What is the Origin of Salivary Cortisol Profile?

This clinical measurement is a cornerstone of functional endocrinology, moving beyond static blood tests to capture the dynamic, pulsatile nature of cortisol secretion throughout the day and night. The use of saliva is preferred as it measures the unbound, biologically active fraction of the hormone, which correlates best with tissue exposure and clinical symptoms.

What is the Mechanism of Salivary Cortisol Profile?

Cortisol levels in saliva directly correlate with the free, circulating cortisol, which is the fraction available to interact with glucocorticoid receptors in target tissues. By measuring the profile, clinicians can precisely identify abnormalities in the Cortisol Awakening Response, the amplitude of the morning peak, and the nocturnal nadir. These specific patterns are key physiological indicators of chronic stress, HPA axis resilience, or potential adrenal exhaustion.

Salivary Cortisol Profile ∞ Area

Salivary Cortisol Profile

Meaning

The Salivary Cortisol Profile is a comprehensive diagnostic assessment that maps the temporal secretion pattern of the active stress hormone cortisol over a full 24-hour period using multiple, precisely timed saliva collections. This profile provides critical insight into the functional integrity of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, revealing patterns of dysregulation that may contribute to chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, and downstream hormonal imbalances. It is the gold standard non-invasive method for evaluating the dynamic nature of the body’s stress response system.