Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the pineal gland in your brain that helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm). According to research, melatonin levels naturally rise in the evening and fall in the morning.
The hormone works by:
- Signaling to your body that it’s time to sleep
- Regulating body temperature
- Influencing other hormones
- Reducing dopamine levels that help keep you awake
Synthetic melatonin supplements mimic this natural hormone and can be particularly helpful for people with disrupted sleep patterns or jet lag. Studies show it can reduce the time it takes to fall asleep by an average of 7 minutes.
✓ Expert Reviewed: This content has been reviewed by qualified professionals in the field.
Last Updated: October 13, 2025
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before making health decisions.
Editorial Standards: Our Medical Content StandardsThe Health Research Team is a collaborative network of healthcare professionals, graduate researchers, and medical science students dedicated to synthesizing peer-reviewed health research for public education. Our interdisciplinary approach combines expertise from nutrition science, physiotherapy, nursing, and medical research to provide comprehensive, evidence-based health information.Click to read our Editorial Policy in details - Medical Oversight: All health information is overseen by board-certified physicians and follows FDA guidelines for health content