Did You Know…?

Cannabinol (CBN): The Cannabinoid That Helps You Sleep
Cannabis contains over 80 known cannabinoids. Until recently, however, THC was the only cannabinoid anyone seemed to care about. Recent research however, has increased interest in this particular cannabinoid.

As is the case in many of the known cannabinoids, cannabinol (CBN) stems from cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) in cannabis. The plant naturally produces enzymes (synthases) that convert the CBGA to one of 3 major cannabinoids: cannabichromene carboxylic acid (CBCA), cannabidiol carboxylic acid (CBDA), and tetrahydrocannabinol carboxylic acid (THCA).

When the plant develops THCA, it will be converted to THC as a result of heat or UV light. Importantly, THCA can be converted to CBNA over time as well. For example, prolonged exposure to air causes the THCA to lose hydrogen molecules and oxidize to produce CBNA. Just like the rest of the acidic cannabinoids, CBNA will convert to CBN when exposed to heat or UV light.

CBN may also result from improper storage or curing or from extensive processing. The longer cannabis is stored, the greater the amount of CBN it will likely express. As a result, one way to get the maximum CBN from your medicine is to let it age slightly. CBN is mildly psychoactive, approximately 10% of THC. Like CBD however, CBN also has a mitigating impact on THC, thereby reducing THC’s psychoactive effects

What Are The Benefits Of CBN?

Cannabis is widely used as a sleep-aid for those who suffer from insomnia. By all accounts, CBN is the cannabinoid most responsible for those sedative effects.

Another use for CBN as an anti-bacterial aid. Recent studies have shown CBN showed potent activity against MRSA when applied as a topical. Topical uses also have shown promise in treating burns and psoriasis. The research on CBN is still lacking, but some early studies have suggested it could also stimulate bone growth making it potentially helpful in treating osteoporosis.