Thorne offers melatonin in both 3 mg (Melatonin-3) and 5 mg (Melatonin-5) capsules. Melatonin, the primary hormone of the pineal gland, is a powerful “chronobiotic” that helps maintain the body’s normal circadian rhythms.* In individuals who have difficulty sleeping or who have altered circadian rhythms because of jet lag or night shift work, melatonin supplementation promotes the resynchronization of this cycle.* Supplementation can also benefit those whose difficulty sleeping is caused by the aging-related decrease in the body’s ability to synthesize melatonin from the amino acid tryptophan.* Research indicates melatonin exerts its sleep-promoting efficacy by decreasing the amount of time needed to fall asleep, by promoting the ability to stay asleep, and by enhancing the depth of sleep.*

Melatonin administration from 0.3 mg to 5.0 mg has been shown to exert a sedative-like effect.* When supplemented prior to the onset of the body’s normal melatonin secretion, even a low amount of melatonin can promote sleep.* Melatonin apparently enhances the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) via direct interaction with GABA receptors, thus resulting in relaxation.* Thorne’s Melaton-3 supplies three mg of melatonin in each capsule, and Melaton-5 supplies 5 mg per capsule and is used when a higher amount of melatonin is desired. Melatonin also has significant antioxidant activity.* Adequate melatonin levels have been reported to be a positive factor in cardiovascular, neuroendocrine, GI, and bone health.*