Between the legalization of the cannabis plant and the growing number of studies sharing its potential health benefits, much of the industry is too focused on cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 

However, as cannabis research expands, researchers uncover significant therapeutic potentials of less-known cannabinoids. This post centers on cannabinol (CBN) and its potential health and wellness benefits. 

What Is Cannabinol?

According to experts, cannabis has over a hundred different chemical compounds or cannabinoids. Among which is CBN. While CBD and THC are the most well-studied and best-known types of cannabinoids, CBN is the first cannabinoid identified. 

CBN comes from THC. In general, young cannabis plants only contain a trace amount of CBN. As the cannabis plant ages—and when exposed to oxygen or heated—the THC acid gets converted to cannabinolic acid. Thus, CBN concentrations increase over time. Aside from natural extraction, CBN can also be processed and produced from THC. 

Understanding The Difference Between Cannabinol And THC

Since CBN is derived from THC, most people may be skeptical about its properties. Some may think that CBN may cause mind-altering highs. After all, THC is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis and is associated with the ‘high’ feeling experienced when consuming marijuana. 

However, CBN is considered non-psychoactive. For example, CBN-based products like those from Hemponix have a mild psychoactive effect that is not as high as THC. 

CBN is known to have a low binding affinity with the human endocannabinoid system’s CB1 receptors, which are associated more with psychoactive properties. It is said to have a stronger affinity with CB2 receptors, which are principally involved in immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory functions. As such, CBN appears to have similar properties as CBD and THC. 

Potential Benefits Of Cannabinol

Research and studies about the therapeutic benefits of CBN are minimal. However, as interest in this cannabinoid surges, more insights may be revealed about CBN. Here are key areas where initial studies suggest that CBN may make a difference. 

1. It Can Promote Sleep

CBN is considered one of the most sedating cannabinoids, primarily when used with THC. Studies show that this sedative effect can be used as a sleeping aid for those who have insomnia. Research also indicates that CBN can help prolong sleep time. 

2. It May Help Reduce Inflammation

In general, all cannabinoids may seem to have anti-inflammatory properties. However, CBN may be the most promising of all. 

Experiments show that CBN can inhibit the immune response of T-cells. T-cells, or white blood cells, protect the body against pathogens and foreign invaders. They can also play a critical role in chronic inflammation. CBN can help regulate the proliferation of T-cells, which may also reduce inflammation. 

3. It Has Potential Anti-Cancer Properties

Owing to its strong anti-inflammatory potential, CBN may be beneficial for cancer treatments. Studies reveal a strong correlation between cancer and inflammation. And the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications is shown to reduce cancer risk. 

Please note that there’s still no concrete evidence. However, if CBN is indeed anti-inflammatory, it can act similarly as the aforementioned medications drugs and, thus, treat cancer-related inflammation. 

In addition, CBN is one of the few cannabinoids being studied to stop or slow the spread and growth of cancer cells. In fact, it shows promising results in reducing tumor size in lung cancer. 

4. It Has Antioxidant Properties

Like the other cannabinoids, CBN  has antioxidant properties. It can help in blocking out any harm brought by oxidation due to free radicals and UV exposure. As such, it may help reduce damage to the eyes, skin, and cell DNA (which may also cause cancer). 

5. It Can Be Used As an Appetite Stimulant

Unlike CBD, with its appetite-suppressing properties, CBN does the opposite and appears to stimulate appetite. This can be a therapeutic option to improve cravings, especially for those struggling with serious illnesses such as cancer or undergoing chemotherapy. 

6. It Has Bone-Protecting Properties

CBN also has powerful protective properties to support bone health. Research shows that it can activate stem cells to create new bone. As such, CBN may help treat osteoporosis, reduce bone loss, and promote overall bone healing. 

Takeaway

CBN may not be on the public’s wellness radar yet, but more and more people will be hearing about it in the near future. That’s because of its numerous wellness and health potential that rival its more famous siblings—CBD and THC. Although further research is required, it’s safe to bet that CBN will soon play a significant role in the wellness industry.