As the cannabis industry continues to grow, more and more consumers are exploring the benefits of various cannabinoids beyond just CBD and THC. One such cannabinoid that is gaining popularity among consumers is CBN, or cannabinol. It is a much milder psychoactive cannabinoid that is gaining attention for its potential therapeutic uses. In this article, we will explore the benefits of CBN and how it’s being used to treat a variety of conditions.

What is CBN?

CBN is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found in all cannabis plants. It is the product of the degradation of THC from exposure to air and sunlight over long lengths of time. CBN is typically found in trace amounts in mature cannabis plants due to their age, and it is thought to have less than half of the potency of THC, or about 25% effective as THC and would require large amounts to produce a mild psychoactive experience in comparison. It was first isolated back in the late 1800s, with its entire structure and chemical synthesis fully fleshed out by 1940. It affects both the CB1 and CB2 receptors with a slightly higher affinity to the CB2 receptor. There is evidence that suggests CBN has a variety of therapeutic benefits even though it is considered a minor cannabinoid, and it is quickly becoming a popular remedy for insomnia and sleep complications.

Some of the Various Benefits of CBN

Below are listed just some of the potential benefits of CBN:

  • Anti-inflammatory: CBN has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory properties, and it is thought to have the ability to reduce inflammation in the body. This could make it an effective treatment for a variety of inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis and irritable bowel syndrome.
  • Analgesic: CBN is also thought to have analgesic properties, which means it may be able to reduce pain. This could make it an effective treatment for a variety of conditions, such as headaches, muscle aches, and chronic pain. It was also studied to see if it could be used as an anesthetic but required too copious amounts to even be considered useful as one.
  • Anti-anxiety: CBN has been studied for its potential anti-anxiety properties, and it is believed to have the potential to reduce anxiety and stress. This could make it an effective treatment for a variety of conditions, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
  • Sleep aid: CBN is also thought to have the ability to promote sleep, which could make it an effective treatment for insomnia and other sleep disorders. This is by far what appears to be the most effective remedy it brings to the table, and you’ll notice more cannabis products that advocate as a sleep support will contain CBN.

CBN vs. THC and CBD

CBN is like THC and CBD in many ways sharing similar healing abilities and potential. However, there are some key differences between all three of them that can weigh out whether you should be taking one or another, all of them, or none.

THC is the most abundant cannabinoid in the cannabis plant, and it is known for its psychoactive effects. It can induce feelings of euphoria and relaxation depending on it’s strain, and other various effects which sometime do not bode well with users. Lower amounts of it are found in cannabis hemp, hence why most CBD products are hemp derived. It is also much more legally restrictive as not all States in the USA have legalized it, many only allowing those with a doctor approved medical license can obtain it. There are of course States that have fully legalized it, such as California, Nevada, Colorado, and others. THC is more suited for those in extreme need of relief or those that can handle psychoactive effects well.

CBD is the second most abundant cannabinoid in the cannabis plant, and it is non-psychoactive. It is thought to have the ability to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. Larger amounts of it are found in cannabis hemp, and is usually sold as Broad Spectrum (containing 0% THC) or Full Spectrum (containing no more than 0.3% THC). CBD as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC is Federally legal in the United States, and is a great way to get the benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects.

CBN is the third most abundant cannabinoid in the cannabis plant, and it is mildly psychoactive. It shares similar benefits to other cannabinoids but it’s currently a major help for those having difficulty sleeping. One study done suggests that it may have the ability to reduce the time it takes to fall asleep and to increase the amount of time spent in deep sleep.

Other Possible Benefits and Side Effects of CBN, and How to Take It

Aside from the amazing benefits cannabis brings to the table, CBN is gaining some attention as a major player for skin care products. When paired with CBD it has the ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing, making this possibly an effective treatment for a variety of skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.

Negative side effects of taking CBN are rare and generally mild, and could include general tiredness, dizziness, and appetite changes. It is always important to make sure you are taking correct dosages with products you are using, and to consult your doctor before taking CBN if you are on other medications.

CBN is typically available in oils, tinctures, softgel capsules, edibles, vapes, and topicals. More commonly used products on the market will be oils, tinctures, and softgel capsules if you’re looking to its primary benefit for sleep aid. Vapes for CBN are not as popular as THC, THCV and CBD, and edibles in general tend to have more legal restrictions across States regardless of what’s inside of them. Always make sure you are buying from a verified and reputable vendor, they should always have an up to date Certificate Analysis on any product they sell proving it is safe for consumption.

The Future of CBN (Cannabinol)

CBN is a relatively new cannabinoid on the market, so there is still much to learn about it. The potential therapeutic benefits of CBN do seem promising, so we will have to keep our eyes peeled for more in depth research on it and its’ interaction with other cannabinoids and natural compounds. It will most likely start to replace insomnia relief drugs and become a staple competitive product on the market in the coming years. With it having virtually non-to rare occurrences of mild side effects, and not producing any psychoactive effects like THC does, it will make a great addition to anyone’s daily regiment of supplements who are looking for a safe solution to getting some much-needed sleep! With more farms being established each year growing cannabis of all sorts, we can surely expect more research, more concrete uses for these amazing cannabinoids, and hopefully discover even more amazing and useful cannabinoids.