CBD vs. CBN
Cannabidiol, or CBD, has become increasingly popular in recent years as an alternative treatment for certain health conditions; another cannabinoid in its preliminary stages of research may not be far behind. Cannabinol (CBN), like CBD, is a chemical compound formed in the Cannabis sativa plant that can be used holistically. It’s associated with CBD for its health benefits and with THC as a byproduct, but with continuing developments, may soon find itself in the spotlight.
What is CBD?
CBD is the most commonly known cannabinoid behind THC, but among its several benefits, is non-psychoactive no matter the amount consumed. It can alleviate the symptoms of prominent health problems like inflammation, anxiety and depression, and chronic pain. CBD has also been studied closely as a method for managing seizures and other neurological conditions. Its anti-nausea properties have been utilized to combat cancer and chemotherapy side effects, even potentially slowing tumor growth and reducing cancer cells.
What is CBN?
Unlike CBD, CBN doesn’t occur naturally in the plant. When THC is oxidized, meaning it’s exposed to excessive heat and light, it reduces to a less potent form named CBN. Therefore, higher levels of the chemical can be found in dry-aged cannabis. Even though CBN originates from THC, the psychoactive element is weakened and can only be experienced in large doses. Researchers have found anything less than 50 milligrams isn’t likely to cause a “high”.
CBN can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain and stimulate appetite, all of which are like CBD benefits, but it may be more effective than its counterpart in regard to sleep disorders and glaucoma. CBN is promoted for more restful sleep due to a sedative-like effect and is powerful in releasing extreme eye pressure as part of a glaucoma diagnosis.
How do they take effect in the body?
Cannabinoids interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) connected to our nervous system to help regulate and stabilize the body. These functions include appetite and metabolism, pain sensation, and mood and memory, all known to be affected by the major active cannabinoids. CBD, CBN and THC each interact with the system differently to produce their effects. For example, when the ECS binds with THC, this creates the intoxicated feeling of being “high”.
Similarities between CBD and CBN
Although CBD and CBN have several benefits individually, they could potentially be more effective if combined, as cannabinoids work together to amplify their effects.
As previously mentioned, CBD and CBN have comparable side effects when ingested, and adversely, they are also the same. The list includes drowsiness, dizziness, nausea and dry mouth.
Product options are similar for these two, and are available in the forms of oils, capsules, edibles, topicals and through smoking devices.
Both are legal in most states as they comply with the 2018 Farm Bill, which made CBD and other products extracted from hemp federally legal to cultivate, possess and sell if they contain less than 0.3% of THC by dry weight.
Differences between CBD and CBN
CBD and CBN are found in different quantities within the cannabis plant; CBN is found only in trace amounts, while CBD is found at a high concentration.
CBD has been extensively researched and is still the preferred method for treating anxiety and pain. The full potential of CBN is still unknown, but it’s already being recommended for sleep disorders and glaucoma.
CBN can also be four to 10 times more expensive than CBD simply due to its lower concentration and smaller supply. As a byproduct of THC, it’s more difficult to isolate for research and production, and takes time to extract after the oxidation process is complete.
Where to buy CBD and CBN
CBN options can be found from popular CBD brands. When shopping, look for products that have a certificate of analysis, which details the levels of cannabinoids, molds, metals and pesticides in the product. The company should use a third-party tester to prevent biases. For example, Hawley Hemp Labs offers services to analyze hemp supply for moisture, potency, heavy metals, and microbials.
CBD and CBN have many similarities in the way they can provide relief for those suffering from various health impediments. CBD is still becoming increasingly reputable and best known to calm anxiety and chronic pain. Still in early stages of research, CBN is a derivative of THC and has already built a strong case for sleep aid and glaucoma relief.
Websites:
Aremu, Femi. “Endocannabinoids: What Are They and What Do They Do?” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 26 Feb. 2021, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/endocannabinoid#function.
Julia, Nina. “Differences between CBD vs. CBN: What Are the Benefits and Potential Side Effects.” CFAH, 29 Apr. 2022, https://cfah.org/cbd-vs-cbn/#Why_Is_CBN_So_Expensive.
Lafaye, Genevieve, et al. “Cannabis, Cannabinoids, and Health.” Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, Les Laboratoires Servier, 19 Sept. 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5741114/#:~:text=Cannabis%20(also%20known%20as%20marijuana)%20is%20a%20psychoactive%20plant%20that,cannabinoids%20have%20presently%20been%20identified.
Silva, Lauren. “What Is CBN?” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 28 Apr. 2022, https://www.forbes.com/health/body/what-is-cbn/.
Theisen, Eloise. “Is CBD Oil an Effective Cancer Treatment?” Medical News Today, MediLexicon International, 9 Feb. 2021, https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-cbd-oil-for-cancer#:~:text=The%20National%20Cancer%20Institute%20adds,prevent%20cancer%20cells%20from%20multiplying.
Varanasi, Swathi. “CBD vs. CBN: What Are the Main Differences?” GoodRx, GoodRx, 14 July 2021, https://www.goodrx.com/well-being/alternative-treatments/cbd-vs-cbn.
