Significance of Pineal gland
The pineal gland, a small endocrine gland in the brain, is significant across various disciplines. Ayurveda links it to sunrise/sunset functions and hormonal control via Nasya. Indian history views it as the seat of potential energy and a crucial stage in Kundalini awakening. Science identifies it as the primary melatonin producer, regulating sleep-wake cycles. Health sciences echo its role in melatonin production, biological rhythms, and spiritual consciousness, associating it with the Ajna Chakra.
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Pineal gland'
In Hinduism, the pineal gland, aligned with the Sthapni Marma, is vital for hormonal balance via Nasya in Ayurveda. Located dorsally in the brain, it regulates functions with sunrise and sunset, secreting serotonin and melatonin, influencing psychosomatic well-being.
From: Journal of Ayurveda and Integrated Medical Sciences
(1) Ayurvedic literature emphasizes the significance of Nasya in activating the hypothalamus, pituitary, and pineal glands, all of which are critical in controlling hormonal activity.[1] (2) This is the gland where the functions are done according to sunrise and sunset, and it secretes both serotonine and melatonine, and it is located in dorsal aspects of the brain.[2]
From: International Research Journal of Ayurveda and Yoga
(1) This is a gland in the body, and the Sthapni Marma site is at the same level as this and the pituitary gland, and the stimulation of Sthapni Marma and indirect stimulation of the pituitary gland results in changes within the psycho-somatic level.[3]
The concept of Pineal gland in local and regional sources
The pineal gland, located centrally in the brain, is a crucial stage in Kundalini rising. It's the highest point in yogic visualization and a source of potential energy conservation.
From: The Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda
(1) This is the highest point, reached by the serpent in the Yogi's visualization, and is a crucial stage in the process of raising the Kundalini through stages.[4] (2) The pineal gland is a part of the brain, located at the top lotus of the Sushumna, and it is one of the stages on the way of the Kundalini rising.[5] (3) This is in the center of the brain and is the seat of conservation of potential energy, the source of both activity and passivity.[6]
The concept of Pineal gland in scientific sources
The pineal gland, a small endocrine gland in the brain, primarily produces melatonin, regulating sleep-wake cycles and biological rhythms. It's also linked to spiritual awareness and influenced by serotonin levels.
From: South African Family Practice
(1) This is a small endocrine gland in the brain that produces melatonin, which helps regulate sleep-wake cycles and other biological rhythms in the body.[7] (2) This gland is where melatonin is synthesized from serotonin and secreted, and is located deep in the center of the brain, playing a key role in the process.[8]
From: International Journal of Pharmacology
(1) The primary source of melatonin production, with melatonin also being released secondarily in other tissues like the liver and kidney.[9] (2) The pineal gland is a small endocrine gland in the brain that produces melatonin and is influenced by adrenergic receptors, with antagonists affecting serotonin levels.[10]
From: Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research
(1) This is part of the epithalamus and was very small in the African giant pouched rat.[11]
From: International Journal of Pharmacology
(1) The gland responsible for producing melatonin, a hormone known for its antioxidant and regulatory functions.[12]