Five Integrative Therapies for Healthy Aging

How to Safely Use Melatonin for Optimal Health

Newer uses of supplemental melatonin are diverse and span the gamut of body systems. With the rise of interest in longevity, there has been more interest in its therapeutic benefit for healthy aging and mitochondrial function. Perhaps the most recently recognized application is its efficacy in promoting immune health. During the COVID-19 pandemic, melatonin supplementation was recommended alongside other immune-active nutrients such as vitamin D and zinc. It was suggested that its anti-inflammatory properties could help with the cytokine storm and even viral infections through its potential role in phase separation.

Along the lines of its relationship to immune health is the emerging research on autoimmune conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. While ongoing supplemental melatonin is discussed for chronic diseases, there is also a potential benefit to help override the acute effects of oxidative stress from athletic performance and even environmental toxin load and exposures.

Scientific research indicates recent investigations into women’s health, specifically preeclampsia, fertility, endometriosis, and PCOS, in addition to bone health. Although lesser known, there is interest for melatonin supplementation in other areas of health, including the cardiovascular system, with application to hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, metabolic syndrome, endothelial dysfunction, and possibly for glycemic control, based on personalized gene variants. Other areas include migraines and headache, tinnitus, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism.

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