Snakemama, what I have heard about Melatonin, is that it's a natural hormone that older people have less of, and it's supposed to be the healthiest sleep aid there is. It's not very stong. My nurse neighbor told me about it and now I looked it up. See below:
http://www.livescience.com/42066-mel...ent-facts.html

Another good sleep aid is leafs of Valerian - you use it for tea. My friend from Greece, who is a Nutritionist, brought me some. I think it does help a little.