Specific Hormones

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Other names for Specific Hormones

individual endocrine messengers
regulatory hormones

Synopsis of Specific Hormones

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by endocrine glands that regulate a wide range of bodily functions by traveling through the bloodstream to target organs. Each specific hormone has a unique role, working in concert to maintain homeostasis, coordinate growth and development, control metabolism, manage stress responses, and regulate reproduction.

Hormones can be classified by function, origin, or structure. Here’s a list of key specific hormones organized by the glands that produce them:

Key Specific Hormones by Gland

Hypothalamus

  • CRH (Corticotropin-releasing hormone): Stimulates ACTH release from the pituitary.

  • TRH (Thyrotropin-releasing hormone): Stimulates TSH release.

  • GnRH (Gonadotropin-releasing hormone): Triggers LH and FSH secretion.

Pituitary (Anterior)

  • ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic hormone): Stimulates cortisol production from the adrenal cortex.

  • TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone): Stimulates thyroid hormone production.

  • LH (Luteinizing hormone) & FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone): Regulate reproductive function.

  • GH (Growth hormone): Promotes growth and metabolism.

  • Prolactin: Stimulates milk production.

Pituitary (Posterior)

  • ADH (Antidiuretic hormone / vasopressin): Regulates water balance.

  • Oxytocin: Promotes uterine contractions and emotional bonding.

Thyroid

  • T3 (Triiodothyronine) & T4 (Thyroxine): Regulate metabolism, energy, and growth.

  • Calcitonin: Lowers blood calcium levels.

Parathyroid

  • PTH (Parathyroid hormone): Raises blood calcium levels.

Adrenal Cortex

  • Cortisol: Manages stress, inflammation, and metabolism.

  • Aldosterone: Regulates sodium and potassium balance.

Adrenal Medulla

  • Epinephrine (adrenaline) & Norepinephrine: Trigger fight-or-flight responses.

Pancreas (Islets of Langerhans)

  • Insulin: Lowers blood glucose.

  • Glucagon: Raises blood glucose.

  • Somatostatin: Inhibits insulin and glucagon secretion.

Ovaries

  • Estrogen: Regulates menstrual cycle, bone health, and secondary sex characteristics.

  • Progesterone: Prepares uterus for pregnancy and supports gestation.

Testes

  • Testosterone: Regulates male reproductive development and muscle mass.

Pineal Gland

  • Melatonin: Regulates circadian rhythm and sleep.

Imbalances in specific hormones can lead to wide-ranging conditions:

  • Thyroid disorders (hypo/hyperthyroidism from T3/T4 imbalance)

  • Diabetes mellitus (insulin deficiency or resistance)

  • Cushing’s or Addison’s disease (cortisol imbalance)

  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (estrogen/testosterone irregularities)

  • Infertility (due to LH, FSH, or prolactin issues)

  • Growth disorders (from GH excess or deficiency)

Natural remedies to support Specific Hormones

Balanced nutrition: Protein, healthy fats, and key micronutrients are essential.

Stress management: Reduces cortisol dominance and helps normalize HPA axis

Sleep hygiene: Regulates melatonin and growth hormone.

Exercise: Improves insulin sensitivity and testosterone levels.

Herbal adaptogens: Like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and maca support hormonal balance.