Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that regulates sleep cycles and helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. It is mainly produced by the pineal gland in the brain, and its production increases in response to darkness and decreases with exposure to light. Melatonin therefore plays a key role in signaling the body when it is time to sleep.
Due to melatonin's role in sleep regulation, synthetic melatonin has been commonly used as a dietary supplement to alleviate sleep problems, jet lag or the impact of shift work on sleep patterns. It is available in the form of pills, drops or chewing gum. While melatonin is often perceived as safe, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for those taking other medications or with underlying health conditions, to ensure adequate and safe use.
