Before getting into the question “what is CBN?” let’s recall the cannabinoids we’re most familiar with: CBD and THC. They are, after all, the most popular and well-studied cannabinoids. Both offer many therapeutic benefits. However, THC gets you high, while CBD doesn’t.
But did you know that there’s another cannabinoid that’s also gaining in popularity? This one has potent sedating and mild psychoactive effects.
Called CBN or cannabinol, this cannabinoid may not be as famous as its cousins, but its popularity is already gaining traction in the cannabis space.
What is CBN?
Most of the cannabinoids we know today originated from CBGA or cannabigerol acid. When this precursor acid degrades, it’s converted into CBG and other cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
Now, CBN is a pretty interesting cannabinoid. It did not originate from CBGA, but it’s formed from the degradation of THC.
Freshly-harvested flowers contain very small levels of CBN. As it dries up, its THC content also degrades. The degradation process then converts THC into other molecules, one of which is CBN. Exposure to heat, light, and air also converts THC into CBN.
Because CBN directly comes from THC, it is also mildly psychoactive. According to laboratory tests, the psychoactive effect of CBD is only about 10% of THC.
What are the Health Effects of CBN
Similar to its cousin cannabinoids, CBN also produces a wide range of health benefits.
It has potent anti-inflammatory effects. CBN also stimulates the endocannabinoid system’s type 2 receptor, the role of which is to modulate our immune response. Its activation triggers apoptosis or the cell death of abnormal immune cells. It also helps stop the release of more pro-inflammatory chemicals that worsen inflammation and trigger more pain.
CBN helps reduce pain through its action on pain-regulating non-cannabinoid receptors as well as the type 1 cannabinoid receptor. This receptor is responsible for modulating pain.
According to studies, CBN can also help promote bone health. It has the ability to not only stimulate bone growth but to speed up its healing process as well.
Similar to THC, CBN also stimulates the appetite and may help patients dealing with appetite loss. One study found that CBN prompted the animal models to eat more, eat fast, and eat for a longer period.
But one effect that CBN is known for is its sedating effect. This cannabinoid is called the Sleepy Cannabinoid for a very good reason. Not only does CBN promote sleep, but it also helps you sleep faster. CBN may be able to help people suffering from insomnia.
Studies found that CBN also has the following beneficial effects:
Of note, the research we have on CBN is limited. We need more CBN studies to further understand its health effects.
How Does CBN Work?
Similar to THC, it also binds to the cannabinoid receptor type 1. This receptor plays an important role in many physiological responses — from pain and memory to sleep and appetite. While this receptor helps modulate these responses, its activation also produces the psychoactive, intoxicating, and mind-altering effects of cannabis.
Because CBN is a cannabinoid that directly comes from THC, it can also produce similar THC effects. You’ll feel a bit sleepy, and you’ll also feel so relaxed. It may produce psychoactive effects, but the effect is much milder than THC’s.
Can You Get High on Products with CBN?
Nowadays, it’s no longer hard to find CBD products containing CBN. Both these cannabinoids work together in relieving not only pain and discomfort but sleep problems as well. They also help promote better a mood and a calmer mind.
Compared to CBD products which you can take any time of the day, CBD products with CBN are best taken before bedtime. They help relax your muscles, ease your mind, and prepare you for a night of better, longer sleep.
There are some people though who are hesitant to try products with CBN, thinking that it could get them high.
But here’s the thing.
You only need a small amount of CBN to benefit from its sedating effect. This level is usually not high enough to trigger psychoactive effects. Moreover, CBD also diminishes any psychoactive effects CBN may produce.
Will CBN Show in a Drug Test?
Answering this question can be a bit difficult.
On one hand, you probably won’t test positive on a drug test after using CBD products with CBN. Remember, regular drug tests are pretty sensitive to THC as well as its metabolites like THC-COOH. They’re not that sensitive to CBN.
On the other hand, CBN is a byproduct of THC, so there is a chance that your drug test can return a false-positive result.
Can CBN Cause an Overdose?
No. CBN and other cannabinoids, for that matter, like THC and CBD won’t cause an overdose. This is simply because there aren’t enough cannabinoid receptors in the brainstem to activate. This is the part of the brain that houses the heart and lung centers that control our breathing and heartbeat.
How to Properly Choose CBD with CBN Products
You’ll find many CBD with CBN products online and even in your local dispensary. But when buying products, always make sure that:
- It has a certificate of analysis (COA). This means that the product underwent thorough testing by an accredited third-party facility. The tests look for traces of impurities and contaminants like heavy metals, harmful microorganisms, pesticides, or fertilizers. If the product doesn’t have a COA, don’t buy it.
- It received many positive reviews. The reviews and feedback made by customers who’ve tried the product can already give you a good idea of its effects. They can also give you some information about the company or whether or not they can be trusted.
- It uses organic ingredients. Choose products that make use of 100% organic, all-natural ingredients. Make sure, too, that the cannabinoids come from industrial hemp.
Final Thoughts
Using CBD products with CBN may help you enjoy better and more restful sleep. CBN may come from THC’s degradation, but its concentration in CBD products isn’t enough to trigger mind-altering, intoxicating effects.
When buying CBD oils with CBN, always look for its COA. Read reviews as well, and make sure that the company and its products received more good reviews than bad.
