CBN/cannabinol is a cannabinoid-like CBD found in cannabis plants. Although CBN is similar to CBD in terms of source and some medicinal properties, both compounds vary in terms of their method of production and way of interacting with the body. The article that follows discusses the lesser-known cannabinoid, CBN, and its effects.
CBN
Cannabis plants contain hundreds of cannabinoids and CBN is one among them. It was the first-ever cannabinoid that naturally occurred and was extracted in its purest form. Because the compound was extracted from cannabis known for its euphoric properties, people thought CBN was responsible for the cannabis high but later learned that THC was the cannabis compound that is responsible for the intoxicating effects in the users. It was discovered that CBN formed as a result of THC being oxidized. When brought in contact with light or heat, THC slowly transitions to CBN.
Rather than the genetic factors, it is the environmental factors that determine the level of CBN in cannabis. The older cannabis or its extracts that were exposed to light or were kept without being refrigerated have higher chances of containing CBN. As of now, there aren’t any high CBN strains available in the market and hence the optimal way of obtaining the compound is by oxidizing THC and CBD.
Does CBN Produce Intoxicating Effects?
CBN on its own does not cause a high in the users, but the effects of the compound aren’t fully researched by conducting human studies. THC closely interacts with the cannabinoid receptors of our endocannabinoid system. CBN also binds to CB1 receptors but with a strength that is one-tenth of that of THC.
What Are The Benefits Of CBN?
More research is required into the medical benefits of CBN but from studies to date, CBN offers a yield of benefits. A study that got published in the British Journal of Pharmacology in the year 2011 revealed that a combination of CBN and THC potentially produced a more sedated high in humans. Older cannabis products like Moroccan hashish have greater relaxing potential than many other types due to their higher CBN content.
Researchers have also found that CBN may be an anti-inflammatory, anti-convulsant, and appetite stimulant. When used in combination with CBD, the compound can also offer pain relief benefits. Some studies have also demonstrated the sleep-enhancing property of CBN, amongst its other benefits.
That said, there is scope for further research to fully understand the potential of CBN and make the best use of it just like CBD is being used now.