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The cannabis plant is incredible, containing over 100 cannabinoids, some of which can cause effects throughout the body. You’ve probably heard of tetrahydrocannabinolis (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). The former can produce a ‘high’, while the latter doesn’t, but both have a number of potential medical benefits. And remember, whilst there is evidence to give a general idea of how both THC and CBD may react with the body, they can affect every individual differently.
But what about CBN?
Well, CBN is another cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, it’s just not as well known as CBD and THC. CBN is mildly psychoactive, but in a very weak and very subtle way. It’s more likely to cause drowsiness or body relaxation than a noticeable mental ‘high’, which may be why it’s commonly known as the 'sleepy cannabinoid'. But it isn't the only part of cannabis that causes a sedative effect - this can be the result of lots of other (unknown) things we're still learning.
CBN is known by a lot of people as something that is found in 'old cannabis' - like a result of flower that's been stored for an overly long time. It’s not clear how accurate this is, but it's what a lot of people think. And, this lack of research may be why CBN isn’t as popular or readily available as some other cannabinoids.
Since 2018, medical cannabis has been legally available on prescription through licensed clinics like Alternaleaf for 50+ conditions. You can find out if you’re eligible by completing the quick questionnaire on our website.
Below we’ll be exploring CBN vs CBD for pain relief, anxiety, sleep and more.
CBD vs CBN UK: Which Cannabinoid is Right for You?
As we mentioned above, both CBD and CBN are non-psychoactive so won’t ever cause you to feel ‘high’ - an effect which can be associated with recreational use of cannabis.
This is one of the reasons why CBD products can be purchased over the counter. But, keep in mind they’re not always strictly regulated, meaning you can’t always trust the strength of CBD or other information mentioned on the label. That’s why it may be better to seek the help of a licensed clinic like Alternaleaf, where you can find medication that contains both CBD and THC. It’s monitored, trusted and personalised to you and your symptoms.
You can also purchase CBD products from Alternaleaf’s Pharmacy, Montu Pharmacy. And because they’re non-prescription products, you can order them without a prescription, but still trust the source you’re purchasing from.
With the lack of research around CBN, you won’t find many products containing this cannabinoid readily available in the majority of high street shops.
Both CBD and CBN work by interacting with the cannabinoid receptors found in the endocannabinoid system, or the ECS. The ECS is a messenger and receptor system that is integral to homeostasis (the management of balance) within the human body. It influences and modulates pretty much every single function within your body, directing, correcting and managing your overall health.
One of the core components of the ECS are the cannabinoid receptors, which includes CB1 and CB2. And they’re one of the main reasons behind why medical cannabis has the potential to work positively on so many different conditions.
But, although CBD and CBN interact with the body in the same way, the effects of these two cannabinoids can sometimes differ slightly.
Key Differences Between CBD and CBN in Medical Use
Potential Benefits of CBD
In a 2022 study, CBD duly had the most pronounced impact on pain, although participants also reported improved sleep and physical function.
This study in 2020 shows evidence that CBD for anxiety had a strong impact.
And this research suggests that CBD has some benefits as a treatment for GAD and SAD. However, it’s not entirely clear how this works, so more research is needed.
Potential Benefits of CBN
As we mentioned above, limited research around CBN means that its potential benefits aren’t exactly supported by studies. However, there are some instances where CBN for relaxation and CBN as a sleep aid are a possibility.
Whatever you’re prescribed - regardless of levels of THC, CBD and CBN - the best thing to always do is follow the dosage guidance your clinician gives you. They’ll work with you to choose medication and dosage that suits you and your symptoms. You may not get it right the first time you use medical cannabis, which is why we recommend starting slow. It’s also important to remember that everyone’s body can react differently, and you’ll have your own individual tolerance to the medication. Just monitor how you react, and feed this back to your clinician during your next appointment.
Below are some potential side effects of CBD and side effects of CBN to look out for:
- Increased appetite
- Dry mouth or thirst
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Nausea
- Feeling tired
The above are short-term, and should wear off within a few hours. If they persist, stop taking your medication immediately, and speak to your clinician.
Can You Use CBD and CBN Together?
Yes! Using the whole cannabis plant as medicine might be more helpful than using just its separate parts.
In fact, different cannabinoids like THC, CBD and CBN, along with over 150 different terpenes (the part of any plant that produces the smell) may work together to enhance the effects of medical cannabis, as seen in this research. And this idea that these elements work better together is known as the entourage effect.
Summary
So, that’s a crash course on some psychoactive vs non-psychoactive cannabinoids compared. Whether you’re looking for a cannabinoid for sleep or simply want to learn more about the incredible cannabis plant, hopefully this article has helped.
The best thing to do is speak to your Doctor or clinician, or seek the help of a licensed medical cannabis clinic like Alternaleaf if you’re considering medical cannabis treatment. Find out if you’re eligible by heading to our website and completing our 30 second questionnaire.