What Is CBN?
Cannabinol (CBN) is one of more than 100 cannabinoids that occur naturally in the hemp plant.
Scientists found CBN about 100 years ago but it didn’t become very popular until people realized that combining CBN with THC produced a subtler high than using THC alone.
As a result, companies market and sell CBN mainly as a sleep aid. However, users have also found that it’s beneficial for other reasons. Cannabinol (CBN) is considered a minor cannabinoid as it exists in smaller quantities than THC and CBD.
CBN is more abundant in mature cannabis plants as THC molecules start to degrade from oxidation. As it’s a metabolite of THC, it tends to bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the central nervous system and produces mildly intoxicating effects in very high doses.
As you need such high doses to experience a high, most people don’t use CBN oil for its psychotropic effects but for its relaxation and sedative effects.
How Much CBN Should I Take to Sleep?
The right dose of CBN for sleeping is different for everyone. Just like CBD, CBN may affect every user differently because of its interaction with the endocannabinoid system.
Since there are limited studies on CBN specifically, most sources recommend following the same doses of CBN as CBD.
While CBN for sleep is safe to use, start with a lower dose in the beginning to avoid side effects. Start with about 25 mg to 50 mg, and keep experimenting with the amount until you find your sweet spot.
A great idea is to test your CBN oil on an evening when you don’t have anything urgent to attend to the next morning.
Also just like CBD, you should take your CBN oil an hour before your bedtime so that the CBN effects, other cannabinoids, and terpenes start taking control of your system.
Place your CBN oil below your tongue and hold it there for 15-20 seconds to allow its absorption through the network of micro capillaries, which will yield you much more absorption than swallowing it straightaway.
If you’re experiencing the CBN effects right away, you may need to allow your body more time to adjust to the cannabinoids.
Keep your CBN oil by your bedside as part of your wind-down regimen, and set an alarm if you want to so that you can remember to take it at the same time every evening. Your body can take up to 21 days to adjust to CBN and its benefits, so stay consistent.
How Does CBN Work for Sleep?
Cannabinoids are bioactive compounds derived from the hemp plant that work with a cell-signaling system present in all mammals called the ECS (Endocannabinoid System).
The ECS is made of 3 key components:
- Endocannabinoids: The neurotransmitters that work as messengers.
- CB1 & CB2 receptors: Endocannabinoids bind to send signals to a lot of organ systems.
- Enzymes: Break down the endocannabinoid after it has performed its job
This network manages several vital functions of the body such as sleep, pain perception, mood, memory, immune system, and more. CBN shows its effects by binding to cannabinoid receptors.
As a byproduct of degraded THC through the oxidation procedure, CBN still tends to bind to CB1 receptors concentrated in the nervous system. However, CBN doesn’t develop a strong bond with CB1, so it doesn’t produce intoxicating effects.
While the research on CBN is very limited, early research has found that CBN has similar effects to CBD and THC for supporting relaxation, normal immune response, pain relief, and sleep.
What Are the Benefits of Using CBN?
Here are some notable CBN benefits:
CBN supports restful sleep:
CBN may prolong sleeping time making itself a preferable choice for so many people looking for an effective and natural sleep supplement.
CBN provides a natural alternative to melatonin:
A lot of people take CBN instead of melatonin as it’s non-addictive and, when taken correctly, doesn’t induce feelings of drowsiness the next morning.
CBN promotes a healthy inflammatory response:
CBN has anti-inflammatory qualities. Some users find CBN great for pain management, and combine it with THC for best results.
CBN promotes mental relaxation & improves mood:
The biggest reason why CBN is so effective for sleep is that it promotes deeper mental relaxation and improves mood. Because of this, many users find CBN great for anxiety & stress relief.
Relieves pain:
CBN works with neurons involved with pain signaling and perception to reduce the sensations of pain.
What is the Difference Between CBN vs. CBD?
CBD is a broad-acting cannabinoid that works with the ECS to keep the levels of endocannabinoid raised for great communication for our most important systems, including managing our sleep-wake cycle.
CBN, just like THC, interacts with CB1 and CB2 receptors to have more localized CBN effects. Most of the research exploring the benefits of cannabinoids focuses mainly on CBD and THC. It’s crucial to keep in mind that the current research status on CBN is in its early stages.
