Meet CBN: The New Cannabinoid Set to Dethrone CBD

CBN Cannabinoid

CBD — have you heard of it? Jokes aside, it’s no secret that CBD has exploded into the wellness world, but the real question is — have you heard of CBN? It stands for Cannabinol as opposed to CBD that stands for Cannabidiol. In terms of language, it seems a subtle difference, but there are some major distinctions in terms of effectiveness. In fact, CBN is set to dethrone CBD as the most talked about cannabinoid. 

CBN vs. CBD

A Quick Botany/Biology Lesson on the Topline Differences Between CBN & CBD
Before we get into the plants, the first thing to understand is that everyone has an endocannabinoid system. Yep, our bodies are actually wired for cannabinoids. However, the type of cannabinoid affects our bodies differently. Although both the cannabinoids CBN and THC bind to CB2 receptors and cause medicinal effects that can alleviate stress, pain, and insomnia, THC creates a psychoactive high, whereas CBN does not.

The Lessor Known Cannabinoids

As Right Wellness explains, “To date, CBD has been the frontrunner cannabinoid due to its abundance in the plant, whereas the lesser-known cannabinoids like CBN have been limited due to its relative difficulty to extract. Unlike CBD, which has a limited affinity for bonding to your receptors, CBN has a high affinity for your CB2 receptors. This is most likely why many people are finding CBN to be more effective for helping to manage pain, sleep, and anxiety than CBD, which are also the three main reasons most people take CBD.”

What Exactly Does CBN Do?

CBN is turning out to be what everyone hoped CBD would be (or at least for the effects CBD claims to help). For those that have dabbled in CBD, you may have felt it was providing a placebo effect rather than actual healing, and found yourself wondering, “Does CBD actually work?”

CBN Effects

You won’t find those issues with CBN. Instead, you’ll physically feel the effects. If you’ve ever taken THC you can expect a similar bodily response with CBN — basically, you’ll feel very relaxed. This is all made possible thanks to our good friend, science. CBN is a minor cannabinoid found in mature hemp plants, which makes it extremely rare and difficult to extract with purity.

CBN Cannabinoid Benefits 

Once CBN is inside the body, either via tincture or a quick release gel capsule, the molecular compound naturally bonds with specific receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system. A wide range of our body’s physiological functions and responses are managed by this complex system, including mood, pain perception, appetite, and cognitive functions. CBN helps the receptors in this system do what’s needed in order to invigorate all kinds of desirable changes, to give you a sense of balance and relief.

How Do You Use CBN? 

We are big believers in finding your way naturally. One of the beautiful things about CBN is that it can easily fit into your existing wellness regime. If you’ve been looking for a natural sleep-aid, pain reliever, or stress relief, CBN is definitely worth a try. You can use it as a tincture, mix it into teas or smoothies, or apply it topically. Just as with all new modalities, it’s best to start low and slow with plant-based medicines. Everyone has different physiology and will metabolize CBN uniquely. Keep track of your dosages and note your moods, aches, and pains until you find a system that works for you.

02.18.2021 - RACHEL GUEST