What is CBN (Cannabinol)?

In my time at Formula Swiss, I’ve spent a lot of time exploring cannabinoids like THC and CBD, which tend to dominate the conversation. But what many people don’t realise is that the cannabis plant contains over a hundred other cannabinoids, each playing a different role in its overall profile.

One of these is Cannabinol, or CBN—a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid that forms as THC degrades over time.

It’s less talked about than the major cannabinoids, but I’ve followed its growing presence in research with interest. Compared to THC, CBN is much milder, and while it shares some traits with CBD, it stands out due to the way it interacts with receptor systems in the body.

I find it rewarding to dig deeper into compounds like CBN. As more studies emerge, I try to stay up to date and share insights in a clear, responsible way—especially as curiosity about lesser-known cannabinoids continues to grow.

Key takeaways

• CBN (Cannabinol) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, which contains over 100 known cannabinoids.
• CBN is distinct from THC and CBD, with unique interactions with the body’s receptors and different characteristics.
• CBN is currently being studied for its interactions with the body's systems, with research exploring various potential effects.
• Research into CBN remains limited compared to CBD, presenting opportunities for further scientific study.
• Understanding the nature of CBN can support individuals in making informed decisions when exploring cannabinoid products that align with their preferences.

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CBN and its place in the cannabis family

Having spent considerable time researching cannabinoids, Cannabinol (CBN) stands out as a minor cannabinoid but fascinating compound compared to the more widely recognised tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD).

CBN forms naturally as THC in the cannabis plant ages and is exposed to air, light, and heat. Over time, this leads to a compound estimated to be about 25% as active as THC.

I find the mild nature of CBN particularly interesting. Unlike THC, it does not produce psychoactive effects, giving it a unique position within the cannabinoid family. Although interest in CBN has been growing, the availability and variety of CBN products still trail behind those of CBD.

Research into CBN continues to evolve. Its role within the wider study of cannabis compounds reflects a broader shift towards understanding non-psychoactive cannabinoids in more detail.

Here’s a brief summary of some key cannabinoids and their commonly associated characteristics:

Knowing more about the primary cannabinoids found in cannabis helps provide a From what I have seen, gaining a clearer understanding of the main cannabinoids in cannabis helps build a stronger appreciation of how CBN fits into the overall profile of the plant. 

What are cannabinoids?

Although CBN remains less well-known compared to THC and CBD, interest in its unique properties is steadily increasing as research continues to explore its potential uses.

CBN’s non-psychoactive profile, together with its distinct characteristics, differentiates it from other cannabinoids and continues to attract attention as a plant-derived compound of interest.

How CBN differs from THC and CBD

CBN naturally forms in the cannabis plant as THC ages and degrades, particularly when exposed to heat, air, and light. This process results in a compound generally considered less potent than THC.

Unlike THC and CBD, CBN develops through the breakdown of another cannabinoid, giving it a distinct place within the cannabis family.

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The natural formation of CBN from THC

CBN naturally forms when THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, degrades over time. Exposure to heat, light, and air accelerates this transformation, resulting in CBN, a cannabinoid with much lower psychoactive potential.

This natural process creates distinct differences in the chemical structure and characteristics of CBN compared to THC and CBD.

What is THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)?

Comparing CBN, CBD, and THC

THC is widely recognised for its psychoactive effects, while CBD and CBN have drawn attention for their properties without significantly altering mental state. Although CBN at higher concentrations may produce mild psychoactive responses, it remains much less potent than THC.

Unlike THC, which directly activates cannabinoid receptors, both CBN and CBD influence these receptors indirectly, resulting in differing characteristics across the cannabinoids.

Research into CBD is more extensive compared to CBN, with studies exploring its interactions with the body's systems and its broader contribution to wellbeing.

What is CBD (Cannabidiol)?

Prefer watching over reading? This video covers the key points from the article:

Interest in the potential of CBN

Although research on CBN remains less extensive than studies on CBD, early investigations have raised interest in how this non-psychoactive cannabinoid may interact with the body's natural processes.

Among the cannabinoids I have explored, I find CBN particularly fascinating because of its unique characteristics and the distinct ways it interacts within the broader cannabinoid profile. Its properties set it apart from CBD and THC, making it an area of keen scientific interest and continued research.

In this section, I will share areas where research findings suggest that further investigation into CBN may be worthwhile.

Associations between cannabinol and rest

Several studies have examined how CBN interacts with other cannabinoids, particularly THC, in relation to its unique properties. Based on the available research, there are indications of a relationship between CBN and natural rest cycles, though further investigation is required to understand this interaction in greater detail.

CBN and physical comfort

Research has also investigated how CBN interacts with the body’s receptors, generating interest in its distinct interactions and potential applications within cannabinoid studies. I find this area particularly promising, as it highlights how minor cannabinoids like CBN may contribute to broader plant-based wellness discussions, even though more comprehensive research is needed.

Cognitive support and CBN

A 2022 study from Salk has explored CBN’s interaction with nerve cells, indicating a possible role in neurological research. Although these findings are preliminary, they highlight an important direction for future studies focused on non-psychoactive cannabinoids.

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Scientific interest in cannabinol and relaxation

The properties of Cannabinol (CBN) have attracted attention in recent years, particularly in discussions about relaxation and rest. Products containing CBN are now available on the market, often combined with other ingredients associated with calming experiences.

 Despite its growing popularity, questions remain about CBN's specific role and how it interacts within these formulations. Scientific research continues to explore its distinct characteristics and potential applications.

