Hemp Handbook: What is CBN?

Cannabinol (CBN) was the first cannabinoid to be “identified and isolated from cannabis,” back in 1899. Despite its long history, CBN has not been studied as extensively as CBD or THC. 

Today, as consumer interest in minor cannabinoids rises and manufacturers combine CBN into both CBD and THC products, researchers are exploring how CBN affects brain chemistry, pain and inflammation, and the endocannabinoid system.

In this edition of the Hemp Handbook, a straightforward guide to cannabis and hemp from The Healing Rose, we take a look at CBN. What is it? How does it differ from other cannabinoids? How does it interact with the body and other compounds?

What is CBN?

THC and CBD are considered the major phytocannabinoids – the compounds which form in large amounts in cannabis and hemp plants. Cannabinol is a minor cannabinoid. Like other minor cannabinoids, CBN is present in smaller amounts. 

CBN is the product of delta-9 THC oxidation within the cannabis flower, which means CBN forms as THC breaks down. One of the likely reasons CBN was the first cannabinoid to be isolated in pure form is the poor storage and climate control available in the nineteenth century.

How will CBN make me feel?

Because CBN is a distant relative of THC, it is not entirely without psychoactive effects. Like CBD and THC, CBN interacts with both CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body, but with approximately ten times less potency than THC. 

CBN alone and in small quantities usually will not produce noticeable psychoactive effects, nor will it produce a high like THC. Like CBG, which we explored in the previous edition of the Hemp Handbook, cannabis users recognize benefits when using CBN with other cannabinoids. 

The concept of the entourage effect is simple: the combined effects of full spectrum cannabis is greater than the sum of its parts. CBN is often associated with sedative effects, which has led to its inclusion in products marketed for rest and sleep.

When it comes to the popular topic of CBN and sleep, anecdotal reports indicate that the cannabinoid may help produce better sleep outcomes. Scientists are just beginning to assess and quantify the effects of CBN on sleep patterns.

Where can I find products made with CBN? 

Like CBG and CBC, products containing CBN are increasingly popular. Intoxicating THC and CBN products designed for nighttime cannabis consumption are sold by many popular brands and available widely in dispensaries. Further, full spectrum products and dried flower will contain CBN, because it is a downstream product of delta-9 THC. 

At The Healing Rose, explore products that take advantage of the unique properties of CBN, like our CBN Isolate, which offers customers a pure form of CBN that’s 99%+ CBN. This is an extremely versatile product that customers can use to make any infusion that is oil soluble.

Try our Rest Oil, made with a combination of  CBN, CBD and CBC. CBN is known as the cannabinoid for sleep, and this topical oil is a fan favorite. Customers share positive individual experiences, including that “since I started using this I fall asleep so easily, sleep great and I feel rested the next day.”

The Healing Rose customers love CBN for its unique restful properties and delightful combinations with other favorite cannabinoids and herbal aromas. Synergies between CBN, CBD, and other cannabinoids mean customers can take advantage of the entourage effect with our full spectrum products.