The human male and female reproductive cycles are controlled by the interaction of hormones from the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary with hormones from reproductive tissues and organs. In both sexes, the hypothalamus monitors and causes the release of hormones from the pituitary gland. When the reproductive hormone is required, the hypothalamus sends a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) to the anterior pituitary. This causes the release of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the anterior pituitary into the blood. Note that the body must reach puberty in order for GnRH to be produced. Although FSH and LH are named after their functions in female reproduction, they are produced in both sexes and play important roles in controlling reproduction. Other hormones have specific functions in the male and female reproductive systems. (Excerpted from Human Biology by Sarah Malmquist and Kristina Prescott is licensed under Creative Commons)
From the standpoint of nutrition, we notice that what feeds the sexual glands also feeds the nerves and brain. 80% of the sexual secretions are composed of lecithin. Foods high in lecithin stimulate better nerve function and better sexual gland function.
There are many factors which affect reproductive system function. The fatigue that accompanies adrenal gland exhaustion may cause loss of sexual interest. Lowered sex drive may result from thyroid hypoactivity or anemia. Recently, it was found that medications and drugs have a suppressive effect on the sexual drive and contribute to impotence. When the animation life center at 12 o'clock is under active, the zest for any activity is lowered. As in the case of all systems in the body, the health of the reproductive system is dependent upon the condition of other systems, organs, and tissues of the body.
Among males, the testes produce sperm and secrete hormones, mainly testosterone. Testosterone functions not only to develop and maintain the secondary male sex characteristics and adult sexual behavior, but it has many other purposes. It helps maintain the structure of the reproductive system, such as the prostate gland. It helps regulate metabolism in the body by stimulating protein anabolism causing the generally greater musculature development in the male. It influences fluid and electrolyte processes by helping regulate sodium and potassium levels. It interacts with the anterior pituitary by stopping the pituitary secretion of gonadotropin hormones when testosterone reaches a certain level. On the other hand, the anterior pituitary stimulates testosterone secretion by releasing gonadotropins when the blood level of testosterone falls too low.
The prostate gland produces and secrets an alkaline fluid which helps protect sperm from destruction in the acid environment of the vagina. Many older men experience enlargement of the prostate. Shaped like a donut, the prostate surrounds the urethra, and as it enlarges, the urethra can become so constricted that urination is difficult or impossible.
Ovarian functions in the female are twofold: ova are produced, matured, and finally ejected into the uterus at regular intervals, and hormones (mostly oestrogens, but also very small quantities of progesterone) are produced and secreted. Similar to the case with males, the anterior pituitary in females produce gonadotropins which are released into the bloodstream when the female hormones fall below a certain concentration. The cyclical interaction of the gonadotropins and ovarian-produced hormones determine the sequence of events in the female cycles associated with the reproductive system--ovulation, menstruation, and also changes in the breasts among most women. That is, the hormone secretion rates of the anterior pituitary and the ovaries alternately stimulate and inhibit one another to produce these cycles by altering the body chemistry and specific ways that produce specific, periodic changes in the reproductive organs and glands. The hypothalamus in the brain takes part in this process by its secretion of hormones which stimulate pituitary activity.
The structure and function of the mammary glands, or breasts, are well known in general but I find that the importance of the lymphatic glands and vessels in the breast is too often neglected. In a sense, the breasts may be regarded as primarily lymphatic organs, and congestion of the lymph glands here as elsewhere in the body may be associated with the development of lumps, growths and tumors. Proper breast care, in my view, must include taking care of the lymphatic system as well as other eliminative channels throughout the body. Lymphatic congestion in the breast may be caused by problems elsewhere in the body.
There are many factors which affect reproductive system function. The fatigue that accompanies adrenal gland exhaustion may cause loss of sexual interest. Lowered sex drive may result from thyroid hypoactivity or anemia. Recently, it was found that medications and drugs have a suppressive effect on the sexual drive and contribute to impotence. When the animation life center at 12 o'clock is under active, the zest for any activity is lowered. As in the case of all systems in the body, the health of the reproductive system is dependent upon the condition of other systems, organs, and tissues of the body.
