Benefits of Melatonin - Sleep Aid and Mental Health Remedy

What are the benefits of Melatonin? Sleep aid, depression remedy, remedy for jet lag - these are all things that melatonin can be used for. But if you're like me, you probably have a lot of questions about what it is, the side effects, and the best way to use it. I always research a substance before I start taking it. This is what I found in my research.

What is melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in the body. A gland called the pineal gland is responsible for making it. When the sun goes down the pineal gland gets busy injected the hormone into your system. It is responsible for regulating sleep cycles and a deficiency could result in problems such as insomnia and even depression.

Melatonin for Jet Lag

I just recently went on a short trip that stretched over three time zones. Needless to say, I still have the jet lag. The three hour time difference, especially coming home, has messed up my sleep cycles. I am a prime candidate for taking melatonin. I find that it helps promote a restful sleep when I'm experiencing the jet lag. I take one capsule (follow package directions) about thirty minutes before sleep.

Melatonin for Depression

A deficiency in melatonin has also been linked to increased rates of depression and other mental health problems. Some natural health practitioners often suggest that their patients take melatonin regularly to help alleviate depression symptoms. However, keep in mind that this will probably only work if the body doesn't secrete enough melatonin in the first place.

To Help You Stop Smoking

Melatonin is also a common remedy for people who are quitting smoking. Natural practitioners recommend taking it as soon as you have your last cigarette and to continue taking it while you lose the urge to smoke. It can help speed the process up.

Melatonin Dosage Information

In general, you should follow the instructions on the package for proper dosage information. In general, it is a good idea to take it once or twice a day depending on what you are using it for.

Can you take it long term?

If you have a chronic problem with insomnia or depression you may be tempted to take melatonin over the long term. However, melatonin is one of those things that should be taken on an as needed basis. But, you can take it for several months before you need to take a break.

I've used melatonin from time to time for jet lag or if my regular sleeping patterns are disturbed and I need to reset my body clock. It is my observation that it helps me regulate and normalize faster than if I normalized my sleeping patterns on their own.

Author: Nutrasanus.com
Page Title: Melatonin Benefits and Side Effects
Site Title: http://www.nutrasanus.com/melatonin.html