What does melatonin (Sleep Aid/Sleep Spray) do?

Melatonin has several important functions within the body. The best-known is its role in sleep and circadian rhythms, but the most important is probably its role as an antioxidant.

When blue light stops entering our eyes, our pineal gland begins to secrete melatonin, which inhibits the processes that keep us awake. It does this by reducing our core body temperature, increasing GABA signaling (an inhibitory neurotransmitter important for relaxation), and directly binding to receptors that shut down wakefulness processes.

Meta-analyses have shown that 1–12 mg of melatonin supplementation benefits the sleep quality of people with primary sleep disorders like insomnia, metabolic disorders, dementia (cognitive decline), neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, autism, and intellectual disabilities.

To mimic the melatonin curve that would occur naturally in those seen with good sleep hygiene, all you need is a low dose of 300 mcg taken 30–60 minutes before bedtime. Our products provide 1 mg per serving, which is three times this dose.

More interesting, melatonin is believed to be one of the first antioxidant molecules to develop in response to rising atmospheric oxygen levels some 3.2 billion years ago, long before it played a role in regulating circadian rhythms or sleep. The organisms that first produced this molecule were the precursors to our mitochondria.

Melatonin’s structure allows it to be soluble in both water and lipids, making it capable of easily passing through and protecting cell membranes and the cellular machinery within. Such antioxidant protection is potent, being twice as powerful as vitamin E and four times more powerful than glutathione or vitamin C.

Another fascinating quirk about melatonin’s structure is that it can not only neutralize a wide array of free radicals, but also transform into several other antioxidant molecules thereafter, essentially making melatonin a four-in-one antioxidant.

Several meta-analyses have reported that melatonin supplementation lowers fasting glucose, blood pressure, and systemic inflammation. Other studies have reported that nightly supplementation with 6–10 mg of melatonin improves fat cell functionality, insulin sensitivity, and antioxidant capacity, while also reducing oxidative stress.

FAQ ESN Melatonin Sleep Spray

How can I prevent the spray head of the Melatonin Spray from clogging?

Shaking the bottle vigorously before each use, regularly using the spray, and storing it in a cool and dry place will all help prevent clogging of the spray head.

Is melatonin prohibited in Austria and Switzerland?

Yes, the Medicines Act prohibits melatonin in these countries.