Among males, the testes produce sperm and secrete hormones, mainly testosterone. Testosterone functions not only to develop and maintain the secondary male sex characteristics and adult sexual behavior, but it has many other purposes. It helps maintain the structure of the reproductive system, such as the prostate gland. It helps regulate metabolism in the body by stimulating protein anabolism causing the generally greater musculature development in the male. It influences fluid and electrolyte processes by helping regulate sodium and potassium levels. It interacts with the anterior pituitary by stopping the pituitary secretion of gonadotropin hormones when testosterone reaches a certain level. On the other hand, the anterior pituitary stimulates testosterone secretion by releasing gonadotropins when the blood level of testosterone falls too low.
The prostate gland produces and secrets an alkaline fluid which helps protect sperm from destruction in the acid environment of the vagina. Many older men experience enlargement of the prostate. Shaped like a donut, the prostate surrounds the urethra, and as it enlarges, the urethra can become so constricted that urination is difficult or impossible.
Ovarian functions in the female are twofold: ova are produced, matured, and finally ejected into the uterus at regular intervals, and hormones (mostly oestrogens, but also very small quantities of progesterone) are produced and secreted. Similar to the case with males, the anterior pituitary in females produce gonadotropins which are released into the bloodstream when the female hormones fall below a certain concentration. The cyclical interaction of the gonadotropins and ovarian-produced hormones determine the sequence of events in the female cycles associated with the reproductive system--ovulation, menstruation, and also changes in the breasts among most women. That is, the hormone secretion rates of the anterior pituitary and the ovaries alternately stimulate and inhibit one another to produce these cycles by altering the body chemistry and specific ways that produce specific, periodic changes in the reproductive organs and glands. The hypothalamus in the brain takes part in this process by its secretion of hormones which stimulate pituitary activity.
The structure and function of the mammary glands, or breasts, are well known in general but I find that the importance of the lymphatic glands and vessels in the breast is too often neglected. In a sense, the breasts may be regarded as primarily lymphatic organs, and congestion of the lymph glands here as elsewhere in the body may be associated with the development of lumps, growths and tumors. Proper breast care, in my view, must include taking care of the lymphatic system as well as other eliminative channels throughout the body. Lymphatic congestion in the breast may be caused by problems elsewhere in the body.
Figure 1. Hormones control sperm production in a negative feedback system.
Male Hormones
At the onset of puberty, the hypothalamus causes the release of FSH and LH into the male system for the first time. FSH enters the testes and stimulates the Sertoli cells to begin facilitating spermatogenesis using negative feedback, as illustrated in Figure 1. LH also enters the testes and stimulates the interstitial cells of Leydig to make and release testosterone into the testes and the blood.
Testosterone, the hormone responsible for the secondary sexual characteristics that develop in the male during adolescence, stimulates spermatogenesis. These secondary sex characteristics include a deepening of the voice, the growth of facial, axillary, and pubic hair, and the beginnings of the sex drive.
Hormonal control of the male reproductive system is mediated by the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary and testes. The hypothalamus releases GnRN, causing the anterior pituitary to release LH and FSH. FSH and LH both act on the testes. FSH stimulates the Sertoli cells in the testes to facilitate spermatogenesis and to secrete inhibin. LH causes the Leydig cells in the testes to secrete testosterone. Testosterone further stimulates spermatogenesis by the Sertoli cells, but inhibits GnRH, LH, and FSH production by the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary. Inhibin secreted by Sertoli cells also inhibits FSH and LH production by the anterior pituitary.
Figure 1. Hormones control sperm production in a negative feedback system.
A negative feedback system occurs in the male with rising levels of testosterone acting on the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary to inhibit the release of GnRH, FSH, and LH. This system works to keep the concentration of testosterone in the blood at a relatively constant level in each male individual after puberty. If testosterone levels become elevated above their normal levels (called the set point levels), the testosterone will inhibit the hypothalamus from secreting as much GnRH. This will in turn cause lower levels of FSH and LH to be produced. Lower LH levels will lower the amount of stimulation that the Leydig cells receive, and lower the production of testosterone. The Sertoli cells also produce the hormone inhibin, which is released into the blood when the sperm count is too high. This inhibits the release of GnRH and FSH, which will cause spermatogenesis to slow down. If the sperm count reaches 20 million/ml, the Sertoli cells cease the release of inhibin, and the sperm count increases.
Conversely, if testosterone levels are decreased, there will be less inhibition of GnRH production by the hypothalamus. This will cause more stimulation of the anterior pituitary, increased FSH and LH secretion, and increased stimulation of the Leydig cells and Sertoli cells. The end result will be an increase in testosterone levels. As you may imagine, this intricate system of regulation is constantly responding to slight fluctuations in testosterone with concomitant fluctuations in hypothalamic secretion of GnRH, and anterior pituitary secretion of FSH and LH.
