🌙 Sleep · Strong evidence

Melatonin

Sleep onset · jet lag · circadian rhythm · shift work. People take it for:

  • Sleep onset improvement
  • Jet lag recovery
  • Shift work adaptation
  • Circadian rhythm reset
  • Antioxidant properties at high doses

Why it works

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Highly effective for sleep onset and jet lag. Use the lowest effective dose — more is not better.

Your Today

Bedtime

Melatonin (preview, not in your stack yet)preview

How to take Melatonin

Best time to take

30–60 minutes before target sleep time; keep dose low

Suggested dose

0.5–3mg is usually sufficient; most people use too much

Side effects and risks

  • Grogginess if dose too high or timing wrong
  • May suppress natural melatonin production long-term at high doses
  • Vivid dreams in some
  • Not recommended for children without medical guidance

Melatonin interactions

  • Works withMagnesium Glycinate

    Melatonin signals when to sleep and magnesium glycinate helps the body wind down, which is why they are a common bedtime pairing. Keep the melatonin dose low; most people use more than they need.

Medical disclaimer: Nothing on Stack Ritual constitutes medical advice. The information provided is for educational purposes only. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider before beginning, changing, or stopping any vitamin, supplement, or wellness regimen.