Melatonin

What is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It plays an important role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle and is often referred to as the "sleep hormone". Melatonin levels typically rise in the evening as it gets darker, promoting sleep, and then decrease in the morning as it gets lighter, promoting wakefulness.

In addition to regulating the sleep-wake cycle, melatonin also has a number of other functions in the body, including:

Acting as an antioxidant: Melatonin is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals.

Regulating circadian rhythms: Melatonin helps to regulate circadian rhythms, which are biological processes that follow a 24-hour cycle and are influenced by environmental factors such as light and temperature.

Supporting immune function: Melatonin has been shown to support immune function by promoting the production of immune cells and inhibiting the growth of harmful microorganisms.

Regulating reproductive hormones: Melatonin also plays a role in regulating reproductive hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone.

Managing jet lag: Melatonin supplements can be used to help manage jet lag, a condition that can occur when traveling across multiple time zones and disrupts the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.

Overall, melatonin is an important hormone that helps to regulate many biological processes in the body, including sleep, immune function, and circadian rhythms.


Melatonin has been associated with several potential health benefits, including:

Improving sleep: Melatonin is commonly used as a sleep aid and has been shown to help people fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and improve overall sleep quality.

Managing jet lag: Melatonin can help to manage jet lag by regulating the sleep-wake cycle and helping the body adjust to a new time zone.

Supporting immune function: Melatonin has been shown to have immune-supporting properties and may help to boost immune function, particularly in people with compromised immune systems.

Reducing symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Melatonin has been shown to help reduce the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs during the winter months when daylight hours are shorter.

Protecting against oxidative stress: Melatonin is a potent antioxidant that can help to protect cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals.

Supporting eye health: Melatonin may help to support eye health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the eyes.

Reducing symptoms of acid reflux: Melatonin has been shown to help reduce symptoms of acid reflux by relaxing the muscles in the digestive tract and reducing the production of stomach acid.

It's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the potential health benefits of melatonin, and that melatonin supplements should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.