What is CBN?

CBN also known as cannabinol is a minor cannabinoid that is created as a result of THCA degrading and oxidizing. In other words, when THC is left out in the open after a period of time, it becomes CBN. An interesting fact, scientists have first discovered CBN in the early 19th century. Although there have not been any official tests on record for the direct effects CBN has on humans, there have been numerous studies on mice and here are the benefits derived from the conclusions.

CBN Pain Reliever:

People feel pain when specific nerves detect tissue damage. These cells transmit information about the damage to the brain via the spinal cord. Researchers have concluded that cannabinol has certain properties that may help with the treatment of physical ailments like arthritis, migraines, nerve damage, inflammation, and even burns. This is due to the fact that your body’s cells respond to chemical signals from different stimuli.

CBN as an anti-inflammatory:

Cannabinol (CBN) is known for having anti-inflammatory qualities that are very beneficial to the body. In studies conducted on mice, results have shown a decrease in allergen-induced mucus production. This indicates that cannabinoid based compounds may possibly contain therapeutic agents that can potentially treat allergic airway diseases. CBN is also capable of helping those with rheumatoid arthritis. A rodent study proved that CBN can reduce arthritis. Although the human trials are still inconclusive, the new and emerging market for Cannabis can show much promise in the future.

CBN as an antibiotic:

Cannabinol may potentially contain antimicrobial properties in addition to anti-inflammatory ones. In 2020, a recent study suggests CBN could be a potential treatment for MRSA also known as the Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus. MRSA is an infection caused when a staph bacteria has become resistant to the antibiotics that are normally used to treat staph infections.

CBN as a Neuroprotectant:

Some researchers have labeled CBN as a powerful neuroprotectant. In a study conducted on mice, researchers have found that CBN was able to delay the onset of the condition ALS. ALS is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis which is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Although no human studies were conducted, CBN is showing very promising signs in the future for neuroprotectants.

CBN for Appetite Stimulation:

In another rodent study, CBN has proven to increase the amount of food that rat subjects consumed, suggesting that CBN is an effective appetite stimulant. Many people have heard about THC giving people the “munchies” which has been proven to be true. However, some people tend to avoid the “high” associated with THC which makes CBN’s appetite stimulating effects without the “high” much more appealing to the average consumer.

Glaucoma:

CBN has properties known to help those suffering from glaucoma. A study conducted with rabbits has found that CBN reduces intraocular pressure which is the biggest risk found for glaucoma. Although the research is still in its infancy, it has not been proven to work better than current glaucoma medications and it is not to be a replacement for those medications.

More to Learn

Although CBN is a result of THC degradation, it presents new ways for medical cannabis use. Although CBN is far less popular than THC and CBD, it still has a very impressive resume of medical uses.