What is CBN and how does it compare with CBD and THC?
There are over 130 known compounds from the cannabis plant called cannabinoids, each with its unique medicinal benefits. Surprised?
THC is famous for its psychoactive nature, and CBD for its mind-relaxing effects without making you feel euphoric or high.
Similarly, CBN has its uniqueness which makes it popular for treating sleep disorders. It is mildly psychoactive and can induce a sense of sedation, which helps in aiding sleep problems.
Read on to learn in detail what CBN is, its potential benefits, and how they differ from each other.
What is CBN?
CBN, or cannabinol is a compound found in cannabis plants. It is one of the lesser-known compounds of cannabis. It is found in minor concentrations and formed over a long time due to light and heat exposure.
Like CBD, CBN is also non-psychoactive in nature and offers multiple health benefits. Our body tends to absorb CBN through endocannabinoid systems and binds to receptors CB1 and CB2 similar to CBD.
Research shows that it has anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties which are beneficial in treating various health problems like insomnia, poor appetite, chronic and acute pain, and inflammation. CBN for sleep is the most popular among CBN products for treating such poor sleep issues.
Is CBN the sleepy cannabinoid?
CBN is often labeled as a sleepy cannabinoid as it has some sedative properties. CBN may help in providing a sense of relaxation and drowsiness but it is not limited to just inducing sleep.
It is believed by researchers that CBN works great with some other cannabinoids like CBD and THC to produce a range of effects. CBN is formed through the breakdown of THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis.
CBN interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which is known to regulate various functions in our body, including sleep, appetite, and pain management. While research on CBN is still in its early stages, some studies suggest that it may have therapeutic potential as well for problems like insomnia, glaucoma, and appetite stimulation.
So, CBN may provide a sense of sleepiness, but it is also important to understand that its effects are many depending on certain factors, such as the presence of other cannabinoids and the individual’s unique physiology.
Key differences between CBD, THC, and CBN
Here are some key differences between CBD, THC, and CBN.
1) Onset time and effects duration
When it comes to cannabis consumption the onset time of effects of each compound is different along with how long they will stay. For CBD, it generally takes anywhere from 30 minutes to about an hour to feel the effects and normally it lasts between two to three hours.
Whereas THC starts showing its effects much faster, within a few minutes you may start to feel the effects and it stays around an hour. CBN has a shorter onset time and its sedative properties make you feel a little drowsy.
2) Chemical composition
The chemical composition of each compound is different. CBD and THC share similar structures with both containing 21 carbon atoms, 30 hydrogen atoms, and 2 oxygen atoms but their molecular structure differs slightly, leading to different effects.
CBN is a breakdown product of THC, formed through oxidation and exposure to heat and light.
3) Psychoactive
Among THC, CBD, and CBN, THC is a psychoactive compound meaning it is responsible for the “high” feeling. Whereas CBD and CBN are non-psychoactive compounds, CBN has sedative properties which can lead to temporary drowsiness in the user. Understating these compounds can help you decide which compound is suitable based on your needs.
4) Medical benefits
CBD is popular for its medical benefits including reducing anxiety, inflammation, and seizures related to epilepsy. THC is known for its pain-relieving properties, along with its ability to stimulate appetite and reduce nausea in cancer patients. Whereas CBN is used for treating issues like sleep problems and helps in stimulating hunger and reducing inflammation
THC, CBD, or CBN – which one is better for you?
When it comes to knowing which of these compounds is best for you. It completely depends on your personal choices and needs. Here are some points you can consider.
1) Ideal Effects
You should consider what your body needs as THC is known for its psychoactive properties and its ability to make you high. CBD on the other hand offers relaxation and calmness. CBN has sedative properties so you can consider it for better sleep and to treat issues like insomnia.
2) Medical conditions
If you are dealing with any medical condition make sure you consult a doctor and should know all the potential benefits before starting any of these cannabis compounds.
Like if you are dealing with conditions like chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, or cancer-related symptoms, THC can help you aid these symptoms.
Whereas for conditions like anxiety, and depression CBD is the best option and CBN is researched for treating sleep problems.
3) Personal tolerance
It is very important to consider your tolerance before using any of these compounds. If you are comfortable with the psychoactive effects of THC and can tolerate the high feeling only then it is suitable for you. If you wish to avoid these psychoactive effects then CBD is suitable for you for milder sedative effects you can go for CBN oil.
Choose the right type for your needs
CBN is a cannabis compound found in low concentrations, it is a breakdown of THC formed over a long time when exposed to light and heat. But Unlike, THC CBN is mildly psychoactive but may promote sleepiness and help with issues like insomnia and pain.
Whereas CBD will not cause you drowsy or sleepy. Every compound has unique benefits that help treat different problems. For example, many people deal with poor sleep. In that case, you can use CBN for sleep by Colorado Botanicals.
It has both CBD and CBN, this combination helps you to relax and optimizes your sleep quality. Colorado Botanicals has all products third-party lab tested which means you can trust their quality and safety.