CBN and its association with natural rest

Scientific interest in CBN’s potential role in supporting rest dates back to studies from the 1970s and 1980s, where researchers noted calming effects, particularly when CBN was combined with THC.

However, these studies were limited in size and scope, and further research is needed to better understand the extent of CBN's potential associations with natural rest patterns.

Recent research has also begun to explore ongoing studies examining CBN and sleep patterns. A study published in Neuropsychopharmacology found that CBN increased both REM and non-REM sleep in rats, offering early evidence of its sleep-related properties.

A pilot clinical trial known as the CUPID study is also underway to assess the effects of CBN on sleep and next-day functioning in individuals with insomnia disorder.

From my experience following developments in cannabinoid research, I have observed that CBN is often associated with relaxation in popular discussions and remains a topic of ongoing scientific investigation. Although early findings are promising, substantial evidence is still required to confirm CBN’s role in promoting rest.

Today, a variety of products feature CBN alongside other ingredients traditionally associated with relaxation. These often include combinations of CBN with natural botanicals known for their calming properties, such as:

Although anecdotal reports suggest an association between CBN and rest, further clinical research is necessary to strengthen these observations. 

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Scientific interest in CBN and physical comfort 

Scientific investigations have suggested that CBN may influence muscle sensitisation responses in animal models. A well-regarded study featured in the Archives of Oral Biology examined how non-psychoactive cannabinoids, such as CBN, affect muscle sensitivity in rats.

In this study, researchers created muscle sensitivity by introducing nerve growth factor (NGF) into the masseter muscle, replicating conditions similar to those seen in TMD. Following this, they delivered intramuscular injections of CBN, cannabidiol (CBD), as well as a combination of both.

The results showed that CBN and CBD, whether used separately or together, effectively reduced mechanical sensitivity in the masseter muscle. These observations indicate that CBN could influence peripheral responses in muscle discomfort models.

Although studies combining CBN with CBD have indicated possible complementary effects, comprehensive human clinical trials are still necessary to better understand how CBN interacts with the body’s natural systems relating to nerve and muscle responses.

From what I have observed in emerging research, CBN’s association with physical ease is a promising area for future study, but definitive conclusions cannot yet be drawn.

Based on what I have seen, it is likely that as awareness of cannabinoids like CBN continues to grow, researchers will expand investigations into how these compounds might support physical well-being. However, human clinical trials will be essential to confirm early observations and ensure a fuller understanding of CBN’s characteristics.

Risks and side effects of CBN

Research into CBN remains at an early stage, and the full extent of its safety profile has yet to be established. Compared to CBD, whose potential side effects and interactions with other substances have been more thoroughly documented, information regarding CBN’s effects is still emerging.

Given the current state of cannabinoid research, I believe it is important to approach new compounds like CBN with caution until more comprehensive data becomes available. While CBN is often described as non-psychoactive, high concentrations could potentially lead to mild psychoactive responses.

Individuals considering CBN as part of their wellness routines are advised to consult a qualified healthcare professional, particularly due to the possibility of interactions with other medications or underlying health conditions.

Below is a summary of the currently known side effects and potential risks associated with CBN and other cannabinoids:

Considerations around CBN usage

Current knowledge around appropriate quantities of CBN is still evolving, and no formal guidelines have yet been established. As research continues to develop, it is recognised that individual responses to cannabinoids may vary.

It’s always sensible to consult a healthcare professional before adding cannabinoids like CBN to your routine, especially with research still evolving. Considering personal health circumstances, existing treatments, and individual needs can support informed and balanced decisions.

Although scientific frameworks for CBN are still emerging, taking a thoughtful and personalised approach helps ensure that exploration of cannabinoids is considered carefully, with individual differences in mind.

Ongoing CBN research

While there are still gaps in scientific knowledge surrounding CBN, interest in understanding this cannabinoid continues to grow across both research communities and the public sphere.

Current studies are working to better define CBN’s characteristics, including its individual properties and how it interacts with other cannabinoids and terpenes. As scientific investigations progress, it is expected that the body of evidence surrounding CBN will expand, offering further insights into its potential applications.

Recent statements from respected authorities further highlight this growing interest. For example, the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) has encouraged research into the biological properties of minor cannabinoids, including CBN, particularly in areas such as pain and neurological conditions (NIH Notice NOT-AT-22-027).

Similarly, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recognised the importance of gathering scientific data on cannabinoids like CBN to inform future regulatory considerations (FDA Cannabis-Derived Products Data Acceleration Plan).

Interest in cannabinoids more broadly has increased significantly in recent years, and CBN has become a part of this growing focus. Researchers are exploring not only CBN’s standalone features but also its role within the wider cannabinoid and plant compound profile.

Future findings may provide a deeper understanding of how CBN fits into the broader study of cannabinoids. However, further research will be key in shaping how CBN is considered in various contexts moving forward.

From what I have observed, it is important for those interested in cannabinoids to stay informed about ongoing research developments. As knowledge expands, careful attention to safety and quality remains essential when considering any cannabinoid-based products.

Personal perspective

Based on what I have observed in cannabinoid research, interest in CBN has been steadily increasing. Researchers are beginning to investigate the specific characteristics of this lesser-known cannabinoid, adding to a broader understanding of the cannabis plant beyond the more familiar compounds such as THC and CBD.

Although there is still much to learn, I believe that continued scientific studies will provide greater clarity about CBN's properties. It is encouraging to follow this work as it highlights the value of careful research, thoughtful analysis, and responsible communication when discussing cannabinoids and their potential relevance.

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