Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone produced in the pineal gland which regulates sleep and wakefulness. It is involved in the synchronization of circadian rhythms, including sleep-wake timing, blood pressure and body temperature regulation, cardiovascular efficiency and muscle strength, and many others. Many of its biological effects are produced through activation of melatonin receptors, while others are due to its role as an antioxidant, with a particular role in the protection of nuclear and mitochondrial DNA.

As a medicine, it is used for the treatment of insomnia, however, scientific evidence is insufficient to demonstrate a benefit in this area.

Notable studies

 * 2016, Effect of melatonin supplementation on plasma lipid hydroperoxides, homocysteine concentration and chronic fatigue syndrome in multiple sclerosis patients treated with interferons-beta and mitoxantrone.
 * 1996, Dissociation of body-temperature and melatonin secretion circadian rhythms in patients with chronic fatigue syndrome

Costs and availability
In Canada and the United States, melatonin is sold over-the-counter. In other countries, such as the United Kingdom, it is only available with a prescription.

Learn more

 * Wikipedia - Melatonin