However, that hasn’t prevented a lot of users from using CBN to support their sleep cycles because of its relaxing qualities, pain management, and ability to calm feelings of anxiousness and nervousness.
With CBN becoming more popular, some users report that CBN is more effective as a sleep aid than CBD, but this is anecdotal, and we don’t have a lot of evidence to claim that CBN is a sedative compound on its own or enhances sleep better than CBD or other cannabinoids.
These two cannabinoids share similar qualities that make them great for helping people who face trouble getting to sleep, such as relaxation, anti-inflammatory benefits, and pain-reducing qualities.
Cannabinoids may impact different users differently, so it’s difficult to make a statement about which cannabinoids will be better for sleep.
Is CBN Better for Sleep Than Melatonin?
Melatonin supplements trick your system’s hormones into making you feel exhausted, CBN addresses the issues that make falling asleep difficult such as pain, anxiety, inflammation, etc, while also offering sleep-inducing effects.
The sleep aid you choose ultimately depends on what you’re searching for. CBN and melatonin both are good for sleep but in different ways.
Melatonin is a sleep aid but also has minor side effects, and scientists are unsure about the long-term effects of melatonin supplements.
CBN is a hemp-extracted cannabinoid that shows a lot of promise — and for many users, it doesn’t give you the next-day grogginess that melatonin is known for.
How to Use CBN for Sleep?
There are several ways in which you can take CBN for sleep and no method is better than the other; it depends on what effects you are looking for. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing an intake method:
Average Bioavailability — The amount of CBN your body is able to use from a product.
Onset Time — How quickly you will experience the effects after consuming a product. We have also provided some information on how much dose to take of each type of product.
CBN Edibles
Average Bioavailability: 10-20%
Starts working in: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Dosage information: Edibles provide a consistent way to dose CBN, as each unit will contain the same amount. Most CBN gummies have about 10-20 mg each, so you can either eat a full gummy or a half one.
CBN Capsules
Average Bioavailability: 10-20%
Starts working in: 45 minutes to 1 hour
CBN Dosage information: CBN capsules, just like edibles, provide consistent dosing. The one drawback is that they don’t work best in small doses. Most capsules have high amounts of CBN per piece, and you can’t divide one in half to consume a smaller amount.
CBN Oil
Average bioavailability: 20-30%
Starts working in: 10 to 15 minutes
CBN Dosage information: CBN oil is taken under the tongue, not swallowed. Because of this, it works quicker and is stronger than other products. It also allows for accurate dosing. But the dosing can be confusing: how much CBN is in each dropper?
Usually, oils come with 1-milliliter droppers. According to the strength of your product, here’s how much CBN will be in each dropper of oil:
- 100mg bottle = 3.3mg CBN per 1 ml.
- 250mg bottle = 8.3mg CBN per 1 ml.
- 500mg bottle = 16.7mg CBN per 1 ml.
- 1000mg bottle = 33.3mg CBN per 1 ml.
- 1500mg bottle = 50mg CBN per 1 ml.
- 3000mg bottle = 100m CBN per 1 ml.
- 5000mg bottle = 166.6mg CBN per 1 ml.
Topical Application
The topical application of CBN oil is one of the simplest and handiest ways to use this product. Using CBN oil on your skin is also advised for various issues, such as supporting arthritis relief, thanks to its anti-inflammatory qualities.
Apply a tiny amount of the CBN oil onto your skin. You can also use it with other hemp-based products for awesome results.
Sublingual Absorption
The majority of users prefer taking CBN oil under their tongue. Many consider the sublingual absorption method the best way to reap the benefits of the oil. It acts fast as it enters the bloodstream directly and thus, works instantly to provide relief.
Mixing Into Food
You can add CBN oil to your food items if you want to absorb its beneficial qualities. It’s nothing new and there are plenty of CBD-infused food products and beverages nowadays such as CBN chocolates, CBN gummies, baked goods, and more.
You can also enjoy the long-lasting benefits of CBN oil as an ingredient in your food.
Timing Your Dose
You should test your CBN oil in the evening when you don’t have any important commitments the next morning.
