One essential perform of the vagus nerve is to dial down irritation within the physique. This happens by way of the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, explains functional-medicine doctor Gregory Plotnikoff, MD.
When the vagus is stimulated, it sends electrical alerts alongside its size. These result in the discharge of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that regulates irritation.
Acetylcholine interacts with particular receptors on immune cells, inhibiting the manufacturing of proinflammatory proteins referred to as cytokines. Lowering proinflammatory cytokine manufacturing can decrease irritation not simply regionally however all through the physique. After we’re in fight-or-flight mode, the vagus nerve isn’t being stimulated, so it may possibly’t ship these essential inflammation-reducing alerts.
“This pathway is the purposeful relay circuit between the nervous system and the immune system — the neuroimmune system,” says functional-medicine supplier Navaz Habib, DC. This relay performs a key position in circumstances characterised by widespread irritation, akin to rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel ailments (IBD). It’s why stress is linked with greater irritation and worse signs in so many circumstances.
It’s additionally why VNS is so promising for any situation worsened by stress wherein irritation performs a job.
