With the increasing legalization of cannabis, scientists are discovering new compounds in the plant that may have therapeutic benefits. One of these compounds is cannabinol (CBN), a minor cannabinoid found in trace amounts in the cannabis plant. While still relatively unknown, CBN is showing promise as a potential treatment for a variety of health conditions, and that’s our focus in this article. So, grab a notebook, and let’s explore the intriguing world of CBN!
Improved Sleep
One of the main potential benefits of CBN is its ability to promote sleep and help with insomnia. Unlike other compounds found in cannabis, such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBN is mildly psychoactive and will therefore not produce the “high” commonly associated with marijuana use. Instead, it has a calming effect on the body and mind, making it a popular choice for those looking for natural sleep aids.
CBN has been shown to increase the duration of deep sleep, also known as non-REM sleep, which is the most restorative stage of sleep. This means that it may help individuals to feel more refreshed and well-rested upon waking. According to Psychology Today, you’re likely to sleep even better if you consume a combination of CBN and THC.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
CBN has also been found to have a small analgesic effect, which means that it may help to reduce the intensity of pain. This property of CBN could be beneficial for people suffering from chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain, and others.
A study published in PubMed in 2019 found that the topical application of CBD CBN combinations reduced pain and inflammation in rats. According to the study, the combinations were more effective compared to using either compound alone to treat inflammation.
However, It’s worth noting that this and other recent studies on the anti-inflammatory effects of CBN were preclinical, meaning that they were done on animals or silico models — nonetheless, this cannabinoid has great potential to be used in future studies to help people with severe pain and inflammation.
Appetite Stimulation
When it comes to the CBN vs CBD debate, the former performs excellently in the appetite stimulation aspect. In a study conducted on rats, researchers found that rats treated with CBN showed a significant increase in food intake compared to the control group. CBN may have the potential to reduce nausea and vomiting, which are common symptoms that can further suppress appetite in patients with cachexia.
As for the comparison with CBD, cannabinol was found to be more effective in terms of stimulating appetite in the rodents that were fed with it. Researchers discovered that this compound greatly reduced food consumption. Click here to read more about CBN vs CBD
Antibacterial Properties
Some studies have found that CBN might have antibacterial properties. For example, a study published in PubMed in 2008 found that the compound had antibacterial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a strain of bacteria known for its resistance to many antibiotics. A more recent study shows that CBN and other major cannabinoids are potent antibacterial agents.
Conclusion
While CBN is not yet as well-known as CBD, it is clear that this cannabinoid has a lot of potential. The early results in the studies we’ve cited above are promising, so all we need now is more research to fully understand the potential benefits of CBN in humans. Meanwhile, always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using CBN or any other cannabis-derived products as a treatment for any medical condition.
