Which gland is primarily stimulated by the parasympathetic fibers of the Facial Nerve (CN VII)?

The gland primarily stimulated by the parasympathetic fibers of the Facial Nerve (CN VII) is indeed the lacrimal glands. The Facial Nerve is responsible for innervating several glands, including those for tears and saliva. The lacrimal glands produce tears, and their stimulation by the parasympathetic fibers of the Facial Nerve is essential for tear production and maintaining moisture in the eyes.

The Facial Nerve's role in stimulating the lacrimal glands is part of the greater function of this nerve in regulating facial expressions and other autonomic functions such as the secretion of saliva and tears. The parasympathetic fibers travel from the facial nerve to the pterygopalatine ganglion, where they synapse before reaching the lacrimal glands, facilitating the production and secretion of tears, which are vital for eye health and comfort.

Understanding this aspect of the Facial Nerve helps clarify why the other glands listed—such as the thyroid, parotid, and adrenal glands—do not fall under its primary parasympathetic stimulation. The parotid gland, for example, is primarily stimulated by the glossopharyngeal nerve (CN IX), while the thyroid gland is regulated by the thyroid-stim