You’ve probably heard that “counting sheep” is a good way to fall asleep, but do you know where the saying actually comes from? Some scholars speculate that the herdsmen were so watchful of their flock that they were unable to fall asleep unless every sheep was accounted for. While that may have been true way back then, the Technology Age has made sleep an elusive imp to catch. With so many places to see, problems to overthink, and personal issues to worry about, it’s a wonder we get any sleep at all! If you’re plagued by a restless mind that simply refuses to turn off, there may be something that can help! Forget sleeping pills and say hello to what some consumers are calling “The Sleep Cannabinoid.” That’s right, we’re talking about CBN! In today’s article, we’ll be discussing what CBN is, how it differs from CBD, and some of the benefits involved with enjoying this lesser-known hemp compound. Let’s begin!
What Is CBN?
Cannabinol, not to be confused with cannabidiol, is a hemp-derived cannabinoid. CBN, as it’s commonly shortened to, is the main active ingredient in cannabis. When the THC cannabis is heated and exposed to oxygen (Co2), it transforms into CBN. While both CBD and CBN are derivatives of the hemp plant, they contain unique chemical structures that set them apart. Many studies have been conducted on the uses for CBD, but the world is still learning more about how CBN can help in a variety of ways.
How Does CBN Differ From CBD?
Cannabidiol, or CBD for short, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid found within the hemp plant. In stark contrast, CBN is only formed when THC is heated and exposed to oxygen, meaning the cannabinoid isn’t already present in the hemp plant. This is why CBN is thought to give more relaxing effects while consumers of CBD most likely won’t experience any immediate effects; rather, the effects are felt over an extended period of time (i.e., increased appetite, better energy, improved mood, etc.)
Another interesting difference is the ensuing effects after consumption. CBD, when consumed in regular doses, will not get the user high. Some speculate that if ridiculously large doses of CBD were consumed, there may be a possibility that the user will experience some sort of dizziness or discomfort (read: get high), but the amount would have to be an exorbitant one. CBN, on the other hand, is thought to have mildly psychoactive effects, meaning you may feel somewhat high after consuming a moderate dose. The high would not be anything close to how high you’d get from consuming THC, but enough to label it as somewhat intoxicating.
So What Is CBN Good For?
CBN has several uses in a consumer’s everyday life, including relief from physical discomfort and as a way to combat inflammation. However, CBN is primarily touted as being an exceptional sleep aid. CBD is useful in helping the mind unwind, but the mildly psychoactive properties of CBN are much more effective in terms of promoting sleep. CBN will start to take effect between 30-180 minutes, allowing your mind to relax to the point where you can finally fall asleep. As with any cannabinoid, you should always start slowly with your doses. Wait at least an hour after taking your initial dose; if you don’t feel anything after the allotted time has passed, only then should you consume a second dose.
How Much CBN Should I Take? And When?
Most products that contain CBN will have a recommended dosage listed either on the brands product description or on the back of the product packaging. New users should start off with about 2.5mg of THC per dose of CBN, while more experienced consumers may be more comfortable with a higher dose.
Here at ERTH Wellness, we have three unique product types: gummies, softgels, and tincture. Our Sleepy Blackberry CBN gummies each come with 25mg of CBN as well as a micro-dose of melatonin (1.5mg). The serving size for these gummies is a single piece. Our CBN softgels are flavorless and odorless, perfect for no-nonsense consumers. The softgels contain 25mg of CBD and 5mg of CBN each and are easy to swallow. Lastly, our Mixed Berry CBD+CBN Tincture features a fusion of 25mg of CBD, 8mg of CBN , and 3mg of melatonin per the suggested 1mL serving.
Since CBN helps to promote a restful night’s sleep, it’s encouraged to take your doses about thirty minutes to an hour before bedtime. You should start to feel relaxed and comfortable within this time frame, allowing your body to unwind and prepare for sleep. There are other ways to help your body prepare for sleep, such as shutting off all electronic devices, silencing any possible notifications on your phone, and dimming the lights. These actions can help signal to your brain that it’s time to sleep, thus allowing your brain to finally relax.
Is CBN Legal?
You may have some concerns about legality since CBN has the potential to get you slightly high. As long as CBN is derived from the hemp plant and contains no more than 0.3% THC, it is considered federally legal according to the 2018 Agricultural Act/Farm Bill. Yet since CBN has mildly intoxicating effects, some states will treat the cannabinoid similarly to marijuana. For a long time, consumers were only able to acquire CBN with a prescription from a licensed medical professional or from regulated state-approved dispensaries. While CBD is readily available from big box retailers and organic grocery stores, CBN is somewhat more difficult to obtain. It’s strongly recommended to check your local state laws to ensure you’re able to purchase and consume any CBN products.
Conclusion
Cannabis has become more appreciated and respected, no longer shunned as a way for unmotivated or slovenly users to get high. Thanks to the wonders of modern science and technology, there are over 100 known cannabinoids within the hemp plant. Most of us are already familiar with the major ones like CBD and THC, but it’s the lesser known ones that continue to excite and delight consumers on a daily basis. If you struggle with getting a good night’s sleep or find it difficult to coax your mind to unwind after a long day, CBN may be able to help. The mildly intoxicating effects combined with the ability to help your mind stop racing wildly can offer a way to finally snag a few zzz’s. Due to the slight psychoactive properties, you’ll need to confirm whether or not it’s legal to purchase and consume CBN where you live. If it is, be sure to start off with low doses until your body is accustomed to the effects. If you feel like that dose is too low, wait at least an hour before consuming your next dose.
Here at Erth Wellness, we are dedicated to helping you experience a refreshing slumber that leaves you feeling energized and ready to start the day. Our products have been crafted with premium ingredients that are free of heavy metals, pesticides, and harmful solvents. To prove our dedication to purity and potency, we’ve subjected all our products to third-party independent labs for testing. You can view the results of these tests by scanning the QR code on the back of the product packaging or by clicking the embedded link in each of our products descriptions. If you have any questions or concerns about anything listed in this article, feel free to reach out to us! We look forward to imparting our knowledge about the cannabis plant with you. In our next article, we’ll be discussing another lesser-known cannabinoid: CBG! Be sure to check back soon for this and other topics regarding the fascinating cannabis industry. We look forward to seeing you there!
