What is a plexus?

A plexus is a structure in the form of a network. In most cases it is used in terms of physical anatomy and refers to a network of nerves, blood vessels or lymphatics in the body.

The celiac plexus, also called the solar plexus, is a centralized network of smaller plexuses that controls all of the functions of the abdominal organs, including the digestive tract, kidneys, spleen and reproductive organs. It is located behind the stomach and in front of the aorta, a couple of inches below the sternum, and is responsible for the feeling people get when they are falling or when they have a “gut reaction."