Melatonin: A Saga of Health and Longevity

Melatonin, an indoleamine neurohormone produced during night-time from the pineal gland, is the master regulator of the circadian timing system and activity-rest rhythm in human beings. Melatonin is exceptional in exhibiting diverse biological roles and physiological functions and is involved in the alleviation of stress and regulation of various significant functions such as geroprotection, immunomodulation, energy metabolism, and cardiovascular health. Through its receptors and as a consequence of its receptor-independent functions melatonin also plays an important role in diseased conditions by having anti-neurodegenerative, anti-diabetic, and anti-osteoarthritic effects. In recent years, melatonin has gained much attention due to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which forms the basis of most of its preventive/protective effects. The present chapter reviews some of the aspects related to the protective role of melatonin concerning various pathologic conditions and explores the utility of dietary supplementation of plant-based phytomelatonin for health.