Limbic System

A group of evolutionarily older brain limbic system structures that encircle the top of the brain stem.

The limbic structures play complex roles in emotions, instincts, and appetitive behaviors. There is no consensus on the structures that are considered a part of the limbic system, but some that are often included are the amygdala, hippocampus, parahippocampal gyrus, cingulate cortex, septal nuclei, mammillary bodies, fornix, and hypothalamus.