Read on to learn all about CBN, how it affects the body, and how to use it. CBN is formed after the Cannabis sativa (cannabis) plant is harvested as a degradation product of THC. When THC is exposed to excessive amounts of heat and light (aka oxidation), it turns into a unique metabolite: CBN. Unlike THC, however, CBN does not have psychoactive effects. “A way of looking at it is that all the cannabinoids are like siblings living in the same house. Even though CBD has gotten the most media attention over the last decade, it doesn’t mean that the other siblings (like CBN) are not as cool and worthy. It just means their time to shine is soon,” says integrative health pharmacist and cannabis educator Swathi Varanasi, PharmD. CBD has also been studied more extensively in clinical settings than CBN, partially because it’s more readily available. Clinical research shows that CBD can be helpful for easing stress and anxiousness4, improving resilience5, and supporting a positive mood6.* Patel adds that CBN can’t quite compete (just yet) with the list of science-backed benefits CBD is thought to have. Cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) and 2 (CB2) are the most studied receptors in this system. The way different cannabinoids bind with these receptors has a big impact on their effect; for example, when CBD interacts with the CB1 receptor3, it seems to lead to feelings of relaxation.* While studies are still very preliminary, Gordon highlights that CBN does interact with the primary CB1 cannabinoid receptor but gently so. “It binds slightly better to the CB2 receptor,” he adds, “but still at relatively low potency. There are likely other interactions within the endocannabinoid system—although those haven’t been demonstrated well yet.” So while more human research is needed, Dani Gordon, M.D., a U.K.-based double board-certified medical doctor and author of The CBD Bible, tells mbg that CBN is likely more helpful for promoting calm when it’s paired with other cannabinoids in a full-spectrum hemp product.* Full-spectrum products contain the entire array of all the plant compounds found in a cannabis plant. They are all thought to work together synergistically, combining to enhance the product’s overall benefits—including relaxation and stress relief.* If you’re curious about using a full-spectrum product for stress relief, check in with your health care provider first to make sure it’s the right fit for you. Refer to this list for some of mindbodygreen’s favorite options.
