CBN Oil Archives

CBN, as a cannabinoid, has been around for decades. Still, it’s just now getting its moment in the spotlight—or should we say it’s getting infused into a whole basket full of sleep-aid products. CBN oil can help you quiet your racing thoughts and ease into bed when used properly.

In this post, we’re going to cover:

What CBN oil is
What CBN’s potential benefits are
How to take it to help with sleep
And address some of the internet’s most common questions

What is CBN Oil?

CBN oil is an oil, usually MCT, that’s been infused with the cannabinoid CBN, shorthand for cannabinol. CBN oil can also contain other ingredients, which we’ll discuss in more detail later in this post. CBN is created when THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, breaks down due to exposure to light and air. Despite its origin, CBN is not psychoactive, making it a popular choice for those seeking therapeutic benefits without the high associated with THC.

CBN oil is often derived from industrial hemp plants to comply with legal standards. This ensures that the oil contains minimal THC, typically less than 0.3%, making it non-psychoactive and legal in many regions. However, it’s always advisable to check local regulations as they can vary significantly.

The Spectrum of CBN Oil

CBN oil can come in three distinct varieties: full-spectrum, broad-spectrum, or isolate-based. Understanding these varieties can help you choose the right product for your needs:

Full-spectrum: Contains all cannabinoids present in the cannabis/hemp plant at harvest, including trace amounts of THC. This type of oil takes advantage of the “entourage effect,” where multiple cannabinoids work together to enhance therapeutic benefits.
Broad-spectrum: This is full-spectrum CBN oil with THC cannabinoids removed. It still provides the entourage effect but without any THC.
Isolate-based: Made with a carrier oil and isolated CBN. No other cannabinoids should be present. This is ideal for those who want to avoid THC altogether or are subject to drug testing.

To determine the type of CBN oil you’re considering, look at its third-party certificates of analysis. These lab documents will show which cannabinoids are in your product and at what concentrations. This transparency helps ensure you are getting a product that meets your needs and preferences.

What Does CBN Oil Do?

CBN is still a relatively understudied cannabinoid, but there have been a few non-FDA studies that suggest it may help with:

Promoting Sleep: One of the most touted benefits of CBN oil is its potential to aid in sleep. It is believed to have sedative properties, making it a popular choice for those struggling with insomnia or other sleep disorders.
Pain Management: Some users report that CBN oil helps alleviate chronic pain and inflammation, offering a natural alternative to over-the-counter and prescription pain relievers.
Appetite Stimulation: While not as potent as THC in this regard, CBN may help increase appetite, which can be beneficial for individuals dealing with conditions that cause a loss of appetite.
Nausea Relief: Similar to other cannabinoids, CBN may help reduce nausea, making it useful for those undergoing treatments like chemotherapy.
Localized Immune Response: CBN may also support the immune system, although more research is needed to confirm these effects.

How Do You Take CBN Oil for Sleep?

Of the potential benefits listed above, promoting sleep is CBN’s biggest selling point. While calling CBN a guaranteed sleep aid would be misleading, there are ways that you can work CBN oil into your sleep routine.

Sublingual | Est. Time to Effect: 15 Minutes
The first and faster way of taking CBN oil requires filling up your dropper, assuming your product comes with a dropper bulb and pipette. Fill the pipette to your desired dosage and put the oil under your tongue. Let the oil sit there for about 20 seconds before you swallow. This method is called sublingual ingestion.
Because the membrane is so thin under your tongue, CBN can enter your bloodstream more quickly here than in your digestive system. This rapid absorption can help you feel the effects sooner, making it easier to drift off to sleep.
Consuming | Est. Time to Effect: 45 Minutes
The second, more gradual way to take CBN oil is to swallow your desired dosage directly or put it in a beverage. Without letting the oil sit under your tongue, you’ll force the CBN in your oil to enter your bloodstream more slowly.
The added benefit of slower absorption is that the effects of the cannabinoids should last longer than if you were to use your CBN oil sublingually. This can be particularly useful if you tend to wake up in the middle of the night, as the effects may help you stay asleep longer.

Will CBN Oil Change How You Sleep?

Adding CBN oil to your sleep schedule isn’t likely to change how you sleep fundamentally. As a naturally occurring substance, CBN is a gentle cannabinoid. It won’t turn you into someone who can sleep through your alarm, but it can help improve the quality of your sleep.

