Somato® (Phytomelatonin) Versus Synthetic Melatonin and Placebo on Sleep Quality

Sleep Solutions in Focus: A Randomized Comparison of Phytomelatonin (Somato®), Synthetic Melatonin, and Placebo

This study examines the effects of a plant-based phytomelatonin supplement compared to synthetic melatonin and placebo in adults with suboptimal sleep quality. The research uses a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, three-arm clinical trial design. The primary aim is to determine whether phytomelatonin improves sleep outcomes compared to placebo and whether it matches or exceeds synthetic melatonin. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive 2 mg phytomelatonin, 10 mg synthetic melatonin, or an inactive placebo. Each participant will take one capsule nightly for 28 days. Objective sleep metrics will be captured continuously using the Oura Ring wearable device. Subjective outcomes will be measured at baseline and post-intervention using validated surveys such as the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the SF-36. Weekly visual analog scales will assess morning grogginess. Safety, tolerability, and user experience differences between groups will also be evaluated.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Device Compliance: Willingness to consistently wear an Oura Ring Gen3 and maintain an active membership throughout the study duration.
• Baseline Sleep Score: A baseline Oura sleep score of less than 75, indicating sub-optimal sleep quality.
• Oura Ring Usage History: Demonstrated at least 80% adherence to Oura Ring use during the 30 days prior to enrollment.
• Health and Supplement Stability: No significant changes in dietary supplement use or medical history within the past 30 days, to ensure stability in baseline physiological and health conditions.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current or recent use (within the past 30 days) of any sleep-promoting dietary supplement.
• Current or recent use (within the past 30 days) of any sleep-promoting medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women will be excluded from the study.
• Substance Use Disorder: Individuals with a history of drug or alcohol dependency who have not maintained sobriety for a minimum of the past 12 months.
• Severe Medical Conditions: Presence of severe or unstable medical conditions that may interfere with study participation or outcomes.
• Use of Mood-Affecting Medications: Use of any medications known to significantly influence mood, circadian rhythms, or melatonin pathways.
• Sensitivity to Nightshades: Known sensitivity or allergy to nightshade plants, including tomatoes, due to the nature of the study intervention.