The brain is one of the largest organs in the body, comprising approximately 100 billion neurons and even more neuroglia. Together, the brain and the spinal cord form the central nervous system (CNS) which processes and responds to information received from the peripheral nervous system.

Within the nerve cells are endogenous chemicals known as neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters transmit information between neurons and other cells of the body allowing them to effectively communicate with each other. This is the function in which neurotransmitters influence numerous bodily processes including mood and pain. When the neurotransmitters are unable to transmit the electrical signal from one neuron to another, an alteration in function occurs. This breakdown in function is implicated in numerous neurological disorders.

 Traditionally, the treatment of the neurological system with herbal medicine can be traced back to 6000 BC to the ancient practice of Ayurveda. Ancient texts document the use of Withania somnifera and the Brahmi species for the management of seizures and convulsions.[4] Traditionally, Herbalists managed the neurological system with the use of homeopathics and the herbal class known as nervines.

Advancements in modern-day research, into the structure and function of the nervous system, have increased naturopathic knowledge and there is now a greater understanding of the structures that make up the neurological system. The Herbalists of previous centuries could not have fathomed the presence of ganglia and the enteric plexuses, nor could they know what we know today regarding the necessity of balanced nutrition. Especially the important role that individual amino acids and nutrients in their correct amounts play in the proper and healthy functioning of the peripheral and central nervous system.

Modern Naturopathic medicine has identified a range of possible causes or contributing factors for the pathogenesis of neurological disorders including:

• Nutrition (deficiencies/excesses)

• Poor gastrointestinal health

• Infection

• Inflammation

• Stress

• Toxicity (e.g. heavy metal)

• Hormonal irregularities

• Specific compromised biochemical pathways (e.g. methylation)

With Naturopathic interventions, many of these contributing factors can be targeted and treated successfully, with individual nutrients and herbal formulas often taking care of multiple causes within the same prescription.