Mel

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It is primarily released in response to darkness and is involved in the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle, signaling to the body when it is time to sleep. Melatonin production is influenced by the detection of light by the retina of the eye, which sends signals to the pineal gland. Its levels begin to rise in the mid to late evening, remain high for most of the night, and then drop in the early morning hours.

Melatonin has several other functions in the body beyond sleep regulation. It is an antioxidant, which means it can neutralize harmful free radicals and plays a role in supporting the immune system. It also has been shown to have effects on the regulation of mood disorders, and is being studied for its potential use in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

In addition to its natural production, melatonin is available as a dietary supplement. It is commonly used to treat insomnia and to improve sleep quality, particularly in individuals who have disrupted circadian rhythms like shift workers or those experiencing jet lag. However, the effectiveness and safety of melatonin supplements can vary, and they are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the same way that medications are.

There is ongoing research into the potential therapeutic uses of melatonin in various medical conditions, including cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and cardiovascular diseases. However, more studies are needed to fully understand its efficacy and safety in these areas.