Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in our brain that regulates sleep-wake cycles. It plays a crucial role in setting our internal body clock (circadian rhythm) which affects sleep patterns.
Circadian rhythm refers to our biological processes that occur over approximately 24 hours and are influenced by environmental cues such as light and darkness. It affects many physiological functions including sleep patterns.
The pineal gland is a small endocrine gland located deep within our brain. It secretes melatonin and plays a crucial role in regulating sleep-wake cycles.