MELATONIN
Melatonin has been used safely for nearly a decade and was first isolated from bovine pineal glands in 1958. Many studies show the relationship of Melatonin to induce sleep in humans as well as other benefits. Oral doses (5 mg) of Melatonin have short half-lives in humans, showing peak plasma levels about 60 minutes after ingestion. Light dependent rhythms are affected in mammals, although the effects differ in species and individuals.
Melatonin can reset your biological clock and promote sleep naturally at desired times. People suffering from occasional sleeplessness caused by shift work or jet lag will benefit from this natural sleep aid. Melatonin also inhibits nitric oxide synthesis in the brain, and blocks etoposide-induced apoptosis in bone marrow cells. Preliminary animal studies suggest that Melatonin may be helpful in delaying the effects of aging.
Take 1 to 5 mg 30 minutes before bedtime.
Melatonin is both heat and light stable. Samples stored under normal conditions show virtually no degradation after 6 years.
N-Acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine, Regulin
Pineal gland hormone
CAS Registry Number [73-31-4]
Melatonin is considered a dietary supplement under provisions of US Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA).
Full Toxicological studies on the effects of continuous use of Melatonin over periods of years have not been completed. Melatonin should not be taken by: pregnant or lactating women, individuals with autoimmune conditions, people with depressive disorders or by children under 16 years of age. Do not take prior to driving an automobile or operating machinery.
1. A.B. Lerner, et al., J. Am. Chem. Soc. 80 2587, 1958
2. A.B Lerner, et al., J. Org. Chem.Soc, 81, 6084, 1959
3. Szmuszkovicz, J. Org. Chem., 25, 857, 1960
4. Axelrod, J., Science, 184, 1341-1348, 1974
5. Arendt, J., Melatonin and the Mammalian Pineal Gland, Chapman and Hall, London, 1995.
6. Reiter, R.J. and Robinson, Jo., MELATONIN, Your Body’s Natural Wonder Drug, Bantam Books, New York, 1995