What Is CBN, and Why Is It Popular

If you were told to name all the cannabinoids you know, you would likely mention THC and CBD, and understandably so. These two cannabis compounds have been widely researched, advertised, and commercialized. But did you know that cannabis plants (hemp and marijuana) have over 400 phytochemicals? These compounds include other cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and essential oils. CBN is one of the cannabinoids that hasn’t received the recognition it deserves, despite being the first cannabinoid to be discovered. 

CBN or Cannabinol is a minor cannabinoid associated with a myriad of benefits. It is often referred to as the ultimate relaxation cannabinoid due to the calming and relaxing effects it provides. Researchers have begun looking into the phytochemical’s potential as a therapeutic agent in recent years. The studies, though limited, indicate that CBN might be the next big thing that is set to alter the health and wellness scene. This piece explores the growing popularity of CBD: what has prompted the interest, what the cannabinoid has to odder, how CBN interacts with the body, its similarities, and differences with CBD, and where to buy top-tier CBN in bulk/wholesale.

A brief history of CBN

CBN was the first cannabinoid to be discovered. The discovery occurred accidentally when a cannabis extract degraded, forming CBN. Since then, scientists have performed several experiments to figure out more information on the cannabinoid. It wasn’t until 1896 that CBN was first isolated. In 1936, the CBN structure was identified, and the cannabinoid’s first chemical synthesis happened in 1940. Since then, research has been ongoing, albeit minimally.

How is CBN formed?

While other cannabinoids occur naturally in cannabis plants, CBN is formed through the degradation of THC. As cannabis plants grow, the flowers are loaded with THC in its acidic form – THCA. When THCA is exposed to air for a prolonged period, oxidation occurs, and the compound is converted to CBNA – the acidic precursor to CBNA. With further exposure to UV light and heat, the CBNA is eventually decarbed, forming CBN. 

This is why some cultivators harvest their cannabis in the late stages to allow CBN formation. By prolonging the harvest and manipulating environmental factors, such as light, airflow, and temperatures, cultivators can harvest buds with a high quantity of CBN.

CBN and the endocannabinoid system

Like THC and CBD, CBN interacts with the endocannabinoid system. This is a cell signaling system responsible for maintaining normal body function, aka homeostasis. It comprises endocannabinoids, receptors, and enzymes. CBN, in particular, is a partial agonist of the ECS receptors – CB1 and CB2. This means that it weakly binds to these receptors to provide a host of effects and benefits.

CB1 receptors are mainly located in the brain and carry out the function of regulating physiological processes. The CB2 receptors are found in large quantities in the immune and gastrointestinal systems. They are responsible for regulating immune response, pain, inflammation, and other metabolic processes. CBN has a higher binding affinity to CB2 receptors compared to CB1 receptors. Through its interactions with the ECS, CBN can cause relaxation and the multiple benefits highlighted below.

What are the benefits of CBN

The research on CBN and how it affects the ECS to produce therapeutic benefits is still in its infancy. However, the cannabinoid has shown great promise in helping with numerous conditions. The potential displayed calls for further, large-scale studies to establish CBN as an effective alternative to some prescription pills available. This is because most prescribed medication comes with a host of side effects, whereas cannabinoids, such as CBN, are natural and have zero to minimal side effects. CBN helps with;

Relaxation and sleep,

Mild and chronic pain

Antioxidant

Appetite

Anticonvulsant 

Glaucoma

Skin conditions

CBN and CBD: similarities and differences 

CBN and CBD are both cannabinoiwds with immense therapeutic potential. They interact with the ECS to offer these benefits. The two phytochemicals have numerous differences that are highlighted in the table below;