Cannabinol (CBN)

CBN is a mild psychoactive substance found in Cannabis plants, which is created as a result of THC degradation. Cananbinol can be found in mature and harvested plants and its concentration increases with the storage time.

Tetrahydrocannabinol acid (THC-A) is converted to CBN-a as a result of exposure to air for a long time. THC-a then loses its hydrogen molecules due to oxidation. The acidic form of CBN (CBN-a) transforms into CBN as a result of exposure to UV light and heat.

Science doesn’t yet fully answer the questions about properties of any cannabinoid. It is believed that CBN reduces the potency of THC by being a partial antagonist of CB1 and CB2 receptors. While CBD influences directly the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to block the production of anandamide, CBN is only produced by exposing the harvested plant to air and by subsequent degradation of THC.

CBN is in many cases used for its calming effects that help treating insomnia.

Cannabinol affects certain immune cells to perform anti-inflammatory effects without interacting with the CB2 receptor by modulating levels of endocannabinoids. CBN is even able to affect the levels of other compounds known to cause inflammation.

Cannabinol is considered to be an anticonvulsant. It affects the reduction of seizures at levels comparable to THC and CBD.

Research on rats has shown that CBN can also increase an appetite.