Melatonin stands as a naturally occurring hormone found in animals and plants, often known for its role in regulating sleep patterns in humans. In the commercial and industrial context, melatonin appears as a synthetic chemical compound with a defined molecular structure, used not just in supplements but also in research and a range of chemical processes. Its raw material form features solid-phase matter, varying between white crystalline powder and colorless crystals, often recognized by its distinct density and physical stability under ordinary conditions. Familiarity with its primary properties helps both professional and casual users manage accurate dosing and safe storage.
Melatonin carries the molecular formula C13H16N2O2 and a molecular weight of 232.28 g/mol. Its structure includes an indole ring bonded to an ethylamide side chain, making it relatively stable in solid form. With a melting point of about 117–120°C, it resists degradation at room temperature, so accidental breakdown is uncommon under typical storage setups. The compound's crystalline nature reflects efficient packing at the molecular level, which impacts how it dissolves and interacts with solvents.
Across industries, melatonin comes in several practical forms. Most often, suppliers offer it as a crystalline powder, with purity ranging above 98%. Manufacturing standards require careful weighing because the powder form easily absorbs moisture from air. The flakes and pearls variants support easier mixing, especially in labs that need to dissolve melatonin in specific volumes. Each form keeps the same molecular identity but shifts in handling protocols according to shape or granule size. Consistency matters: poorly stored melatonin can clump or degrade, which limits its effectiveness.
Laboratory tests show a density around 1.175 g/cm3 at 20°C. Melatonin dissolves slowly in water, better in ethanol or DMSO, which guides users toward safe preparation methods. Melatonin’s solubility influences its use both in pharmaceuticals—where dose accuracy is critical—and in pure research settings. Dosage errors follow from poor solution prep, so exact solvent measurements and mixing protocols prove essential during any stage of the process. Liquid solutions require shielded containers and limited exposure to direct sunlight, as UV light increases chemical breakdown.
For import and export, melatonin falls under HS Code 2937.29 as a heterocyclic compound, which aids regulatory compliance for shippers and customs departments. Material safety data highlights a low acute toxicity profile, yet direct ingestion or inhalation of loose powder at high doses may still cause mild gastrointestinal upset or headaches. Proper protective gear must include gloves and a dust mask during handling of large quantities, and manufacturing spaces should use well-ventilated storage units to avoid unnecessary exposure. Melatonin is not classified as highly hazardous under GHS regulations, yet mishandling any raw chemical exposes users to risk.
Pure melatonin, in powder or flake form, remains stable for extended periods if kept in tight containers shielded from light and moisture. Unopened stock resists spontaneous chemical changes, yet simple exposure to the air brings down shelf life and leads to measurable losses in potency. In practice, the main concerns focus on avoiding spillage or cross-contamination with other lab reagents—solid melatonin does not react violently with most common materials, but improper mixing can compromise both product quality and user safety.
Demand for high-purity melatonin stretches beyond dietary supplements. Large batches feed into pharmaceutical research, cosmeceutical creation, and experimental projects focused on circadian rhythm regulation. Sourcing raw melatonin involves strict traceability, as minute changes in synthesis pathways alter the impurity profile of the product. Recalls and product integrity issues often tie back to material mismanagement at the source, so continuous monitoring and quality checks must happen throughout the supply chain. Any facility handling raw melatonin should enforce batch testing and clear labeling by molecular content and purity.
Making sure melatonin stays safe for both handling and final use draws on established best practices—principally storing in cool, dry, and dark areas, tracking molecular integrity with routine analysis, and providing full material safety data to all handlers. Worker education forms the backbone of chemical safety, so anyone tasked with weighing or transferring melatonin must receive training in spill management and exposure mitigation. Quality assurance does not stop at the supplier; it requires active partnership between manufacturers, distributors, and end users. Efforts to improve transparency and share safety updates contribute directly to safer workplaces, better product outcomes, and higher trust in melatonin as a raw material.