A New Melatonin — 100% Derived From Plants
Many melatonin supplements claim “natural sleep aids” but are they?
FACT: Melatonin in almost all “natural sleep aids" is made with either synthetic chemicals or bovine pineal gland and unregulated by the FDA often leading to more harm than good. The list includes but is not limited to:
- DIETHYL MALONATE
- ACRYLONITRILE
- ETHANOL
- POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE
- P-METHOXYANILINE
- METHANOL
- SODIUM HYDROXIDE
- HYDROCHLORIC ACID
- ACETIC ANHYDRIDE and the list goes on.
Juna’s nightcap sleep gummies contain phytomelatonin; a plant-derived melatonin that comes from the natural botanical source of St. John's Wort. It's vegan certified, non-gmo and has no harsh chemicals or synthetics. What's even better, each gummy contains an MIT scientifically backed micro dose of melatonin proven to work effectively in the body with numerous positive benefits.
You've probably heard alot about melatonin over the last few years. Some people swear by it for sleep, others say it causes more harm than good. In 2020 alone, synthetic melatonin sales were at an all time high of $800M to help Americans suffering with anxiety and stress after the sun went down. A 46% increase from the year prior. With little federal regulation around melatonin and supplements in general, there is never a guarantee you are buying what you think you are.
So what’s the truth about melatonin supplementation?
We did the research, and in this article we dispel the myths and truths of melatonin; how it can help and, how it can harm if not used at the appropriate dose from a reputable source. We explain what to look for in safe, effective supplements all through the lens of science. Get ready to be surprised and learn the facts so you can benefit 100%.
So what is melatonin exactly?
Melatonin may be the most powerful antioxidant in the world. It’s said to be more powerful than Vitamins E, C and Glutathione. It's also a hormone our body's produce naturally. When activated properly in the body it can have powerful health benefits that support optimized sleep, can work as an antidepressant and support cellular anti-aging.
Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the pineal gland in our brain with a small portion in the retina and gut and is imperative in the regulation of sleep cycles. The release of melatonin in the body is stimulated by darkness and inhibited by light. So it works in response to light. As the sun goes down, receptors in the eyes detect the darkness and send signals to the brain telling the pineal gland to begin producing melanin which makes us get sleepy. Throughout the night and sleep duration melatonin continues to be released in increments to keep us asleep.
Explained: The difference between phytomelatonin that exists ONLY in Juna’s Nightcap gummies and other sleep aids with melatonin. Why our Nightcap sleep gummies will be a game changer for your sleep!
As we discussed earlier, the biggest difference is as the name suggests, PHYTO. Phytomelatonin is natural, plant-based, vegan, non-GMO, allergen-free, synthetic free, gluten-free and literally in compliance with all the “clean-label” claims.
When our body isn't producing enough melatonin naturally we may have a problem falling asleep or staying asleep. This can happen with excess use of bluelight (you're not the only one scrolling your phone in bed), stress, shift work and jet lag. By supplementing a micro-dose (under 0.5mg) or enough to encourage the body to produce the amount it needs on its own, sleep can get 100 fold more efficient. The power is in the plant. Our source of phytomelatonin is St John Wort, a medicinal herb that has been widely used in the treatment of mild-to-moderate depression and insomnia and is also known for having the highest concentration of pure melatonin in its flowers. Providing us a plant option to optimize our sleep/wake rhythms naturally.
A Micro- Dose- why less is more
Most melatonin on the market is sold in 5-10mg doses 10-100X the effective amount your body actually needs to support sleep, compromising your sleep, your hormones, and brain/energy function the next day.
Our #1 recommended product for the most optimal dose of melatonin is Juna'a Nightcap sleep gummy.
Each Nightcap gummy contains an MIT scientifically backed micro dose —- Taken in this quantity, it not only helps you fall asleep, but helps you return to sleep after waking up during the night. This can be very important for women with sleep disruptions due to hormones. Juna’s dosage is .24mcg (under .5 mg), a microdose or functional food dose that mimics the amount of melatonin that normally circulates in a person with healthy sleep cycles.
Melatonin is so much more than a sleep aid!
In addition to it being a master sleep regulator, it's also a powerful antioxidant and it affects the body's hormone regulation (more on this below), immune system and circadian rhythm (metabolic balance). It also plays a huge role in the body’s physiological functions. That means that when you are not getting proper sleep, your stress levels, metabolism and cognitive function are compromised. You’ve heard this before, but sleep is essential in order for your body and mind to function at the most optimized level. Better sleep equals a healthier mood, an optimized brain and a happier you!
Is melatonin the fountain of youth?
You can think of it as skincare. Melatonin is known as the “time keeper” because of its day/night regulation but it also has another important function which is to neutralize oxidative stress. Because of its antioxidant properties and potency it may act as a preventative for skin damage caused by UV.
How does getting older affect your sleep and natural melatonin production?
As you age, your body's natural melatonin production decreases. This usually happens when women are in their forties. By adding just a micro dose of melatonin (under 1mg) to your nightly routine you can encourage your body to begin producing what it needs keeping you youthful at a cellular level.
How does melatonin affect women's hormones?
Melatonin actually binds to its own receptors to create a decrease in estrogen receptors and ultimately blocks estradiol from binding to estrogen receptors. For women with high levels of estrogen causing imbalance and/or infertility melatonin could be a considered treatment.
Other natural plant and food sources of melatonin:
Warm milk has been known as an insomnia remedy since antiquity because it is naturally high in melatonin.
Tart Cherries and Goji Berries actually increase your own melatonin levels making them a delicious choice.
Eggs, high in melatonin and other essential nutrients.
Fish and nuts, which also provide valuable omega 3 fatty acids.
The side effects and contraindications of melatonin
Documented side effects while using melatonin supplementation can include stomach cramps, vertigo, moodiness and reduction of sperm count in males. Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, children and teenagers generally produce more melatonin and should consider if supplementation is needed at all. MAOI drugs inhibit melatonin breakdown from the body, so people should not take melatonin with these drugs to prevent melatonin overdose. Do not use it if you are allergic or have a sensitivity to perennials.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7492311/
https://www.businessinsider.com/melatonin-sales-spiked-coronavirus-pandemic-2021-1
https://news.mit.edu/1999/melatonin
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/06/090622064807.htm