The United States is one of the (if notthe) largestmarkets for melatoninin the world.
over-the-counter pills, fruit-flavored gummies recently, people have been inhaling (yes,inhaling) melatonin.
If that has you raising an eyebrow, you’re not alone.
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Sounds dreamy enough.
But are melatonin diffusers actually legit and safe?
What Is Melatonin, Again?
But that’s not the case for everyone.
And that’s wheremelatonin supplementscome in.
And while establishing a healthy, stable bedtime routine (i.e.
“Melatonin supplements can help successfully facilitate the transition from wakefulness to sleep,” says Dr. Friedman.
To ultimately get your circadian rhythm back on track and start sleeping soundly all by yourself.
But taking OTC melatonin in the short term is considered “generally safe,” according to theMayo Clinic.
(More research is needed to determine the effects, if any, over the long-term.)
Still, you should definitely talk to your doctor before taking anything melatonin included.
As for vaporized melatonin, such as that delivered by melatonin diffusers?
Well, folks, that’s a whole different ball game.
What Is a Melatonin Diffuser, Exactly?
Melatonin diffusers are fairly new to the world of sleep aids, and they’re all a bit different.
Generally, they house a liquid (containing melatonin) that turns to a mist or vapor when inhaled.
The biggest selling point of melatonin diffusers is that you’re free to feel their effects almost immediately.
National Library of Medicine.
(In the meantime, you could also try unwinding with acalming yoga flow.)
The keyword here is “theoretically,” as so much is still TBD about these popular pens.
Is a Melatonin Diffuser Safe to Use?
“Vaping anything [often] has inherent negative effects,” says Dr. Friedman.
Not to mention, inhaling anything into your lungs that’s not oxygen can come with risks.
And that’s the real problem.
At this point, it’s well-established that vaping is dangerous.
(See also:What Is Popcorn Lung, and Can You Get It from Vaping?)
“There is zero scientific data available on vaping melatonin.
So, from a medical standpoint, it’s not something I would recommend,” says Dr. Friedman.