CBN will allow your body and mind to relax so that you can fall asleep more easily. By reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation, it can help you achieve a more restful sleep. However, individual responses can vary, so it’s important to find the right dosage and method of ingestion that works for you.

Will CBN Oil Make You Groggy in the Morning?

Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Waking up groggy is a function of many different factors, including where in your sleep cycle you wake up.

Grogginess after taking CBN oil can depend on your dosage, when you took your dose before bed, and the presence of other cannabinoids. Starting with a lower dose and adjusting gradually can help minimize the risk of morning grogginess. Additionally, experimenting with different ingestion methods and timing can help you find the optimal routine for your needs.

Can CBN Oil Make You Hungry?

There is some evidence that suggests CBN can be an effective appetite stimulant. If your question is more, will taking CBN oil turn you into a midnight fridge raider—probably not.

CBN and full-spectrum CBD products may affect your appetite, but not in the way that THC products give you the “munchies.” Instead, CBN may help regulate your appetite, making it beneficial for those with conditions that affect their ability to eat regularly.

Can You Mix Melatonin and CBN Oil?

You can mix melatonin with CBN and cannabinoid products in general. Sunset Lake CBD sells melatonin-infused sleep products and CBN products that are melatonin-free.

As of this writing, no studies suggest mixing CBN and melatonin is harmful or counterproductive. Combining these two supplements may enhance their sleep-promoting effects, providing a more comprehensive approach to managing sleep issues.

Frequently Asked CBN Oil Questions

Are There Any Side Effects?
Because federal agencies stifled cannabinoid research for so long, CBN-specific research is in its infancy. We don’t know much about the long-term side effects of CBN use, but we can extrapolate based on what we know about CBD. Side effects of full-spectrum CBD use may include changes in appetite, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, and upset stomach.
Is CBN Habit-Forming?
As of this writing, CBN has no known addictive properties. It is a gentle cannabinoid that may have potential nighttime benefits. Inconsistent use, however, may lead to disrupted sleep patterns. Regular, consistent use is recommended for the best results.
Does It Interact with Medications?
CBN, and cannabinoids in general, do interact with certain medications in the statin class (and others). You should talk to your doctor and pharmacist before adding any cannabinoids to your nighttime routine. This is particularly important if you are on medications that affect your liver, as cannabinoids are metabolized in the liver.
Will CBN Oil Show Up on a Drug Test?
Your product may trigger a positive drug test. If your CBN oil contains any THC or is labeled as “full-spectrum,” there is a good chance that it will register on a workplace drug screening. Isolate-based and broad-spectrum products should be fine. To learn more about cannabinoids and why some products show on drug tests, see our post about CBD and drug tests here.
Is CBN Oil Psychoactive Like THC?
Because CBN is the oxidated form of THC, it interacts with your endocannabinoid system in much the same way. Because CBN binds to your CB1 receptors, it is technically a psychoactive cannabinoid. That said, you are unlikely to experience the same kind of psychoactive effects that you would with a THC product. Think of CBN as causing drowsiness and relaxation rather than euphoria and time dilation.
Is CBN Oil Legal?
Depending on where you live, CBN oil may or may not exist in a legal gray area. Federally speaking, as long as CBN is derived from cannabinoids harvested from industrial hemp, it’s legal. However, state laws can vary, so it’s important to check local regulations to ensure compliance.

CBN oil offers a fast-acting and potent option for those seeking natural sleep supplements. Before purchasing, ensure the quality of the products by checking testing documents and reviews. Additionally, it’s wise to compare different products and brands to find the best option for your needs. With its potential benefits for sleep, pain management, and more, CBN oil could be a valuable addition to your wellness routine.

Cannabinoid products are continually evolving to meet the needs of a growing number of people. One such need is the quest for quality sleep, a challenge millions face daily (and nightly). While CBD oil was the initial go-to product, CBN is now gaining popularity as our understanding of cannabinoids deepens. In this post, we will cover CBN oil specifically and discuss:

The difference between full-spectrum and isolate CBN oil
The origins of CBN
Five key considerations before purchasing CBN oil

What is CBN Oil?

CBN oil is a carrier oil infused with CBN, which stands for cannabinol. Full-spectrum CBN oil contains additional cannabinoids like CBD and THC, while CBN isolate products contain only CBN without other cannabinoids. The type of CBN oil you choose can impact the effectiveness and experience you have with the product.

What is CBN?