At the onset of puberty, the hypothalamus causes the release of FSH and LH into the male system for the first time. FSH enters the testes and stimulates the Sertoli cells to begin facilitating spermatogenesis using negative feedback, as illustrated in Figure 1. LH also enters the testes and stimulates the interstitial cells of Leydig to make and release testosterone into the testes and the blood.
Testosterone, the hormone responsible for the secondary sexual characteristics that develop in the male during adolescence, stimulates spermatogenesis. These secondary sex characteristics include a deepening of the voice, the growth of facial, axillary, and pubic hair, and the beginnings of the sex drive.
Hormonal control of the male reproductive system is mediated by the hypothalamus, anterior pituitary and testes. The hypothalamus releases GnRN, causing the anterior pituitary to release LH and FSH. FSH and LH both act on the testes. FSH stimulates the Sertoli cells in the testes to facilitate spermatogenesis and to secrete inhibin. LH causes the Leydig cells in the testes to secrete testosterone. Testosterone further stimulates spermatogenesis by the Sertoli cells, but inhibits GnRH, LH, and FSH production by the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary. Inhibin secreted by Sertoli cells also inhibits FSH and LH production by the anterior pituitary.
Figure 1. Hormones control sperm production in a negative feedback system.
A negative feedback system occurs in the male with rising levels of testosterone acting on the hypothalamus and anterior pituitary to inhibit the release of GnRH, FSH, and LH. This system works to keep the concentration of testosterone in the blood at a relatively constant level in each male individual after puberty. If testosterone levels become elevated above their normal levels (called the set point levels), the testosterone will inhibit the hypothalamus from secreting as much GnRH. This will in turn cause lower levels of FSH and LH to be produced. Lower LH levels will lower the amount of stimulation that the Leydig cells receive, and lower the production of testosterone. The Sertoli cells also produce the hormone inhibin, which is released into the blood when the sperm count is too high. This inhibits the release of GnRH and FSH, which will cause spermatogenesis to slow down. If the sperm count reaches 20 million/ml, the Sertoli cells cease the release of inhibin, and the sperm count increases.
Conversely, if testosterone levels are decreased, there will be less inhibition of GnRH production by the hypothalamus. This will cause more stimulation of the anterior pituitary, increased FSH and LH secretion, and increased stimulation of the Leydig cells and Sertoli cells. The end result will be an increase in testosterone levels. As you may imagine, this intricate system of regulation is constantly responding to slight fluctuations in testosterone with concomitant fluctuations in hypothalamic secretion of GnRH, and anterior pituitary secretion of FSH and LH.
Figure 2. The ovarian and menstrual cycles of female reproduction are regulated by hormones produced by the hypothalamus, pituitary, and ovaries. Note that estradiol is a type of estrogen.
The first half of the ovarian cycle is the follicular phase, which occurs on day 1-14 of the cycle, overlapping with both menses and the proliferative phase of the uterine cycle. Slowly rising levels of FSH and LH cause the growth of follicles on the surface of the ovary. This process prepares the egg for ovulation. As the follicles grow, they begin releasing estrogens and a low level of progesterone. Just prior to the middle of the cycle (approximately day 14), the high level of estrogen causes FSH and especially LH to rise rapidly, then fall. The spike in LH causes ovulation: the most mature follicle ruptures and releases its egg. The follicles that did not rupture degenerate and their eggs are lost. The level of estrogen decreases when the extra follicles degenerate.
Following ovulation, the ovarian cycle enters its luteal phase, illustrated in Figure 2, and the menstrual cycle enters its secretory phase, both of which run from about day 15 to 28. The luteal and secretory phases refer to changes in the ruptured follicle. The cells in the follicle undergo physical changes and produce a structure called a corpus luteum. The corpus luteum produces estrogen and progesterone. The progesterone facilitates the maintenance and further development of the uterine lining and inhibits the release of further FSH and LH. The uterus is being prepared to accept a fertilized egg, should it occur during this cycle. The inhibition of FSH and LH prevents any further eggs and follicles from developing, while the progesterone is elevated. The level of estrogen produced by the corpus luteum increases to a steady level for the next few days.
