But at that time, scientists still did not suspect that this small formation had some important function in mammals and considered it to be just a rudimentary organ in humans. This organ, by the way, has another name – the pineal gland. And they call it so in honor of its shape, which resembles a pine cone (in Latin, a pine cone is “pinea”). In humans, the pineal gland lies between the two halves of the brain and consists of nerve cells, glial “helper cells” and endocrine cells known as “pinealocytes.” Until now, the exact function of the pineal gland in the body is not known. However, it is obvious that it is involved in the control of circadian (circadian) rhythms that regulate our behavior and decide when it is time for us to sleep and when to get up. Pinealocytes synthesize and secrete melatonin, a hormone that helps maintain the body’s internal clock. Usually, higher levels of melatonin are observed in children, and with age, its amount gradually decreases. Unusually high amounts of melatonin in adolescence are often associated with delayed puberty. Melatonin production by the pineal gland is activated in the dark, but is suppressed by daylight and the glow of gadget screens. Once released, melatonin travels through the brain to a special cluster of neurons – the suprachiasmatic nucleus – and enters nearby blood vessels from there to spread to the rest of the body. When melatonin levels decrease, we can experience not only seasonal mood swings, but also general health disruptions. Not so long ago, the results of a study were obtained that indicate the connection of melatonin with the occurrence of various cardiovascular diseases. Researchers have found that melatonin, produced by the pineal gland, can have a positive effect on heart function and stabilize blood pressure. Melatonin also helps regulate the synthesis of female sex hormones. There is some evidence that exposure to light and related changes in melatonin levels can affect a woman’s menstrual cycle. It is suggested that a decrease in the amount of melatonin may play a role in creating irregular menstrual cycles and even lowering libido. In addition, it has been shown that there is some connection between the dysfunction of the pineal gland and the risk of cancer. In a recent animal study, scientists found that decreased pineal gland function due to excessive exposure to artificial light (light from lamps and equipment) leads to damage to body cells and an increased risk of colon cancer. In addition to producing melatonin, a normally functioning pineal gland also synthesizes various other neurochemical (i.e. secreted by nerve cells) substances that coordinate physical and emotional processes at the cellular level. It is believed that an excess release of these substances can alter the state of consciousness and cause hallucinations. Interestingly, the size of the pineal gland can also determine our mood. Some researchers suggest that a small volume of the pineal gland may determine an increased risk of developing schizophrenia and other mood disorders. Melatonin is also often referred to as an anti-aging and anti-stress agent because it suppresses the effects of cortisol, the stress hormone, and is a powerful antioxidant. Of course, more research is needed to determine how melatonin affects tumor formation, menstrual cycle regulation, and mood enhancement. However, it is indisputable that for the normal functioning of the pineal gland and maintaining the health of our body, it is necessary to sleep a lot: melatonin, secreted by the pineal gland, regulates our circadian rhythms, which means the quality, quantity and quality of sleep. Go to bed earlier, sleep at least seven to nine hours and do not use gadgets while lying in bed. More melatonin at night means more good mood during the day!