CBN (Cannabinol)

What is CBN?

CBN (cannabinol) is one of the many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant, alongside well-known compounds like THC and CBD. Unlike THC, which is the main psychoactive compound, CBN is a metabolite of THC, meaning it is created when THC breaks down or oxidizes, especially as cannabis ages. CBN has gained popularity as a sleep aid due to its sedative properties.

How is CBN Consumed?

CBN can be consumed in various ways, similar to other cannabinoids like CBD and THC. Common methods include:

·         Capsules: Taken orally for precise dosing and a longer-lasting effect.

·         Gummies and Edibles: Consumed like food, but take longer to take effect since they must be digested.

·         Oils and Tinctures: Placed under the tongue (sublingually) for fast absorption into the bloodstream.

·         Vapes & Inhalation: Provides fast-acting effects by absorbing through the lungs.

Benefits and Effects of CBN

When taken alone, CBN does not produce a high like THC. In the human endocannabinoid system (ECS), CBN has a low binding affinity with CB1 receptors. CBN has a stronger affinity with CB2 receptors, although it is still less than THC. CBN appears to have similar properties as popular cannabinoids like CBD and THC.

While its sedative properties make CBN promising for those with sleep disorders, early research indicates that CBN may also help relieve pain, insomnia, inflammation, appetite loss, and much more.  Studies suggest CBN may have the following benefits:

·         Antibiotic: Studies have shown that CBN and other cannabinoids may be effective in treating MRSA, an infection caused by a type of staph bacteria that is becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics.

·         Anti-Cancer: Early research shows that CBN may inhibit and stop cancer cell growth. In one type of lung cancer, CBN and other cannabinoids were found to reduce tumor size. While CBN has displayed therapeutic effects in cancer treatment, there is no definitive research showing CBN can manage the disease.

·         Anti-Convulsant: CBN is showing promise as a powerful anti-convulsant. A study on mice found that CBN has strong anti-convulsant properties, especially when used with other cannabinoids. If CBN continues to display anti-convulsive properties for muscle contractions, it may be a promising cannabinoid for patients with epilepsy. 

·         Anti-Inflammatory: Cannabinoids can be used for inflammatory conditions such as Rheumatoid Arthritis and Crohn’s disease. While many cannabinoids have shown positive effects on inflammatory diseases, CBN is another alternative treatment option for those with inflammation. A study on mice found that CBN decreased allergen-induced mucus production.

·         Appetite Stimulant: Appetite loss can be caused by various psychological causes or medical conditions. CBN may stimulate appetite and be helpful for cancer patients, for example, who suffer from appetite loss due to cancer treatment.

·         Bone and Skin Health: CBN may have powerful protective properties to aid bone health. CBN has been shown to activate stem cells in bones to create new bone cells. It may also be helpful in bone loss reduction, as a treatment for osteoporosis, and the promotion of bone healing. In terms of skin health, CBN has been shown to reduce skin cell overgrowth.

·         Glaucoma: Early research suggests that high doses of CBN may help relieve intraocular pressure, a critical risk factor for glaucoma. CBN also has neuroprotective characteristics that may keep neurons in the back of the eye healthy. Eye drop formulations featuring CBN are currently under development for glaucoma therapy.

·         Neuroprotective: CBN has been shown to have neuroprotective qualities. In a study on animal models, researchers found that CBN showed positive effects when treating subjects with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). CBN was shown to delay the onset of ALS. While more research needs to be done on humans, CBN shows promise as a therapeutic tool for neurodegenerative diseases.

·         Pain Relief: Current research shows that CBN interacts with neurons involved with pain signaling and perception. These same neurons are affected by capsaicin, an active compound of chili peppers, known for its burning sensation. Capsaicin can be found in topicals and pain relievers.

·         Sedative: CBN is one of the most sedative cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. Research suggests that CBN’s sedative effects can be used as a sleep aid for those who have insomnia. Not only may it help people get to sleep faster, but it may also prolong sleep time. A 5 mg dose of CBN may have the same sedative effect as 10 mg of Valium, a prescription medicine used as a sedative.

Potential Side Effects of CBN

CBN is often associated with promoting relaxation and sleep, and some people may experience increased drowsiness or sleepiness as a side effect. The effects of CBN can vary from person to person, depending on factors like dosage, individual sensitivity, and the presence of other cannabinoids. If you choose to use CBN, start with a low dose and gradually increase it as needed, while monitoring for any side effects. 

* Important Considerations *

Purchasing CBN products from a reputable dispensary is important for ensuring quality, safety, and legality. Reputable dispensaries always test their products for potency and contaminants, giving you complete confidence in what you’re consuming. They also provide accurate product labeling, so you know exactly what you’re getting. Always make sure to research a dispensary’s practices and check for third-party lab test results before purchasing products.

Hemp House Cannabis Dispensary is focused on supporting local farmers and providing high-quality, lab-tested products while also educating consumers on how to use them. Offering local products creates a strong community connection while keeping your dollars in our community. We strive to provide the highest quality products while building trust with our customers.

Always check with a medical professional before discontinuing any medications.