The pituitary reflex overlaps the hypothalamus region on the foot. You'll find this reflex on the inner edge of the great toe, just above the center joint, as shown in FIGURE 10-1 below. Thumb walk up from the base of the toe exactly along the ridge from the inside, slightly past the joint. You'll see that the toe has an indentation that receives the thumb.

Once the thumb has found the reflex, rotate on the spot and hold. Turn the thumb so the side is in the actual groove, and with a slight back-and-forth motion, work this reflex, moving in more deeply. As the thumb feels the reflex give, stay in this spot and press.

FIGURE 10-1 The pituitary gland reflex is on the inner ridge of the great toe.

The pituitary is pea-sized. This hormone-producing gland sits in the middle of the brain, behind the nose. It is connected to the hypothalamus, which is the governing agent. The pituitary is called the “master gland,” as its job is to release major hormones that will influence the entire endocrine system, in turn affecting the whole body. This gland has lobes that secrete different hormones produced in conjunction with secretions from the hypothalamus.

The Anterior Lobe

The anterior lobe of the pituitary gland produces and releases the following hormones, which affect bodily activities:

• Human growth hormone

• Thyroid-stimulating hormone

• Adrenal gland hormone

• Milk production hormone

• Reproduction hormones

The Posterior Lobe

The posterior lobe of the pituitary gland stores and releases hormones. These chemicals deal with bodily function.

• Antidiuretic hormone for the kidneys — reduces fluid

• Oxytocin for contractions of the uterus — post-childbirth

Reflexology works to establish a dialogue with all parts of the body. When dealing with the pituitary gland, or any endocrine unit, the intention is to assist with homeostasis.