What is melatonin?
Melatonin is a hormone that is produced by pinealocytes in the pineal gland, which the hypothalamus ultimately controls.
Melatonin is produced by synthesis of the essential amino acid tryptophan (through the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin).
Melatonin is partly responsible for the the circadian rhythm of the body (the central nervous system is mostly responsible for this process).
Important melatonin facts
- Tryptophan is a precursor to melatonin
- Melatonin supplements are available – which many people take for combating jet lag
- Melatonin is a powerful antioxidant that can cross the brain-blood barrier
- Melatonin plays some type of role on the immune system
- Psychoactive drugs, such as cocaine and LSD, increase melatonin synthesis
Why melatonin is important
A recent study at Harvard Medical School looked at healthy people that were taking no medications or drugs found no differences in melatonin levels between the young and older adults, so it appears this hormone does not decrease with age.
Melatonin, as a supplement has so far shown no short-term side effects or adverse reactions. Research still needs to be done on long term effects of taking this supplement.