Courtesy of:
Francesco Visconti, Master Herbalist, NC
(916-624-0350)
An imbalance of melatonin interferes with the body’s circadian rhythms, (sleep cycle), and may result in light deprivation disorders, which may contribute to depression, oversleeping, weight gain, fatigue, irritability and sadness.
Our artificial lifestyles may contribute in a reduction of melatonin secretion. Melatonin is secreted by the pineal gland. Most of us spend the majority of our day working indoors under artificial light then rush home to spend more time indoors to read, watch television, use the computer, etc. These activities deprive us of natural light that assist us in a healthy melatonin level secretion. Natural light must be absorbed through the eyes without the use of sunglasses for short duration of time.
The following symptoms may indicate light deprivation:
Carbohydrate cravings, Depressed, Difficulty concentrating, Irritability, Low energy, Reduced libido, Social withdrawal, Trouble sleeping, Weight gain
Symptoms of an Under-active Pineal:
Environmental stresses affect Pineal function, affecting overall body alertness, temperature levels, and hormone operation. Stresses that affect Pineal function include unusual light and dark rhythms, radiation, magnetic fields, nutritional imbalances, temperature swings, high altitude, and overall daily stress patterns.
Symptoms may show in the following:
Menstrual irregularities, Mood swings, Excess worry, Irrational fear, Seasonal affective syndrome, Headaches, Irregular sleeping, Paranoia or fanaticism, Hypertension, Epilepsy, Sodium or potassium imbalance, Nightmares/vivid dreams, Inability to think clearly or be in present moment
Natural Corrective Measures:
Stress management techniques, such as prayer or meditation, Daily minimum doses of natural light exposure, Massage the third eye area, located in the slight indent between the eyes on the forehead. Massage for 30 seconds. Foods high in potassium, selenium, iodine, zinc, 5htp and spirulina. Reduce or eliminate the synthetic chemical fluoride in drinking water. Regular breaks from computers, TV’s, artificial lighting etc. Spend regular time in the woods or parks away from power lines and turn your cell phone off. Keep all electrical devices at least 3 to 5 feet away from your bed Sleep in complete darkness as it stimulates the pineal gland to release melatonin.
Maintaining balance of the Pineal Gland assists your body on all levels both physiologically & spiritually. Nurture and care for this marvelous gland and tap into your higher potential. Rodent experiments suggest that when old rodents are implanted with a pineal graft from a young rodent the old rodent begins to exhibit signs of turning the clock backwards. Old rodents becomes more energetic, eyes become sparkly, fur becomes shiny and other symptoms associated with being a young rodent are exhibited.
There is a bible reference in Genesis 32:30 “And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.” Some bible scholars believe that the bible “Peniel” and the human pineal gland are the same reference.
There is consensus stating that exposure to natural light for a minimum of 30 to 60 minutes per day, early mornings may be adequate for proper pineal function.
This information is provided for educational purpose only and is commentary. For additional information contact Francesco, Master Herbalist at 916-624-0350
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