Sometimes referred to as vitamin B8, Inositol is a water soluble fatty lipid that the body requires for the formation of healthy cells. It sends a message to the brain to release the calcium in the cells. It also is involved in the transmission of messages between the neural cells and the transport of fats within the cells. With all of this, it is essential in the central nervous system where it helps to transmit the messages along the neural pathways.

With many psychological disorders a lack of inositol can bring on bulimia, OCD, bipolar disorder, depression and other disorders. Inositol can be found in high concentrations around the central nervous system and in bone marrow as well as intestinal cells. People with depression and other psychological disorders seem to have a lack of inositol which brings researchers to believe that it is essential in reducing the risk of these disorders as well treating them.

Although technically it is not considered to be a vital nutrient of vitamin, it is effective in treating many ailments in the body. Along with depression it can treat anxiety, edema, diabetic neuropath as well as general pain from these problems. Because of the fact that it works as a mediator of calcium it can be effective in treating Alzheimer’s disease, panic disorders, and lithium induced adverse reactions. There is even reason to believe that it aids in the treatment of diabetes because of its neurotransmitter properties. For insomnia many researchers believe that it has an effect on the levels of serotonin which can help alleviate insomnia and help people with deeper sleep.

For people with psychosocial disorders like mild to moderate depression it can be extremely effective and often takes the place of prescription medication. Because it offers no side effects and is completely natural, it can be an excellent way to have positive effects on the central nervous system.