Limbic System Structures

The limbic system is a set of brain structures located at the top of the brainstem and buried under the cortex. The limbic system is responsible for controlling various functions in the body.

Limbic system structures are involved in many of our emotions and motivations, particularly those that are related to survival. Certain structures of the limbic system are involved in memory as well. Two large limbic system structures, the amygdala and hippocampus play important roles in memory.

Structures of the limbic system include the following:

• Amygdala
  
• Hippocampus
  
• Hypothalamus
  
• Olfactory Cortex
  
• Thalamus
  

Learn more about the brain and the limbic system:

• Anatomy of the Brain
  
• Human Brain Quiz