CBN is one of over 100 naturally occurring chemicals—cannabinoids—produced by hemp and cannabis plants. Unlike other cannabinoids such as CBD and THC, CBN is an oxidized cannabinoid, created by breaking down delta-9 THC with oxygen and UV light. As a byproduct of THC, CBN is mildly psychoactive, commonly resulting in:

Relaxation
Sedation
A feeling of being weighted down
Mild fuzzy sensations in the limbs

CBN differs significantly from CBD, which is non-psychoactive, and THC, which is known for its strong psychoactive effects. This unique profile makes CBN a subject of interest for those looking for mild relaxation without intense psychoactive effects.

Is CBN a Better Sleep Aid Than CBD?

Determining which cannabinoid is better for sleep is challenging. Neither CBN nor CBD are effective sleep aids on their own. However, using full-spectrum products, which combine various cannabinoids, tends to be more effective than using CBN or CBD in isolation. This synergy, often referred to as the entourage effect, suggests that cannabinoids work better together than alone.

Comparing our page with competitors, it is essential to highlight the unique benefits of CBN oil in improving sleep quality. Competitors often emphasize the effectiveness of CBN in promoting deeper, more restful sleep, which appeals to consumers struggling with sleep disorders. It’s crucial to address these comparisons to ensure potential buyers are well-informed.

5 Things to Consider Before Buying CBN Oil

1. What Are Your Expectations for CBN Oil?

Before purchasing CBN oil, consider your expectations. If you seek a guaranteed sleep aid, CBN oil may not be the best choice. Instead, consult with a doctor about FDA-approved sleep aids. However, if you want a supplement to improve sleep hygiene and relaxation, CBN oil might be suitable.

Competitor pages often stress setting realistic expectations. For instance, many highlight that while CBN oil can aid relaxation, it may not provide instant results. Understanding that cannabinoid effects can vary from person to person is crucial in setting proper expectations.

2. Side Effects and Medication Interference

Consult your doctor or pharmacist about potential interactions between CBN oil and your medications. Although serious cannabinoid interactions are rare, they are possible. Be aware of CBN’s side effects, including changes in appetite, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, and upset stomach. If side effects occur, discontinue use and consider trying CBN gummies instead.

Competitor websites frequently discuss the importance of being aware of potential side effects and how to manage them. This includes advising users to start with a lower dose to gauge their body’s reaction. Such detailed guidance can enhance user confidence and trust in the product.

3. Additional Ingredients

CBN oil often contains other sleep-aid ingredients like melatonin, St. John’s Wort, and peppermint. Check the ingredients to ensure they are suitable for you. Knowing the additional ingredients can help you avoid potential allergies and ensure that you are not consuming anything that could interfere with your health.

Competitors also emphasize transparency regarding ingredients, often providing detailed descriptions of how each ingredient can contribute to better sleep. This level of detail can be reassuring to consumers who are cautious about what they ingest.

4. Full Spectrum vs. Isolate

Determine whether the product is full-spectrum or isolate. Full-spectrum products contain additional cannabinoids, including trace amounts of THC, which might affect drug tests or government assistance eligibility. Always check the certificate of analysis.

Competitors often provide in-depth explanations of the benefits and drawbacks of both full-spectrum and isolate products. They highlight that while full-spectrum oils might be more effective due to the entourage effect, isolates are ideal for those who need to avoid THC entirely.

5. Look for Test Results

Due to the underregulated cannabinoid market, always request test results for the CBN oil you intend to buy. A certificate of analysis will provide information on the product’s potency, other cannabinoids present, and the latest test date.

Competitor sites frequently showcase their certificates of analysis prominently, ensuring transparency and trust. They also educate consumers on how to read these certificates, empowering them to make informed decisions.

Detailed Comparisons with Competitor Pages

Quality Assurance and Transparency

Our competitors place a strong emphasis on transparency and quality assurance. They provide extensive information about their sourcing, manufacturing processes, and third-party testing. To match this, we must highlight our commitment to high standards and transparency. Providing detailed insights into our quality control processes and the rigorous testing our products undergo can reassure potential buyers of our product’s safety and effectiveness.

Educational Content

Competitors often include educational content that explains the science behind CBN and its benefits in layman’s terms. They provide resources such as blogs, FAQs, and detailed product descriptions. By enhancing our content with similar educational resources, we can ensure that our audience is well-informed about the benefits and potential uses of CBN oil.

