Therapeutics 2 - Nervous System Therapeutics: Flashcards
Q1: What are the two main divisions of the nervous system?
A1: The two main divisions are the Central Nervous System (CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord, and the Peripheral Nervous System (PNS), which includes the somatic (voluntary) and autonomic (involuntary) nervous systems.
Q2: What are the roles of the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) and Parasympathetic Nervous System (PSNS)?
A2: The Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS) is responsible for the “Fight or Flight” response, while the Parasympathetic Nervous System (PSNS) promotes relaxation and the “Rest and Digest” functions.
Q3: What can cause ‘sympathetic dominance,’ and what are its effects?
A3: Sympathetic dominance can be caused by high-pressured modern life, leading to weak immunity, persistent inflammation, poor digestion, musculoskeletal complaints, poor sleep, and exhaustion.
Q4: What practices encourage a parasympathetic state (relaxation)?
A4: Practices include proper sleep hygiene (retiring by 10:30 PM and getting 8 hours of sleep), deep abdominal breathing exercises, regular gentle exercise (e.g., Qi gong, Pilates), drinking herbal teas (e.g., chamomile, lime flower), Epsom salts baths, and avoiding stimulants like caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and sugar.
Q5: What dietary recommendations help support the nervous system, particularly in cases of anxiety and depression?
A5: A nutrient-dense diet with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, omega-3 fats (oily fish, chia, flax), and good vitamin D status can support the nervous system. Balancing blood glucose with protein at every meal and focusing on low GI foods is also important.
Q6: What does the Neurogenic Iris Type indicate in iridology?
A6: The Neurogenic Iris Type, with a dense iris structure, indicates a susceptibility to nervous system issues.
Q7: According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), what are the main causes of depression?
A7: In TCM, depression is often caused by Qi deficiency (lack of energy/motivation due to poor sleep, diet, digestion, and overworking) and Blood deficiency (poor diet, digestion, and sleep), which can also arise from long-term unresolved emotions.
Q8: How can stress be managed naturopathically?
A8: Stress management involves identifying the cause of stress, breaking down and solving problems, focusing on goals, taking up a sport, and spending more time outdoors.
Q9: How do Bach Flower Remedies support emotional balance?
A9: Bach Flower Remedies restore balance at the emotional level, helping individuals understand themselves better and assisting in emotional healing.
Q10: What herbs support cognition and memory?
A10: Ginkgo biloba enhances cognition and increases blood flow to the brain, Brahmi (Bacopa monniera) supports neurotransmitters and improves memory, and Rosemary enhances cerebral circulation and concentration.
Q11: What medicinal mushroom is beneficial for nervous system regeneration, and what conditions can it support?
A11: Lion’s mane stimulates nerve growth factor, regenerating nerve tissue. It is beneficial for conditions such as Alzheimer’s, concussion recovery, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, peripheral neuropathies, and general cognitive decline.