Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Its Benefits


Scientists have confirmed that vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is an effective therapy for treating conditions such as depression, epilepsy, and inflammation. This technique involves delivering mild electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, which runs from the brainstem through the neck and into the chest and abdomen, influencing vital body functions.
VNS has been shown to help regulate brain activity, reducing the frequency of seizures in people with epilepsy and easing symptoms of treatment-resistant depression. More recently, studies have revealed that it also plays a role in controlling inflammation by calming overactive immune responses, making it a promising therapy for chronic inflammatory diseases.
Unlike medications that often cause side effects or lose effectiveness over time, vagus nerve stimulation provides a targeted and long-lasting solution. Patients undergoing VNS therapy have reported significant improvements in mood, seizure control, and overall quality of life.
Researchers believe that expanding the use of this therapy could open doors to treating a wider range of disorders linked to the nervous and immune systems. With ongoing clinical trials, VNS is quickly gaining recognition as one of the most innovative and effective neuromodulation treatments available today.

Meanwhile, here's an additional write-up on this topic.
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Nerve Power Unlocked: How Vagus Nerve Stimulation is Changing Medicine

The vagus nerve, a key part of the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, is a communication superhighway linking the brain with vital organs such as the heart, lungs, and digestive tract. For years, scientists have recognized its role in regulating involuntary functions like heartbeat, breathing, and digestion. Now, emerging research and clinical practice have unlocked its potential as a powerful therapeutic tool—through a method known as Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS).

What is Vagus Nerve Stimulation?

Vagus Nerve Stimulation involves delivering mild electrical pulses to the vagus nerve, typically via a small implantable device or non-invasive stimulation devices placed on the neck or ear. This gentle activation influences brain activity and can rebalance neural communication, leading to improvements in both mental and physical health.

Proven Medical Benefits

VNS has gained FDA approval and clinical respect for its effectiveness in treating a range of conditions:

  • Depression: Particularly in treatment-resistant depression, where standard medications fail, VNS can help improve mood and restore emotional balance by modulating neurotransmitter levels.

  • Epilepsy: For patients with uncontrolled seizures, VNS reduces seizure frequency by altering abnormal electrical activity in the brain.

  • Inflammation: Increasing evidence suggests that stimulating the vagus nerve can suppress excessive immune responses, helping with inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease.

How It Works

The vagus nerve acts as a two-way messenger between body and brain. Electrical stimulation influences key brain regions, including the limbic system—responsible for emotions—and sends signals to regulate inflammation and autonomic functions. By tapping into this natural communication network, VNS corrects imbalances that underlie many chronic conditions.

The Future of Bioelectronic Medicine

Vagus nerve stimulation is part of a growing field called bioelectronic medicine, where devices target specific nerves to restore health. Researchers are continuing to explore its potential for conditions like anxiety disorders, PTSD, tinnitus, obesity, and even heart failure.

With its ability to treat complex and otherwise hard-to-manage conditions, VNS offers hope for many who have exhausted traditional medical routes. As science continues to refine this technique, the vagus nerve—and the power it holds—may become one of the most valuable therapeutic frontiers in modern medicine.How 

What Else Can You Support Your Vagus Nerve?

You don’t always need a device—simple activities like deep belly breathing, meditation, massage or even listening to calming music can help the vagus nerve do its job. These are easy ways to lower stress and help the body relax.

Takeaway:

Vagus nerve stimulation is a promising therapy that is already changing lives. It helps the brain and body “talk” more smoothly, easing problems like depression, epilepsy, and perhaps even inflammation. It’s a great example of science finding new ways to use the power inside the body to heal and feel better

Meanwhile, Did you know that....

Cold showers do more than just wake you up—they can actually change how your brain works. Research from Bournemouth University shows that exposure to cold water increases dopamine levels, the chemical linked to motivation and mood. This boost can sharpen mental focus, helping you concentrate more effectively throughout the day. Regular cold showers also train your body and mind to handle stress better, building psychological resilience over time. It’s a simple habit with surprisingly powerful effects on brain function and emotional strength. #fblifestyle

Finally, I love my massage therapist doing this to me:

https://www.facebook.com/reel/2024531707952138

and My Food for Thought for Today

https://www.facebook.com/reel/674265041870656

Monday, October 20, 2025

Travel with Me, to My Birthplace, Iloilo, Philippines

If you follow my blogs, you probably know I was born and raised in the Philippines. I came to the US in 1960 as a Graduate Student ( student visa). Decided to stay in the US after completion of my Ph.D degree in Pharmaceutical Chemistry in 1964. The rest is history. This blog is dedicated to all my Fellow Ilonggos all over the world. I was born in Jaro, but have relatives in Molo- the topic of this blog.

𝐌𝐎𝐋𝐎 𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐙𝐀

Molo, Iloilo City, is rich in cultural and historical landmarks. The Molo Church, a Spanish-colonial Gothic structure with distinctive red spires, is famous for its all-female ensemble of saints, earning it the title “The Feminist Church.”
Across from it stands the Molo Mansion, also known as the Yusay–Consing Ancestral House, a beautifully preserved heritage home showcasing Neoclassical architecture, high ceilings, and intricate carvings. 
In front of the church lies the Molo Plaza, considered the most beautiful public plaza in Iloilo City, adorned with statues of Greek goddesses, a Maria Clara monument, and a fountain added during its 2022 rehabilitation.
Every July 26, the district celebrates the Molo Fiesta in honor of Saint Anne, its patron saint. The area is also known for its iconic local dish, Pancit Molo, a flavorful pork dumpling soup that originated in the district and carries its name.
Molo Plaza is a historic urban park and public square in the district of Molo, Iloilo City. Built in the 1920s as the center of the former municipality, the plaza is adorned with statues of Greek goddesses, a monument of Maria Clara, and a fountain added during its 2022 rehabilitation. It is surrounded by key landmarks such as the Molo Mansion and the St. Anne Parish Church, commonly known as Molo Church.
Molo, the district where the plaza is located, is one of the most densely populated and culturally rich areas of Iloilo City, with a 2024 population of 76,793. Once known as Parián or Chinatown, Molo was founded in 1637 as a Chinese trading community that supported nearby Spanish settlements. Over time, it became known as the “Athens of the Philippines” for producing many Filipino intellectuals, leaders, and public officials.
The district is also famous for Pancit Molo, a local dumpling soup named after it, and for the historic Molo Church, which impressed national hero José Rizal during his 1896 visit when he called it “La iglesia bonita!” (“The beautiful church”).
During the late 1800s, Molo played a role in the Philippine Revolution through the Comite Conspirador, which helped organize uprisings against Spanish rule. In 1937, Molo officially became part of Iloilo City along with Arevalo, La Paz, and Mandurriao, contributing to the city’s continued cultural and historical prominence.