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Unlocking the Truth: Melatonin's Nightly Use Safety

Published : Jan 08, 2022 2 mins read Updated On : Dec 07, 2023

What is Melatonin?

Not being able to fall or stay asleep can get frustrating, when it occurs on a regular basis. Melatonin also known as a sleep hormone that is primarily released by the pituitary gland at night. It is associated with regulating our sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin is often blocked by light and is secreted during darkness. Ideally, melatonin secretion naturally starts slowly by evening and peak secretions are observed at night and drops gradually when the sun starts to set in. 

Melatonin for Sleep

What is Melatonin used for?

With so many worries and to-dos racing through your mind, a melatonin supplement works best to calm oneself and fall asleep faster. In order to get peaceful sleep many people move to supplementing themselves with Melatonin. Melatonin is just a natural way of inducing sleep.
Often people consume melatonin when one finds trouble falling asleep due to jetlag that's the tired, run-down feeling some get when they're traveling across time zones, hangover, delayed sleep wake disorder, disrupted sleep cycles and when one needs complete sleep. It aids it faster sleep time i.e. ability to fall asleep faster. Consuming Melatonin is just a natural way to boost your own melatonin secretions hence it is not classified as a drug nor does it work like a sleeping pill.

What is the safe dosage?

The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) does not regulate melatonin as a drug. Many Scientific studies show that doses of melatonin vary widely, from 0.1mg-10mg. It takes an approximate time of 1-2 hours for melatonin to work after consuming the supplement. However, if one is consuming melatonin for the first time it is advisable to consume lower doses. 

Is it Safe to Consume Melatonin Every Night

Are there any risks involved?

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), short period use of melatonin supplements appears to be safe to use for most adults and children. It is often said that too much of something can lead to side effects, however, there are mild side effects of consuming excess melatonin i.e., headache, dizziness, and excessive drowsiness. Melatonin, unlike many sleep aids is safe and one is unlikely to become dependent.

Restful and complete sleep is important to carry out body process and also to function at ones best. Hence, Melatonin supplements come to the rescue. If one finds difficulty in sleeping they can also resort to consuming sleep aid supplements like Melatonin.


Shilpa Manwani
Shilpa Manwani
Health and Nutrition

Shilpa is an expert on food science. She enjoys writing blogs that give complete information about nutrition. She is also a foodie and loves to talk about different types of food. her extensive kno... Read More

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