What Is CBN?

Cannabinol, known commonly as “CBN” is a cannabinoid found in cannabis. When THC (the stuff in marijuana that gets you high) is heated (burned) or exposed to oxygen for long periods of time (oxidization), it is converted into CBN. Because THC is the precursor, CBN is generally found in marijuana, however it could be found in extremely low quantities in hemp.

Often, people view CBN as undesirable, because it means the flowers have a lower THC content. This is one reason that marijuana that has been sitting for long periods of time has less of a pronounced effect (it doesn’t get you as high…). However, the “high” from marijuana is just one aspect of the plant, and the vast array of cannabinoids, terpenes and other phytochemicals account for a variety of benefits. CBD is a perfect example.

Lets Dig A Little Deeper…

CBN is similar to CBD, as it is non-psychoactive. However there is a key difference. CBN binds to our cannabinoid receptors, whereas CBD does not. CBN does not bind to receptors to the same degree as THC, and it tends to have tranquillizing effects. This effect contributes to a restful sleep, and can be as effective as conventional pharmaceutical sedatives.

As Effective As Sleeping Pills…

 At Steep Hill, researchers found that 2.5mg to 5mg of CBN is as effective of a body relaxer and sleep aid, as 5mg to 10mg of the pharmaceutical diazepam. When mixed in proper rations with CBD and THC, an effective sleep aid is produced, lasting for 5-6 hours. Indica strains of marijuana, which are known for their sedative and relaxing “body high” effects, generally have higher levels of CBN. This is important to note, because CBN tends to be far more effective when combined with other cannabinoids, especially THC and CBD.

CBN Enhances Bone, Skin, And Eye Health…

Our bodies contain mesenchymal stem cells, which generally transform into blood cells, however they can also turn into bone and tissue. Further studies are needed, however initial observation indicates CBN could be useful in healing bone fractures, by stimulating the mesenchymal stem cells in bone marrow surrounding the injury [1]

It has been found to help regulate the growth of skin cells. This could help to alleviate symptoms related to skin conditions such as psoriasis. This inflammatory skin condition, is generally a result of skin cells growing too rapidly. CBN has also been shown to effectively reduce pressure in the eyes, and offers relief from glaucoma symptoms. CBN helps with pain management and in the fight against free radicals.

To Summarize…

CBN is found in small quantities in cannabis flowers, rarely more than 1%. Similar to CBD, it is an anti-inflammatory and effective pain relief. In combination with CBD, CBN could prove to have some very promising benefits. Some of these benefits include, relaxation, restful sleep, pain management, eye health, bone healing, and regulation of skin cell growth. Each year, cannabis is becoming more widely accepted, and scientists are digging deeper into this magical plant. There is no doubt that compounds such as CBN will continue to be discovered, and that knowledge of their medicinal applications will continue to expand. Stay tuned for more information about this 21st century miracle plant.

Where To Buy CBN?

CBN is not as widely known, or as widely available, as cannabinoids such as CBD and THC. However with time, we are confident this lesser known cannabinoid will hit the spot light. For now, keep your eyes out for unusual tinctures, edibles, capsules, and oils with significant CBN content. If you live in a state with legal cannabis, go to your local dispensaries and inquire if they have any professionally tested strains with high CBN content.

Patriot Hemp

 At Patriot Hemp, our mission is to provide high quality CBD oil to those who can benefit from it. We focus particularly on government employees, veterans, people suffering from PTSD, military personnel, nurses and those in positions of service. That is why we offer several CBD products that contain zero THC. This means you can enjoy all the benefits of CBD without the risk of THC. Find our products and more at https://patriotcbd.org/

[1] Scutt A, Williamson EM (2007) Cannabinoids stimulate fibroblastic colony formation by bone marrow cells indirectly via CB2 receptors.