Harnessing The Vagus Nerve

Headaches, atrial fibrillation, epilepsy, anxiety and depression? While these conditions may seem unrelated they may all benefit from a potential treatment involving gargling and the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is a major neuronal pathway of the parasympathetic nervous system, our rest-and-digest system. Known as the “wandering nerve” because it branches all throughout the body the vagus nerve has far-reaching effects which include involvement in swallowing, speech, heart rate, respiratory control, gastric secretion and intestinal motility. In this episode Andrew speaks to Emrys Goldsworthy, a Senior Lecturer and Musculoskeletal Therapist, about the use of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) to improve health and wellbeing. As an expert in VNS, Emrys takes us through the research behind this therapy and shares with us some techniques for harnessing the vagus nerve. *****DISCLAIMER: The information provided on FX Medicine is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.*****