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Moderate evidenceSleep & relaxation

Jet Lag Formulas

Melatonin-based blends for crossing time zones. Melatonin itself is one of the better-supported supplements for jet lag; the extra herbs and vitamins in these formulas add cost rather than evidence, and timing matters more than dose.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

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What the science says

  • Melatonin reduces jet lag Moderate evidence

    A Cochrane review of melatonin for the prevention and treatment of jet lag found it remarkably effective at reducing jet lag after flights crossing five or more time zones, with benefit in the large majority of the included trials. This is the single ingredient that carries the category.

  • Timing is the active variable Moderate evidence

    Pharmacological reviews of jet lag management emphasise that melatonin's effect depends on taking it at the correct point relative to your own circadian phase, combined with appropriately timed light exposure and avoidance. Taken at the wrong time it can shift the clock the wrong way.

  • Multi-ingredient travel blends Limited evidence

    A systematic review of interventions for travel fatigue and jet lag in athletes found the evidence base concentrated on melatonin, light and scheduling, not on proprietary blends. No trial has tested the added B vitamins, ginger or adaptogens in these formulas against melatonin alone.

Dosage & safety

Studied dose0.5–5 mg of melatonin at the target bedtime in the destination time zone, starting on the day of arrival and continuing 2–5 days. Lower doses often work as well as higher ones. Eastward travel is harder to correct than westward.
SafetyMelatonin is well tolerated short-term; daytime drowsiness and vivid dreams are the usual complaints. Do not take it before driving or when you may need to be alert. It can interact with anticoagulants, anticonvulsants and fluvoxamine, and may affect glucose control. Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Regulatory status differs by country — it is prescription-only in much of Europe. Check what else is in the blend before travelling with it.

Scientific references

Where to buy

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