Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain that helps regulate our sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm). According to research, melatonin levels naturally rise in the evening and fall in the morning in response to light exposure.
The hormone works by:
- Signaling to the body that it’s time to sleep
- Regulating body temperature for optimal sleep
- Influencing other hormones that affect sleep-wake patterns
As a supplement, synthetic melatonin mimics this natural process, which is why it’s commonly used to treat sleep disorders and jet lag. Peak levels typically occur between 2 AM and 4 AM in healthy individuals.
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Last Updated: October 3, 2025
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