If no fertilized egg is implanted into the uterus, the corpus luteum degenerates and the levels of estrogen and progesterone decrease. The endometrium begins to degenerate as the progesterone levels drop, initiating the next menstrual cycle. The decrease in progesterone also results in increased FSH and LH secretion from the anterior pituitary, and starts the cycles again. Figure 3 visually compares the ovarian and uterine cycles as well as the commensurate hormone levels.
The menstrual cycle encompasses both an ovarian cycle and a uterine cycle. The uterine cycle is divided into menstrual flow, the proliferative phase and the secretory phase. The ovarian cycle is separated into follicular and luteal phases. At day zero the uterine cycle enters the menstrual phase and the ovarian cycle enters the follicular phase. Menstruation begins, and the follicle inside the uterus begins to grow. The level of the pituitary hormone FSH rises slightly, while LH levels remain low. The levels of ovarian hormones estradiol and progesterone remain low. After menses the uterine cycle enters the proliferative phase and the follicle continues to grow. The level of the ovarian hormone estradiol begins to rapidly rise. Toward the end of the proliferative phase, levels of the pituitary hormones FSH and LH rise as well. Around day fourteen, just after the levels of estrogen, progesterone and estradiol reach their peak, ovulation occurs. The follicle ruptures, releasing the oocyte. The ovarian cycle enters the luteal phase. The follicle grows into a corpus luteum and then degenerates. The uterus enters the secretory phase. Progesterone levels increase and estradiol levels, which had dropped after ovulation, increase as well. Toward the end of the secretory phase estrogen and progesterone levels decrease, reaching their baseline levels around day 28. At this point menstruation begins.
Menopause
As women approach their mid-40s to mid-50s, their ovaries begin to lose their sensitivity to FSH and LH. Menstrual periods become less frequent and finally cease; this is menopause. There are still eggs and potential follicles on the ovaries, but without the stimulation of FSH and LH, they will not produce a viable egg to be released. The outcome of this is the inability to have children.
The side effects of menopause include hot flashes, heavy sweating (especially at night), headaches, some hair loss, muscle pain, vaginal dryness, insomnia, depression, weight gain, and mood swings. Estrogen is involved in calcium metabolism and, without it, blood levels of calcium decrease. To replenish the blood, calcium is lost from bone which may decrease the bone density and lead to osteoporosis. Supplementation of estrogen in the form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can prevent bone loss, but the therapy can have negative side effects. While HRT is thought to give some protection from colon cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, macular degeneration, and possibly depression, its negative side effects include increased risk of: stroke or heart attack, blood clots, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, gall bladder disease, and possibly dementia.
Human Biology by Sarah Malmquist and Kristina Prescott is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.
Following ovulation, the ovarian cycle enters its luteal phase, illustrated in Figure 2, and the menstrual cycle enters its secretory phase, both of which run from about day 15 to 28. The luteal and secretory phases refer to changes in the ruptured follicle. The cells in the follicle undergo physical changes and produce a structure called a corpus luteum. The corpus luteum produces estrogen and progesterone. The progesterone facilitates the maintenance and further development of the uterine lining and inhibits the release of further FSH and LH. The uterus is being prepared to accept a fertilized egg, should it occur during this cycle. The inhibition of FSH and LH prevents any further eggs and follicles from developing, while the progesterone is elevated. The level of estrogen produced by the corpus luteum increases to a steady level for the next few days.
If no fertilized egg is implanted into the uterus, the corpus luteum degenerates and the levels of estrogen and progesterone decrease. The endometrium begins to degenerate as the progesterone levels drop, initiating the next menstrual cycle. The decrease in progesterone also results in increased FSH and LH secretion from the anterior pituitary, and starts the cycles again. Figure 3 visually compares the ovarian and uterine cycles as well as the commensurate hormone levels.
