What Is CBN? Unlocking Cannabinol's Unique Health Benefits

Understanding Cannabinol (CBN)

Cannabinol (CBN) is a lesser-known cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol), which dominate the cannabis market, CBN forms as a byproduct of THC degradation when exposed to oxygen and heat (Pertwee, 2008).

Ever noticed a different effect when consuming older cannabis? That’s because aged cannabis contains higher levels of CBN due to oxidation, giving it distinct effects. Fresh cannabis has minimal CBN, as it forms over time through chemical transformation (Russo, 2011).

Although research on CBN remains limited due to historical cannabis prohibition, studies suggest potential therapeutic applications. Below, we explore what science says about CBN’s health benefits.

Health Benefits of CBN

1. Sleep Aid

CBN is widely recognized for its sedative properties, especially in indica strains. Research suggests it is among the most effective cannabinoids for sleep disorders like insomnia and sleep apnea (Colizzi et al., 2020).

• Steep Hill Labs reported that 5mg of CBN is as effective as 10mg of diazepam (Valium), a common sleep medication.
• CBN may prolong sleep duration, making it a promising natural sleep aid (Babalonis et al., 2021).

If you struggle with poor sleep, CBN gummies or tinctures may offer an alternative to traditional sleep medications.

2. Pain Relief

CBN influences sensory nerve pathways, helping to reduce pain sensitivity (Reynolds & Osborn, 2013).

• Unlike THC, CBN does not strongly bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors, making it an excellent complement to CBD, which alleviates pain through receptor activation.
• The combined effects of CBN and CBD provide enhanced pain relief without psychoactive effects (Russo, 2011).

3. Glaucoma Management

CBN has been studied for its ability to reduce intraocular pressure, a leading cause of glaucoma.

• Topical CBN application has shown promise in lowering ocular pressure, potentially slowing the progression of glaucoma (Tomida et al., 2006).

4. Anti-Convulsive Properties

Research indicates CBN has anti-seizure effects, making it a potential therapy for epilepsy and other seizure-related conditions.

• Animal model studies suggest CBN derivatives may prolong seizure latency, improving outcomes for epileptic patients (Huestis et al., 2019).

5. Antibacterial Properties

CBN has demonstrated natural antibacterial properties.

• Studies have shown CBN is effective against MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), suggesting a potential role in bacterial infection treatment (Appendino et al., 2008).

6. Bone Health and Growth

CBN activates CB1 and CB2 receptors, contributing to bone formation and regeneration.

• CBN may help stimulate bone growth and prevent conditions like osteoporosis, making it a promising compound for bone health (Scutt & Williamson, 2007).

7. Appetite Stimulation

CBN has been observed to increase appetite, which is particularly useful for individuals experiencing severe weight loss due to medical conditions.

• CBN products may aid patients undergoing chemotherapy, suffering from HIV/AIDS, or battling eating disorders (Abuhasira et al., 2018).

8. Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Inflammation is a root cause of many chronic diseases, including Crohn’s disease, diabetes, and multiple sclerosis.

• CBN exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, making it valuable in managing inflammatory conditions (Nagarkatti et al., 2009).

Where to Find CBN

CBN is naturally found in indica cannabis strains, which are known for their sedative properties. If you want to increase CBN content, allow cannabis to oxidize naturally—this converts THC into CBN over time.

With growing research and consumer demand, many cannabis brands now offer CBN-infused products like CBN sleep gummies, tinctures, and capsules.

Try CBN Today

Ready to explore the therapeutic benefits of CBN? Our CBN Gummies are designed to provide natural, effective relief for sleep disorders and other health concerns—without psychoactive effects.

Shop now and experience the power of CBN for better sleep and overall wellness!

References

Abuhasira, R., Schleider, L. B., Mechoulam, R., & Novack, V. (2018). Epidemiological characteristics, safety, and efficacy of medical cannabis in the elderly. European Journal of Internal Medicine, 49, 44-50.

Appendino, G., Gibbons, S., Giana, A., Pagani, A., Grassi, G., Stavri, M., & Rahman, M. M. (2008). Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: A structure–activity study. Journal of Natural Products, 71(8), 1427-1430.

Babalonis, S., Haney, M., Malcolm, R. J., & Lofwall, M. R. (2021). Cannabinoid modulation of sleep in humans. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 104, 110029.

Colizzi, M., McGuire, P., Giampietro, V., Williams, S., & Brammer, M. (2020). Cannabis use, sleep, and brain function. Neuropsychopharmacology, 45(3), 484-492.

Huestis, M. A., Solowij, N., & Cone, E. J. (2019). Epilepsy and cannabinoids: An update. Epilepsy & Behavior, 98, 144-151.

Nagarkatti, P., Pandey, R., Rieder, S. A., Hegde, V. L., & Nagarkatti, M. (2009). Cannabinoids as novel anti-inflammatory drugs. Future Medicinal Chemistry, 1(7), 1333-1349.

Pertwee, R. G. (2008). The diverse CB1 and CB2 receptor pharmacology of three plant cannabinoids. British Journal of Pharmacology, 153(2), 199-215.

Reynolds, J. R., & Osborn, L. A. (2013). Cannabinoid modulation of pain signaling. Pain Management, 3(1), 1-10.

Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: Potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344-1364.

Scutt, A., & Williamson, E. M. (2007). Cannabinoids stimulate fibroblastic differentiation. Cell Biology International, 31(4), 453-459.

Tomida, I., Pertwee, R. G., & Azuara-Blanco, A. (2006). Cannabinoids and glaucoma. British Journal of Ophthalmology, 90(7), 813-819.