CBN For Sleep: The New Cannabinoid On The Block

Do you know that up to two-thirds of adults in the US occasionally have problems falling asleep?1 It is hardly unexpected that the market for sleep-inducing products is booming. The world is becoming fast-paced, and the struggle to keep up is real. As a result, insomnia has become one of the issues people have to deal with. 

From noisy neighbors and a restless dog that can’t just stop barking to a busy mind that won’t just let you rest, the struggle for a good night's sleep is real. However, not getting enough sleep can result in major health issues, which you should take very seriously. Your body needs sleep to recover from everyday stress. 

Thankfully, science has finally come up with something new and exciting: CBN for sleep! Cannabinol, or CBN, is the new kid on the block in terms of natural alternatives for promoting sleeping patterns.2 

This article will introduce you to CBN and its benefits as a sleep aid. We'll also provide tips on how to use it for optimal results and cover the potential side effects. By the end of this article, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision about using CBN for sleep. 

So let's jump right in!

Cannabinol (CBN) is regarded as a minor cannabinoid. It is a cannabinoid that can be found in the Cannabis Sativa plant but can also be produced synthetically in the lab. In addition to its potential analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, cannabinol also has a calming impact that can help improve sleep.3 

CBN is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not get you "high," but it does interact with the same brain receptors as THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol). CBN's effects on the body depend on the receptors it binds to.

When THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) deteriorates as a result of exposure to heat, air, or light, CBN is produced. According to Eric Adams, CEO, President, and Director of InMed Pharmaceuticals, a manufacturer and developer of rare cannabinoids, "This is why larger quantities of CBN may be detected in old, dried cannabis."4 However, the powerful euphoric effects linked to THC are not known to be found in CBN.

The fact that CBD is more widely recognized than CBN is not surprising. CBD is simpler to make, more abundantly present in the plant itself, and has been tested in more experiments for longer. The prominence of cannabinoids is encouraging additional studies into lesser-known cannabinoids, and CBN is beginning to attract significant attention.

CBD and CBN are cannabinoids obtained from the cannabis plant. Both CBN and CBD have the propensity to interact with CB2 (cannabinoid type 2) receptors in the body's endocannabinoid system, which is involved in the functioning of the central nervous system and aids in the body's response to both internal and external stimuli.5 

More people know about CBD than CBN. Thanks to the 2018 US Farm Bill, almost all CBD products are made from hemp and are accepted in most states. Most states also allow CBN made from hemp that has been cultivated lawfully and has less than 0.3% THC in it. 

CBN is becoming more well-known, nevertheless, as a result of its potential advantages for problems with sleep and pain management. 

Although they are not as widely available as CBD products, CBN products are becoming more popular. More CBN products will reach the market as it becomes more popular and as production methods advance.

While it is not as widely studied or well-known as CBD, CBN has some impressive potential benefits. 

Let's take a closer look at some of the potential benefits it offers: 

CBN is non-psychotropic and well-known for its sedative properties. Clinical studies have demonstrated that CBN is an efficient sleep aid, assisting the body to fall asleep and remain asleep. In patients with anxiety disorders and persistent insomnia, CBN seems to be most helpful in lowering anxiety and promoting sleep.2 Those who desire to stay away from the negative effects of prescription sleep aids may find it to be a useful substitute.

A 2019 study found that CBN, CBD, and a combination of the two cannabinoids effectively decreased pain perception in rats.6 Researchers hypothesize that CBN may help treat chronic muscle pain disorders like fibromyalgia (which causes widespread pain throughout the body) and temporomandibular disorders (which cause pain in the jaw muscles, joints, and nerves). However, clinical studies are still needed to test this hypothesis.6

The term "the munchies" refers to one of the most well-known cannabis side effects. Usually, its THC concentration is responsible for this effect. However, a 2012 research found that CBN might increase hunger without having any negative psychotropic effects.7 This research claims that this is the first instance when cannabinol (CBN) has been demonstrated to boost appetite. 

Inflammation is a primary cause of many illnesses and chronic diseases. CBN has been found to help reduce inflammation in animal studies.8 

Glaucoma is known to be accompanied by high ocular pressure, and decreasing that pressure is a proven method of slowing the disease. 

