Melatonin is a hormone produced by the brain. Synthetic forms (made in a laboratory) of melatonin can be found at your local pharmacy in pill form. Many use melatonin to adjust the body`s internal clock that sets sleep-wake cycles. Some use it to help with jet lag, while others use it for treatment of insomnia (inability to fall asleep). There are also many other suggested uses for melatonin, making it confusing to determine the effects of melatonin. Scientific evidence suggests that melatonin is likely effective for treatment of sleep problems in children with autism and mental retardation, and helps with sleep disorders in blind people. In addition, melatonin is possibly effective in improving alertness and other jet lag symptoms and may be able to shorten the amount of time it takes to fall asleep (more information can be accessed from the link below). Further research into other health claims is needed.
Melatonin may help with sleep because it plays a role in regulating sleep-wake cycles. Darkness causes the body to make more melatonin; this signals the body to prepare for sleep. Light decreases melatonin production and signals the body to prepare for being awake. Some people who have trouble sleeping have low levels of melatonin. It is thought that the addition of melatonin supplements may help these people sleep.
Melatonin may not be safe for use in pregnant women, children, those with high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, and seizure disorder; it may also interact with medications. So if you`re interested in trying out melatonin, be sure to speak to your pharmacist or physician to determine if it is safe for you and what dose is best for you!
Information Source:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/940.html
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