Customer Testimonials and Reviews

Customer testimonials and reviews play a crucial role in building trust. Competitor pages feature numerous positive reviews and success stories from satisfied customers. To compete effectively, we should encourage our customers to share their experiences and prominently display these testimonials on our site.

User Experience

Ease of navigation and a user-friendly interface are hallmarks of our competitors’ websites. They offer detailed product filters, easy checkout processes, and comprehensive customer support. Improving our website’s user experience can make it easier for potential buyers to find the information they need and make a purchase with confidence.

Product Variety

Competitors often provide a wide range of CBN products, including oils, gummies, capsules, and topicals. Offering a variety of product forms can cater to different customer preferences and needs, making it easier to attract a broader audience.

FAQs

What is the difference between full-spectrum and isolate CBN oil?

Full-spectrum CBN oil contains various cannabinoids, including CBD and THC, whereas CBN isolate contains only CBN without any other cannabinoids.

What are the side effects of CBN oil?

Common side effects include changes in appetite, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, and upset stomach.

Can CBN oil help with sleep?

CBN oil may help improve sleep hygiene and relaxation but is not a guaranteed sleep aid. It is often more effective when used as part of a full-spectrum product.

Should I consult a doctor before using CBN oil?

Yes, it’s advisable to consult with a doctor or pharmacist about potential interactions with your medications and to understand the possible side effects.

How can I verify the quality of CBN oil?

Always request a certificate of analysis from the manufacturer to check the product’s potency, cannabinoid content, and the date of the last test.

CBN is one of the newest cannabinoids on the block and it isn’t going anywhere. While some consider CBN to be a minor cannabinoid behind THC and CBD, retailers are marketing it as a superior sleep aid. While science has yet to confirm whether or not CBN promotes a more restful night’s sleep, it’s still worth getting to know the cannabinoid.

In this post, we’re going to cover,

What CBN is
Where it comes from
And address the internet’s most common questions about the new “sleep cannabinoid”

What is CBN?

CBN is short for Canna-Bi-Nol and is one of the more than 100 cannabinoids produced by the hemp plant. Some researchers consider it to be mildly psychoactive because it is usually found in aged THC-dominant cannabis (something we’ll get into a bit later)

Is CBN Different Than CBD?

CBN and CBD are different cannabinoids with their own distinct molecular structures and benefits. We know that CBN interacts directly with your endocannabinoid system’s CB1 and CB2 receptors. CBD does not.

You can take CBD and CBN at the same time. Doing so may even yield additional desired effects. Research suggests that consuming both at the same time can be an effective pain management method.

What is CBN Good For?

We still aren’t sure what CBN can do because while there have been studies, most have not been carried out with human subjects. We can only hypothesize about what CBN might be good for based on animal studies.

Anti-Inflammation

One study on rats published in 2016 suggested CBN may reduce inflammation caused by arthritis. Further research is needed in both animals and humans before we fully understand this link¹.

Pain Relief

Another 2019 study found that a combination of both CBD and CBN was able to relieve chronic pain in rats. Further, this study found that a combination of CBN and CBD was more effective than either cannabinoid taken alone².

Another study conducted in Japan in the 1980s concluded that both CBN and THC have pain-relief properties³.

Sleep

A recent human-centered study published in 2021 by the Australian Sleep Disorders Research Institute found that a combination of THC, CBN, and CBD taken regularly under the tongue significantly improved insomnia symptoms and self-reported sleep quality in people compared to the placebo group⁴.

Read: Can CBN help you get a better night’s sleep?

Appetite Stimulant

In a rodent study, CBN increased the volume of food that rats ate, suggesting that it may be an effective appetite stimulant and an alternative for those looking to gain their appetite back without the high associated with THC (another well-known appetite stimulant.)

Neuroprotectant

CBN may also be a powerful neuroprotectant, meaning that it may help protect your nervous system from damage, especially in people who develop a health condition with neurological effects.

In a 2005 study, researchers found that CBN helped delay the onset of ALS in rats⁵.

Antibacterial

CBN has also been tested against certain strains of MRSA— a type of staph bacteria that’s become much more resistant to antibiotics in recent years⁶.

Where Does CBN Come From?

CBN comes from a process called oxidation. When we expose its predecessor molecule, THC, to oxygen, UV light, or heat for prolonged periods of time, it breaks down into cannabinol. This means that CBN content isn’t determined by genetic factors, but instead by THC content, time, and the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About CBN

Is CBN Psychoactive?

