With the growing popularity of the cannabinoid industry, the two most popular compounds are CBD (cannabidiol) and CBN (cannabinol). While both are derived from the same cannabis plant, they have different effects and distinct benefits. In this article we will compare the similarities and differences between CBD and CBN, their potential therapeutic benefits, side effects and how to choose between them.
What is the difference between CBD and CBN?
Both CBD and CBN are cannabinoids derived from the Cannabis Sativa Plant, but they differ in their chemical properties and therapeutic benefits.
What is CBD?
CBD or cannabidiol is the most popular and most researched cannabinoid on the market. Unlike THC (the psychoactive compound) it does not produce the ‘high’ or alter your state of mind. In the recent years it has been gaining popularity as a natural alternative to provide relief from anxiety, inflammation and pain.
Potential benefits of CBD :
– Pain management – CBD is very often used to help reduce inflammation, and may help to manage chronic pain by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates pain and inflammation
– Anxiety and depression – Cannabidiol CBD showed promising results in clinical trials to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. CBD may help with stress management and mood enhancement.
– Sleep disorder – CBD may aid in improving sleep quality and managing insomnia by influencing sleep-awake cycles.
CBD side effects
Generally, CBD is well tolerated, however, if taken in higher doses, it may have some side-effects. These may include, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, changes in appetite, and occasionally diarrhea, particularly when taken in high doses. It can also interact with other medications, so consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable if you are on other treatments.
What is CBN?
CBN (cannabinol) is a cannabinoid that forms as THC breaks down over time. Because of this reason, CBN is often associated with the aged cannabis plats, where THC is converted into CBN. CBN is reported to be mildly psychoactive, though it is significantly less potent than THC.
Therapeutic CBN properties
– Sleep Aid – CBN products are often praised for its sedative benefits. Preliminary research suggest it may help with sleep disorders and improve overall sleep quality. Like other sleep aids, CBN promotes deeper sleep, helping people wake up refreshed and energised.
– Appetite stimulation – Some studies suggest that CBN may have appetite-stimulating properties, which could be beneficial for individuals who have problems with appetite.
– Pain relief – Like other cannabis products, CBN also provides analgesic properties and could help people suffering from muscle or joint pain. CBN effects have been researched for its potential to help with chronic muscle pain disorders, becoming a more popular non-psychoactive options to manage pain.
CBN side effects
Like CBD, CBN is also well tolerated, however, it too can cause some side side effects. The overconsumption of CBN may lead to drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, and potentially a drop in blood pressure, which might cause light-headedness. It can also stimulate appetite, which may be beneficial for some but could lead to unwanted weight gain for others. As with any supplement, it’s important to start with a low dose of either compound, monitor your body’s response, and seek medical advice if you have any concerns or are taking other medications.
How to choose between CBD and CBN?
Choosing between CBD and CBM depend on your specific needs and goals. If you are looking for a supplement for general wellbeing and anxiety, CBD is often preferred due to its broad range of benefits, like sense of calmness, enhanced mood, reduced pain and anxiety. However, if you are looking for a more targeted help for insomnia and other sleep issues, a better choice would be CBN due to its sedative properties.
What is stronger: CBD vs CBN
The question which is stronger can be answered in two ways: The psychoactive potency and the therapeutic potency. CBNB is slightly more psychoactive than CBD and provides a mild sedative effect, whilst CBD is non-psychoactive, and its therapeutic effects come without affecting cognition or perception.
Whilst CBN is less studied compared to CBD, preliminary research suggest that CBN potential benefits may be most useful for people who want to enhance their sleep. On the other hand, CBD has been extensively studied for its potential to reduce anxiety, alleviate chronic pain and provide anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.
Is CBD and CBN legal?
The United States Farm Bill in 2018 legalised cultivating cannabis plants and its derivatives including CBD and CBN. The derivatives are considered legal as along as the CBN and CBD products have less than 0.3% THC, as outlined int he Controlled Substances Act. CBN and CBD products meet this requirement, however, individual states may introduce stricter laws than ban the use of cannabidiol CBD and CBN, so check your local laws before purchasing products made from the cannabis plant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take CBN for pain relief?
CBN may have potential for pain relief due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system, but CBD and other cannabinoids might be better options, because they have been researched for their pain relieving properties.
Can CBD and CBN show up on a drug test?
– CBD: Standard drug tests generally do not target CBD, but some CBD products may contain trace amounts of THC, which could lead to a positive result. Choose a CBD product that has been third-party tested for THC content to minimize risk.
– CBN: CBN is not typically tested for in standard drug screenings. However, because it is chemically related to THC, it could potentially be detected in more specialized tests.
Is CBN good for sleep?
Known for its potential sedative effects, CBN may help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Research suggest that CBN can enhance sleep quality, making it a promising option for those struggling with insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.
References:
- Atalay, S., Jarocka-Karpowicz, I. and Skrzydlewska, E., 2019. Antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties of cannabidiol. Antioxidants, 9(1), p.21.
- Corroon, J. (2021). Cannabinol and Sleep: Separating Fact from Fiction. Cannabis and cannabinoid research, 6(5), 366-371.
- Shannon, S., Lewis, N., Lee, H. and Hughes, S., 2019. Cannabidiol in anxiety and sleep: a large case series. The Permanente Journal, 23.
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