Cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabinol (CBN) are among more than 100 types of natural chemicals called cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. You've probably heard a lot about CBD because it has gained a lot of popularity among medical users due to its therapeutic effects. But have you heard of CBN? In this article, we'll take a look at CBD and CBN, their similarities and differences, and their potential effects.

What is CBD?

Along with THC, cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of the most well-known cannabinoids found in cannabis. However, unlike THC, CBD is not psychoactive. People often use it to relieve symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, various chronic pains and other health problems. It is available on the market in different varieties, such as oils, capsules, candies and more.

What is CBN?

Cannabinol or CBN is another cannabinoid found in cannabis. Although it is similar to CBD, its formation is different. CBN is a cannabinoid that is produced by the breakdown of molecules (THC) during the maturation of cannabis. Oxidation and thermal extraction methods are often used to produce CBN. The older the plant, the better quality this cannabinoid should be.
It is more than likely that CBN will follow in the footsteps of CBD and start to appear in products that allow users to boost their endocannabinoid system. With the growing demand for CBN , more products with this cannabinoid are starting to appear on the market. These include:

  • Crystals,
  • tinctures,
  • topical preparations.

As CBN is still a relatively new discovery on the cannabis scene, there is not much research available on this substance.

What is the difference between CBD and CBN?

CBD (cannabidiol)

CBN (cannabinol)

A type of cannabinoid.

Type of cannabinoid.

Ithas no psychoactive effects because it does not contain THC.

Contains smaller amounts of THC because it is produced when THC is broken down by heat, air or light.

It is obtained directly from the cannabis plant.

It is produced from THC directly during its decomposition.

It is more popular than CBN

Not as popular and widely available as CBD.

It is more researched and there is more information about it.

It is much less researched.

Therapeutic effects of CBD

CBD is considered a panacea for various health problems. Research to date confirms that CBD can be used to treat the following ailments:

  • Chronic pain,
  • nausea,
  • anxiety,
  • seizures,
  • epilepsy,
  • inflammation,
  • insomnia.

Thus, this substance can be useful in a number of ailments, which explains its ever-increasing popularity.

Therapeutic effects of CBN

The therapeutic effects of CBN include:

  • Sedative effects,
  • pain relief,
  • anti-inflammatory effects,
  • antibiotic,
  • anti-epileptic effects,
  • appetite stimulant,
  • inhibits the growth of cancer cells,
  • promoting bone growth.

However, most of the evidence for these claims comes from small studies. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.

Similarities and common effects of CBD and CBN

CBD and CBN can work together to enhance their effects. Although there is only initial evidence for this claim, both compounds may also improve mood and have relaxing effects. For example, CBN can be very sedating, while CBD can help relieve anxiety and pain, which may contribute to better sleep.

A study in the Archives of Oral Biology found that CBD and CBN have analgesic effects in animals and work together to reduce myofascial pain similar to chronic pain such as fibromyalgia.

CBD vs. CBN: Which one is right for you?

Both CBD and CBN have potential uses in alternative therapies. While both cannabinoids have some similarities, they are different compounds with their own individual effects.

To date, there has been more research done on CBD. There is evidence that it can help treat conditions such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression and many others. More research on humans is needed before conclusions can be drawn about the potential benefits of CBD.

If you are going to try CBD or CBN and this will be your first experience with these substances, consult your doctor before use and discuss the potential benefits and side effects. If you are unsure about what type of product or what dosage to choose, also consult your doctor.

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