While CBD (cannabidiol) is certainly one of the most popular cannabinoids, it is not alone. In fact, there are over 100 cannabinoids that have been discovered to date. While only a handful of these have been studied in depth, there is preliminary research that suggests potential wellness benefits of these other cannabinoids. 

One of these aforementioned cannabinoids is CBN.

In recent months you may have noticed CBN (cannabinol) starting to make an appearance in several of the major CBD brands' products. So, what is going on? What is CBN and why is it appearing everywhere in the CBD market?

Well let's take a deep dive into CBN.

What is CBN?

CBN is a cannabinoid derived from THC unlike many of the other cannabinoids such as CBD, CBG, and THC. These cannabinoids are created from CBGA (cannabigerolic acid).

CBN is a product of THC degradation in cannabis flower. This occurs naturally due to age or heat and oxygen exposure.

This being said, the cannabinoids (CBN and THC) are not exactly similar. Let's take a closer look at CBN and see why it is becoming so prevalent.

How does CBN work?

Your body's endocannabinoid system processes CBN in the same fashion as other cannabinoids. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for promoting homeostasis throughout the body and is comprised of naturally occurring endocannabinoids, cannabinoid receptors, and enzymes that help to allow our bodies to achieve a balanced state.

CBD, THC, CBN, and other cannabinoids are similar to the body's own naturally produced endocannabinoids. Through the body's endocannabinoid system, primarily the CB1 and CB2 receptors, they are believed to work by helping to restore the naturally occurring endocannabinoids.

The endocannabinoid system receptors are classified as CB1 and CB2. Both classifications of receptors play a large role in cannabinoid effects in the body. CB1 receptors are found primarily in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are dominant in the immune system.

Research on how CBN works is slightly limited. However, science suggests that while CBN is minimally responsive to CB1 receptors providing minimal effect to the central nervous system, it preferentially binds with CB2 receptors potentially providing immune system benefits.

So, what's the importance?

First off, one could naturally assume that with CBN being derived from THC it would possibly have psychoactive properties. However, as it stands now, CBN is largely considered nonpsychoactive. Evidence to support this is a coin toss at best.

Most reports available to date conclude that CBN is nonpsychoactive, but there are a few that oppose this by stating that CBN produces weak to mild THC-like psychoactive effects. CBN used alone or in conjunction with CBD does not appear to have intoxicating effects, but when taken in conjunction with THC  it has been shown to increase the psychoactive effects of THC.

If CBN and its potential benefits are appealing to you, remember that when purchasing full-spectrum CBD products with CBN are hemp-derived and must contain less than 0.3% THC in order to be legal and compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill.

What are the potential benefits of CBN?

Why are major CBD brands adding CBN infused products to their line-ups?

This is because CBN could potentially carry its own list of unique benefits. While studies on CBN are still limited, preliminary research indicates serious potential.

Could CBN improve sleep quality?

This is one of the reasons for CBN's surge in market popularity. Being marketed by many companies as a way to improve sleep quality. As with other lesser-known cannabinoids, there has been little research done on this topic.

There are anecdotal reports that strongly support the likelihood of CBN having sleep-promoting effects. Many people who’ve taken CBN, say they have gotten the “best night of sleep” they’ve ever had.

There is a small community that contributes CBN’s sleep-supporting effects to the entourage effect, where other cannabis compounds including other cannabinoids and terpenes contribute to feelings of restfulness and calm.

Could CBN support a healthy appetite?

CBN is a byproduct of THC, so it should come as no surprise to learn that it may help support a healthy appetite. As mentioned above, CBN is unlike THC in that it doesn’t produce strong psychoactive effects, so some may prefer this particular cannabinoid when it comes to appetite.

Could CBN help promote muscular and joint health?

Several cannabinoids are said to potentially provide aid in muscular and joint health, CBD for instance. CBN is another such cannabinoid. As such in the near future, we could expect to see CBN become commonly used in creams, salves, and other topicals.

CBN's potential has cause for excitement and could likely increase as further research is conducted into the potential benefits it may provide. Until then, preliminary and anecdotal reports do show promise.

If you’re interested in trying CBN for yourself, you’ll find that most brands offering CBN will include it in a CBD oil tincture. Remember that, like CBD, CBN isn’t regulated, and it’s important to choose CBN products from reputable brands that are third-party tested. 

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