What is CBN?
Cannabinol (CBN) is a minor cannabinoid found in the resin of the Cannabis sativa plants including both hemp and marijuana. CBN is obtained through the decarboxylation of cannabigerolic acid (CBGA), which is the precursor to the main cannabinoids found in Cannabis, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and CBN. CBN can also be obtained through the degradation of THC, which naturally occurs over time as THC is exposed to light, air, and heat. CBN has a slightly different molecular structure compared to THC, the primary psychoactive cannabinoid, and is considered to have mild psychoactive effects.
Benefits of CBN
Although it is not as well-known or studied as compounds like THC and CBD, CBN is of interest because it may have potential therapeutic benefits. According to recent research, CBN has been shown to have several medicinal properties, including the following.
Anti-inflammatory Effects – CBN has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in animal studies and may be useful in treating conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. There have been a number of preclinical studies that suggest that CBN may have these anti-inflammatory properties. For example, a study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology in 2006 found that CBN reduced inflammation in rats by suppressing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-1β. Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology in 2008 found that CBN reduced inflammation in rats by suppressing the activation of immune cells known as microglia.
Pain Relief – CBN has been found to have pain-relieving properties and may be useful in treating conditions such as chronic pain. It has been shown to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system in ways that could reduce both pain and inflammation. There have been several studies that suggest CBN may have potential as a pain reliever. For example, a study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology in 2002 found that CBN reduced pain and increased sleep in rats with neuropathic pain. In 2006, a study published in the European Journal of Pain found that CBN reduced pain in mice, possibly by blocking the transmission of pain signals in the nervous system. More recently in 2019, a study published in the Journal of Natural Products found that CBN reduced pain and inflammation in mice with joint pain, possibly by activating the body’s endocannabinoid system.
Sleep Promotion – CBN has been shown to have sedative effects and may be useful as a sleep aid. Some studies suggest that it may be more effective than THC for this purpose. There have been several studies that suggest CBN may be effective for improving sleep. For instance, a study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology in 1975 found that CBN had sedative effects in rats, similar to those of benzodiazepine drugs, which are commonly used as sleep aids. A further study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology in 1986 found that CBN was effective in improving sleep in patients with insomnia. And in 1994 a study published in the Journal of Natural Products found that CBN showed sedative effects in mice and was more effective than THC at inducing sleep.
Antibacterial Properties – CBN has been shown to have antibacterial properties in laboratory studies and may be useful in treating infections caused by bacteria. There have been several studies that suggest CBN may have potential as a treatment for bacterial infections. A study published in the Journal of Natural Products in 2015 found that CBN showed antibacterial activity against several strains of bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which is a type of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. A subsequent study published in the Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology in 2016 found that CBN showed antibacterial activity against several strains of bacteria, including Escherichia coli (E. coli), which is a common cause of food poisoning. In 2019, a study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine found that CBN showed potential as an antibacterial agent against several strains of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), which is a common cause of skin and soft tissue infections.
Anticonvulsant Effects – CBN has been found to have anticonvulsant effects in animal studies and may be useful in treating neurological conditions such as epilepsy and other seizure disorders. There have been several studies that suggest CBN may have potential as a treatment for seizures. For example, a study published in the British Journal of Pharmacology in 2003 found that CBN reduced seizures in mice, possibly by activating the body’s endocannabinoid system. A further study published in the European Journal of Pharmacology in 2008 found that CBN reduced seizures in rats, possibly by blocking the transmission of seizures in the nervous system. A more recent study published in the Journal of Natural Products in 2019 found that CBN reduced seizures in mice, possibly by modulating the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
It’s important to note that the research on CBN is still in its early stages, and more studies are needed to fully understand its potential health benefits and risks. Additionally, the effects of CBN may vary based on individual factors such as age, weight, and overall health. If you’re considering using CBN for any reason, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider first.
Interactions and Side Effects of CBN
While CBN is considered generally safe, more research is needed to fully understand its potential interactions with medications. As with any supplement, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before using CBN, especially if you are taking any prescription medications.
CBN, like other cannabinoids, is metabolized by the liver, and it is possible that it could interact with medications that are also metabolized by the liver, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
Additionally, CBN may interact with medications that affect the central nervous system, such as sleep aids or anti-anxiety medications, as well as blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin.
Also, like any substance, CBN can cause side effects, although the frequency and severity of these side effects may vary depending on factors such as dose and individual susceptibility.
Common side effects of CBN may include:
- Drowsiness: CBN is known to have sedative effects, which can cause drowsiness or fatigue.
- Dry mouth: CBN, like other cannabinoids, is known to decrease the production of saliva, which can cause dry mouth.
- Low blood pressure: CBN, like other cannabinoids, can cause a drop in blood pressure, which can lead to lightheadedness or dizziness.
- Changes in mood: CBN can cause changes in mood, including increased anxiety or paranoia.
If you’re considering using CBN, it’s always best to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed, and to consult with a healthcare provider first to determine if it’s the right choice for you and to monitor for any side effects. Additionally, it’s important to use CBN products that are sourced from reputable suppliers and are third-party tested to ensure their quality and purity.
