What is CBN? Exploring Cannabinol
23 January 2024 · Pax LabsWhen it comes to cannabinoids, THC tends to get all the attention. Though this psychoactive cannabis compound is useful, it's not the only important cannabinoid to know about. Cannabinol, or CBN for short, is another exciting cannabinoid you may want to try. Check out this helpful guide to learn how CBN works and whether it's right for you.
The science behind CBN: How it differs from CBD and THC
Like CBD and THC, CBN is a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. These types of plant compounds interact with your body's endocannabinoid system and help to regulate things like movement, learning, emotion, and pain. CBN is created whenever THC starts to oxidize after exposure to light, heat, or air.
Though the CBN cannabinoid is in the same class of chemicals as CBD and THC, it has a slightly different molecular structure. While CBD and THC mostly act on the CB1 receptor in the brain, CBN fully binds with both the CB1 and CB2 receptors. These molecular differences might seem small, but they result in big changes to the effects you feel after using CBN vs. THC or CBD.
The effects of CBN (cannabinol)
The CBN cannabinoid has a broad range of effects. Some people say it feels like a lighter version of THC, while others report that its sensations are entirely different.
What does CBN do?
When you take CBN, it impacts the parts of your brain that regulate sleep, appetite, and pain. The full effects of this cannabinoid aren't understood yet because it still hasn't been studied closely. However, people who've tried it often report that they feel calm, happy, sleepy, or hungry.
Is CBN psychoactive?
As a derivative of THC, CBN is mildly psychoactive. This means that it can cause an altered state of perception like THC does. However, people typically state that it is less intense and less intoxicating.
Benefits and applications of CBN
CBN is a cannabinoid that has a lot of potential. Since it provides some of the effects of cannabis without being as strong as THC, many people hope that it can enhance wellness without being distractingly psychoactive. CBN cannabis hasn't been fully researched in a clinical setting yet, but some who try it report the following helpful sensations:
- Lifts mood
- Reduces stress
- Enhances meals
- Promotes sleep
CBN vs CBD
A lot of people mix up these two compounds because they sound similar. However, CBN is quite different because it's mildly psychoactive. Though it's not as strong as THC, its effects are much more pronounced than CBD. Especially in large doses, CBN can cause altered perceptions. Unlike CBD, CBN cannabis is less available and may be pricier to buy. It hasn't been involved in as many studies, and less is known about CBN effects.
How to use CBN
Of course, you can enjoy a little bit of naturally occurring CBN any time you vaporize dry flower in your PAX Plus. However, if you want CBN without any other cannabinoids, you'll need to try some sort of extract. Manufacturers make extracts by either removing it from the cannabis plant or by synthesizing it from THC. This allows you to enjoy all the benefits of CBN cannabinoids by itself. Here are the most popular forms:
- CBN cartridges: These cartridges let you use the compound in a vaporizer.
- CBN edibles: A gummy or other type of edible lets you eat the cannabinoid.
- CBN tinctures: You can drop tinctures onto your tongue to ingest them.
- CBN creams: Some people like to apply this compound to their skin.
Incorporating CBN into your wellness routine
There are many ways to add CBN cannabinoids to your life. Some people find that it's a pleasant way to wind down at the end of a rough day. You can take it while getting ready for bed or try a little while relaxing and watching a movie. Others enjoy incorporating CBN into their daily habits. You can try using a CBN cream during your skincare routine or taking it before meals.
The legality of CBN
Since CBN's popularity is so new, most states don't even have laws yet addressing the cannabinoid specifically. Check your local laws and consult with an attorney if needed.
Frequently asked questions about CBN
Discover more useful information about the CBN cannabinoid.
What does CBN stand for?
The meaning of CBN is simply "cannabinol." Despite the similar-sounding names, it doesn't stand for cannabidiol or cannabinodiol.
What is the difference between CBN and CBG (cannabigerol?)
Like CBN, CBG is a less well-known cannabinoid that affects both the CB1 and CB2 receptors. However, CBG isn't psychoactive and isn't a byproduct of THC oxidation.
Can CBN be used as an appetite stimulant or suppressant?
Most people who try CBN cannabis report that it makes them feel hungry. However, everyone interacts with cannabinoids differently, so some may feel less hungry.
Though CBN is a fairly new cannabinoid, it's already attracting a lot of attention due to its blend of effects.