The hypothalamus , located above the roof of the mouth , not only connects to the pituitary gland at the base of the brain but also interests with most other areas of the brain.
It is from the hypothalamus that the body monitors the concentration of hormones in the blood.
Certain concentration of hormones from the pituitary gland can start the body's defense reaction , and speed recovery from infection or injury.
For example , the hormones epinephrine , or adrenaline , raises the heat rate and blood pressure and helps to increase the effect of other hormones that are released during a stressful or dangerous situation.