There are more than 400 different chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. Approximately 120 are classified as cannabinoids, each one is unique, and possesses a range of different characteristics.
Two of the most popular ones are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). While THC is touted for its psychoactive properties, CBD is a milder compound more known for its therapeutic properties. CBD products are growing in popularity across the country, but this isn’t the only solution to check out.
Cannabinol (CBN) is similar in makeup to CBD, but it isn’t the same. Today, we’re sharing the differences between CBD vs. CBN to help you make a more informed decision for your health and wellness.
CBD and CBN: How Are They Alike?
Before we dive into the properties that make CBD and CBN different, let’s briefly discuss a few similarities that they share. Here are two elements that these compounds have in common.
Both Are Active Cannabinoids
CBN occurs in low concentrations in most forms of hemp and cannabis plants. It’s even present in aged cannabis plants. It forms when It’s created when THC is heated and exposed to CO2 (oxygen).
The most popular strain of THC is Delta-9. When you ingest this substance, it begins to break down in your body. As it does, it separates into many different compounds and molecules. CBN is one of those molecules.
Researchers are looking at both CBD and CBN for their prospective uses, and considering the different ways users can derive benefits from their properties.
Both Interact With Your ECS
Both CBD and CBN interact with your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This is an intricate network of molecules and receptors, located in various regions throughout your body.
Your ECS communicates with your nervous system. It regulates and controls many of your essential bodily functions, including emotional processing, temperature control, inflammatory responses, and more.
Although there are many different receptors within your ECS, not all have been thoroughly studied. One of the most-researched ones is known as the Cannabinoid Type Receptor 1, or CB1. Each cannabinoid binds to this receptor in its own unique way.
For instance, when you ingest THC, it creates a feeling of euphoria as it binds to CB1. While CBD also binds to this receptor, it doesn’t do so as tightly. As a result, the effect is milder and you may simply feel more relaxed or at ease.
Similarly, CBN doesn’t bind too tightly to CB1. Thus, it can have a similar effect as CBD, but not the exact same.
Both Are Available in Different Forms
You can find both CBD and CBN in a variety of different products. These include:
- Oils
- Tinctures
- Vapes
- Capsules
In addition, you can also find many CBD topicals, including lotions, balms, and creams.
CBD vs. CBN: Key Differences to Know
Now that we’ve covered how CBD and CBN are alike, let’s dive deeper into the nuanced differences between these two compounds. Here are the distinctions you need to know.
Different Use Cases
Both CBD and CBN have properties that may be useful in accommodating a range of health concerns. For instance, researchers are examining CBD’s ability to help improve overall comfort levels, support tranquility, and target irritability, among other applications.
To date, most of the research around CBN has been in the area of sleep. There is early evidence that this compound could help ease stress and support a better night’s rest in users.
Researchers have found that while CBN could have positive effects in this realm, naturally occurring levels aren’t strong enough to address most sleep concerns. As a result, they’re looking for ways to isolate CBN to create stronger products at higher concentrations.
While CBD can help ease tension and encourage a better night’s sleep, most CBN products are more effective in this regard. Studies show that around 10% to 30% of the global population suffers from some level of insomnia, so it’s no surprise that people have started seeking new and alternative ways to drift off into dreamland.
Different Legal Classifications
To understand the legalities of CBD and CBN, it’s important to distinguish between hemp and marijuana plants. These are two different strains of the same cannabis plant species.
To be classified as hemp, a cannabis plant must contain less than 0.3% THC. If the plant contains a higher amount of THC, it is classified as marijuana.
If CBN is derived from hemp, it is legal in all states that allow hemp consumer products. If CBN is derived from marijuana, then it can only be consumed in states where marijuana is legal. This map shows you a breakdown of marijuana legalization in each state so you can identify the status of your geographic location.
Alternatively, a licensed medical professional may be able to recommend medical marijuana for your condition. If your state has legalized marijuana for medical use, then this could make CBN products more accessible.
On the other hand, CBD products are legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp-derived CBD on a federal level. To be legal, CBD must be derived from a classified hemp plant and be grown by a licensed grower.
Note that federal legality doesn’t assume state legality. Some states have restricted the use of CBD or banned it altogether. This list can help you understand where CBD is fully legal, legal with restrictions, or fully illegal.
Distinguishing Between the Two
To make sure you’re getting an adequate amount of CBN, it’s important to look for products that are strictly labeled as such. Follow a CBN buying guide that can help you discover the best products for your needs. Note that while some CBD products will contain trace amounts of CBN, these are different in chemical composition.
At Mia’s Organics, we offer CBN in our G’Night Sleep Capsules. In addition to 25mg of CBD, each soft gel also contains 5mg of CBN and 5mg of melatonin. Each bottle contains 30 capsules.
Learn More About the Power of CBN Today
Whether you suffer from insomnia or you just want to fall asleep easier, you may have tried a variety of different products and solutions. Now, it’s time to give CBN a try.
While you may be familiar with CBD, this compound is growing in popularity and use. As our CBD vs. CBN breakdown shows, these two share many similarities, but their differences are distinct.
Interested in learning more about how this substance works and the results you can expect? If so, then we encourage you to reach out to our team today.