Everything you need to know about CBN - research, benefits and effects
Research suggests that each cannabinoid has different potential uses and benefits, both as an isolated compound and when combined with other cannabinoids to create what is known as the entourage effect. CBN is no exception. Let's take a closer look at CBN and explain why this cannabinoid should not be neglected.
What is CBN
CBN is one of the ten most important (phyto)cannabinoids in cannabis, alongside THC and CBD. It is considered a cannabinoid with a weak psychoactive effect, which according to some studies is even up to ten times less than that of THC. Cannabinoids are the active chemical compounds responsible for the medicinal effects of cannabis. Although most cannabinoids occur naturally in the cannabis plant, this is not entirely true for CBN.
CBN is formed as a byproduct of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) when THC is broken down by oxygen or heat. The concentration of cannabinol in raw plant material is usually 1% or less, while freshly harvested cannabis contains almost no CBN.
Does CBN Affect Your Drug Test? The Connection Between CBN and THC
CBN is the first plant-based cannabinoid that scientists were able to isolate. Before the discovery of THC, researchers mistakenly believed that CBN was responsible for the intoxicating effects of cannabis. Although CBN can have some psychotropic effects, it is not capable of inducing narcotics. Research shows that CBN is slightly more psychotropic than CBD and up to ten times less psychotropic than THC.
The link between CBN and THC was demonstrated by a 1999 study that showed that the THC content in a cannabis sample halved over time and degraded into CBN. These results suggest that THC is converted to CBN over time.
CBN effect on body
The cannabis plant interacts with the human body through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which includes a series of receptors that maintain homeostasis in the body. CBN interacts with the ECS in different ways, primarily through CB1 and CB2 receptors, which bind to the brain and nervous system and the immune system, respectively. CBN has a similar chemical composition to THC and is thought to bind primarily to the CB2 receptor.
How is CBN produced in cannabis plants?
Like most cannabinoids, CBN is made from cannabigeroleic acid (CBGA), the precursor to all cannabinoids. However, unlike other cannabinoids, CBN is not derived directly from CBGA. CBGA is converted by natural enzymes into various acid forms, which are then converted into CBN when exposed to heat.
Potential benefits and applications of CBN
Scientists have studied the effects of CBN as one of the main cannabinoids in cannabis, usually in combination with other cannabinoids.
Although further studies are needed, some potential benefits of CBN are mentioned:
- Calming properties: Previous beliefs about CBN's calming effects may have been incorrectly attributed to ancient terpenes. The sedative effect may rather come from other components.
- Pain relief: CBN could potentially relieve pain by releasing sensory neuropeptides and relaxing vascular tension.
- Reduction of intraocular pressure: Animal studies suggest that CBN may cause a significant reduction in intraocular pressure.
- Anti-inflammatory: CBN is among the compounds that may be effective in treating inflammatory conditions such as allergic asthma.
- Antibacterial: Studies show that CBN has strong antibacterial properties, especially against certain strains of MRSA.
- Appetite stimulant: Animal studies have found that CBN can be an effective appetite stimulant.
- Anticonvulsant effects: CBN may be effective in treating seizures, especially in combination with other cannabinoids.
- Neuroprotective: In one study, CBN showed a delay in the onset of the disease in a rodent model of ALS.
CBN production
Unlike THC and CBD, which can be extracted directly from the cannabis plant, CBN requires post-processing after the initial extraction. This process involves applying heat and oxygen to the extracted material to create CBN oil.
Where can you find high-quality CBN products?
Aging cannabis is not the best way to obtain high-quality CBN. Products like CBN oil and CBN isolates provide a controlled environment for isolating CBN and producing high-quality products.
Isolates and other high-quality CBN products can be found at FlowPow .
Effect of CBN
CBN is more effective when combined with other cannabinoids and terpenes, creating the so-called entourage effect. CBN products often contain a variety of cannabinoids and terpenes, which together can produce a stronger effect.
Although more research is needed, cannabinol, like most cannabinoids, is believed to be largely safe. However, some side effects may occur at high doses, including fatigue, drowsiness, decreased appetite, and dizziness.
Legal status
CBN is legal and is not on the international list of controlled substances.
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