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188/JAIN STUDIES AND SCIENCE
iv.
Adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH) - It controls the production of adrenalin, noradrenalin and steroids in the adrenal gland.
Hormones secreted by rear part (posterior lobe) of this gland are -
V.
Vasopressin - Also called as Antidiuretic hormone (ADH), controls the salt and water excretion from kidneys.
vi.
Oxytocin - It stimulates uterus to contract during birth and is also involved in secretion of milk.
These wide ranging chemicals of pituitary, makes it the most important of all. It not only controls the physical growth but regulates will power, memory and hearing capacities. An activated state of pituitary is essential for the overall personality development.
The Pineal Gland
The Pineal Gland is about the size of a pea, and is in the centre of the brain in a tiny cave behind and above the pituitary gland which lies a little behind the root of the nose. It is located directly behind the eyes, attached to the third ventricle.
The true function of this mysterious gland has long been contemplated by philosophers and spiritual adepts. Greek philosopher Descartes called it the Seat of the Soul. This gland is activated by Light, and it controls the various biorhythms of the body. It works in harmony with the hypothalamus gland which directs the body's thirst, hunger, sexual desire and the biological clock that determines our aging process. It is presumed to secrete melanotropin hormone.
The Thyroid Gland
It is situated at the base of the neck, front of trachea (wind pipe). Its structure looks like the alphabet 'H' (like a necktie) such that its two lobes are joined together by a bridge of tissues. It produces two main hormones:
• Thyroxin (T4 - tetraiodothyronin) • Tri-iodothyronin (T3)
Both of these are essential for normal growth of nerve tissues. However, their main function is to control rate of basal metabolism, that is, how the body uses its energy and the consumption of oxygen.
These hormones are produced with the help of iodine. Body gets iodine
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