Melatonin

What is Melatonin?

• Type: Hormone & dietary supplement

• Produced by: Pineal gland (in response to darkness)

• Function: Regulates sleep-wake cycles (circadian rhythms)

• Chemical Formula: C₁₃H₁₆N₂O₂

• Supplement Form: Tablets, capsules, gummies, sublingual drops

🧠 How It Works:

Melatonin levels naturally increase in the evening as it gets dark, promoting sleepiness, and decrease in the morning when exposed to light. It acts on melatonin receptors (MT1 and MT2) in the brain to help control when you fall asleep and wake up.

🛌 Common Uses of Melatonin:

1. Insomnia

   • Helps people fall asleep faster, especially if sleep cycle is disturbed.

2. Jet Lag

   • Used to reset internal clocks when crossing time zones.

3. Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder (DSPD)

   • For people who fall asleep and wake up much later than normal.

4. Shift Work Sleep Disorder

   • Beneficial for those who work night shifts or irregular hours.

5. Sleep issues in children with autism or ADHD

   • Shown to improve sleep onset and duration.

6. Anti-aging & Antioxidant Effects (under study)

   • Melatonin is also a powerful antioxidant and may support brain health.