Melatonin Gummies UK: Why You Can’t Buy Them
- Annie Wouters
- May 20
- 5 min read
Updated: May 22
If you’ve searched for “melatonin gummies UK” hoping for a quick fix to sleepless nights, you’ve probably run into a wall. Melatonin gummies are all over social media and hugely popular in the United States, but they are not legally sold in the UK.
So why is that? What exactly is melatonin, and are there any safe, legal alternatives that actually work? This guide explores the facts behind melatonin’s status in the UK, what the top alternatives are, and which UK-approved sleep gummies are worth trying in 2025.
What Is Melatonin and Why Do People Use It?
Melatonin is a hormone that the brain naturally produces in response to darkness. It plays a key role in regulating the circadian rhythm, the body’s internal sleep-wake cycle. When melatonin levels rise in the evening, the body starts to prepare for sleep.
Synthetic melatonin is used in other countries to treat sleep problems such as insomnia, jet lag or shift work sleep disorder. It is especially popular in the US in gummy form, where it is widely sold as a food supplement and often combined with ingredients like magnesium and chamomile.
Why is Melatonin Banned in the UK?
In the UK, melatonin is classed as a medicine by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). That means it can only be supplied with a prescription. It cannot be added to food supplements, drinks or gummies that are sold over the counter.
Even though melatonin is natural, this legal classification is strict. UK customs often seize products containing melatonin that are shipped from overseas.
If a product contains melatonin and is being sold in the UK without a prescription, it is illegal.
Can You Be Prescribed Melatonin in the UK?
Yes, but only in specific cases. A GP may prescribe melatonin for:
Adults over 55 with insomnia
Children with neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD or autism
People experiencing short-term jet lag (less commonly)
The most common prescription product is Circadin, a 2 mg prolonged-release tablet. Gummies are not available through the NHS or private clinics.
Why Are Lemme Sleep Gummies Not Available in the UK?
Lemme Sleep gummies are part of a US wellness brand developed by Kourtney Kardashian. They contain melatonin along with magnesium and L-theanine.
Because they include melatonin, they cannot be legally sold in the UK. Even if you find them listed online, many retailers block international shipping and customs may confiscate the package.
There is currently no UK-approved version of Lemme Sleep.
Do Any Sleep Gummies Work Without Melatonin?
Yes. Many UK brands have created effective sleep gummies using herbal and nutritional ingredients that support relaxation and sleep. These ingredients include:
Valerian root
Magnesium
Chamomile
L-theanine
Lemon balm
These compounds do not act in the same way as melatonin but may help to reduce anxiety, relax the nervous system and support deeper rest.
Best UK-Approved Sleep Gummies (2025 Guide)
Yumi Sleep Gummies
Main ingredients: L-theanine, lemon balm, chamomile
Price: £19.99 for 60 gummies
Where to buy: yumi.co.uk
These plant-based gummies are designed to help you wind down at night. The taste is pleasant and they are suitable for vegans. No melatonin, but a calming formula that supports sleep naturally.
Holland and Barrett Valerian Root Gummies
Main ingredients: Valerian root, passionflower
Price: £13.99 for 60 gummies
Where to buy: hollandandbarrett.com
Valerian is one of the best-researched herbs for sleep in Europe. These gummies are a solid option for those wanting to try a traditional herbal sleep aid without taking tablets.
New Nordic Melissa Dream Gummies
Main ingredients: Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), magnesium, B vitamins
Price: £21.95 for 60 gummies
Where to buy: boots.com
A calming formulation ideal for anyone struggling with restlessness or anxiety at bedtime. Lemon balm has been shown to promote relaxation and sleep quality.
Rheal Sleep Gummies
Main ingredients: Magnesium, passionflower, L-theanine
Price: £22.99 for 60 gummies
Where to buy: rhealsuperfoods.com
These gummies are gluten free and designed for evening use. Magnesium plays a critical role in activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps the body relax before sleep.
Are UK Alternatives as Effective as Melatonin Gummies?
Melatonin supplements have a very direct mechanism. They mimic the body’s own hormone to regulate sleep timing, which can be helpful for specific sleep disorders or jet lag.
However, not everyone benefits from melatonin. Some people find it causes vivid dreams, grogginess or simply stops working over time.
UK-legal alternatives work more gently. Instead of replacing a hormone, they support the body’s natural relaxation systems. For example:
L-theanine promotes calm by increasing alpha brain waves
Magnesium regulates neurotransmitters linked to sleep and mood
Valerian helps increase GABA, which slows brain activity and promotes drowsiness
Many people find these options work just as well when combined with good sleep habits.
Summary: What to Do If You Were Looking for Melatonin Gummies in the UK
Melatonin gummies are not legal for general sale in the UK. Any product that contains melatonin must be prescribed, and gummies are not part of any current licensed treatment.
However, the UK market offers plenty of alternatives. From valerian-based formulas to magnesium and theanine blends, there are several high-quality options that are both legal and effective.
Avoid importing melatonin products, especially in gummy form. They are likely to be seized at customs and could breach UK regulations. Instead, choose reputable brands such as Yumi, Rheal or Holland and Barrett’s in-house range. These are designed with the UK legal framework in mind and provide a reliable, natural approach to improving sleep.
Melatonin Gummies UK FAQ
Can you buy melatonin gummies in the UK?
No. Melatonin is a prescription-only medicine in the UK and cannot be sold in gummy or supplement form without medical authorisation.
Why are melatonin gummies so popular in the US?
Are Lemme Sleep gummies available in the UK?
What are the best alternatives to melatonin gummies in the UK?
Do herbal sleep gummies work as well as melatonin?
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