The pineal gland, a pea-size gland in the middle of the human brain, secretes a hormone called melatonin. Melatonin is said to be the “all-natural nightcap,” because it is secreted as soon as we actually fall asleep. Melatonin is the hormone that helps the human body regulate natural sleep cycles. More specifically, melatonin tell our bodies how long we should sleep, when we are fully rested, and when we should wake up. Unfortunately, the amount of melatonin that the body produces dramatically lessens as we grow older. This is due to the fact that over time the pineal gland becomes calcified. It has been thought by many scientists that the loss of melatonin with age is the main reason why many older people have trouble sleeping.

Taking melatonin substitutes has helped human test subjects actually get to sleep faster, without having the side effects of sleeping pills. Melatonin supplements are very good for people who travel a lot because these people many times have their sleep cycles distorted from time changes. In this respect it is used as an anti-jet lag regimen. There are many studies currently still being done to find out other bodily uses for melatonin. About 5% of people who have taken melatonin supplements have complained about side effects such as headaches or nightmares. This small percentage is miniscule compared to those who it has helped sleep better.

Vitamin Depot Online.com offers Melatonin, which is a melatonin hormone supplement. Melatonin had been proven to help increase the speed of falling asleep and add to the quality of sleep.