Why Make Gummy Supplements With Melatonin?

Global Products Group

Natural beginnings and a promising future

In the annals of scientific history, the year 1958 marked a significant milestone when American physician Aaron B. Lerner, in collaboration with researchers from Yale University School of Medicine, achieved a groundbreaking feat: the isolation of a compound known as melatonin. Beyond its chemical nature as a derivative of the amino acid tryptophan, melatonin is ubiquitous in various species, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Melatonin plays a pivotal role in orchestrating the intricate rhythms of our sleep-wake cycles while lowering body temperature and reducing respiration rate.

The global melatonin market is poised for remarkable growth, projected to surpass a staggering $217.9 million by 2033. This surge can be primarily attributed to the booming popularity of melatonin dietary supplements, with an anticipated compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.2% from 2023 to 2033. As consumer awareness of the benefits of melatonin supplements continues to grow, the demand for these products is on the rise. Melatonin is now widely acknowledged as a safe and effective means to enhance sleep quality and regulate sleep patterns, addressing the increasing need for natural alternatives to pharmaceutical sleep aids. Traditionally cited for its sleep-improving properties, melatonin is now under research for its potential to prevent age-related diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular ailments, neurodegenerative disorders, and even cancer, all linked to oxidative stress. This presents a promising opportunity for manufacturers to tap into new markets, driving them to innovate and develop an array of products catering to diverse health requirements.

Why melatonin

Melatonin, often referred to as the "sleep hormone," is a naturally occurring compound produced by the pineal gland in the brain. While it is best known for its role in regulating our sleep-wake cycles, the benefits of melatonin extend far beyond promoting restful slumber. This remarkable hormone boasts a wide array of advantages for health and well-being.

Regulates Sleep Patterns

Melatonin is primarily known for promoting healthy sleep patterns. It helps regulate the body's internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep at night and wake up in the morning. This is particularly useful for people with insomnia, jet lag, or work-related sleep disturbances.

Supports Immune Function

This powerful hormone's immune-modulating properties are a testament to its potential to strengthen the body's defense mechanisms. By enhancing the function of immune cells, melatonin can aid in fortifying the body against infections and diseases. Emerging research also hints at melatonin's capacity to potentially reduce both the severity and duration of illnesses, underscoring its role in supporting immune health.

Antioxidant Protection

Melatonin's potent antioxidant properties can make it a valuable defender against oxidative stress and the harmful effects of free radicals on cells and tissues. By mitigating oxidative damage, melatonin not only holds promise in reducing the risk of various chronic diseases but also plays a key role in bolstering overall health and well-being.

Neuroprotective Effects

Melatonin may have neuroprotective properties, meaning it can help protect nerve cells in the brain from damage. Some studies have suggested that melatonin may be beneficial in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and traumatic brain injury. In one experimental study, researchers determined that a post-treatment regimen involving melatonin either on its own or in conjunction with uridine has the potential to significantly diminish posttraumatic edema across various brain regions within a traumatic brain injury model.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Melatonin can help reduce inflammation associated with various chronic diseases and conditions through its ability to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, its antioxidant properties that combat oxidative stress, and its modulation of immune responses to maintain a balanced inflammatory reaction.

Finding melatonin at the source

Celebrated for its role in regulating sleep patterns and promoting overall health, melatonin is derived from various natural sources. From the rich content found in select plant and animal species to the intricate methods of extraction and production, understanding melatonin’s sourcing is key to appreciating its widespread use in supplements and health products.

  • Natural Extraction: Melatonin extraction from animal pineal glands has been explored as a sourcing method; however, this approach faces significant drawbacks. A primary concern is potential contamination and the risk of transmitting diseases, as the process involves working with animal tissues. The challenges of ensuring product safety and consistency have deterred many manufacturers from relying on animal-derived melatonin. As a result, alternative methods have gained favor in the commercial production of melatonin supplements, aiming for higher safety standards and a more predictable supply chain. GPG never uses melatonin derived from natural extraction.

  • Chemical Synthesis: The predominant technique for generating melatonin for human consumption is through chemical synthesis conducted within controlled laboratory environments. This allows for a remarkably high level of purity and consistency in the resulting product. The process not only guarantees that synthetic melatonin functions exactly as natural melatonin does within the body but also verifies its safety - it is free from any biological contaminants often associated with other sourcing methods. 

  • Biotechnological Production: Another emerging method involves using biotechnology to produce melatonin. This can be done through the fermentation of microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, that have been genetically modified to produce melatonin. Biotechnological production offers a more sustainable and potentially cost-effective approach to obtaining melatonin; however, the development of this technology and process is still underway.

Most melatonin supplements available on the market are produced through chemical synthesis because it is a reliable and cost-effective method that ensures product purity and consistency. At the heart of the sourcing process, GPG partners with all its clients to collaborate on winning consumer formulations from concept and sourcing to production and beyond. This partnership facilitates the alignment of the freshest, finest components with your visionary goals.  Our client-manufacturing relationship always includes forecasting to better understand which raw materials can be sourced for future production runs. Talk with us about your formulas and offerings. 

**Global Products Group does not make structure-function claims about ingredients and recommends consulting a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. Further research is needed to confirm any potential effects and benefits, and the company takes no responsibility for claims made on products or websites not directly managed by us.