Many believe CBN is mildly psychoactive because THC is its predecessor cannabinoid and it interacts with your CB receptors in much the same way THC does. Note that psychoactive doesn’t necessarily mean intoxicating.

Is CBN Legal?

CBN is not listed as a Schedule I substance. Because CBN is derived from oxidized THC, some believe that CBN could be illegal under the Federal Analogue Act.

That said, CBN can also be derived from federally legal hemp plants defined as “cannabis that contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC,” albeit in smaller quantities. As long as the CBN is derived from hemp, it’s believed to be legal.

Where Can You Find CBN?

As a byproduct of THC, CBN isn’t the most plentiful cannabinoid, and oxidizing THC-dominant cannabis isn’t exactly the most efficient way to harvest CBN. Because of the advances in cannabis science, some companies are starting to release CBN isolate and broad-spectrum CBN + CBD blended products, like CBN edibles and CBN oil.

Edibles?

CBN edibles are gummies, beverages, or foods that have been infused with cannabinol. Broad- and full-spectrum CBN edibles will contain additional cannabinoids like CBD and THC.

Some manufacturers may choose to make their CBN edibles with CBN isolate, in which case they should only contain CBN and no other cannabinoids. CBN edibles, like any other cannabinoid-infused edible, should take anywhere between 30-120 minutes to take effect.

Sublinguals?

CBN oil is similar to CBD oil. Most of the time, CBN oil will be made by mixing CBN isolate with a carrier oil such as hemp oil or coconut MCT oil.

You can add your CBN oil to your favorite foods or drinks, or apply the oil directly under your tongue for rapid absorption. CBN oil taken under your tongue should take less time to take effect than CBN edibles— anywhere between 15-60 minutes.

Topicals?

CBN topicals are lotions, rubs, roll-ons, or salves infused with CBN. You’ll normally see CBN topicals also infused with CBD due to both cannabinoids’ anti-inflammatory properties. CBN topicals should offer localized relief for aches and pains that keep you up at night.

Does CBN Have Any Side Effects?

As of this writing, there are no known side effects of CBN, but that doesn’t mean they don’t exist— it just means we need more time to understand the cannabinoid.

Pregnant people, children, and those sensitive to THC should avoid CBN until we’re more certain of its safety.

Will CBN Interact with my other Medications?

While we do know that CBD interacts with certain medications, especially those that come with “grapefruit warnings,” we don’t know if CBN acts the same way.

To be on the safe side, take caution and speak to your pharmacist before trying CBN.

Does CBN make you hungry?

Unlike CBD which can have appetite-suppressing effects, CBN appears to stimulate appetite (at least in rodents)⁷. While CBN may not give you the munchies, it may be a great therapeutic option for people struggling with their appetites because of illness or cancer treatments.

Sources

Zurier RB, Burstein SH. Cannabinoids, inflammation, and fibrosis. FASEB J. 2016;30(11):3682–9.
Wong H, Cairns BE. Cannabidiol, cannabinol and their combinations act as peripheral analgesics in a rat model of myofascial pain. Arch Oral Biol. 2019;104:33–9.
Yamamoto, I., Watanabe, K., Kuzuoka, K., Narimatsu, S., & Yoshimura, H. (1987). The pharmacological activity of cannabinol and its major metabolite 11-hydroxycannabinol. Chemical & pharmaceutical bulletin. 35(5), 2144–2147.
Walsh, J.H., et al., Treating insomnia symptoms with medicinal cannabis: a randomized, crossover trial of the efficacy of a cannabinoid medicine compared with placebo. Sleep, 2021. 44(11)
Weydt, Patrick et al. “Cannabinol delays symptom onset in SOD1 (G93A) transgenic mice without affecting survival.” Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and other motor neuron disorders : official publication of the World Federation of Neurology, Research Group on Motor Neuron Diseases vol. 6,3 (2005): 182-4. doi:10.1080/14660820510030149
Appendino, Giovanni et al. “Antibacterial cannabinoids from Cannabis sativa: a structure-activity study.” Journal of natural products vol. 71,8 (2008): 1427-30. doi:10.1021/np8002673
Farrimond, Jonathan A et al. “Cannabinol and cannabidiol exert opposing effects on rat feeding patterns.” Psychopharmacology vol. 223,1 (2012): 117-29. doi:10.1007/s00213-012-2697-x