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The Pineal Gland
The pineal gland is a small cone-shaped gland in the center of the brain that produces the hormone
melatonin
...
Light striking the retina of your
eye causes a chemical reaction that results in the production of melatonin by the pineal gland
...
Aristotle called it the “seat of the soul” and said that it
was the source of “spiritual vision
...
It is very sensitive to light and is the main source of circadian rhythm
(sleep-wake cycle)
...
It is about the size of a pea
...
Light cues from the eye signal the pineal gland to produce melatonin or stop releasing
melatonin
...
How Does the Pineal Gland Affect Your Dreams
Melatonin is well-known for being responsible for the regular timing of your sleep cycle, thus allowing
you to wake up both refreshed and energized
...
Thus, if one takes supplemental melatonin each night before bed, they are more likely to experience
longer periods of REM sleep, which will give them much less vivid dreams and a better ability to
remember those dreams upon waking
...
This hormone not only occurs when the environment is dark and
the days are shorter, but it also increases during the winter months
...
Pineal Gland and Melatonin
If you have trouble sleeping, it might be because your pineal gland isn't releasing enough melatonin
...
However, there is no scientific evidence to back up these
assertions
...
These will
usually make you fatigued
...
Supplements may also assist you in falling
asleep faster
...
Researchers discovered evidence that melatonin released by the pineal gland can benefit your
heart and blood pressure
...
Pineal Gland and Female Hormones
There is some evidence that light exposure and melatonin levels may influence a woman's menstrual
cycle
...
Because studies are scarce and sometimes out of date, additional research is required
...
According to one study,
having a smaller pineal gland volume may raise your chance of getting schizophrenia and other mental
problems
...
Pineal Gland and Cancer
According to some studies, there may be a link between decreased pineal gland function and cancer
risk