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CBN for Sleep - The Complete Breakdown

Written By : Trevor Baum
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🕑 8 mins read
a woman who suffers from insomnia

 

Adults need around eight hours of sleep per night, but many people get far less than that. Most people know that getting a good night's sleep is important for overall health, but many don't realize just how essential it is.

Sleep plays a vital role in everything from brain function to immunity, and even a small amount of sleep loss can have serious consequences.

For example, research has shown that missing just one or two hours of sleep each night can lead to impaired judgment, increased anxiety, increased stress levels and difficulty focusing1. It can also cause mood swings, irritability, and forgetfulness.

In the long term, sleep deprivation can increase the risk of developing chronic health conditions such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.

If you spend your nights tossing and turning in your bed, and you struggle to sleep even during office hours, you’re not alone.

The struggle to sleep is an all too common problem for millions of Americans. According to a recent report by Polaris, the global sleep aid market is rapidly growing with a value of $64.08 billion in 2021 and is expected to cross $118.3 Billion By 2030.

Many people find themselves reaching for over-the-counter sleep aids to help them get a good night’s rest.

With over 40% of adults in America reporting difficulties sleeping it's not surprising that there are thousands who rely heavily upon these temporary reliefs from insomnia or other issues associated with poor or little sleep.

You might be looking for natural solutions that can help you get the restful slumber you need.

One plant, in particular, has captured the attention of natural wellness advocates and scientists alike, and that is the hemp plant.

More well-known hemp compounds like CBD and THC from the plant have been covered extensively, but the minor cannabinoids, such as CBN, are just now starting to garner attention from scientists and those struggling with sleep problems.

Though it's not as well-known as CBD, CBN has unique properties that have made it a popular choice for many people seeking relief from insomnia and other sleep disorders.

But what exactly is CBN? Where is it found? Does it really work? How can you use CBN for sleep?

Let’s find out…

What is CBN?

A cannabis leaf.

Cannabinol (CBN) is a cannabinoid found in both hemp and cannabis plants.

It’s formed by the degradation of THC when hemp is exposed to heat, air, or light, which is why higher levels of CBN are found in aged cannabis.

While CBN comes from THC, it does not have the intoxicating effects associated with THC. This means that you won't feel "high" after taking it.

How Does CBN Work?

CBN works by interacting with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is responsible for maintaining homeostasis in the body. It does this by regulating various functions, including sleep.

CBN is said to interact with the ECS by binding to cannabinoid receptors. This interaction is thought to help promote sleep by reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.

Human studies on CBN are limited, but there is some evidence to suggest that it might help with sleep.

CBD vs CBN for Sleep

A workwoman having trouble concentrating on work because she's sleep deprived and exhausted.

CBN is often compared to CBD when it comes to its potential health benefits. Both cannabinoids are found in hemp and cannabis plants and have similar effects on the body.

However, there are some stark differences between the two.

Surprisingly, not many cannabis-enthusiasts know that there are 150 other cannabinoids present in the cannabis or hemp plant.

Can you imagine? Each and every one of them has its own structure and effect, and each offers a number of potential health benefits.

However, most people have at least heard of CBD. It is the most abundant cannabis compound and can be found in most cannabis products - everything from creams and lotions to gummies and tinctures. The range of products that contain CBN is significantly smaller, with CBN found mostly in oils.

The levels of CBD and CBN found in hemp plants can differ significantly. For example, CBD is often present at a level of 25% while the maximum concentration of CBN rarely exceeds 0.5%.

CBD and CBN are similar in that neither is psychoactive.

Interestingly, the molecular structure of Cannabinol (CBN) is nearly identical to Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC becomes CBN in aged cannabis through a process of oxidation.

THC contains four extra hydrogen atoms, and aside from that, their chemical makeup is the same in hemp plants.

Over time, THC loses the hydrogen atoms with exposure to heat, light, and air. This results in a decrease of THC levels in a sample while the CBN level rises.

The Benefits of CBN Combined with CBD

A10B 50

CBN is particularly known for its ability to promote sleep. CBD, on the other hand, can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, both of which can be helpful in inducing sleep.

When combined with CBD can become a powerful tonic which offers a number of potential health benefits, including sleep.

Both of these cannabinoids are non-psychoactive and together, CBN and CBD can amplify each other’s effects and get your mind and body ready for a deeper, more restful sleep.

Cannovia's GOODNIGHT full-spectrum CBD oil contains 700mg of cannabidiol(CBD) and 300mg of cannabinol(CBN), which is among the highest concentrations on market. Each bottle containing 1000mg hemp derived cannabinoids supports relaxation and comfort with an easy to use dropper for first timers or experienced users alike!

How is CBN oil made?

CBN can be extracted from the hemp biomass with the use of a solvent, typically either CO2 or ethanol. This process is called decarboxylation and it separates the cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other compounds from the biomass.

The extracted product is then placed in an evaporator that uses heat and a vacuum to remove all traces of the solvent.

Cannovia takes the health and safety of our customers seriously. We use CO2 extraction rather than ethanol to make healthier and cleaner products. Our process ensures no chemical residue or toxicity risk in your body when you take a product from us!

To make the extracts even more potent, we carefully blend the extracted CBN with CBD and natural MCT oil. This helps us retain the healthy nutrients (and keep them strong).