Just like CBD, you should take your CBN oil an hour before your bedtime, to let the effects of CBN, terpenes, and other cannabinoids take their effects in your body.
Place your CBN oil below your tongue and hold it for about 15-20 seconds to let it absorb through the network of micro capillaries, which will give you a higher absorption rate than swallowing it directly.
Take Your CBN Product Consistently
If you are not experiencing the effects of CBN right away, you should give your body more time to adjust to the new levels of cannabinoids.
Keep your CBN oil on your bedside as part of your wind-down routine, and set an alarm if you want to so that you can take it at the same time every evening.
It can take up to 21 days for your system to adjust to CBN benefits, so stay calm and consistent.
Which Factors to Consider When Taking CBN for Sleep?
With CBN’s promising sleep benefits, determining your optimal CBN dosage is important for experiencing its maximum effects. There are a lot of factors to keep in mind for determining the appropriate CBN dose for high-quality rest:
Body weight
People with more body weight might need a higher dose than individuals with less body weight.
Starting low
Starting with a low dose of CBN and slowly increasing as required is recommended.
Sleep disorder
The specific sleep issue being addressed impacts ideal CBN dosage.
Individual variance
CBN dosing varies from user to user based on several factors.
Testing different quantities
Trying different CBN doses lets you find the most suitable amount. With these factors in mind, general CBN dosage recommendations can offer a starting point as you find your ideal amount.
When exploring different CBN for sleep products, just remember that CBN dosage can vary based on the type of product you buy as we’ll explore in more detail later.
Does CBN Get You High?
Yes, CBN causes mild psychoactive effects but scientific evidence doesn’t support this. Few studies on CBN indicate that it can create feelings of drowsiness and enhance the psychoactive effects of THC, but none of them indicates that CBN creates psychoactive effects on its own.
Nevertheless, a lot of users report feeling uplifted after using CBN — both by taking it alone and in combination with other cannabinoids. More research is needed before we can be sure about how it works.
How Long Does It Take to Feel the Effects of CBN?
The onset of CBN’s effects can vary based on factors such as form of consumption, individual metabolism, and CBN dosage. Usually, when taken orally, such as through tinctures or edibles, CBN may take about 1 to 2 hours to kick in.
However, factors like a user’s digestive system and whether CBN is consumed with or without food can affect the timeframe.
When using methods with quicker absorption, like sublingual administration or vaping, effects may be felt faster, within 30-45 minutes.
It’s crucial to note that the full extent of CBN’s effects might take longer to take control, and maximum effectiveness may be achieved after a few hours.
It’s important to begin with a low dose and stay patient, allowing time for the compound to work with your body.
Moreover, individual responses may vary, so adjustments to CBN dosage or consumption methods may be compulsory to find the most effective and comfy experience.
Talking to a healthcare professional can provide expert guidance on CBN usage and its impact based on individual health status.
Types of CBN
Cannabinol (CBN) is a cannabinoid getting popular for its therapeutic effects. There are 3 types of CBN products in the market: Full Spectrum CBN, Broad Spectrum CBN, and CBN Isolate.
Full Spectrum CBN
Full Spectrum CBN products contain a wide range of cannabinoids, including CBN, but also some other compounds like CBD, THC, flavonoids, and terpenes. The term “full spectrum” refers to the extraction of the complete range of compounds from the cannabis plant.
This type of CBN harnesses the harmonious effects of different cannabinoids and terpenes, known as the entourage effect, enhancing therapeutic effects.
Broad Spectrum CBN
Broad Spectrum CBN products are similar to full spectrum CBN products, having a variety of cannabinoids and terpenes.
However, broad spectrum products go through additional procedures to get rid of THC, making them a great option for users who want to stay away from the psychoactive effects of THC while still enjoying and benefiting from the entourage effect.
CBN Isolate
CBN Isolate is the purest form of CBN, isolated from all other compounds and cannabinoids. The extraction procedure removes any trace of THC, terpenes, or other cannabinoids, resulting in a 100% pure CBN.
This option is great for those who are looking for the isolated effects of CBN without the impact of other cannabis compounds.
How to Choose the Best CBN Product for Sleep?
