With an abundance of new cannabinoids to hit the market, CBN is quickly emerging as a crowd favorite. It’s popularity lies largely in part to its user-reported ‘sedative’ effects.
In this article, we explore what CBN is, and why so many individuals are turning to natural CBN solutions as a supplement for improved sleep.
What is CBN?
CBN or Cannabinol is a minor cannabinoid that occurs naturally during THC’s aging process. When THC is oxygenized and starts to decompose, CBN is generated in the process.
Cannabinol is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid found in trace amounts from Cannabis. CBN is mostly found in cannabis that is aged and stored, and is derived from the plant’s main psychoactive chemical, tetrahydrocannabinol. It was the first cannabis compound to be isolated from cannabis extract in the late 1800s. Read more
CBN occurs in smaller quantities than the likes of CBD or THC, which is why it’s typically classified as a rare cannabinoid.
Will CBN Get You High?
Some sources describe CBN as having mild psychoactive properties. Every body is different and every body will metabolize CBN differently. In general, you won’t experience anything like the high you feel from Delta 9 or Delta 8. However, you may experience some sedative or mildly-dizzying effects from using CBN.
Will CBN Show Up On a Drug Test?
CBN is a by-product of aging THC. So it’s natural to be concerned about the presence of THC on a drug test. CBN, when sourced and manufactured as an isolate, will NOT show up on a drug test. That’s because CBN is a cannabinoid, not a Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). But most CBN products are combined with other cannabinoids, so you need to be careful.
It’s always critical to evaluate the Certificate of Analysis for the product you’re purchasing. The product’s COA will indicate the levels of THC present in the product, if any. It’s possible that trace amounts of THC in a full spectrum CBD, for example, may appear on a very sensitive drug test.
What Are the Reported Benefits of CBN?
When CBN was first discovered, it was assumed to be a simple by-product (or possibly even waste) from the decomposition of THC. However, that perception is beginning to shift as science takes a greater interest in rare cannabinoids.
1. Analgestic or pain-relieving: In a 2019 study on rats, combinations of CBD and CBN together appeared to have longer lasting analgestic (or pain-relieving) effects. The results state: “In behavioral experiments, CBD (5 mg/ml) or CBN (1 mg/ml) decreased NGF-induced mechanical sensitization. Combinations of CBD/CBN induced a longer-lasting reduction of mechanical sensitization than either compound alone.” Read more
2. Sedative effects: A study from 1975 (check that date again!) with only five volunteer participants showed possible inclinations that CBN could have sedative effects. Read more
3. Decreased inflammation: A 2016 study on rats presented some evidence that CBN could decrease the inflammation from arthritis. Read more
4. Possible treatment for insomnia: According to a widely-referenced study completed by Steep Hill. “Initially, it was reported that CBN was a promising adjunct in the treatment of insomnia, but with the advent of a few small trials, sedative qualities have not been observed. Further study is required. Current evidence demonstrates that CBN reduces pain, inflammation and is anti-bacterial, while having little or no psychoactivity, making it a promising, alternative treatment to d9THC. As such, samples with significant CBN (approaching 1% by weight) can be useful to treat insomnia. CBN is also somewhat effective as an anti-emetic and anticonvulsant.” Read more
A 2005 study on mice showed that CBN can delay the onset of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by up to two weeks. Read more
However, with any cannabinoid, more research needs to be done with humans, and users should understand that everyone’s tolerance is different.
Did you know you can also use CBD + THC to help with sleep and pain? Head on over to our user’s guide to learn more.
Using CBD and CBN together
Using CBD and CBN together initiates what’s called the “entourage effect”. The entourage effect is defined as the unique benefits of combining minor cannabinoids together. In the case of CBD and CBN, users might expect to feel a mild, sedative effect which may help you fall asleep and stay asleep – naturally.
At Moonwlkr, we believe that the cannabinoids in hemp can work together synergistically to produce maximum results.
That’s why we use full spectrum CBD and then isolate CBN and add more in to give you the best results possible.
At the end of the day, like any cannabinoid, CBN needs to be further studied. That’s why we leave everything up to our users to determine what works for them.
For users who want a stronger impact for sleep due to issues such as pain, combining THC with CBN will create a drowsy version of the THC high.
How Should I Dose CBN and CBG Together?
Our CBD | CBN sleep gummies contain 25mg CBD and 10mg CBN each. If you’re concerned about CBN’s mild psychoactive effects, we recommend starting with a half or quarter gummy.
Together, these two cannabinoids work in tandem in an effort to potentially provide you with a mild, sedative effect to aid in natural sleep. As always, when taking any supplement with sedative effects, take only before bed and never operate a motor vehicle after consumption.
But the best way to know if it will work for you is to try it yourself!
