With up to two-thirds of adults in the U.S. experiencing at least occasional trouble sleeping,
It’s no surprise that the market for nighttime aids, especially those containing CBD, has continued to grow. Not getting enough sleep can drain your mental abilities and put a strain on your physical health. Studies have also linked poor slumber with health problems, including decreased mood and a weakened immune system.
Simply put, your body needs sleep, just as it needs air and food to function. While asleep, your body heals and restores its chemical balance, and your brain forges new connections and helps memory retention (Healthline).
Without enough sleep, your brain and bodily systems can’t function optimally, and your quality of life can be reduced.
Those looking for new products might be wondering whether cannabinol, or CBN, can help them sleep.
While we’re sure you’ve seen it around by now… what exactly is CBN and what does it do?
CBN (cannabinol) is a plant-derived compound, like CBD (cannabidiol) and over 100 other cannabinoids found in a full-spectrum hemp oil or extract product. However, it’s unique in the way it gets formed.
CBN forms naturally in cannabis plants through the degradation of THC. Longer storage times,
high temperatures, and exposure to oxygen can also encourage the formation of CBN.
CBD (Cannabidiol) is a cannabinoid most often used to impart a feeling of relaxation and calm. CBD will not produce a “high” feeling and is one of the most popular cannabinoids found in cannabis sativa plants. While CBD is wonderful on its own, research from the
The National Center for Biotechnology has investigated an “entourage effect,” studying the benefits of combining CBD with other compounds found in the cannabis plant, such as CBN.
CBN and CBD are often compared, due to similarities in reported effects and benefits. However, the possible sedative effects of CBN make it perfect for relaxation and sleep.
How CBN Works
CBN’s effect, like other cannabinoids, comes from its ability to bind to cannabinoid receptors that occur throughout the human body. There are two main cannabinoid receptors that scientists have identified: CB1 and CB2. The way different cannabinoids bind with these receptors has a significant impact on their effect; for example, research has shown that when CBD interacts with the CB1 receptor, it seems to lead to feelings of relaxation.
CBN interacts weakly with the CB1 receptor and more strongly with the CB2 receptor. These receptors play a role in regulating processes like appetite, mood, memory, and pain.
CBD and CBN produce beneficial effects, in part, because they can activate multiple biological pathways at once. They may also produce a wider variety of effects through channels separate from the CB1 and CB2 receptors (NIH).
CBD + CBN work together by creating a synergistic, or “entourage” effect. The potential sedating effects of CBN in combination with CBD may provide greater relaxation than CBD alone.
