What is Cannabinol (CBN)? The “Sleepy Cannabinoid”

Even though CBD is the main naturally occurring chemical found primarily in the Hemp plant, there several other phytocannabinoids make up hemp’s molecular structure. One of these minor phytocannabinoids in particular is gaining attention because of its involvement in the entourage effect, and its relation to THC molecules. This cannabinoid is Cannabinol, also known as CBN.

CBN, is a mildly psychoactive component found in hemp which, like strongly psychoactive THC, is derived from tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THC-A). CBN is created when THC-A oxidizes.

CBN can be used effectively as a sleep aid or sedative. This cannabinoid has also been shown to help regulate the immune system and works to relieve the pain and inflammation caused by several conditions, including arthritis and Crohn’s disease. Studies show that it can be used to reduce the intraocular eye pressure caused by glaucoma. CBN acts as an anticonvulsant, so it is also beneficial to patients suffering from seizure disorders including epilepsy.

How is CBN different from CBD?

The most notable difference between these two compounds is their interaction with the cannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors in your endocannabinoid system.

CBN binds primarily to the latter. This makes it more effective at providing relief from inflammation than its cousin cannabinoid. Research suggests that while CBD may help promote wakefulness or calmness depending upon its type, CBN may help induce sleep due to its affinity for the CB2 receptor.

• CBD binds to both the neurotransmitter (CB1) cannabinoid receptor and the immune system (CB2) receptor

• CBN on the other hand, binds more strongly to the CB2 receptor, explaining its potential to aid and induce sleep due to its affinity for the CB2 cannabinoid receptor

• CBD exists independently in the hemp plant, while CBN is derived from THC(A) through the process of decarboxylation which makes it interactable with the ECS

• CBN is almost exclusively taken for sleep and calmness while CBD has a wider variety of uses