Cannabis, also referred to as hemp or marijuana, has a long history of human use. But lately, the buzz around cannabis and the cannabinoids within it has increased. While most people are mainly familiar with cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), hemp extracts the plant has dozens of other cannabinoids to offer, each with potential medicinal benefits. 

The other cannabinoids are often referred to as “Minor Cannabinoids.” One such cannabinoid is CBN, short for cannabinol. Its potential benefits are being uncovered with new clinical studies, and anecdotal reports. The data coming in shows unmatched abilities to provide anti-inflammation and pain-relieving benefits.

They’re over 100+ cannabis compounds found in the hemp plant. This article discusses in-depth what you need to know about CBN, what it is, its potential benefits, Cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system. 

What Is CBN Oil?

Cannabinol, or simply CBN, is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that occurs naturally in cannabis plants. Though it possesses some similarities to CBD, its origin is different as it is created through the degradation or oxidation of THC (the psychoactive cannabinoid that gets you high).

Because THC degrades with age, you will mainly find high amounts of CBN in older cannabis plants. This explains the different effects experienced when you consume older cannabis vs. freshly cured cannabis, even when the strain is the same.

Growers cannot possibly produce strains with high amounts of cannabinol. That's because the levels of CBN in the cannabis plant depend on their THC content, age, and exposure to heat/oxygen.

Therefore, manufacturers looking to produce cannabinol on a large scale usually expose THC to light, heat, and oxygen (O2), which chemically breaks it down into CBN. Third party lab testing helps determine the potency of the final plant matter. 

CBN vs. CBD

Although CBN and CBD both occur naturally in hemp plants, they possess very significant differences. Perhaps the most obvious comparison is that CBD occurs in abundant amounts in cannabis while CBN is found in much lower amounts.

CBN inherits some of its properties from its predecessor, THC. This means that CBN can bind directly to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS, albeit at a much lower strength than THC. This interaction provides mildly psychoactive effects that may go unnoticed in some people. 

Note that CBN does not provide euphoric effects, and that's why it's more commonly compared to CBD than THC. CBD does not directly bind with the CB1 and CB2 receptors and does not produce a high or euphoric effect.

CBN and CBD work best together giving us an entourage effect as they work together as a full spectrum to activate our endocannabinoid system. Pair these two, together with watermelon zskittlez terpene profile and you have one great tasting tincture from KC Hemp Co. Our Serenity tincture can work great both as a sleep aid and potential pain relief throughout the day. 

CBN and The Endocannabinoid System

CBN delivers its effects by interacting with our endocannabinoid system. Although discovered back in the 1890s, Cannabinol studies are limited.

However, experts believe that CBN binds directly to the CB receptors in the ECS, but with only about a tenth the effects of THC. This interaction is the source of CBNs infamous psychoactive effects. But the psychoactive effects of the minor cannabinoid are incredibly mild compared to those offered by THC.

Potential CBN Medical Benefits 

•   Antibacterial

Studies have found that CBN may be a potent antibacterial cannabinoid. During a study carried out in a lab setting, CBN was tested on a variety of MRSA bacteria that are resistant to regular antibiotics.

The researchers found that CBN is a potent antibacterial agent that can address these antibiotic-resistant bacteria. These results suggest that perhaps CBN will be used in the future against bacterial infections that our traditional antibiotics can't address.

•   Anti-inflammatory

CBN possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help those dealing with rheumatoid arthritis. In an earlier rodent study, CBN was found to reduce arthritis. Although CBN has shown its potential to help those battling this enfeebling symptom, more research is still required in this area.

•   Appetite Stimulation

CBN may provide incredible help to those with appetite loss. Although THC is a well-known appetite stimulator, its intoxicating effects make it a less desirable option for many people. CBN was found to increase the amount of food consumed by rodents during a study.  Which means that it may be a better alternative for those needing an appetite boost without the high of THC.

•   Neuroprotectant

CBN was found to delay the onset of ALS symptoms in mice effectively. While more human studies are needed in this area, CBN effects may end up being a powerful neuroprotectant to help ALS patients and those with other neurodegenerative conditions.

CBN Products Available On The Market Right Now

There is a wide variety of CBN products to choose from, like tinctures, capsules, vapes, topicals, edibles, and even isolates. We always recommend buying from a reputable source like KC Hemp Co. just like any other cannabis product knowing you're buying from a Pure. Clean. Trusted. Source should always be top priority, in an unregulated market.

  Buying Cannabis products online is a safe and convenient way to purchase your favorite edibles,  tinctures, bath and body.  

The purpose of this blog is not intended to treat, cure, or diagnose any health issues. If you are currently on any cholesterol medication please consult your doctor before using cannabinoid based products.