What Is CBN?

 CBN (cannabinol) is one of the many cannabinoids in the Cannabis sativa plant. It forms when THC is exposed to light, heat and air. Thus, the most significant quantity of CBN is found in aging, dried cannabis plant material because THC has oxidized. Heating THC in a laboratory can also form CBN. The legal plant used for CBN extraction is called hemp, and it contains less than 0.3% THC.

CBN is believed to interact with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. However, the interaction is much milder compared to CBD and THC interactions with CB1 receptors. CBN seems to have a stronger affinity for CB2 receptors. Researchers have determined that CB2 receptors are highly expressed in the immune system but may also play a role in the CNS (central nervous system), especially in the brain.

What Are CBN Benefits?

CBN has not been studied in clinical trials as much as the major cannabinoids CBD and THC. However, research is increasing as medical professionals believe it may have some therapeutic value. Potential benefits of CBN gummies and other products include the following.

1. Improved sleep quality

CBN may help improve sleep quality. A study found that taking 20 mg of CBN before bedtime significantly reduced the number of times a person wakes up and the overall sleep disturbances. Also, there was no impact on daytime fatigue. People taking CBN often do so because they say it helps them relax before bedtime, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.

2. Promote calm

Studies suggest that CBN’s interaction with the CB1 receptors in the brain may indirectly influence the receptors sensitive to dopamine, decreasing dopamine uptake. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with motivation, pleasure, reward and motor control. CBN may help regulate mood and promote calm due to changes in dopamine levels.

3. Antioxidant action

The combination of CBN’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce discomfort. CBN, like other cannabinoids, may scavenge free radicals to prevent the oxidation process that damages cells. The intensity of CBN antioxidant power is equal to that of vitamin E.

4. Anti-microbial action

CBN has also been found to have potential antimicrobial activity. A study found cannabinol is one of five major cannabinoids showing potent activity against MRSA staph bacterial strains.

When CBN is combined with other cannabinoids, the potential benefits of all the cannabinoids are enhanced through synergy, called the entourage effect. This is one reason most CBN products contain other cannabinoids like CBD and CBG. The products are made with full spectrum or broad spectrum CBN.