Other Varieties
Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland, a pea-sized gland at the base of the brain. The function of melatonin is involved in regulating the body’s circadian rhythms “the natural biorhythm of hormone secretion” as well as the sleep/wake cycle. Release of melatonin is stimulated by darkness and suppressed by light. It appears that some people may under-produce melatonin at night when it is needed, and over-produce it during the day when it should be low. It is very important to make sure that the bedroom is completely dark when going to bed. Often times elderly need a night light to see the path to the bathroom and this can be one of the reasons to not producing enough melatonin thus making it difficult to sleep. The same situation is often for young children as well.
For those who suffer from insomnia it is best to use between late afternoon and bedtime. Melatonin plays an important role in the induction of sleep.
Shift Workers greatly benefit from melatonin as it may help shift workers adjust to new sleep patterns when shifts are changing. Again it is very important to make sure the room is completely dark.
For jet leg, use during and for 5 days after travel that crosses time lines.
Seasonal Affect Disorder (SAD) can be relieved with the use of melatonin supplementation. Melatonin may improve SAD because it not only increases brain melatonin levels, but also because it may suppress cortisol secretion.
Contains NO: Corn, dairy, eggs, fish, gluten, shellfish, soy, wheat or pork.
Adult Dosage: Take 1 capsule daily, at bedtime only or as directed by a health care practitioner. For use beyond 4 weeks, consult a health care practitioner. Keep out of the reach of children.
Caution: Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you have a hormonal disorder, diabetes, liver or kidney disease, cerebral palsy, seizure disorders, migraine, depression, taking HBP medications, immunosupressive, sedative/hypnotic drugs. Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.