Cannabinoids are key components in the cannabis plant. While CBD is well known, CBN — short for cannabinol — is emerging as another cannabinoid of interest. While you may have heard of CBD, what’s the difference between CBN vs. CBD?
In fact, CBN is garnering attention for its possible use and benefits for supporting relief from debilitating medical conditions. With that being said, brushing up on your knowledge about CBN and CBD never hurts.
PhytosanaCBD here: if you’re looking for the differences between CBD and CBN, you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll explore how CBD and CBN compare, including their similarities, differences, and general wellness-related observations.
Key similarities and differences between CBN vs. CBD
| Similarities between CBN and CBD | Differences between CBN and CBD |
| 1. CBD and CBN are both cannabinoids that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. 2. Both CBD and CBN are commonly found in oils, gummies, topicals, and capsules. 3. While CBD is more widely researched, CBN is beginning to gain attention for its potential role in supporting general wellness. | 1. CBN can be costly compared to CBD. |
Exploring what CBN and CBD are (similarities and differences)
On a general level, cannabinol (CBN) and cannabidiol (CBD) share many characteristics. For starters, CBN and CBD are both cannabinoids.
Some of their commonalities include the fact that both plants interact with a person’s endocannabinoid system.
Both CBN and CBD can be produced and formed in different commercial products like oils, capsules, gummies, chewies, vapes, edibles, and topical creams.
As such, many people confuse CBN and CBD, though they’re somewhat different. Let’s see how.
Differences between CBN and CBD
Key differences between CBN and CBD include:
- CBD has been the subject of a great deal of extensive peer-reviewed scientific research, while CBN tends to have fewer studies available.
- CBD may be helpful for anxiety and pain relief,
- CBD and CBN have been studied for sleep, but research suggests that CBN may help improve overall sleep (Bonn-Miller, et. al., 2024).
CBD has also been researched as a potential substance to use with seizures. Research is also ongoing with CBN and its interactions with the brain.
With that being said, more research is needed for both CBD and CBN on its potential for treating brain-related conditions.
The endocannabinoid system and cannabinoids
We’ve talked a great deal about cannabis, cannabidiol, and cannabinol so far, but what do they have to do with the body’s endocannabinoid system? And, what is an endocannabinoid system in the first place?
The endocannabinoid system is made up of molecules and receptors that help regulate
processes like mood and digestion. Cannabinoids like CBD and CBN interact with receptors in
this system, often influencing how the body responds to stress or external stimuli.
As such, our bodies also have cannabinoid type 1 (CB1) receptors inside of them.
The way different cannabinoids bind with this receptor can influence the effects that the cannabinoids have on our bodies. For example, some people who’ve taken THC (the active component in marijuana) report feeling a sense of euphoria or an intoxicated feeling.
Likewise, when CBD binds to the same receptors, taking CBD may lead a person to feel relaxed — but without the intoxicated feeling that comes with ingesting THC.
Exploring cannabidiol (CBD): overview and potential benefits
Of all the cannabinoids, CBD is also a popular cannabinoid on today’s market. CBD is found in high concentrations in the cannabis plant.
It’s often described as non-intoxicating and may promote a sense of calm. Some users report it helps them unwind or manage everyday discomfort, though research is ongoing. and results can vary.
Users commonly consume CBD through oils, tinctures, edibles, and topicals. CBD is being studied
for its effects on mood, digestion, and sleep, but more evidence is needed to fully understand its range of effects.
Benefits and ways of consuming CBD
Like CBN, CBD may offer several therapeutic benefits for a variety of different health conditions. Research suggests that some benefits of consuming CBD may help people manage the following conditions and processes (Note: this is not an all-inclusive list, and more research is needed):
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant issues
- Brain-related conditions
- Mental health
- Digestion issues
- Pain relief
- Sleep and mental health
With that being said, more research is needed to determine the benefits of consuming CBD. What we do know is that CBD may have a positive impact on the mind and body.
Effects of CBD on the mind and body
Research suggests that both THC and CBD, when consumed, may help people feel an overall sense of calm. CBD may also help decrease feelings of anxiety and paranoia, which may be helpful in mitigating the neuropsychiatric side effects of THC (Hudson et. al., 2019).
CBN works in much the same way, but with some variation. Let’s explore in greater detail other CBD products — like CBN — and the benefits, uses, and effects of cannabinol on the body.
Exploring cannabinol (CBN): overview and emerging uses
Whereas CBD is derived from the hemp plant, CBN is created when THC is exposed to heat and oxygen, breaking down into this lesser-known compound.
Early observations suggest it may be used by some people as part of a nighttime routine, but robust research is still developing.
Benefits and ways of consuming CBN
Many people use CBN for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Research suggests that CBN may be helpful in decreasing pain, helping people with appetite issues, and helping individuals enjoy better sleep.
Potential side effects of CBN on the mind and body
CBN delivers a similar feeling to that of THC. The main difference is that CBN doesn’t pack the same high as that of THC.
Many people say that CBN helps promote more restful sleep, a similar benefit that THC provides.
CBN and CBD: potential side effects
Everyone reacts differently to cannabinoids. Some people report feeling sleepy, dizzy, or mildly nauseous after using CBD or CBN.
Since every person is different, if you’re considering taking CBD or CBN, we always recommend speaking with your trusted healthcare team before ingesting and/or mixing CBD and CBN products.
Field notes from PhytosanaCBD’s customers:
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CBD or CBN? Find all-natural CBN and CBD products at PhytosanaCBD
CBN and CBD products help people manage many similar health conditions, yet they derive from different plants. CBD comes from the cannabis plant’s flowers, leaves, and stems, whereas CBN is a byproduct of the degradation of the cannabis plant.
Fortunately, CBN and CBD may deliver similar potential sedative effects and may help improve sleep quality for both humans and animals. If you’re a fan of using all-natural, non-GMO products to create better health, then we invite you to check out our CBN and CBD products in our shop.
All of our human-friendly, equine-, and canine-based products are 100% organic, all-natural, and non-GMO. We 3rd-party test all of our products and verify them for compliance testing to make sure you receive a top-quality product every time.
To try out any of our oils, topical creams, chewies, gummies, or tinctures, don’t hesitate to contact us anytime. Until then, ride on!
We look forward to talking with you soon.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about CBN vs. CBD
1. How does CBN compare to CBD cost-wise?
CBN tends to be more expensive than CBD due to availability and production methods.
2. What’s the legal status of CBD and CBN?
As of the posting of this article, CBD and CBN are legal in most states thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, but some state laws vary, as every state jurisdiction is different.
We always recommend checking local state laws just to be sure.
3. Can you mix CBD and CBN?
Some products have both CBD and CBN cannabinoids inside the product. Others may have one or the other inside them.
Some users combine both in routines, but effects vary. Research is ongoing, and individual responses differ. More research is needed on CBN, CBD, and CBG.
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