The Pineal Gland

The pineal gland is a small enigmatic endocrine gland that lies deep in the middle of the brain' between the left and right cerebral hemispheres. Because of its location deep inside the brain, its function is mythical, mysterious, speculative, and surrounded by superstition, mystical, and metaphysical theories. Over the ages, both ancient and modern, the true function of this mysterious gland has been contemplated by Spiritual Adepts and philosophers. Some spiritual and religious traditions believe that the pineal gland has mystical powers, and some mystics and metaphysicians consider it the Spiritual Third Eye or our Inner Vision. The physiological functions of the pineal gland were not known until recently. However, mystical traditions and esoteric schools have long known this area in the middle of the brain as the connecting link between the spiritual and physical worlds. The pineal gland is considered the most powerful and highest source of spiritual energy available to humankind. The organ is believed to be important in initiating supernatural powers by spiritual healers and ardent seekers of psychic powers. This gland of higher vision is closely associated with development of psychic talents. Rene Descartes, the French philosopher, mathematician, scientist, and writer dubbed the pineal gland as the “Seat of the Soul” because of its unique location in the anatomy of the human brain. Pineal structure is not duplicated either on the right side or the left hemispheres of the brain like many other organs. Activated by light, the pineal regulates and controls the various biorhythms of the body in conjunction and harmony with the hypothalamus gland which directs the body's thirst, hunger, sexual desire, our biological clock and aging processes. Melatonin is the principal hormone produced by the pineal gland. The synthesis and secretion of melatonin is stimulated by darkness and inhibited by light. Thus, the hormone is released in the dark during sleep. The major physiological function of melatonin is the regulation of daily body rhythms, most notably the circadian rhythms (day/night cycles). Melatonin is believed to inhibit the growth of cancer. Women with breast cancer have lower levels of melatonin in the blood. In addition, the hormone has a stimulatory effect on the immune system and also protects us against genetic damage. The decline in melatonin production is believed to serve as a trigger for the aging process. As the pineal gland calcifies with age, the synthesis and secretion of melatonin correspondingly decreases. Melatonin production by the pineal gland is also affected by environmental stresses which adversely impact the body's endocrine functions, overall body alertness, and body temperature. Known stresses that affect pineal function include unusual light, especially in big cities, radiation, magnetic fields, nutritional imbalances, sudden temperature changes, and overall daily stresses of modem living in this technological age. Malfunction of the pineal gland has been implicated in a number of disorders including sexual dysfunction, hypertension, cancer, epilepsy, and Paget's disease.