The menstrual cycle encompasses both an ovarian cycle and a uterine cycle. The uterine cycle is divided into menstrual flow, the proliferative phase and the secretory phase. The ovarian cycle is separated into follicular and luteal phases. At day zero the uterine cycle enters the menstrual phase and the ovarian cycle enters the follicular phase. Menstruation begins, and the follicle inside the uterus begins to grow. The level of the pituitary hormone FSH rises slightly, while LH levels remain low. The levels of ovarian hormones estradiol and progesterone remain low. After menses the uterine cycle enters the proliferative phase and the follicle continues to grow. The level of the ovarian hormone estradiol begins to rapidly rise. Toward the end of the proliferative phase, levels of the pituitary hormones FSH and LH rise as well. Around day fourteen, just after the levels of estrogen, progesterone and estradiol reach their peak, ovulation occurs. The follicle ruptures, releasing the oocyte. The ovarian cycle enters the luteal phase. The follicle grows into a corpus luteum and then degenerates. The uterus enters the secretory phase. Progesterone levels increase and estradiol levels, which had dropped after ovulation, increase as well. Toward the end of the secretory phase estrogen and progesterone levels decrease, reaching their baseline levels around day 28. At this point menstruation begins.
Menopause
As women approach their mid-40s to mid-50s, their ovaries begin to lose their sensitivity to FSH and LH. Menstrual periods become less frequent and finally cease; this is menopause. There are still eggs and potential follicles on the ovaries, but without the stimulation of FSH and LH, they will not produce a viable egg to be released. The outcome of this is the inability to have children.
The side effects of menopause include hot flashes, heavy sweating (especially at night), headaches, some hair loss, muscle pain, vaginal dryness, insomnia, depression, weight gain, and mood swings. Estrogen is involved in calcium metabolism and, without it, blood levels of calcium decrease. To replenish the blood, calcium is lost from bone which may decrease the bone density and lead to osteoporosis. Supplementation of estrogen in the form of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can prevent bone loss, but the therapy can have negative side effects. While HRT is thought to give some protection from colon cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, macular degeneration, and possibly depression, its negative side effects include increased risk of: stroke or heart attack, blood clots, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, gall bladder disease, and possibly dementia.
Human Biology by Sarah Malmquist and Kristina Prescott is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License, except where otherwise noted.
Figure 3. Rising and falling hormone levels result in progression of the ovarian and menstrual cycles. Note that estradiol is a type of estrogen. (credit: modification of work by Mikael Häggström)
As Seen in the Iris
(From Bernard Jensen's Iridology: The Science and the Practice in the Healing Arts, volume 2)
"The reproductive systems in male and female are made up of the glands, ducts, and supporting structures which produce mature sperm (in the male) and mature ova (in the female) as well as producing hormones which affect physical characteristics and various cyclical functions.
Taking the male system first, we note on the iridology chart that the testes arc located at 5 o'clock in the left iris and 7 o'clock in the right iris.
In the female system, the ovaries are represented at the same radial position as the male testes, at 5:00 o'clock in the left iris, 7:00 o'clock in the right iris. The vagina, at 7 o'clock in the left iris and 5 o'clock in the right, extends from zones 4 through seven.
We find that the sexual energy and motivation level is reflected in the brain area of the right iris at 11.3 o'clock, the sex impulse mental sex area. If there is an inherent weakness in this area, it is seldom that we will find a normal physical sex drive. More generally, it is under active.
On the other hand, it is possible to be mentally hyperactive in this area and physically under active as far as the sex drive is concerned, although we do not often find this to be the case. Mental attitude and physical well-being are both important to healthy sexuality and we cannot say that one is more important than the other. Both are important.
Pregnancy cannot be seen in the iris of the eye because it is a natural function of a woman's body.
"The reproductive systems in male and female are made up of the glands, ducts, and supporting structures which produce mature sperm (in the male) and mature ova (in the female) as well as producing hormones which affect physical characteristics and various cyclical functions.
Taking the male system first, we note on the iridology chart that the testes arc located at 5 o'clock in the left iris and 7 o'clock in the right iris.
In the female system, the ovaries are represented at the same radial position as the male testes, at 5:00 o'clock in the left iris, 7:00 o'clock in the right iris. The vagina, at 7 o'clock in the left iris and 5 o'clock in the right, extends from zones 4 through seven.
We find that the sexual energy and motivation level is reflected in the brain area of the right iris at 11.3 o'clock, the sex impulse mental sex area. If there is an inherent weakness in this area, it is seldom that we will find a normal physical sex drive. More generally, it is under active.
On the other hand, it is possible to be mentally hyperactive in this area and physically under active as far as the sex drive is concerned, although we do not often find this to be the case. Mental attitude and physical well-being are both important to healthy sexuality and we cannot say that one is more important than the other. Both are important.
Pregnancy cannot be seen in the iris of the eye because it is a natural function of a woman's body.
