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Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the pineal gland in the brain that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm). According to research, melatonin levels typically rise in the evening as darkness falls and decrease in the morning with light exposure.

The hormone works by:

  • Signaling to the body that it’s time to sleep
  • Regulating body temperature
  • Influencing other hormones
  • Synchronizing our internal clock with the day-night cycle

As a supplement, synthetic melatonin mimics this natural process, making it particularly helpful for people with disrupted sleep patterns, jet lag, or certain sleep disorders.

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Last Updated: September 18, 2025

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