Medical cannabis is a type of plant-based medicine that is derived from the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica species. It contains a range of compounds known as cannabinoids, which are believed to have therapeutic effects on the body. One of these cannabinoids is called cannabidiol (CBD), which has been shown to have a number of potential health benefits, including the ability to reduce anxiety, inflammation, and pain.
Another cannabinoid found in medical cannabis is called cannabinol (CBN). Like CBD, CBN is believed to have several therapeutic effects on the body, including the ability to promote sleep. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at CBN and how it is used to help people get a good night’s sleep.
What is CBN?
CBN is a cannabinoid that is derived from the cannabis plant. It is formed when THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, is oxidised. This means that CBN is typically found in older or poorly stored cannabis plants, as it is not produced during the initial stages of the plant’s growth.
Cannabinol (CBN) is a minor cannabinoid with very different medicinal benefits. CBN is a by-product of the action of light and heat on THC.
CBN is a non-intoxicating compound, best known as the cannabinoid created when THC ages. For that reason, it is present in higher amounts in older cannabis.
In other words, the older the cannabis, the higher the CBN content.
Unlike THC, CBN does not have psychoactive effects, meaning it does not produce a “high” or altered state of consciousness when it is consumed. Instead, CBN is believed to have multiple therapeutic effects on the body, including the ability to promote sleep.
How does CBN promote sleep?
Approximately 90% of Australians suffer from a sleeping disorder. Insomnia can be very frustrating; however, it is usually only a temporary annoyance. CBN produces a gentle, sedative effect that is beneficial for people wanting to use cannabis for improved sleep. Lab research has shown that CBN can prolong sleep time.
CBN has been shown to have sedative properties, meaning it can promote sleep and relaxation. One study conducted in the 1970s found that CBN was able to significantly increase sleep time in mice, while another study found that it was able to reduce the amount of time it took for people to fall asleep.
There is also some evidence to suggest that CBN may influence the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating sleep. The endocannabinoid system is a network of receptors and neurotransmitters that are found throughout the body, including in the brain and the immune system. These receptors are activated by the body’s own naturally occurring cannabinoids (called endocannabinoids), as well as by the cannabinoids found in cannabis.
When the endocannabinoid system is functioning properly, it helps to regulate several important functions in the body, including sleep, appetite, mood, and pain perception. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, CBN may be able to help promote sleep by regulating the body’s natural sleep-awake cycle.
Is CBN safe to use for sleep?
CBN is generally considered to be a safe and well-tolerated compound. However, as with any medication or supplement, it is important to use it carefully and according to the instructions of a healthcare professional.
It’s also worth noting that the long-term effects of CBN on sleep and overall health are not yet fully understood. While there is some evidence to suggest that CBN may be effective in promoting sleep, more research is needed to fully understand its potential risks and benefits.
How is CBN used to help with sleep?
There are a few different ways to use CBN to help with sleep, including:
· Oral consumption: CBN can be consumed orally in the form of capsules, tablets, gummies or oils. When taken orally, CBN is absorbed into the bloodstream through the digestive system, and it can take some time for it to take effect (usually around 30-60 minutes).
· Inhalation: CBN can also be inhaled using a vaporiser or smoking device. When inhaled, CBN is absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs.
· Sublingual: Administering the CBN oil under the tongue. If you are using a tincture, fill the dropper with the recommended dose and squeeze the liquid under your tongue. If you are using a capsule, open the capsule and sprinkle the contents under your tongue. If you are using an oil, place a few drops under your tongue. Hold the CBN under your tongue for at least 60 seconds. This allows the compound to be absorbed through the blood vessels under your tongue, bypassing the digestive system and entering the bloodstream faster. Swallow any remaining CBN and avoid eating or drinking anything for at least 15 minutes after taking the CBN. This allows the compound to fully absorb into your bloodstream.
Take the CBN about an hour before bedtime. This gives the compound time to take effect and can help you fall asleep more easily. The recommended dosage can vary depending on the product and the individual, but a common dosage is between 5 and 10 mg. It is important to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed, as too much CBN can have the opposite effect and cause overstimulation. Be consistent with your dosage. Try to take the same dosage at the same time each night to establish a routine. Monitor your sleep patterns and adjust the dosage as needed. It may take some trial and error to find the right dosage for you. If you are not experiencing any improvement in your sleep after a week or two, you may want to consider increasing the dosage.
Talk to your doctor before starting a CBN treatment plan. While CBN is generally considered safe, it can interact with certain medications and may not be suitable for everyone. It is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
Overall, administering sublingual CBN for sleep deprivation is a simple process that can be done in the comfort of your own home. By following these steps and working with a healthcare professional, you can potentially improve your sleep and overall well-being.
There are many different factors that can contribute to insomnia, including stress, anxiety, and certain medical conditions. While there are numerous pharmaceutical options available to treat insomnia, some people are hesitant to use these medications due to the potential for side effects and risk of addiction.
While the research on CBN and insomnia is still in its early stages, the available evidence suggests that CBN has emerged as a potential alternative treatment for insomnia, and there is now enough up-to-date clinical data to suggest that it may be effective in helping people to fall asleep and stay asleep.
One of the potential mechanisms by which CBN may be able to improve sleep is by regulating the processes that interact with the endocannabinoid receptors.
One study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that CBN was effective in reducing anxiety in people with generalised social anxiety disorder, which can be a significant contributor to insomnia. Another study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that CBN was effective in improving sleep in people with chronic pain, a common cause of insomnia.
In Conclusion
CBN is a minor cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. It is a degradation product of THC and is usually present in very small amounts in cannabis plants. Despite limited research, CBN is believed to have a number of potential therapeutic benefits, including sleep, pain relief, glaucoma, inflammation, and appetite. More research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential medical uses.
If you are considering using CBN for insomnia, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine if it is an appropriate treatment option for you. Your healthcare provider can also help you to understand the potential risks and benefits of using CBN and can help you determine the appropriate dosage.
At iCannabis we are committed to establishing an Australian medical cannabis community comprised of passionate and caring people, focused on the highest quality organic medicine made with love and integrity.
If you need any advice or help with CBN products – whether ingestion, sublingual or vaping – for the treatment of sleep deprivation, or help sourcing full spectrum cannabis oil treatments please contact us. We try to answer all emails within 24 hours and are happy to help in complete confidence.
