THE BEECHMONT CREST GUIDE TO MEDICINAL HERBS AND NUTRACEUTICALS
MELATONIN
Melatonin is produced naturally in the body by the pineal gland. Melatonin regulates the wake-sleep cycle, causing feelings of drowsiness in the evening, and the end of sleep in the morning.
Melatonin supplements are available in tablet or capsule form. Commercially available melatonin is extracted from animals or produced artificially.
Benefits
Melatonin is often taken by people suffering from insomnia and jet lag. There are also claims that melatonin can prevent cancer; but these claims have not been substantiated by chemical trials.
Side Effects
Melatonin causes almost immediate drowsiness, and should not be consumed with depressants or alcohol. Melatonin is generally thought to be safe when used on occasion; but the long-term effects of melatonin usage are unknown.