Melatonin is a product of the pineal gland, where it is synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan. Under normal conditions, Melatonin levels foreshadow the sleep cycle, usually increasing rapidly from the late evening until midnight, then decreasing as morning approaches. In this way, Melatonin helps regulate circadian rhythm, the body's 24-hour "dark-light clock" that governs the timing of hormone production, sleep, body temperature, and more.

Not surprisingly, people with high levels of Melatonin usually sleep longer and more soundly than those with a deficiency. For example, the elderly, who produce less Melatonin than the young and middle-aged, are typically more susceptible to insomnia. Similarly, events that throw Melatonin levels out of synch--such as a jet trip between time zones--seem to interfere with production of the hormone and thus disrupt sleep. Consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and narcotics has a similar effect.

Directions for Use

Adults: Recommended dosage is 3mg 20 minutes before bedtime . Each container is approximately a 2 month supply.