Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) involves the targeted activation of the tenth cranial nerve, the primary component of the parasympathetic nervous system, often achieved through electrical impulses or specific behavioral techniques. In hormonal wellness, VNS is employed to shift the autonomic balance away from chronic sympathetic dominance, thereby mitigating HPA axis hyperactivity. This modulation supports systemic rest and digest functions.
Origin
VNS as a medical therapy originated in neurology for refractory epilepsy treatment, but its application has expanded into modulating inflammation and autonomic tone. The Vagus nerve itself is named from the Latin word for ‘wandering,’ reflecting its extensive cranial and visceral pathways.
Mechanism
Stimulation increases vagal efferent tone, which signals the heart rate to slow and promotes the release of acetylcholine at target organs. This cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway can dampen pro-inflammatory cytokine release, which often contributes to metabolic dysfunction. By enhancing parasympathetic input, VNS supports improved gut motility and reduces baseline systemic stress signaling.
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