Melatonin: what is it and what is it good for?

Published by Mercado do Mattress on 31st Oct 2025

Melatonin: what is it and what is it good for?

Melatonin is a natural hormone that is essential for regulating the sleep cycle. Find out what it is, what it's good for and how it can help you sleep better naturally and safely.

What is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone produced naturally by our bodies and plays a fundamental role in regulating sleep and wake cycles.

It is synthesized by the pineal gland in the brain and its production depends directly on exposure to light: when it gets dark, the body begins to release melatonin, preparing for sleep; when it gets light, levels decrease, signaling that it's time to wake up.

When to take melatonin?

Melatonin should preferably be taken in the evening, around 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. Its purpose is to reinforce the body's natural signal that it's time to sleep, helping to synchronize the circadian cycle.

It's important to remember that melatonin is not a sleep medication. Its function is to regulate the biological cycle and not to cause immediate drowsiness.

Its effect is most effective when accompanied by good sleep hygiene habits - such as keeping regular hours, avoiding blue light before bed and creating a quiet, dark environment in the bedroom.

Benefits of melatonin

The benefits of melatonin are related to improving sleep quality and balancing the body's natural cycle. Among the main ones:

  • Facilitates falling asleep and reduces the time needed to sleep;
  • Improves sleep quality, promoting deep and restful rest;
  • It can help with mild insomnia or time zone changes;
  • It does not cause addiction or excessive sleepiness during the day;
  • It acts as a natural antioxidant, contributing to general well-being.

When used properly, melatonin is a safe and effective ally for those looking to sleep better and maintain a balanced sleep cycle.

 

What is the recommended dose of melatonin for adults?

The recommended doses of melatonin vary according to age, purpose and individual sensitivity.
In general, adults should take between 0.5 mg and 5 mg a day, around 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime.

It is advisable to start with the lowest dose and adjust it only under medical supervision to ensure the best results.

 

Is Melatonin safe in the long term?

Yes, melatonin is safe, as long as it is used responsibly and, ideally, with professional supervision.
Current studies indicate that it is not addictive and does not interfere with the body's natural production. However, continuous use should be assessed by a health professional, especially in people with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, nursing mothers or those taking other medications.

 

Enhance your sleep with the right mattress

Although melatonin helps regulate the sleep cycle, the quality of our rest also depends on the environment and the mattress we sleep on. A quality mattress ensures comfort, body alignment and an ideal temperature, enhancing the effects of melatonin.

We suggest the Air Graph Foam Mattress, made of graphene, a carbon derivative, integrated into the mattress pad, which acts as a natural thermoregulator. With the right support, your body relaxes naturally - and melatonin works more effectively, providing nights of deep rest.