Adrenal Medulla
Synopsis of Adrenal Medulla
The adrenal medulla is the inner core of the adrenal gland and plays a critical role in the body’s short-term stress response. Unlike the outer adrenal cortex, which produces steroid hormones, the adrenal medulla is composed of neuroendocrine chromaffin cells and functions as an extension of the sympathetic nervous system. It secretes catecholamines—primarily epinephrine (adrenaline), norepinephrine (noradrenaline), and small amounts of dopamine—directly into the bloodstream in response to acute stress.
These hormones prepare the body for the “fight-or-flight” response by increasing heart rate, dilating airways, elevating blood pressure, increasing blood glucose levels, and redirecting blood flow to muscles. The adrenal medulla is activated via nerve signals from the hypothalamus through the sympathetic preganglionic fibers, making it a rapid-response system for immediate physical and psychological stressors.
Medically, overactivity of the adrenal medulla can be associated with pheochromocytoma (a rare tumor leading to excess catecholamine production), whereas underfunction may manifest in cases of sympathetic nervous system suppression or extreme fatigue.
Natural remedies to support Adrenal Medulla
Acute stress reduction: Breathing exercises and cold exposure training help modulate adrenaline spikes.
Blood sugar regulation: Eating regular meals with protein and fat prevents glucose crashes that can trigger overactivation.
Physical activity: Interval training and moderate exercise can condition appropriate adrenal medulla output.
Sleep and circadian rhythm alignment: Restorative sleep supports healthy nervous system response and adrenal resilience.
Nerve tonics: Calming nervines and adaptogens help moderate the reactivity of the sympathoadrenal system.
Ingredients
These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to support Adrenal Medulla.
Acetyl-L-Tyrosine
ashwagandha
catecholamine
eleuthero
Ephedra
ginseng
kola nut
l-tyrosine
Rhodiola
Schisandrins
Schizandrol A
vitamin B
vitamin C
Additional Help
Free Consults with Dr. Shannyn
Support your body’s core systems—intentionally.
Whether it’s your digestion, hormones, immune function, or nervous system, every body system works in harmony. Talk with Dr. Shannyn, our licensed naturopathic doctor, to explore which herbs can support your unique needs and help restore balance.
Schedule a Free Consult →
Personalized wellness support at no cost.
At-Home Lab Testing
Understand what’s disrupting your body’s balance.
Many imbalances in body systems—like fatigue, stress, inflammation, or poor detoxification—can be traced back to underlying dysfunctions. Our at-home lab tests help assess these areas so you can make more informed choices, with expert support from our ND.
Explore Lab Testing →
Simple at-home collection. Clear guidance for next steps.