As well as added peppermint flavor if you want some extra kick in terms of flavor too - yep you're reading this right: peppermint oil helps bring out the cooling sweet minty taste quite nicely without being overwhelming.

Benefits of CBN Oil for Sleep

CBN is also a powerful antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory properties. These characteristics make it an ideal compound for reducing stress and promoting sleep.

While more investigation is needed, early research has hinted at CBN’s effects in aiding sleep. A 2019 study showed a significant decrease of anxiety scores in 79.2% and an increase in sleep scores of 66.7% patients within the first month.

Full-Spectrum CBD and CBN for the Full Spectrum of Benefits

CBN oil in a dropper.

Full-spectrum CBD and CBN products are ideal for use in the evening as, together, they produce the entourage effect.

The entourage effect is when all of the compounds in cannabis work together in synergy for a greater combined effect than any one of them can alone.

While the entourage effect is not fully understood, it is believed that the synergistic interaction between the various compounds creates an effect that is greater than the sum of its parts.

Full spectrum products contain all of the naturally-occurring cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and CBN, as well as terpenes, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds found in hemp.

This means that you'll get the full benefits of the plant's beneficial properties, instead of just a fraction of them.

Is CBN Safe?

CBN is considered generally safe. There have been no reports of serious side effects from taking this compound, even in large doses. However, it’s always best to start with a lower dose and increase gradually as needed. This will help you avoid any potential side effects, such as fatigue or dizziness.

How to Use CBN Oil

Cannovia's GOODNIGHT CBN and CBD Oil Drops.

The optimal serving varies from person to person and will depend on the brand you are using. It’s always best to follow the instructions on the bottle, starting with the suggested serving size (½ dropper) and gradually increasing until you achieve the desired results.

CBN Serving Size

To support and manage your natural sleep patterns, most Cannovians find that the 1000mg hemp concentration in the product is optimal because you can adjust the serving size gradually from ½ a dropper up to 1 full dropper. By taking time to learn how your body reacts to different healthful servings, you can find the right amount for the best experience.

Timing of Use

CBN oil is usually consumed within the hour before bedtime as part of a wind-down routine that promotes healthy sleep. This may include yoga, the removal of blue light (such as TV and mobile screens), and a comforting bath or shower.

Cannovia GOODNIGHT CBN and CBD Oil Drops

Goodnight CBD+CBN oil is a natural way to support your wellness and enjoy the full range of health supporting properties without any side effects as it is made with non-GMO, USA-grown industrial hemp.

All ingredients are 100% natural, gluten free and vegan, with no artificial colors or sweeteners making them safe for individuals who follow plant based diets.

This high-quality, high-strength, 100% natural product contains 17.5mg of CBD and 7.5mg of CBN per serving, while the THC level of under 0.3% ensures that the product is non-intoxicating.

Plus they're tested by third party labs so you know that there's nothing harmful present when it comes to your well being.

CBN Oil FAQs

Is CBN oil safe?

A researcher testing CBN oil in a lab.

CBN derived from hemp is well-tolerated by humans, and there are no known incidences of overdoses or dangerous side effects. However, if you have not tried CBN oil before and take other medication, you should consult with a healthcare professional before starting. Always start with the lowest recommended dose in order to monitor how your body responds to CBN, and you can always take half the recommended serving size when you’re just starting out.

Does CBN come from the cannabis plant?

Yes, CBN occurs naturally in cannabis in low concentrations. It can be extracted from industrial hemp to produce CBN oil and other CBN products.

Can CBN be taken as a natural sleep aid?

A woman having a restful sleep after adding GOODNIGHT CBN and CBD Oil Drops to her bedtime routine.

CBN, derived from industrial hemp, is completely natural and non-intoxicating. It is often taken as part of a before-bed routine to prepare for a good night’s sleep and as an alternative to over-the-counter sleep aid medication.

Does CBN oil make you high?

CBN shows no evidence of psychoactive effects despite being a byproduct of THC degeneration. Whether you use a broad-spectrum CBN product or a full-spectrum CBN product, the level of THC is so low that there will not be any psychoactive effects.

How long does CBN take to work?

This will depend on the serving size and product you’re using, but you should start feeling the effects between 15 and 60 minutes after ingesting CBN. If incorporated as part of your night routine for sleep benefits, it should be taken an hour before bed.

Is broad-spectrum CBN or full-spectrum CBN better?

The only difference between broad-spectrum CBN and full-spectrum CBN is the level of THC. Both are derived from industrial hemp and contain the full range of cannabinoids, including CBD, CBN, and other hemp compounds, but broad-spectrum CBN has had all traces of THC removed. The effect of this is that broad-spectrum products may not offer all the synergistic benefits compared to full-spectrum products.

  1. Ingvild Saksvik-Lehouillier, Simen Berg Saksvik, Johanna Dahlberg, Tiril K Tanum, Heidi Ringen, Håvard Rudi Karlsen, Trine Smedbøl, Torhild Anita Sørengaard, Mailen Stople, Håvard Kallestad, Alexander Olsen, Mild to moderate partial sleep deprivation is associated with increased impulsivity and decreased positive affect in young adults, Sleep, Volume 43, Issue 10, October 2020, zsaa078, https://doi.org/10.1093/sleep/zsaa078 ↩︎
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