Melatonin

Much has been written recently about a relatively mis-understood hormone and neurotransmitter in the brain, called Melatonin. It's sold over the counter today as a remedy against jet-lag and sleeplessness, and is usually seen as a 'sleep' hormone. It's secreted by our pituitary gland as soon as the light outside becomes dim, and strictly from an evolutionary standpoint is supposed to make us feel drowsy and go to sleep. It appears, however, that Melatonin has a lot more to it than scientists know today or are willing to admit. This substance often appears in 'mystical' literature (under other names, of course), and is ascribed as having healing and rejuvenating qualities, as well as being able to increase our level of intelligence.

Melatonin has been called many things before. It's known from antiquity, as you say. Some researchers have referred to it recently as 'star-fire', and 'white gold powder'. There's a series of articles by Laurence Gardner about some of its historical significance. Once again, keep an open mind as you read them. I found them fascinating, if not always exact. The guy doesn't sound to be as serious a researcher as, say, Sitchin, but he sure does his homework nonetheless. He does get carried away sometimes, though, without sufficient evidence in my opinion. So keep a critical mind as well.

Offered by Sol.

I've tried melatonin myself and find that it does help me to sleep deeper. Doesn't make me fall asleep, but enhances the quality of the sleep. Also, something those discussing dreams might find interesting, is that for me taking a Ginko Biloba before bed time tends to make me dream more. Or at least I seem to remember them a little better.

Offered by Michael.