Herbal Select Melatonin

Temporary sleep aid
Jet lag relief

Melatonin is a hormone, synthesized by the body in the pineal gland. The amino acid tryptophan is converted to 5-hydroxytryptophan, then to serotonin, then to N-acetylserotonin, and finally to melatonin. Melatonin's primary role seems to be regulation of the body's circadian rhythm, endocrine secretions, and sleep patterns. In the brain, melatonin appears to increase the binding of gamma-aminobenzoic acid (GABA) to its receptors, by affecting membrane characteristics. Melatonin may decrease neurotransmission by a direct effect on nerve cells. Melatonin production is influenced by day/night cycles. Light inhibits melatonin secretion and darkness stimulates secretion. Some disease conditions can lower melatonin levels such as fibromyalgia and depression. Melatonin seems to positively affect immune function. Melatonin is a potent antioxidant. It is thought to be 6-10 times more active than vitamin E. Epidemiological studies suggest those with low light stimulation have low rates of cancer. Melatonin may help fight cancer due to its antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and oncostatic effects. The antioxidant effect on dopaminergic neurons makes melatonin a possible treatment for tardive dyskinesia.

Potential Uses: According to Health Canada, melatonin “Helps to regulate circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality related to sleep disorders/jet lag.” Orally, melatonin has been used for jet lag, insomnia, shift-work disorder, circadian rhythm disorders in the blind, cluster headache severity, and benzodiazepine and nicotine withdrawal. Melatonin appears to help with sleep. It helps improve circadian rhythm sleep disorders in the blind, sleep-wake cycle disturbances and the time to fall asleep in children and adolescents with central nervous system disorders. It also improves insomnia and other quality of life factors such as mental health and vitality. Melatonin supplementation seems to be most beneficial for elderly patients with insomnia related to melatonin deficiency.
 
Ingredients (Each capsule contains):
Melatonin (N-[2-(5-Methoxyindol-3-yl)ethyl]acetamide; synthetic)................................................................................3 mg

Other ingredients: rice flour, gelatin capsule

Cautions: Risk Information: Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.