CBN vs CBD – 1906

Hemp and cannabis are powerful plants. The cannabinoids found within them can help with everything from managing pain to being more focused and productive.

CBD and CBN are two of those cannabinoids, and both have real potential when it comes to your health. But despite coming from the same plant, they work in different ways and are used for different reasons.

Let's look at the key differences between the two and why you might choose one over the other.

CBN vs. CBD: What Are They?

CBD (cannabidiol) is one of the most abundant cannabinoids in hemp, which is why the majority of CBD products on the market are hemp-derived.

CBN (cannabinol) is found in cannabis plants, but it only forms as the cannabis plants age and THC begins to break down.

Both cannabinoids interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, which is the mechanism through which they deliver their potential benefits.

Same cannabis plant, different structure

When you study their chemical structure, CBD and CBN look very different.

CBD starts as cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), which is a natural precursor found in raw cannabis. It then transforms into its active form through decarboxylation, a process triggered by heat or light exposure.

In contrast, CBN appears as THC degrades over time. When the plant is exposed to oxygen and light for extended periods, THC slowly breaks down into CBN.

Although these distinct cannabinoids are both 21-carbon molecules, CBD features an "open-ring" structure, which means it can bind to cannabinoid receptors without producing any psychoactive effects.

On the other hand, CBN comes from THC and has a partially degraded, closed-ring form. As such, it does possess some psychoactive properties.

The key differences between CBD and CBN

Besides their chemical makeup, the main differences lie in how each cannabinoid makes you feel.

CBD is 100% a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. It won't make you high, but it will induce feelings of relaxation and calm, without making you drowsy.

CBN does produce very mild psychoactive effects, but they're far less intense than the main psychoactive cannabinoid, THC.

Rather than using it to feel high, CBN is largely considered a sleep support. Therefore, it's known for making people feel drowsy and ready for sleep.

The Health Benefits of CBD vs. CBN

Now, let's get into how CBD and CBN help with everything from anxiety disorders to chronic conditions.

The benefits of CBD

CBD has been widely researched and studied, and is a powerhouse for therapeutic benefits.

One of the main reasons people take CBD is for its pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties.

For instance, it's often used to help with arthritis and fibromyalgia. Studies have also shown it can reduce some cancer-related symptoms like nausea and vomiting.

It is also cited for its ability to treat rare epilepsies, such as Dravet and Lennox-Gastaut syndromes. Epidiolex is an FDA-approved, pure CBD medication that is known to significantly reduce seizures.

CBD can also have neuroprotective properties. One 2022 study shows that CBD and THC help reduce muscle spasticity and pain among those suffering from multiple sclerosis.

Other wellness benefits that people get from CBD include:

Stress and anxiety relief
A reduction in muscle tension
Migraine and headache relief
Support for depression symptoms
Helping you focus and be productive
General relaxation and feeling calm

The benefits of CBN

CBN is far less researched than CBD, but it is starting to gain attention for several reasons.

CBN and sleep go hand in hand thanks to its sedative effects.

One Pub-Med 2023 placebo-controlled study demonstrated that the cannabinoid reduced sleep issues like nighttime awakenings and sleep disturbances. Other research suggests that CBN can help improve cognitive decline and support brain health.

CBN also possesses some pain-relieving properties, though to a lesser extent than CBD. And it's also possible that cannabinol delays symptom onset.

The potential benefits of CBN are still being uncovered. However, it's starting to gain traction, so we look forward to discovering more.

CBD or CBN: Which Is Best for Chronic Pain Management?

Overall, CBD has stronger evidence for managing chronic pain.

For example, it can modulate pain signalling within the central nervous system and may also help with neuropathic pain relief.

That said, CBN's properties can also support pain relief, especially when the sufferer requires a sleep aid to cope.

Using both CBN and CBD together is, therefore, a good option. CBD does the heavy lifting during the day, while CBN works its magic at night.

How to Consume CBD and CBN

Both cannabinoids can be taken in several ways. The method you choose depends on how quickly you want the effects to take hold and how long you want them to last.

CBN and CBD oils

One of the most common methods to consume CBN and CBD is by using an oil or tincture. These are liquid extracts that you place under the tongue using a dropper.

The onset of the effects is fast and usually begins within 15-45 minutes. And because you administer the dose in drops, it's easy to control how much you take.

Pills and capsules

CBN and CBD pills are swallowed like a standard supplement. However, compared to oils, the onset is longer.

After around 45-90 minutes, you will start to feel the effects, and they can last up to eight hours (depending on the dosage). Taking pills with high-fat food is ideal because it increases absorption and extends the effects.

Gummies and edibles

CBN and CBD Gummies are chewable, candy-like products that contain the cannabinoids in a measured dose. People enjoy them because they tend to taste a lot better than oils!

Other types of edibles include chocolate or baked goods. However, with these types of products, it's harder to maintain an accurate dosage.

Since they must pass through the digestive system, the onset is long, around 45 minutes to two hours, and like pills, the effects last up to eight hours.

Vaping or inhalation

CBN and CBD vape liquids can be inhaled using a vaporizer. This is a good option if you want to feel immediate effects, but bear in mind that they also wear off pretty quickly.

Some people like to take a longer-lasting method, such as a pill, and then top up when needed by vaping.

Topical applications

Topical applications include creams, balms, lotions, and salves.

They are applied directly onto the skin for targeted relief, and are typically used for targeted discomfort like muscle soreness, myofascial pain, and joint issues.

Onset takes about 15-45 minutes and can last up to six hours. Choose a product with a high concentration, since these tend to last longer.

FAQs

Is CBN more powerful than CBD?

No, CBD is not more powerful than CBD; it just works differently.

CBD has stronger evidence for reducing inflammation, pain perception, and anxiety. In contrast, CBN is a less potent cannabinoid but is known for its relaxation and sedative effects.

What does CBN make you feel like?

CBN can make you feel deeply relaxed, drowsy, and calm. It's typically used to help you fall asleep and rest through the night.

It does have a slight psychoactive effect, but compared to THC components, it's very minimal and not always perceived by the user.

Is CBN good for anxiety?

Because CBN promotes relaxation, some people find it helpful if their anxiety is related to stress or poor sleep. However, most of the evidence points to CBD as being more effective for anxiety.

Final Thoughts

Cannabinoid research is ongoing, and we're excited to see what other benefits emerge for CBD and CBN. What we already know, though, is promising enough to make both of them worth paying attention to.

If you're interested in discovering these cannabinoids for yourself, check out our cannabis products.