Prolapsus of the transverse colon and consequent pressure on the pelvic organs can interfere with the circulation of the blood to these organs. Prolapses can contribute to prostate troubles in males and ovarian trouble in females. In extreme cases, it can lead to sterility in females. In less severe conditions, it can result in irregular menstruation and cramps. Ovarian cysts may develop following prolapse. Pressure on the uterus may cause it to become prolapsed, with consequent problems.
'The Reproductive System' from The Detox Miracle Sourcebook
PROSTATE
The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. It is clam-shaped and consists of three lobes, which surround the neck of the bladder and urethra. It is partly muscular tissue and partly glandular tissue. The glands are exocrine and have ducts that open into the prostate portion of the urethra (the tube or canal that urine flows through from the bladder to the outside of the
body). In men the semen is discharged through the urethra.
The prostate gland secretes a thin, semi-clear, alkaline fluid, which makes up 30 percent of the seminal fluid. This fluid is used primarily for lubrication, but also stimulates active sperm movement. Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland) occurs from acidosis. The most common contributing factor, however, is hypo-active adrenal glands. This creates low steroid production to counterbalance aggressive male hormones. This leads to prostate over stimulation and inflammation.
OVARIES
The ovaries are two almond-shaped glands found in the female of a species. The ovaries have two functions. One is to produce the reproductive cell (ovum) and the other is to produce hormones. In humans, the ovaries are found on each side of the pelvic cavity, each attached to the uterus. Each ovary consists of two parts: the cortex (or outer portion) and the medulla (or inner portion).
The cortex (outer portion) consists of mainly various types of follicles (small sacs). Each follicle (or sac) has an ovum (egg) and a small, yellow endocrine gland (corpus luteum). This gland (corpus luteum) secretes both estrogen and progesterone. It should be noted that pro-hormones from the adrenal glands are necessary for proper progesterone production in the corpus luteum.
The FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) from the hypothalamus induces the release of the ovum (egg). The estrogen-releasing hormone—the LH (Luteinizing Hormone)— comes from the anterior portion of the pituitary gland. Both of these are vital to proper ovulation.
Estrogen is an acid-type hormone that stimulates tissues in many different ways. The most notable way is the stimulating of the inner lining of the uterus to bleed each month, causing menstruation. It is also used for development and maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics, like breast size and shape. Estrogen affects the shape of the female body. A female also produces a form of estrogen in her liver, fat cells and adrenal glands.
Estrogen must always be counterbalanced by a steroid called progesterone. Progesterone is a steroid produced in the ovaries and the
adrenal glands. Progesterone needs a pro-hormone, DHEA, produced in the adrenal glands, to be properly produced. Therefore, when the adrenal glands are hypoactive, this can affect the production and release of progesterone, leaving a woman estrogen dominant. This causes a domino effect, creating extensive cellular acidosis, and leads to ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, fibrocystic issues, female cancers and other conditions.
TESTES/TESTICLES (GONADS)
A male has two oval-shaped testicles located in the scrotum. These are the male reproductive glands and are a part of the endocrine gland system.
Reproductive cells called spermatozoa are produced in the testes. These glands also produce testosterone and inhibin.
Testosterone is secreted by the interstitial cells called “Cells of Leydig,” and inhibin is secreted by the sustentacular cells. It should be said here that testosterone (steroid) is like estrogen in its aggressive nature in creating cellular changes. Progesterone is a cortical-type steroid produced in the adrenal glands that counterbalances estrogen and testosterone, especially when they create inflammation. Testosterone is also produced in the cortex of the adrenal glands of both males and females.
Testosterone accelerates growth and cellular function, as well as stimulates the flow of blood. It has similar characteristics to estrogen in affecting secondary sexual characteristics. It also affects: erections, proper growth and development of male sexual organs, deepening of the voice, greater muscle development, development of pubic, facial and excess body hair; distribution of fat, and many metabolic relationships.
UTERUS
The uterus is a muscular, ear-shaped sac (or cavity) that becomes a “house” for a fertilized egg. This hollow sac becomes the home for the embryo, as it unfolds into the fetus, on its journey to become the newborn infant.
A mucous membrane called the endomevtrium lines the uterus. The uterus is divided it into three parts: the main body (or the upper y portion), called the fundus; the center (constrictive) or central area, called the isthmus; and finally, the lower portion that unites with the vagina, which is called the cervix.
