CBN: Everything you need to know about this natural cannabinoid with unique effects

Lately, we've talked a batch about new commercial molecules, like HPE CBD, CBDX , and all that. But today, we're going to talk about a very real, studied, and natural molecule: CBN!

Cannabinol, present in the flowers and resins, is a byproduct of THC, known since the 19th century. It exhibits unique characteristics that warrant closer examination.

Want to know how this natural cannabinoid is created? From flower synthesis to chemical manipulation and its effects, we tell you everything about CBN.

What is CBN?

CBN, or cannabinol, is a naturally occurring secondary cannabinoid. However, it differs somewhat from CBG, CBC, or even CBDP, which are also naturally occurring molecules. CBN is not synthesized by the plant during its growth; it is produced from the breakdown of THC.

Indeed, Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a fragile molecule; when exposed to air, light, and heat, it degrades, losing its hydrogen atoms. Part of the THC then transforms into cannabinol, our well-known CBN.

CBN classification

CBN belongs to the dibenzopyran family and its chemical formula is C₂₁H₂₆O₂. With a central tetrahydrodibenzopyran nucleus and the presence of an oxidized benzene ring, CBN has very different properties from THC.

Indeed, CBN, as an oxidized version of Δ9-THC, has lost one of the single bonds in its ring and gains an additional double bond, which alters its interaction with cannabinoid receptors.

History and discovery of the CBN

CBN has a history as surprising as its effects. Contrary to what one might expect, CBN was the first cannabinoid to be isolated. Its discovery dates back to 1896and is attributed to Thomas Barlow Wood, W.T. Newton Spivey, and Thomas Hill Easterfield, but although they isolated the cannabinoid, they were unable to clearly identify it.

It was only in 1932 that RS Cahn managed to describe in more detail the chemical structure of the molecule, which officially took the name cannabinol (CBN).

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Its synthesis was not long in coming; eight years later, in 1940, two chemists, Rogers Adams in the United States and Lord Todd in the United Kingdom, succeeded in synthesizing it. It was then believed to be the main psychoactive compound in cannabis and responsible for the plant's psychotropic effects.

It was not until the 1960s, and the discovery of THC by the famous Professor Mechoulam in tandem with Yechiel Gaoni, that it was understood that the psychoactive effects of cannabis are not due to CBN.

Further studies followed, attempting to understand the effects of CBN and its role in the entourage effect when combined with THC or CBD.

The effects of CBN

The recreational appeal of the CBN

CBN has definite potential in medical research, as we will see later. But some consumers also find it beneficial for recreational use.

CBN is a mild psychoactive substance

Although it has a potency approximately 10 times lower than THC, CBN still retains psychoactive effects. It produces a mild feeling of relaxation, lightheadedness, and a short-lived, mild euphoria, without the intense "high" of THC. However, it does not trigger the adverse effects such as stress and/or paranoia that can be associated with THC use.

It induces a feeling of relaxation and calm

CBN can be a source of relaxation and calm, partly due to its psychoactive effects, but also to its mild sedative effect. CBN is considered a cannabinoid that can aid sleep and may be used as a mild sleep aid. Research suggests these effects are relative, but they do exist.

It could have a beneficial effect on stress

The mildly psychoactive and slightly sedative effects could help some people remain calm during stressful situations.

Thanks to their effects, CBN-rich products could prove useful for consumers seeking an alternative to illegal cannabis. Since CBN is formed through the aging of THC, it resembles aged cannabis, producing similar but less intense effects.

The scientific and medical value of CBN

Although it was the first cannabinoid discovered and isolated, CBN is now far less studied than THC or CBD. However, a significant amount of preliminary research suggests several interesting medicinal properties:

Effects of CBN on sleep

This is undoubtedly the property of CBN that is most highlighted today. According to some studies, CBN, in the presence of THC, has properties superior to certain sedative analgesics such as diazepam. [1] However, the results do not seem to be universally accepted. Other studies are currently underway to determine the efficacy and safety of CBN in the treatment of insomnia. [2]

Neuroprotective properties

Research conducted by the Salk Institute has shown that CBN may protect brain cells against aging and neurodegeneration in tests performed on fruit flies. [3] Other studies have also observed positive effects that could prove useful in preventing or slowing diseases such as Alzheimer's, glaucoma, and other neurological discheckouts. [49]

The effects of antibiotics

Some studies conducted on mice have shown that CBN may have antibiotic effects. According to the American Chemical Society, CBN has been shown to delay the onset of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). [10] In other cases, it may replace certain antibiotics in treating some bacteria that have become resistant to drugs. [11]

Immunomodulatory properties

CBN may influence the balance of the immune system, either strengthening or calming it, depending on the case. This property could prove beneficial in the treatment of certain autoimmune diseases, such as Crohn's disease, or in preventing organ rejection during transplants. [12,13,14]

The anti-cancer potential

Studies have suggested that CBN may slow the growth of certain cancer cells and promote their destruction. It has been studied in lung cancer, leukemia, and colorectal cancer. Studies conducted on mice with tumors showed that CBN reduced tumor size and increased the animals' survival time by 27%. [15,16,17,18]

Analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects

Studies have also shown that although it behaves differently from aspirin or morphine, it can be effective in treating pain and inflammation. Specifically, it could treat:

• Inflammatory pain19]
• Chronic and muscular pain20]
• Pain due to nerve damage20]
• Pain due to shocks, injuries or surgical operations, or burns21]

Smaller studies have also been able to demonstrate

• Sedative effects: It decreased post-swimming grooming time in mice, which suggests, according to the study, that CBN may have a sedative effect. [22]
• Cough suppressant: CBN was able to reduce experimentally induced cough. [23]
• Increased appetite : It stimulates appetite via the activation of CB1 receptors, although it is less potent in this regard than THC. [24]
• Anticonvulsant effects: It protects against seizures induced by electroshocks or chemical substances, suggesting that it may show promise in the treatment of epilepsy. [25]
• Antioxidant effects: It neutralizes free radicals and protects neuronal cells against oxidative stress, which could induce a positive effect on cellular aging. [26]Furthermore, another study showed that its skin absorption is ten times greater than that of THC, making it a good candidate for dermatological applications. [27]
• Effect on addiction: One study demonstrated that CBN attenuated morphine withdrawal symptoms in an animal model. [28]

Other forms of CBN

Thanks to its many properties, CBN is certainly beneficial when consumed alone. But it's probably even more so when it's modified or combined with THC (up to 0.3%), CBD, and other cannabinoids. As you know, combining cannabinoids creates an entourage effect that amplifies the potency of each individual cannabinoid.

The THCN

This product, made in-house, is composed of high-quality CBD flower. These flowers, naturally rich in cannabinoids and terpenes, are infused in a high-concentration CBN isolate. Leveraging the entourage effect, the THCN produces a mild psychoactive effect accompanied by a feeling of psychological relaxation, oscillating between sedation and gentle euphoria. It's the perfect product for chilling out.

Cannabinoid mixes

In our shop we have two ranges of cannabinoid mixes that include CBN.

Discover our CBD Derivatives

THM : An acronym for The Hot Mix, THM is a potent blend combining CBD, CBDP, CBG, CBN, and CBC in varying proportions. Also leveraging the entourage effect, this product creates a mild psychoactive effect, but it primarily triggers a genuine feeling of euphoria and a profound sense of relaxation and calm.

MCPN Acronym for Maximum Cannabinoid Power Natural, MCPN contains CBN, CBD, CBC, and CBG. According to reviews, it is a good product for promoting relaxation and sleep, as well as reducing stress. It is also said to increase appetite.

The H3CBN

H3CBN is a hydrogenated form of CBN, banned in most European countries in 2024, like other cannabinoids of the type.

Its effects were surprisingly contrary to traditional CBN. Whereas CBN is known for its mildly psychoactive and sedative effects, H3CBN would cause strong psychoactivity, similar to that of THCP, as well as an energizing effect, accompanied by a feeling of wakefulness, mental clarity, and marked euphoria.

CBN Consumption

There are several products that allow the consumption of CBN, often in the form of CBD enriched with CBN.

CBN oil

Often available as full-spectrum oils enriched with CBN, CBD-CBN oils are convenient and discreet, allowing for safe and effective consumption. Simply place a few drops under your tongue. The number of drops depends on the product's concentration, your weight, and the desired effects. This dosage is no different from that of regular CBD oils. If you need help finding the right CBD-CBN oil dosage for you, please refer to our article: How to Dose CBD Oil.

CBN in oil form acts almost immediately (within 10 to 30 minutes) and usually lasts between 2 and 4 hours.

Vaporizing CBN flowers and resins

Vaporizing is one of the simplest and most effective ways to consume CBN, THCN, or THM flowers and resins. Remember that smoking these products is illegal.

The boiling point of CBN is around 185°C, so we recommend consuming CBN products between 185°C and 200°C. The lower temperature allows for mild and gradual effects, while the higher temperature ensures maximum vaporization of the active ingredients.

If you need help using your vaporizer, you can also check out our article on the subject.

CBN capsules

Capsules are just as practical and discreet as oil, if not more so! They have several advantages:

• They allow for a safe and stable dose to be consumed from one intake to the next.
• They have no taste
• CBN is ingested, so it is activated by digestion. The effects take longer to appear – between 30 minutes and 1 hour – but last longer than the oil, generally 6 to 8 hours.

Legal status of CBN and contraindications

Like CBD, CBN is generally well-tolerated, has no addictive effects, and presents few or no particular risks; therefore, it is perfectly legal in France and most European countries. You can buy, possess, and consume CBN products completely freely.

However, it's important to remember that, like CBD, it can interact with medications, so you should consult your doctor if you are currently taking any medication. The products may contain up to 0.3% THC, a low level but one that can be detected by drug testing. CBN products are prohibited for minors and strongly discouraged for pregnant women.