In recent years more people have started to show interest in the cannabinoid CBN and it’s potential benefits. In this article we’ll be sharing everything you should know about CBN and how it differs from the more well-known cannabinoid CBD.
What is CBN?
CBN is short for Cannabinol, which is extracted from Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). As the cannabis plant ages, the THC content of the plant starts to decompose into CBN and makes it ¼ as potent as THC. Oxidation and heat dissipation methods are often used as a catalyst to produce CBN. The older the plant is, the better the quality of the cannabinoid would be.
CBN can be extracted from hemp-derived plants and marijuana, both of which contain THC. However, unlike THC, CBN is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid which means that it will not get you high. On the contrary, CBN may help you feel relaxed and potentially increase your cognitive abilities for short periods of time.
The CBN cannabinoid was derived over a century ago but since it was a complex cannabinoid and the isolation process was even more complicated, CBN was often overlooked while THC and CBD were deeply researched and promoted.
Even to this day only a limited number of researchers have dedicated their time and resources to researching CBN. But fortunately the trend is changing and more research is being put into CBN to identify all of its potential uses and wellness benefits.
Potential Health Benefits of CBN
All of the cannabinoids in Cannabis plants come with different medical and wellness benefits, and CBN has potential medicinal benefits. Thanks to many peer-reviewed studies and research, there is more information about CBN than ever before. Here’s some of the potential benefits of CBD for health and wellness:
Anti-inflammatory Agent
While understanding the basic characteristics of cannabinoids, researchers have concluded that the majority of cannabinoids including CBN, contain anti-inflammatory properties and when these cannabinoids are consumed, they could significantly reduce the inflammation across the body.
Much like THC, CBN also interacts with the endocannabinoid system of the body to reduce the production of cytokine and chemokine to suppress the inflammatory response. CBN and other cannabinoids are often used to treat inflammatory diseases, and the results so far appear to be outstanding.
Sleeping Aid
One of the most prominent medical uses of CBN cannabinoids is it’s excellent ability to work as a sleeping aid. CBN contains sedative properties that can put your mind at ease and increase the quality of your sleep as well. People who suffer from insomnia or poor sleeping habits could benefit from the use of CBN in their nightly routine.
Compared to sedative opioids, CBN is free from complications or side-effects. And in the long run, the user isn’t likely to face any life-threatening issues that often come with the prolonged use of prescription opioids.
Analgesic
All the cannabinoids in Cannabis feature some type of analgesic properties and CBN is no different. It offers long-lasting pain relief and works wonders for people that suffer from chronic pain diseases. CBN, when consumed in proper amounts, can boost the immune system of the body helping reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.
What’s CBD and How Does it Compare with CBN?
Cannabidiol, commonly referred to as CBD, is one of the most popular cannabinoids available on the market. It is directly obtained from Cannabis strains, but because it does not bind with CB receptors of our endocannabinoid system, it acts as a non-psychoactive substance. CBD is available in abundant amounts in the Cannabis plant and it can be derived from both, hemp-derived cannabis and marijuana.
On the other hand, CBN is derived by decomposing THC under light and heat and it’s only available in limited amounts. In the past, THC-rich flowers were stored for years before they were converted into CBN. But with modern methods, CBN is now available albeit in limited amounts. CBN isn’t technically an intoxicating cannabinoid, but because it binds with the CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system, it offers slight sedative effects but still cannot get you high.
Furthermore, CBD is generally used for its excellent health benefits that include pain relief, increased cognitive abilities, and help against fighting off certain harmful bacteria. But CBN is generally used most as an effective remedy to experience its sedative properties and help improve quality of sleep.
Similarities of CBD and CBN
When it comes to the legality of both these cannabinoids, CBD that is derived from hemp and contains less than 0.3% of THC is completely legal to use under the provisions of the Farm bill of 2018. Similarly, CBN-infused products that contain less than 0.3% of THC content are also legal to use. However, every state and county often have different policies regarding cannabinoids, and it is best to do thorough research before purchasing CBN or CBD-infused products.
In addition to sharing similar chemical structures, CBD and CBN can also offer similar health benefits. Both of these cannabinoids can be used to treat a variety of illnesses, and although more research is needed in the CBN sector, both have shown excellent results for treating anxiety, insomnia, epilepsy, and many other symptoms.
CBD Oil vs CBN Oil
One of the most frequently asked questions people ask about is what is CBN oil and how does it differentiate from CBD oil? Well, there’s a very simple answer to this question.
CBD oil is generally focused on offering calmness to the body while CBN oil offers a sedative nature that makes you feel sleepy. When both of these oils are combined, they help the user with insomnia and other body ailments.
Final Verdict – Should you use CBN?
CBN cannabinoid is an excellent remedy for sleep and for anyone suffering from chronic insomnia as well as for stress-relief should give CBN a try.
Like most cannabinoids, CBN is safe to use and with no adverse effects ever being reported. However, more research is needed to understand the true nature of the cannabinoid.
As CBN often comes in different forms, ask your local budtender. At Fig & Thistle Apothecary we regularly carry CBN products for your health and stress reducing needs. Check out our sf dispensary menu or stop by today to get help from one of our friendly budtenders. If you’re looking to learn more about other similar cannabinoids, be sure to check out our article on the benefits of THCV and how it differs from THC.