The uterus lies in the mid-pelvic area, between the sacrum and the symphysis pubis. The e lower portion of the fundus has two tubes that extend one to each ovary. These are called the fallopian tubes. The fallopian tubes are the pathway the ovum (egg) takes on its journey from the ovaries to the uterus.
Menstruation is a monthly ovulation cycle where estrogen (an acid hormone) triggers cellular bleeding in the uterus. This is God’s way of “cleaning the house” each month. In this way, if the ovum (egg) becomes fertilized, its home will have been cleaned and prepared. It should be noted here the importance of progesterone, which is a steroid produced in the ovaries and in the adrenal glands. Adrenal progesterone (or DHEA-induced ovarian progesterone) is essential to stop the action of estrogen and its effect upon the uterine tissue. If progesterone (anti-inflammatory steroid) is not being properly produced because of a hypo-function of tissue, a woman will
develop ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, bleeding problems, A-typical cell formation, endometrioses and cancers. Dr. Morse, Detox Miracle Sourcebook
PROSTATE
The prostate gland is part of the male reproductive system. It is clam-shaped and consists of three lobes, which surround the neck of the bladder and urethra. It is partly muscular tissue and partly glandular tissue. The glands are exocrine and have ducts that open into the prostate portion of the urethra (the tube or canal that urine flows through from the bladder to the outside of the
body). In men the semen is discharged through the urethra.
The prostate gland secretes a thin, semi-clear, alkaline fluid, which makes up 30 percent of the seminal fluid. This fluid is used primarily for lubrication, but also stimulates active sperm movement. Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate gland) occurs from acidosis. The most common contributing factor, however, is hypo-active adrenal glands. This creates low steroid production to counterbalance aggressive male hormones. This leads to prostate over stimulation and inflammation.
OVARIES
The ovaries are two almond-shaped glands found in the female of a species. The ovaries have two functions. One is to produce the reproductive cell (ovum) and the other is to produce hormones. In humans, the ovaries are found on each side of the pelvic cavity, each attached to the uterus. Each ovary consists of two parts: the cortex (or outer portion) and the medulla (or inner portion).
The cortex (outer portion) consists of mainly various types of follicles (small sacs). Each follicle (or sac) has an ovum (egg) and a small, yellow endocrine gland (corpus luteum). This gland (corpus luteum) secretes both estrogen and progesterone. It should be noted that pro-hormones from the adrenal glands are necessary for proper progesterone production in the corpus luteum.
The FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) from the hypothalamus induces the release of the ovum (egg). The estrogen-releasing hormone—the LH (Luteinizing Hormone)— comes from the anterior portion of the pituitary gland. Both of these are vital to proper ovulation.
Estrogen is an acid-type hormone that stimulates tissues in many different ways. The most notable way is the stimulating of the inner lining of the uterus to bleed each month, causing menstruation. It is also used for development and maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics, like breast size and shape. Estrogen affects the shape of the female body. A female also produces a form of estrogen in her liver, fat cells and adrenal glands.
Estrogen must always be counterbalanced by a steroid called progesterone. Progesterone is a steroid produced in the ovaries and the
adrenal glands. Progesterone needs a pro-hormone, DHEA, produced in the adrenal glands, to be properly produced. Therefore, when the adrenal glands are hypoactive, this can affect the production and release of progesterone, leaving a woman estrogen dominant. This causes a domino effect, creating extensive cellular acidosis, and leads to ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, fibrocystic issues, female cancers and other conditions.
TESTES/TESTICLES (GONADS)
A male has two oval-shaped testicles located in the scrotum. These are the male reproductive glands and are a part of the endocrine gland system.
Reproductive cells called spermatozoa are produced in the testes. These glands also produce testosterone and inhibin.
Testosterone is secreted by the interstitial cells called “Cells of Leydig,” and inhibin is secreted by the sustentacular cells. It should be said here that testosterone (steroid) is like estrogen in its aggressive nature in creating cellular changes. Progesterone is a cortical-type steroid produced in the adrenal glands that counterbalances estrogen and testosterone, especially when they create inflammation. Testosterone is also produced in the cortex of the adrenal glands of both males and females.
Testosterone accelerates growth and cellular function, as well as stimulates the flow of blood. It has similar characteristics to estrogen in affecting secondary sexual characteristics. It also affects: erections, proper growth and development of male sexual organs, deepening of the voice, greater muscle development, development of pubic, facial and excess body hair; distribution of fat, and many metabolic relationships.
