CBN, the sleep cannabinoid?
CBN molecular structure. Image from Weedmaps.
You may be familiar with the most well-known cannabinoids, THC and CBD, but more and more products containing rare cannabinoids are surfacing as the cannabis industry grows and develops new technologies that allows us to identify and extract even these lesser-known cannabinoids. Rare cannabinoids are those found in very low levels and that often have different boiling points, making them more difficult to extract and more expensive, since it’s not cost-effective to grow cannabis for these cannabinoids specifically. We also have a post on another rare cannabinoid, CBG, which you can find here.
If extracted properly, these cannabinoids can provide more insight as to the pharmacological potential of cannabis, and research is showing promising results!
THC – CBN
CBN for sleep:
Consumers and retailers claim that CBN promotes sleep, but how true is that statement?
It’s a public belief that CBN can work as a sedative, but that’s mostly concluded from anecdotal evidences. Those who consume cannabis that’s been sitting for a while claim their sedative effects are enhanced, since THC decarboxylates into CBN, but there is only one study from 1975 analyzing only 5 participants that supports that CBN acts as a sedative.
There is another theory as to why “old cannabis” seems to be more sedative: Terpenes. Some sedative terpenes, like Beta-Caryophyllene, have heavier and more stable molecular structures, so they do not dissipate as quickly as energetic terpenes, like Limonene.
Other health benefits of CBN:
- A more recent study from February 2022 found that CBN has neuroprotective properties that can protect brain cells from aging. It does so by disrupting a programmed cell death process called “ferroptosis”, and by protecting the cells mitochondria (which is responsible for generating the chemical energy needed to power a cell’s biochemical reactions). This study was performed in cultured cells, but scientists feel optimistic. More studies in animal models or humans are needed.
- A study from 2019 showed that a combination of CBD and CBN is an effective treatment for myofascial pain and fibromyalgia. The study also found that the combination of both cannabinoids worked better than using either cannabinoids alone.
- In 2016, a study on rodents found that CBN could also be an alternative treatment for arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- In 2012, another study analyzed CBN and discovered its potential as an appetite stimulant, which can be helpful to those with eating disorders or cancer.
- A 2005 animal study showed promise in the use of CBN to delay the onset of ALS, a nervous system disease that weakens muscles and impacts physical function.
CBN products available in Massachusetts:
Sleep+ by garden remedies Zonked gummies by nova farms liquid rest by surterra wellness
Taffy by cheeba chews Blackberry gummies by havn dark chocolate bar by incredibles
Feel Dreamy tincture gummies by theory wellness Sleep mxr tincture by rev clinics
Chocolate bites by Kiva doze tincture by dr solomon’s
Have you tried a CBN product for sleep? How was your experience? Share your thoughts! Email us at info@cannawisemed.org or drop a comment below.
Here at Canna~Wise Medicine, we can help you curate your cannabis wellness regimen. We provide our patients with the knowledge necessary to tackle the tough task of nailing down which cannabis products work for them, as well as guidance as to where they can find products containing specific cannabinoids or ingredients. Interested in getting your medical certification with us? Give us a call today at 774-321-6057 to book your evaluation! Your appointment includes free cannabis education and assistance with the state registration.
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Written by Letticia Freitas, Social Media and Outreach Manager at Canna~Wise Medicine and Canna~Collab Education. You can reach me at letticia@cannawisemed.org.
