It is no secret that more and more people are being introduced to the world of cannabinoids. They are becoming a household name, yet many people do not know much about them. The truth is that there are over 100 cannabinoids found in hemp and cannabis plants, each with its benefits. Some products like CBD sleep gummies have become famous for their potential health and wellness benefits.
In this article, we will focus on two of those cannabinoids: CBD and CBN! We’ll go over what they are, how they work in your body, and which one may be better suited for your needs.
What is CBN?
CBN, or cannabinol, is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid produced when THC degrades due to air, light, or heat exposure. It’s also found in trace amounts in fresh and dried cannabis plants, hence considered a complex and rare cannabinoid. CBN can be extracted from the plant to produce products like tinctures and topicals.
Anecdotal results tout CBN as a potential sleep aid due to its sedative properties. But, there haven’t been enough studies conducted yet to fully understand how it works on our bodies at this point in history.
CBN Cannabinoid Benefits
Below are some of the potential CBN benefits:
- It May Help Promote Sleep
CBN’s main impact on the human body points back to sleep. A random 2021 trial shows that CBN-containing products may help improve sleep quality. According to the study, the CBN cannabinoid may help enhance body wellness even in low doses.
- Has Potential Antioxidant Properties
Beyond sleep, preliminary research shows that CBN may act as well as an antioxidant— a molecule that can neutralize your body’s free radicals.
Despite these anecdotal results on CBN benefits, the cannabinoid is well tolerated amongst users. As experts continue with more research, we may be able to understand CBN’s exact benefits.
CBD Vs. CBN
CBD is one of the most abundant cannabinoids in the cannabis plant (second most abundant.) Cultivators can get rich-in-CBD plants by breeding some strains.
On the other hand, CBN results from several processes that take place in cannabis plants. Cultivators cannot breed plants to get high-CBN strains. As well, the CBN amount in a plant depends on several factors. They include:
- THC levels in the flowers
- The plant’s exposure to heat and light
- Time
However, CBD and CBN share some similarities. Both interact with the human body’s endocannabinoid system. Hence, they can be used to achieve a similar goal.
Neither produces the high that is associated with marijuana use. However, CBD and CBN can affect the cannabis high.
For instance, anecdotally, users claim CBD strains may help scale down THC’s adverse effects.
Despite their similarities, CBN has some THC properties; THC cannabinoids act on the endocannabinoid’s CB1 receptors, creating a high effect. However, CBN’s strength is much lower than that of THC. Hence, technically making CBN a psychoactive compound.
CBD does not attach to CB receptors directly. It also doesn’t produce any psychoactive effects like CBN when consumed in high doses.
What is CBN Good for?
CBN is a sedative, but it is not as potent as THC. CBN could be the right choice if you’re looking for a product that will make you feel relaxed and calm. It’s also suitable for people who want to avoid the psychoactive effects of THC.
Wrap Up on Choosing CBD and CBN Products
CBN and CBD are incredible compounds that can help improve overall health, but they aren’t all the same. Although many people believe that CBN is just a weaker variant of CBD, this isn’t true—and it comes down to how much THC or other cannabinoids are in your product.
Choosing between CBD and CBN will depend on what you want to experience. cbdMD offers the best products you can rely on. Taking our CBN products means your quality of life can go up due to increased energy levels and better sleep quality. Hence, you will experience less tossing around in bed all night long!
Michael Levin is a CBD enthusiast, a researcher, writer and editor in the cannabis space, experienced CBD user and educator. He believes CBD can help improve our overall health and wellbeing.
