Anatomy and Physiology: How the Skin Works

Why We Need Skin What we can see and touch of our skin is just the surface of a complex structure that carries out many functions. For instance, our skin acts as the first line of defence against harmful micro-organisms. It plays an important part in helping maintain body temperature and in balancing out levels … Read moreAnatomy and Physiology: How the Skin Works

Anatomy and Physiology: The Reproductive System

Reproductive System Structure and Function Reproductive system The reproductive system controls the ability to reproduce which is necessary for perpetuation of the species. Although the reproductive apparatus of males and females are different, the organs of both sexes may be divided into two groups: primary and accessory. Primary organs: Gonads Male – testes Female – … Read moreAnatomy and Physiology: The Reproductive System

Anatomy and Physiology: The Lymphatic System

Lymphatic System Structure and Function Lymphatic system The lymphatic system drains away excess fluid that does not return to the blood capillaries; absorbs fats from the small intestine and protects against foreign invaders. Structure of the lymphatic system: Capillaries – function – allows for easy passage of soluble materials and water Lymphatic vessels – function … Read moreAnatomy and Physiology: The Lymphatic System

Anatomy and Physiology: The Urinary System

Urinary System Structure and Function Urinary system The urinary system removes waste products from the blood and eliminates them from the body. Other functions include regulation of the volume of body fluids and balance of the pH and electrolyte composition of these fluids. Structure of the urinary system: Kidneys – function – extract waste from … Read moreAnatomy and Physiology: The Urinary System

Anatomy and Physiology: The Digestive System

Digestive System Structure and Function Digestive system The digestive system serves to supply constant nutrients which provide energy and building blocks to every body cell. This is achieved by the breaking down of food into small enough particles to pass through the cell membrane, known as digestion; and transference of these small particles to the … Read moreAnatomy and Physiology: The Digestive System

Anatomy and Physiology: The Nervous System

Nervous System Structure and Function Nervous system The nervous system serves as the chief coordinating agency. Conditions within and outside the body are constantly changing; the nervous system responds to these changes causing the body to adapt itself to new conditions so that balance is maintained. Organisation of the nervous system: Structural divisions: Central Nervous … Read moreAnatomy and Physiology: The Nervous System

Anatomy and Physiology: The Endocrine System

Endocrine System Structure and Function Endocrine system The endocrine system is a controlling and coordinating system in the body which functions by producing chemical messengers known as hormones. There are seven main structures: Hypothalamus Function – controls the functioning of the pituitary gland Pituitary Function – known as the master gland, it releases hormones that … Read moreAnatomy and Physiology: The Endocrine System

Anatomy and Physiology: Circulation and Respiration

Circulatory and Respiratory Structure and Function Circulatory system Circulation is the one way movement of blood through the body which involves 4 main structures: Heart Function – a double pump containing 2 circuits The pulmonary circuit carries blood to and from the lungs The systemic circuit carries blood to and from all other parts of … Read moreAnatomy and Physiology: Circulation and Respiration

Aromatherapy: Essential Oils for Good Skin

Your skin protects your body, providing a vital watertight barrier from the elements and infection. It is a living, breathing organ that needs constant care and attention to maintain a soft, supple, healthy state. Daily Benefits Incorporating essential oils into your skin care routine has therapeutic benefits. Antiseptic oils, such as tea tree and lemon, … Read moreAromatherapy: Essential Oils for Good Skin

Aromatherapy: How the Body is Affected by Stress

The body is a supremely organised structure, capable of carrying out hundreds of different functions simultaneously. Activities such as movement and speech are ordered by the conscious brain, but the majority of processes are controlled subconsciously, leaving us unaware of them – unless they go wrong. When our body is not working in harmony, niggling … Read moreAromatherapy: How the Body is Affected by Stress