According to one study conducted by InMed Pharmaceuticals, CBN was found to be helpful in treating eye diseases, including glaucoma, which affects the optic nerve at the back of the eye, resulting in blindness and visual loss. CBN also promotes neuroprotection, abrogates changes in ECM protein, and normalizes the IOP levels in the eye.9

According to a recent study, CBN can help treat ADHD symptoms (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). This study involved adult patients licensed for medical cannabis treatment who also reported a diagnosis of ADHD by a physician. Using questionnaires, it requested information about the individuals' ADHD, sleep, and anxiety routines after consuming cannabinol (CBN). The findings revealed that high dosage of CBN was associated with a lower ASRS score (a self-report questionnaire designed to assess Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms in adults).10

Cannabinoids are mostly used in palliative care to help increase appetite, reduce nausea, and relieve pain in cancer patients. Numerous investigations conducted on animals and in cell cultures have demonstrated the anticancer effects of cannabis in a range of cancer types. The development and progression of illnesses, including cancer, can be influenced by interactions between phytocannabinoids and synthetic cannabinoids and the elements of the ECS (Endocannabinoid system) or other cellular pathways.11

CBN has been found to have limited side effects, including:

Due to its interaction with cannabinoid receptors found in the salivary glands in your mouth, CBN can decrease saliva secretion, leading to dry mouth.12 

While there is limited evidence of CBN (alone) causing dizziness, research shows that when combined with delta9-THC, it can aggravate both dizziness and drowsiness.13 

CBN is known to interact with certain medications, including certain antidepressants and sedatives. Therefore it is important to speak with your doctor before taking CBN as a sleep aid if you are on any medications. 

Research suggests that CBN may inhibit the production of UDP-Glucuronosyltransferase enzymes (important enzymes in the liver's detoxification process). If your body cannot eliminate toxins, it can exacerbate pre-existing kidney and/or liver problems.14 

Though there is limited research on the use of CBN for sleep, anecdotal evidence suggests it may be a sleep aid for those struggling with sleep deprivation. This is due to CBN's non-psychotropic and well-known sedative properties.8 

Clinical research has shown that CBN is an effective sleep aid that helps the body get to sleep and stay asleep. CBN seems to work best in reducing anxiety and promoting sleep in people with anxiety disorders and chronic insomnia.8 It could be a good alternative for those who want to avoid the side effects of sleep aid medications. 

Small melatonin with CBN can give a good result, but it is better to consult a doctor before combining any supplement with CBN. Melatonin supplements facilitate sleep because they mimic the hormone's natural production in the body. 

Melatonin may have an even stronger sedative effect when taken with CBN.15 Our bodies don't naturally produce much melatonin, and taking much of the synthetic kind might have negative side effects. 

Taking Prozac with CBN can have adverse side effects. Fluoxetine (Prozac) is one of the most prescribed SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) drugs for the treatment of anxiety and depression. When Fluoxetine and cannabis are combined, it causes adverse effects such as tiredness, disorientation, and concentration problems.16 

We recommend talking to your doctor if you are considering taking CBN with Prozac or any other medications, as the interactions can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous.

CBN products come in a variety of forms, such as capsules, tinctures, and edibles. At BATCH, we offer BATCH Nighttime Gummies, which are specially formulated with 15mg of CBN, along with 25mg of full-spectrum CBD oil to not only help you sleep but also induce a sense of calm and relaxation. These tasty squares are the perfect way to get your daily dose of CBN before bed. Get your BATCH Nighttime Gummies today and experience a better sleep tonight! 

As we have seen, CBN is a relatively new cannabinoid with promising potential for sleep aid and overall health benefit. And while more research is needed to understand the full potential of CBN, it could be a good alternative for those who want to avoid the side effects of sleep aid medications. 

However, it is important to consult your doctor before taking CBN (especially if you are on any medications or have any pre-existing medical conditions) and remember to get the best quality product for maximum health benefits. Try BATCH Nighttime Gummies today and start your journey to a better sleep! 

Also, be sure to check out our other blogs for more information about cannabinoids and their potential health benefits. With the right knowledge and products, you can take control of your health and well-being! 

Sources: 

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10. Hergenrather JY;Aviram J;Vysotski Y;Campisi-Pinto S;Lewitus GM;Meiri D; (n.d.). Cannabinoid and terpenoid doses are associated with adult ADHD status of medical cannabis patients. Rambam Maimonides medical journal. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32017685/#:~:text=Conclusion%3A%20These%20findings%20reveal%20that,with%20a%20lower%20ASRS%20score.  
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15. Science, R. (2022, September 27). History's largest clinical trial on cannabinoids and sleep finds meaningful improvements. History's Largest Clinical Trial on Cannabinoids and Sleep Finds Meaningful Improvements. Retrieved from https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/historys-largest-clinical-trial-on-cannabinoids-and-sleep-finds-meaningful-improvements-301634739.html.  
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