We say things like “I had a gut feeling” or “Like a punch to the gut,” but did you know there is actually a scientific reason why we say this? The enteric nervous system!
The enteric nervous system (ENS), often called the ‘second brain,’ is the principal connection between the brain and the gut. Found within the gastrointestinal wall, this layered ‘net’ of neurons that makes up the ENS is just as complex as those that comprise the spinal cord. Using hormones, neurotransmitters, and other signaling molecules to convey information, these neurons work in conjunction with the brain to regulate the gastrointestinal tract.
One of the main functions of the ENS is to listen to the trillions of microbes in the gut and report back to the brain. The vagus nerves convey these messages from the ENS to the brain. In fact, over 90% of the signals sent via the vagus nerves are from this gut-brain conversation.
So what happens if we introduce an herb like ginger into this conversation? Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is often found useful in maintaining normal gastrointestinal function. Its root’s constituents help support normal digestion, but zingerone, a chemical compound found in ginger, activates sensory nerves that trigger on inhibitory neuronal circuit in the ENS promoting inhibition of smooth muscle contractions. It’s amazing how ginger can affect the second brain as it helps to maintain normal digestive function!
If you are looking for an exceptional ginger product, Core Ginger is a spagyrically processed, liquid botanical extract available to Energetix practitioners!