Melatonin releases from the pineal gland, reaching its peak at night to help maintain healthy cell division in tissues throughout the body. Secretion of melatonin declines significantly with age, as the pineal gland becomes calcified.(68,69) Jet lag, shift work, and poor vision can disrupt melatonin cycles.

Melatonin keeps our circadian cycle in tune as it communicates with the cells in the body.(70,71) Not only does this hormone work to maintain cell health, it appears to regulate a system of self-repair and regeneration.(72,73) As this hardworking hormone diminishes with age, our biological functions are impaired.(74,75)

In addition to its hormone actions, melatonin also has strong antioxidant properties. Melatonin directly scavenges both hydroxyl and peroxyl free radicals, and it does so more effectively than most other antioxidants. It also greatly potentiates the efficiency of other endogenous and exogenous antioxidants.(76)

Melatonin is especially important for protecting cellular DNA against peroxynitrite damage by inhibiting peroxynitrite free radical reactions.(77) Many people use melatonin to help improve sleep. Some research has found that melatonin increases the speed of falling asleep and adds to the quality of sleep in about 60% of people who use it.(78-81)

Ingredients:
Each capsule contains:
Melatonin 3mg
Other Ingredients: cornstarch, talc, gelatin, sucrose, pharmaceutical glaze. Contains gluten and corn.
Contains NO: milk, egg, fish, peanuts, crustacean shellfish (lobster, crab, shrimp), soybeans, tree nuts, wheat, yeast, or rice. Contains NO artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colors.

Recommended Use:
Adults: Take one capsule 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime, or as recommended by a healthcare practitioner. Melatonin is naturally secreted from the pineal gland at night, and should be taken at night for optimal results.

Warning:
Do not use melatonin if you have asthma or an autoimmune disease. Do not operate heavy machinery while using this product. If you are pregnant, nursing, or undergoing treatment for a medical condition, please consult your healthcare professional before using this product. Keep out of the reach of children.

References:
68. Exp Gerontol. 2001 Jul;36(7):1083-100.
69. J Pineal Res. 1994 May;16(4):178-83.
70. Free Radic Res. 2002 Dec;36(12):1323-9.
71. J Endocrinol. 1981 Dec;91(3):467-75.
72. Surg Today. 2003;33(12):896-901.
73. Cytobios. 1996;85(340):51-8.
74. Maturitas. 2002 Apr 15;41 Suppl 1:S85-104.
75. Chronobiol Int. 2000 May;17(3):419-32.
76. Aging (Milano). Oct1995;7(5):340-51.
77. Neurotox Res. 2005;7(4):293-318.
78. Sleep. 1996 Jun;19(5):423-31.
79. Clin Pharmacol Ther. 1995 May;57(5):552-8.
80. Actas Esp Psiquiatr. 2000 Sep-Oct;28(5):325-9.
81. J Clin Psychiatry. 2007 Feb;68(2):237-41.