Aldosterone helps regulate the body’s balance of salt and water, and sex hormones play a role in sexual development and function.
The adrenal medulla produces two main hormones: epinephrine (also called adrenaline) and norepinephrine (also called noradrenaline). These hormones are involved in the body’s “fight or flight” response to stress and help prepare the body for physical activity by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration.
The adrenal glands are controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland through the release of hormones such as adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). ACTH stimulates the adrenal cortex to produce and release cortisol, and the sympathetic nervous system stimulates the adrenal medulla to release epinephrine and norepinephrine.
Overactivated / hyper reactive adrenals:
This condition typically refers to a condition called adrenal fatigue. The concept of adrenal fatigue suggests that chronic stress can lead to the dysfunction of the adrenal glands, resulting in a range of symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, and digestive problems. It can have an impact on cognitive function, formation of memory, and diminished immunity.
However, there is currently no scientific evidence to support the concept of adrenal fatigue, and many standard healthcare professionals do not recognize it as a real medical condition. Holistic practitioners recognize this condition as a multifaceted issue involving the endocrine system, nervous system, and psychological factors that is usually a result of prolonged stress or trauma. It is also possible that the symptoms attributed to adrenal fatigue may be related to other underlying health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, or hormonal imbalances.
Applications:
Sustained inhalation multiple times a day, neat application to the chest, salt baths
Single Oils:
Inula, Ginger Lily