by Gemma Wiseman

Created on: February 13, 2008

The human brain is the most complex of any animal, yet it is 75-80% water. In this waterworld, thinking is done by the activity of electricity and chemicals. It is a mass of nervous tissue, regulating physical and mental activity. And if you could harness the power of your brain, it could effectively supply a 10 watt light bulb. The human brain is an enigma of science that never ceases to offer some surprising facts.

What does the brain look and feel like?
The brain looks pink. The color is created by the blood flowing through it. It has the wrinkly texture of a ripe avocado.

What and where is the brain?
1. The brain is the control centre of the central nervous system at the upper end of the body. It co-ordinates and decodes all body functions. It absorbs about 20% of physical energy yet only occupies about 2% of body weight. The left side of the brain controls the right side of the body and vice-versa. Essential oil of jasmine or peppermint can activate mental alertness but toxins can contribute to memory loss over time. Regular, deliberate use of the brain to memorise, analyse and evaluate is known to keep the brain "tuned in" and healthy. Scents of lavender are well-known for helping the brain to relax and sleep.
2. The brain has a team of players:
(a) The cerebrum is the largest part of the brain and making up 85% of the brain's weight, is the memory storage area, the thinking area and the controller of voluntary muscles.
(b) The cerebellum is at the back of the brain, controlling balance and co-ordination.
(c) The brain stem is beneath the cerebrum but in front of the cerebellum. It is small, but acts as the control centre for breathing, digesting food and blood circulation. This area connects with the spinal cord and monitors involuntary muscles.
(d) The tiny pituitary gland is no bigger than a pea, but it controls growth and releases hormones.
(e) The hypothalamus regulates body temperature, causing the body to sweat or shiver in extreme conditions. These reactions are the brain's attempts to keep the body in balance.

Interesting human brain facts
1. A baby's brain grows 3 times its original size in the first year. At this time, the brain weighed about 350-400grammes holding all the brain cells for a lifetime. It is the one part of the body that reaches adult size early in life. At about 18 years of age, the brain stops growing.
2. The human brain is about 1300-1400g, "smaller than an elephant's brain (6000g) but bigger than a monkey's brain (95g)! A dog's brain

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>