Minor Cannabinoids are being researched and utilized more frequently as the cannabis and hemp industries evolve. Efficacy and specific uses are increasingly sought after by the savvier patient and recreational consumer. CBD has historically been utilized for reducing stress and anxiety which, in-turn assists users who experience issues with sleep disorders. Recent findings suggest that CBN (Cannabinol), a byproduct of degrading THC, may work as a natural sedative (without the psychoactive effects of Delta 9 THC). In addition to the implied sedative properties, CBN may also boast a myriad of other health benefits, including relieving/reducing pain and inflammation, neuroprotectivity, antibacterial properties, and appetite stimulation.
CBN EFFECTS & MEDICAL USE
Studies conducted on CBN and sleep are sorely lacking. In fact, only one published study addresses the possible link of CBN to sedative, sleep-inducing effects. However, combined with CBD and/or THC (which is likely attributed to the “entourage effect”) many patients have reported significant improvements to their sleep routine, including falling asleep faster, staying asleep longer, and waking up without grogginess. Cannabis Laboratory Steep Hill had previously referenced 2.5mg of CBN as having the same level of sedation as 5mg to 10mg of diazepam. Their website has since removed this anecdote and has replaced it with a more ambiguous comment citing the need for further study.
There is mounting evidence suggesting that CBN may be effective in reducing pain and inflammation, and without any significant psychoactive effects, CBN could be a useful alternative for patients fearing the “high” of Delta 9 THC. A 2019 study found success in using CBN for analgesic relief in rats. Conclusions suggested that CBN could be linked to relief in chronic pain disorders like fibromyalgia without any apparent side effects. Another 2016 study in rodents found conclusive evidence suggesting that CBN reduced arthritis-induced inflammation.
Further studies have found evidence suggesting neuroprotective, antibacterial, and appetite-stimulating effects in rodents. Studies done in cats observed evidence supporting conjectures that CBN could reduce ocular tension and the effects of glaucoma. Little to no research has been done on humans to test these theories. Additional exploration is imperative to confirm the anecdotal evidence currently available on the overall effects of CBN.
LEGALITY
CBN is not on the list of Schedule I Controlled Substances in the United States. When derived from Hemp, CBN is considered to be federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill which expressly legalized “derivatives, extracts, [and] cannabinoids”. It is difficult to grow hemp strains with CBN concentrations high enough to be used for extraction. Most if not all the CBN extract found in the US market is the product of decarboxylation, a chemical process that converts CBD (or THC) into CBN. It can be further argued that because CBN is not similar in effects to THC, hemp-derived CBN should not be considered a “controlled substance."
In contrast, when CBN is obtained from the degradation of THC extracted from cannabis, the federal legality becomes murkier. In 2016 the Drug Enforcement Administration added cannabis extracts to Schedule I, creating uncertainty as to the federal legality of the CBN cannabinoid.
CBN PRODUCTS
CBN has been used in products promoting sleep since the dawn of the legal cannabis market and continues to gain popularity in the hemp CBD space as well. In WA state, respected brand Green Revolution boasts a myriad of CBN products. Including a “Beauty Sleep” tincture which has a potency of 80mg THC, 40mg CBD & 20mg CBN and retails for $40-$48, available at High5 and GreenHead Cannabis. Mary’s Medicinals (available in OR dispensaries) manufactures a CBN capsule with a potency of 5mg CBN per piece. This product retails for $50-$55.
There are several online CBD retailers offering CBN products. Keep in mind that federal regulation of this market is limited. We recommend purchasing hemp products from a reputable source that does regular 3rd party testing and makes these tests available for viewing on their website. CBD American Shaman sells a CBNight Water Soluble formula with 4mg CBN per serving (120mg of CBN per bottle). The product has a total of 30 servings and retails for $99.95. Naternal, a CBD company based out of NC produces a sleep tincture called “Rest”, with soothing vanilla and lavender flavor. This tincture contains 40mg CBD and 5mg CBN per 1mL serving (1200mg CBD and 150mg CBN per bottle) and retails for $45.
DOSAGE
As legality of minor cannabinoids in the United States is more clearly defined, we expect that emerging research will offer more insight as to the potential benefits of CBN. Until then, a bit of “trial and error” is recommended. Everyone’s body chemistry is different. Subsequently, various concentrations and dosages work best from individual to individual. If you decide to give CBN a try, we suggest starting with a low dosage of 2.5mg, wait at least an hour for full effects and determine if a 2nd dose is necessary. There are no known side effects of CBN use but consultation with your physician is always recommended.
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