The Benefits & Difference Between CBD and CBN

What is CBN?

Cannabinol (CBN) is one of the more than one hundred cannabinoids found in the cannabis sativa plant. CBN forms when tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THC-A) is exposed to heat and light, causing its breakdown into this cannabinoid form. Like all cannabinoids, CBN interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system affects things such as appetite, mood, and sleep, which is why cannabinoids can be so impactful for health. Although derived from THC, CBN is not known to cause the psychoactive effects associated with THC and exists as a much milder form. This milder form allows greater potential for medicinal and management purposes.

How does it interact with the body?

Like all cannabinoids, CBN interacts with the endocannabinoid system. This is a network of receptors and molecules connected to the nervous system - which makes it so important for overall body regulation. In particular, CBN binds to the CB1 receptor - the same one to which CBD and THC connect. However, it does not bind as tightly to the receptor as THC, meaning you do not receive the psychoactive effects, but rather can still receive help for sleep and mood.

CBD vs CBN?

Although they sound similar, CBD and CBN are created through vastly different pathways in the cannabis plant. CBD is one of the most popular cannabinoids, and is utilized for its medicinal and herbal remedies. Whereas CBN is derived from the breakdown of THC, CBD is a different strain entirely. This means that there are no psychoactive effects present, even as opposed to the much milder ones found in CBN.

When looking for cannabis products, you are currently more likely to find CBD products. With extensive research on its calming and alleviating effects, CBD is in most cannabis-related health products today. CBD is derived from the hemp plant, which has low levels of THC, making it an effective tool for managing chronic pain and anxiety. CBD is known for aiding in sleep, and helping energy levels within the body due to how it interacts with the endocannabinoid system.

Although not as researched, CBN still has promising research on how it can support overall health. In particular, research shows how it can be utilized as a sleep aid, along with a sedative for conditions such as anxiety or depression. These intersect with CBD and can help manage long-term conditions that impact overall quality of life.

Both CBD and CBN bind to the CB2 receptors within the endocannabinoid system. This allows them to influence the body’s immune system and impact overall balance and well-being. Along with this, CBN can synergistically work to enhance CBD’s natural calming effects. This allows them to work as partners in pain management and other ailments to affect a better quality of life.

What are the Benefits?

CBN more recently has developed a following for its supportive properties. However, since not as much research has been completed, most are potential benefits of CBN.

• Pain Management: CBN has been linked to improved pain management when consistently taken for ailments. In a 2019 study conducted with CBD and CBN, it showed potential benefits for conditions such as fibromyalgia.

Potential Drawbacks:

Since CBN interacts with the CB1 receptor to affect things such as sleep, drowsiness may occur. Like any product, it is important to think about when you implement remedies into your daily schedule (like taking VRB’s REST 30 minutes before sleep). Start with smaller doses and make sure to give yourself plenty of time between taking the product and your wake time when first starting any new sleep remedy.

CBN and You

Like any cannabinoid, CBN has the potential to alleviate and manage chronic symptoms. Since it acts as a milder form of THC, you can utilize the benefits of this cannabinoid without the negative effects of THC.