Plexuses Related to the Autonomic Nervous System and Their TCM Correlates

 Plexuses Related to the Autonomic Nervous System:

1. Cervical Plexus (C1-C4):

   • Governs: Neck, diaphragm, head movement.
   • Subdivisions:
     • Phrenic Nerve: Governs diaphragm, helping with respiration.
   • Influences: Lungs, breathing.

2. Brachial Plexus (C5-T1):

   • Governs: Shoulders, arms, hands.
   • Influences: Indirectly impacts cardiovascular function via the autonomic inputs, helping regulate upper limb movement and circulation.

3. Thoracic Autonomic Plexus (T1-T5):

   • Pulmonary Plexus: Regulates lung function, bronchial constriction/dilation.
   • Cardiac Plexus: Regulates heart rate, rhythm, contraction strength.
   • Esophageal Plexus: Helps in swallowing and connects to the esophagus.

4. Celiac Plexus (Solar Plexus) (T5-T9):

   • Hepatic Plexus: Governs liver function.
   • Gastric Plexus: Regulates stomach function and digestion.

5. Superior Mesenteric Plexus (T9-T12):

   • Governs: Small intestines and digestive function.

6. Inferior Mesenteric Plexus (L1-L3):

   • Governs: Large intestines, helping regulate colon and rectal functions.

7. Aortic Plexus (T12-L2):

   • Governs: Abdominal organs, particularly along the aorta.

8. Superior Hypogastric Plexus (L1-L2):

   • Governs: Bladder, kidneys, reproductive organs.

9. Inferior Hypogastric Plexus (S1-S4):

   • Governs: Bowel movements, bladder function, sexual activity.

10. Renal Plexus (T10-L1):

    • Governs: Kidneys and adrenal glands, playing a role in fluid balance and stress response.

11. Pelvic Plexus (S1-S4):

    • Governs: Reproductive organs, bowel function, bladder control.

Plexuses in the Head and Neck:

1. Ciliary Ganglion:

   • Governs: Eye accommodation, pupil response.
   • TCM: Associated with GB (Gallbladder) Channel.

2. Superior Cervical Ganglion:

   • Governs: Head, eyes, and brain function.
   • TCM: Tied to Liver and Gallbladder Channels.

3. Pharyngeal Plexus:

   • Governs: Throat, associated with swallowing and voice.
   • TCM: Ren Mai (Conception Vessel) and other associated channels.

Other Major Autonomic Plexuses in the Body:

• Lumbar Plexus (T12-L4): Governs lower back, thighs, legs.
• Sacral Plexus (L4-S4): Governs pelvic organs, genitals, and lower limbs.
• Coccygeal Plexus (S4-S5): Governs skin around the coccyx, contributing to bowel function.