Melatonin, often dubbed the sleep hormone, is the primary hormone responsible for our circadian rhythms—the natural sleep-wake cycle that governs our daily lives. Produced by the pineal gland, a tiny endocrine gland nestled deep within the brain, melatonin’s influence extends far beyond sleep regulation. Recent research sheds light on the profound effects of melatonin and its derivatives on human consciousness and health.
Melatonin Production
Melatonin production begins with tryptophan, an essential amino acid obtained from our diet. Tryptophan is converted into serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation and feelings of well-being1. In certain light conditions, serotonin is converted into melatonin. Visible light inhibits melatonin production during daylight, keeping us alert and awake. Conversely, as night falls and light diminishes, melatonin synthesis ramps up, preparing our bodies for rest2.
Melatonin’s Multifaceted Role
While melatonin’s role in sleep is well-known, its function goes beyond regulating sleep. Melatonin is a potent antioxidant that fights oxidative stress and safeguards cellular integrity. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and has been researched for its potential role in neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular issues, and certain types of cancer3.
However, the most intriguing aspect of melatonin is its ability to transform into various derivatives when the brain is in specific states of consciousness—like through meditation. These derivatives can profoundly affect our perception, cognition, sleep and overall health4 5.
The Pineal Gland: The Gateway to Inner Vision

The pineal gland, often called the third eye and the seat of the soul, is a crucial player in this biochemical symphony6. Some have described it as a transducer—a receiver and transmitter of electromagnetic energy7. When individuals engage in transcendental practices, such as deep meditation, they can stimulate the pineal gland elevating melatonin production and catalysing the creation of its derivatives8. The pineal gland responds to frequencies beyond the typical sensory spectrum, which aids the idea that that it is the gateway to the soul9.
Melatonin Derivatives: Catalysts for Profound Experiences
Melatonin’s derivatives can have powerful downstream effects, including:
- Enhanced Antioxidants: Melatonin derivatives can become some of the most potent antioxidants, offering heightened protection against free radicals and oxidative stress10 11.
- Benzodiazepine-like Compounds: These derivatives can induce deep relaxation, reducing anxiety and shutting down survival centres in the brain associated with fear and aggression. Melatonin and benzodiazepines share some neurochemical properties, particularly their interaction with GABA-mediated mechanisms in the brain12 13.
- Hibernation-Inducing Substances: Certain compounds can mimic the effects of hibernation, lowering metabolic rates and leading to states where there’s minimal awareness of bodily needs like hunger or pain14 15.
- Modulation of Neural Activity: Similar to substances found in electric eels, some derivatives can significantly alter neural activity, leading to heightened awareness, memory consolidation and gamma brainwave production16 17 18.
These transformations enable individuals to access parts of reality typically obscured by ordinary perception. The result is a profound inner vision—a glimpse into deeper aspects of consciousness and self-awareness.
The Intersection of Science and Consciousness
There is an idea that by harnessing the power of melatonin and its derivatives, individuals can tap into altered states of consciousness without external substances. This process involves:
- Transcendental States: Engaging in practices that transcend space and time, such as meditation, allows the brain to connect with quantum frequencies beyond the speed of light.
- Neuroplasticity: Individuals can rewire their neural pathways by intentionally directing thoughts and emotions, promoting brain coherence and holistic functioning.
- Reprogramming the Subconscious: The moments just before sleep and just after waking are optimal times to influence the subconscious mind. In these states, the brain naturally transitions through various brainwave patterns, making it more receptive to new ideas and beliefs.
Practical Applications: Harnessing Melatonin’s Potential

To leverage the benefits of melatonin and its derivatives, here are some practical steps:
- Meditative Practices: Regular meditation can stimulate the pineal gland, encouraging the production of melatonin derivatives. Focusing on stillness and achieving a broad focus can synchronise different brain regions, promoting coherence.
- Mindful Transitions: Using the periods before and after waking to reflect and set intentions can help reprogram unwanted behaviours and emotional responses. This involves:
- Evening Reflections: Reviewing the day’s events, acknowledging reactions, and setting intentions for change.
- Morning Intentions: Defining the ideal self for the day ahead, visualising desired thoughts, behaviours, and emotions.
- Embracing Change: Recognising that one must transform one’s personality to create a new personal reality. This involves becoming aware of unconscious thoughts and behaviours and consciously choosing new ones.
Conclusion
Melatonin is far more than a sleep regulator; it’s a gateway to deeper states of consciousness, insight and optimal rest. By understanding and harnessing its potential, we can unlock new dimensions of health and awareness.
I must clearly state that this article discusses the effects and how to harness our natural (endogenous) melatonin. I do not recommend supplementation of melatonin unless prescribed by your physician for specific indications.
References
- https://www.acs.org/education/chemmatters/past-issues/archive-2014-2015/the-science-of-sleep.html ↩︎
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7145358 ↩︎
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK550972/ ↩︎
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2019.00249/full ↩︎
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3328970/ ↩︎
- https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/pdf/10.1055/s-0038-1649524.pdf ↩︎
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rQ4mzz6Hgs&ab_channel=ChrisWilliamson ↩︎
- https://commons.clarku.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1017&context=surj ↩︎
- https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/pdf/10.1055/s-0038-1649524.pdf ↩︎
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27500468/ ↩︎
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6017920/ ↩︎
- https://repositorio.uca.edu.ar/bitstream/123456789/10808/1/melatonin-benzodiazepine-drug-abuse.pdf ↩︎
- https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/23/24/16187 ↩︎
- https://journals.lww.com/nrronline/Fulltext/2024/01000/The_future_of_artificial_hibernation_medicine_.4.aspx ↩︎
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5446506/ ↩︎
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5446506/ ↩︎
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6826722/ ↩︎
- https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/998220 ↩︎
[NB. All images created using MidJourney]