Which hormone is called as sleep hormone?

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The hormone that is called the sleep hormone is Melatonin. It is a naturally occurring hormone in the human body that controls the sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm. Melatonin is secreted by the pineal gland, which is a small, cone-shaped endocrine gland located deep in the brain, near the centre, just above the cerebellum and behind the third ventricle.

Melatonin secretion is directly controlled by the amount of light the eyes receive. When the environment becomes dark, the retina sends signals to a special region in the hypothalamus known as the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). This SCN then sends nerve signals to the pineal gland, which begins to release melatonin into the bloodstream. The rise in melatonin levels at night makes a person feel sleepy and relaxed, preparing the body for sleep.

During the daytime, especially in the presence of sunlight or artificial light, melatonin secretion is stopped. This is why melatonin levels are high at night and very low during the day. The natural daily rhythm of melatonin makes it one of the most important hormones in controlling the body's internal clock.

Melatonin is chemically synthesized in the body from the amino acid tryptophan, which is first converted into serotonin and then into melatonin. This conversion mainly occurs during darkness. Because of its sleep-promoting effect, melatonin is also used as a medicinal supplement to treat problems such as insomnia, jet lag and sleep disorders caused by night shifts or irregular lifestyles.

Melatonin does not induce sleep forcefully like a sedative, but it signals the body that it is time to sleep. That is why it is scientifically and commonly known as the sleep hormone.

The hormone that is called the sleep hormone is Melatonin. It is a naturally occurring hormone in the human body that controls the sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm. Melatonin is secreted by the pineal gland, which is a small, cone-shaped endocrine gland located deep in the brain, near the centre, just above the cerebellum and behind the third ventricle.

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