Hemp-derived cannabinoids are a new industry that was legalized in 2018 with the Farm Bill. Marketing regulations are slow to adapt, and there are a lot of scam products and myths in the market that do not deliver high-quality CBN and other cannabinoids.
If you are thinking about trying CBN for a regular and healthy sleep cycle, here are some tips on choosing a high-quality product:
Potency
Most research on CBN and its effects on supporting a healthy sleep cycle takes high doses (up to 50 mg) of CBN. Cannabinoids affect everyone differently and you should always begin with a lower dose and gradually increase as required and your body adjusts to it.
Third-party Lab Testing
Reputable brands test their products in 3rd-party labs to verify safety and potency. Always check the lab report before you purchase a product to make sure it contains the amount of CBN it claims, and that it doesn’t contain any contaminants. If a company doesn’t lab test its products, don’t buy anything from them.
Customer Reviews
Brands can claim anything about their products and they do, but it’s the customers who will have the final word always. Make sure that the product you are buying has positive reviews.
Know what’s in a Product
Although some products contain CBN only, a lot of them also contain other cannabinoids such as CBD, THC, and CBG. These combinations produce unique effects, so it’s crucial to be aware of what a product has and how it will impact you.
Hemp Source & Testings
Just like all CBD products, high-quality CBN extracts begin at the source. CBN is found in very high concentrations in mature cannabis plants.
Hemp sourcing is important so make sure that the brand discloses its hemp information and lab testing from a reputed third-party lab to show the product’s cannabinoid profile, contamination report, and potency.
Conclusion
CBN may be an effective and safe natural way to enjoy better sleep. As with any substance, it’s crucial to start with a small amount, and slowly increase until you find the desired results.
Everyone is different when it comes to the dose of CBN required for appropriate results, so it’s best to experiment and find what works for you the best.
Even when using CBN as an alternative sleep aid, it’s important to practice sleep hygiene, such as following a regular sleep schedule and avoiding too much caffeine.
Moreover, if your sleep issue persists even after using CBN for weeks, talk to your physician or healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much CBN to take for sleep?
The appropriate CBN dosage for sleep is different in different individuals. Always start with a low dose (5-10 mg), and slowly increase as needed. Also, consult with a healthcare provider as it can help in determining the most suitable CBN dosage for your specific needs.
Does CBN actually help with sleep?
CBN, popular for its sedative properties, may help in sleeping better by promoting relaxation. While studies are limited, several pieces of evidence suggest that it can be effective. However, individual responses may vary, and talking to a healthcare provider is helpful.
Is CBN better for sleep than CBD?
Both CBN and CBD have sleep-inducing qualities, but CBN is considered better at promoting sedation and relaxation. Choosing between them depends on individual responses and personal preferences, and experimentation under guidance is advisable.
How long does CBN stay in your system?
CBN’s effects may last from 2 to 8 hours based on CBN dosage and delivery method. It has a shorter duration than THC but a similar duration to CBD. Many factors such as dosage, delivery method, and frequency of use can impact CBN’s duration.
Is CBN good for anxiety?
Research suggests that CBN has anxiolytic effects, potentially reducing anxiety. However, more studies are required to confirm its efficacy. Individuals looking for anxiety relief should talk to their healthcare professionals and explore established treatments.
Does CBN make you sleepy?
Usually, CBN doesn’t induce drowsiness on its own. Instead, it may promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, leading to improved sleep indirectly. However, individual responses vary, and CBN’s effects on sleep may depend on factors such as the user’s physiology and CBN dosage.
Can you take too much CBN?
While CBN is generally safe, excessive doses may cause side effects such as fatigue or dizziness. It’s important to begin with a low dose and increase slowly.
Consulting a healthcare professional before using CBN, especially in higher doses, is important to ensure efficacy and safety.
Does CBN Help with Insomnia?
Yes, CBN has sedative properties that could ease conditions like insomnia. However, more research is required for the same.
Does CBN make you groggy in the morning?
No, CBN doesn’t make you groggy in the morning but has a calming and stimulating effect. These effects can also vary according to the CBN dosage and ingredients in your CBN product.
Is 10mg CBN too much for a beginner?
Yes, 10mg of CBN dosage can be too much for a beginner. However, it can be a reasonable amount if you know its effects and you’ve experimented with it at different doses.