How Does Melatonin Work? How and When to Take It to Get Better Sleep Introduction
By : Vijesh Nair
Date : 18/12/2025
In today’s fast-paced digital life, sleep problems have become common. Late-night mobile use, stress, anxiety, and irregular routines disturb our natural sleep cycle. Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep very well. What melatonin is, how it helps you sleep better, and how to take it safely and naturally are all covered in this article. ---
How Does Melatonin Work? Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It is often called the “sleep hormone” because it controls our circadian rhythm, also known as the body’s internal clock.
Melatonin production increases:
After sunset 🌙
In darkness
When the body is getting ready to sleep And it goes down: In bright light ☀️
With screen exposure (mobile, TV, laptop
Why Melatonin Is Important for Sleep
Melatonin does not force sleep like sleeping pills. Instead, it signals the brain that it’s time to sleep, helping the body relax naturally.
Benefits of Melatonin
aides in faster sleep Improves sleep quality
Regulates sleep-wake cycle
Useful for jet lag and shift work
Supports deep, restful sleep
Melatonin deficiency is associated with: Insomnia
frequent awakenings at night Anxiety before sleep
Daytime fatigue
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Causes of Low Melatonin Levels
Natural melatonin production is reduced by modern lifestyle practices: excessive smartphone and television use at night Bright LED lights after sunset
Stress and anxiety
Irregular sleep timings
Caffeine or alcohol at night
Melatonin deficiency as we get older ---
Natural Ways to Increase Melatonin
To increase melatonin, try natural methods first before taking supplements. 1. Reduce Screen Exposure at Night
Avoid mobile, TV, and laptop 1–2 hours before bed
If you can't avoid it, use blue-light filters or night mode. 2. Sleep in the Dark Utilize blackout curtains. Switch off unnecessary lights
Avoid sleeping with TV or night lights on
3. Set a regular sleeping schedule. Sleep and wake up at the same time daily
Even on weekends
4. Eat Melatonin-Friendly Foods
Some foods encourage the production of melatonin: The bananas Almonds
Walnuts
Oats
Milk
Cherries
Rice
5. Relaxation Techniques for Bedtime Deep breathing
Meditation
Light stretching
Mantra chanting or calming music
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How to Take Supplements with Melatonin If natural methods are not enough, melatonin supplements may help — but only when used correctly.
Dose Recommendation Start with 0.5 mg to 1 mg
Maximum commonly used: 3 mg
Higher doses are not always better
When to Take Melatonin
Take 30 to 60 minutes before going to bed. Take it at the same time daily
Do not take during daytime
How Long Can It Be Taken?
Short-term use: 2–4 weeks
Medical advice should be sought for long-term use. ---
Important Safety Tips
Melatonin should not be taken with: Alcohol
Sedatives
Anxiety or depression medicines (without doctor advice)
Rare but possible adverse effects: Headache
Dizziness
Drowsiness in the morning vivid visions ⚠️ Avoid melatonin if:
You are pregnant or breastfeeding
You suffer from autoimmune diseases. You are on psychiatric medication (without consultation)
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Melatonin vs Sleeping Pills
Melatonin Sleeping Pills
Natural hormone Chemical sedatives
Non-addictive Can be addictive
controls the sleep cycle and compels sleep Safer for short use Risk of dependency
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Conclusion
Melatonin is a natural and gentle way to restore healthy sleep, but it works best when combined with good sleep habits. Instead of depending only on tablets, focus on darkness, routine, calmness, and mindful living.
Good sleep is not a luxury — it is a foundation for mental peace, physical healing, and spiritual balance.
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