Benefits of Melatonin

There appears to be many benefits of melatonin, but the naturally occurring hormone seems to be most effective in treating sleep disorders. It plays an important role in the circadian rhythm, which regulates sleeping, waking, and other functions. Research suggests that there may be other benefits of melatonin; the supplement may some day be used as a sunscreen or form of birth control.

Melatonin Supplements for Sleep

What Benefits Can Melatonin Provide?

Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that is commonly used as a supplement, often for sleeping problems. The supplements are often claimed to be helpful for the following purposes:

Treating various sleep disorders (such as insomnia, jet lag, and others)
Preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease
Treating fibromyalgia
Treating chronic fatigue syndrome
Preventing cluster or migraine headaches
Treating cancer (when used in combination with standard cancer treatment).

There are many other purported melatonin uses, some of which are more valid than others (see Does Melatonin Work?). As with many supplements, claims for the benefits of melatonin are sometimes exaggerated, and these claims must be evaluated critically. Most importantly, it is essential to remember that natural products should not be used carelessly, as many can be quite toxic (for instance, many poisons are natural products). It is important to remember that melatonin is a hormone that can have significant effects on the human body, effects that are not always desirable.

(Benefits of Melatonin Continued: Page 2)