Integrative Health Blog

Melatonin, a hormone produced naturally by the pineal gland, is known for regulating sleep-wake cycles. It is produced by the body in response to darkness but has other important roles in the body. Recent research suggests that high-dose melatonin may have a role in cancer treatment as well.

Here are the Key Insights of High-Dose Melatonin for Cancer:

 
Antioxidant Properties:

Melatonin acts as a powerful antioxidant, neutralizing harmful free radicals that can contribute to cancer development and progression.¹ 


Immune Support:

Melatonin stimulates immune function, potentially enhancing the body's ability to combat cancer cells.² 


Anti-Cancer Effects:

Studies indicate that high-dose melatonin may exert direct anti-cancer effects, inhibiting tumor growth and promoting cancer cell death.³ 


Synergy with Treatment:

Melatonin may enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy while reducing their side effects.⁴ 


Your naturopathic doctor can provide guidance on dosage, potential interactions, and its integration into a comprehensive cancer treatment strategy. 

NIHA physicians provide integrative, supportive and adjunctive cancer treatments which may enhance the body’s ability to fight cancer and help conventional cancer treatments work more effectively. Whereas conventional medicine will focus on treating the tumor, the integrative approach is patient-centered and supportive to the whole person while undergoing traditional treatment. 

Dr. Paymon Sadrolsadot, ND, PhD is a highly skilled naturopath with over 20 years of integrative medicine experience.  He has professional experience as a physician, acupuncturist, educator and clinician. He combines Eastern and Western medical philosophies with integrative medicine in his approach to naturopathic oncology.

References: 

1. Reiter, R. J., et al. (2017). Melatonin in the context of the ubiquitin–proteasome system: a well‐deserved TOSS? Journal of pineal research, 62(3), e12389. 

2. Sainz, R. M., et al. (2019). Melatonin and cancer: current knowledge and future perspectives. Melatonin research, 2(2), 120-134. 

3. Hill, S. M., et al. (2012). Melatonin: an inhibitor of breast cancer. Endocrine-related cancer, 19(3), R115-R133. 

4. Dauchy, R. T., et al. (2009). Effect of melatonin administration on doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. Toxicology and applied pharmacology, 238(1), 12-19.