UTERUS
The uterus is a muscular, ear-shaped sac (or cavity) that becomes a “house” for a fertilized egg. This hollow sac becomes the home for the embryo, as it unfolds into the fetus, on its journey to become the newborn infant.
A mucous membrane called the endomevtrium lines the uterus. The uterus is divided it into three parts: the main body (or the upper y portion), called the fundus; the center (constrictive) or central area, called the isthmus; and finally, the lower portion that unites with the vagina, which is called the cervix.
The uterus lies in the mid-pelvic area, between the sacrum and the symphysis pubis. The e lower portion of the fundus has two tubes that extend one to each ovary. These are called the fallopian tubes. The fallopian tubes are the pathway the ovum (egg) takes on its journey from the ovaries to the uterus.
Menstruation is a monthly ovulation cycle where estrogen (an acid hormone) triggers cellular bleeding in the uterus. This is God’s way of “cleaning the house” each month. In this way, if the ovum (egg) becomes fertilized, its home will have been cleaned and prepared. It should be noted here the importance of progesterone, which is a steroid produced in the ovaries and in the adrenal glands. Adrenal progesterone (or DHEA-induced ovarian progesterone) is essential to stop the action of estrogen and its effect upon the uterine tissue. If progesterone (anti-inflammatory steroid) is not being properly produced because of a hypo-function of tissue, a woman will
develop ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, bleeding problems, A-typical cell formation, endometrioses and cancers. Dr. Morse, Detox Miracle Sourcebook
Botanicals
The nutritional needs of the ovaries and testes include vitamin C, B12, and E; Iodine, calcium, silicone, and zinc. The following food supplements may be helpful: Kelp, Sarsaparilla, Raspberry, Black cohosh, and Gotu kola. The uterus and prostate need vitamin C, B12, E, and F; Calcium, silicon, and zinc. Raspberry, Kelp, and Goldenseal are useful supplements. (Jensen)
An ideal herbal tincture to help clean, strengthen, and regenerate the female reproductive system would consist of all or most of the following: Chaste Tree Berries (Vitex agnus-castus), True Unicorn Root (Aletris farinosa), False Unicorn Root (Chamaelirium luteum), Saw Palmetto Berries (Serenoa repens), Wild Yam Root (Dioscorea spp.), Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus), Black Haw Bark (Viburnum prunijolium), Prickly Ash Bark (Zanthoxylum clava-Herculis) (Dr. Morse, Detox Miracle Sourcebook)
The expectant mother should drink several cups of this tea during the last six weeks of pregnancy to aid the elasticity of the birth canal, and strengthen the reproductive organs for easier delivery. It is also good for the pregnant woman to take regular doses of the calcium formula and the anaemia formula throughout the entire pregnancy and when nursing. These are purely nutritive herbs and will not upset the mother or the baby. Adjust dose according to need. Also drink red raspberry tea all through pregnancy. Blue Cohosh Root decoction or tincture may be taken regularly from the early stages of labour to the birth to ease and relax the birth canal and minimize pain. Holy Thistle, Red Raspberry, Squaw Vine, True Unicorn (Farida Sharan)
An ideal herbal tincture to help clean, strengthen, and regenerate the female reproductive system would consist of all or most of the following: Chaste Tree Berries (Vitex agnus-castus), True Unicorn Root (Aletris farinosa), False Unicorn Root (Chamaelirium luteum), Saw Palmetto Berries (Serenoa repens), Wild Yam Root (Dioscorea spp.), Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus), Black Haw Bark (Viburnum prunijolium), Prickly Ash Bark (Zanthoxylum clava-Herculis) (Dr. Morse, Detox Miracle Sourcebook)
The expectant mother should drink several cups of this tea during the last six weeks of pregnancy to aid the elasticity of the birth canal, and strengthen the reproductive organs for easier delivery. It is also good for the pregnant woman to take regular doses of the calcium formula and the anaemia formula throughout the entire pregnancy and when nursing. These are purely nutritive herbs and will not upset the mother or the baby. Adjust dose according to need. Also drink red raspberry tea all through pregnancy. Blue Cohosh Root decoction or tincture may be taken regularly from the early stages of labour to the birth to ease and relax the birth canal and minimize pain. Holy Thistle, Red Raspberry, Squaw Vine, True Unicorn (Farida Sharan)