What are the side effects of CBN?

Nov 06, 2024The nama Team
What are the side effects of CBN? - namaCBD

In small, therapeutic doses, cannabinol (CBN) can ease you into restful sleep and relieve pain. Too much CBN won't cause serious problems, but higher doses can leave you feeling groggy the next morning and might increase appetite or cause mild dizziness.

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How does CBN work?

CBN is a natural cannabis compound that forms when THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) degrades through exposure to air, light, and time. Despite being derived from THC, CBN produces milder psychoactive effects. 

Like other cannabinoids, CBN interacts with your endocannabinoid system (ECS) and binds to its CB1 receptors (the same ones THC targets) but much weaker. It also interacts with CB2 receptors, which participate in inflammation and immune responses. Through the ECS interaction, CBN influences sleep, relaxation, and pain relief. 

Here’s how CBN produces its effects:

  • According to a 2024 study, CBN acts as a partial agonist of CB1 receptors. This means it has milder sedative properties than THC with less psychoactive impact. Through this partial activation of CB1 receptors, CBN calms neural activity and promotes relaxation.
  • CBN also soothes overactive neural signals by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters. A 2008 research article shows how CBN works alongside THC to suppress norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter involved in arousal and stress responses. This suppression occurs in the hypothalamus, where CBN depresses overactive signals that typically keep us alert and anxious. 
  • CBN also binds to CB2 receptors to influence immune function and inflammatory responses. It regulates inflammatory pathways and immune system activity, contributing to its overall calming and therapeutic effects. 
  • Working with other cannabinoids and cannabis compounds, CBN contributes to the entourage effect. In this cannabis synergy, they all work together to enhance each other's therapeutic benefits. This happens because different cannabinoids interact with multiple receptor systems in complementary ways. In CBN's case, its sedative effects become stronger when combined with cannabidiol (CBD) and small amounts of THC. 

The entourage effect shines when cannabinoids work together. CBN, CBD, and small amounts of THC join forces with beneficial cannabis terpenes in our Sleep Plus gummies to enhance each other's sleep-promoting properties and support your natural sleep cycle.

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Potential side effects of too much CBN

CBN has an excellent safety profile even at higher doses, but some people might experience mild and temporary side effects when they take a large amount. These effects are rare, generally subtle, and resolve naturally, but they may interfere with your normal routine and productivity the next day.

Here are the potential side effects of taking too much CBN:

  • Increased appetite
  • Excessive drowsiness and grogginess
  • Next-day sedation ("CBN hangover")
  • Dry mouth and throat
  • Mild dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Slower reaction times
  • Temporary memory issues
  • Difficulty focusing
  • Changes in blood pressure
  • Eye dryness
  • Digestive changes
  • Disrupted natural sleep patterns

Start small with CBN, and you'll hit the perfect balance of benefits without side effects. Most people find their sweet spot at just 2–5 mg of CBN, getting all the calm they need while staying sharp.

Is CBN psychoactive?

CBN has mild psychoactive properties. While THC can cause a strong "high," CBN produces subtler calming effects without significant intoxication. Lavender, et. al. explain that CBN binds to the same brain receptors as Delta 9 THC but has about 10 times less potency than THC at CB1 receptors. 

Even at higher doses, CBN doesn't cause the intense psychoactive effects typically associated with cannabis. Instead, it offers mild sedation and relaxation that most people find manageable and pleasant. This minimal intoxication profile makes CBN a more practical and safer alternative to THC as a sleep aid.

THC microdoses provide therapeutic benefits with minimal to no psychoactivity. If you're interested in experiencing these benefits, try our low-dose Delta 9 edibles and enjoy a balanced, approachable, and delicious way to unwind.

What are the benefits of CBN?

CBN shows particular promise for pain relief, anxiety reduction, and better sleep, but its therapeutic potential extends well beyond these primary benefits. Here’s the full list of CBN benefits:

  • CBN promotes deep relaxation and improves sleep quality by calming neural activity and supporting natural sleep cycles. Studies indicate that CBN’s sedating effects work best for sleep when paired with other cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC. 
  • Through its gentle interaction with the endogenous cannabinoid system, CBN reduces anxiety levels and manages daily stress without the heavy sedation of traditional medications.
  • CBN provides effective relief from chronic pain and inflammation. Canadian researchers posit that CBN offers relief from chronic conditions such as myofascial pain syndrome and fibromyalgia. CBN reduces inflammation and muscle sensitivity, which helps patients with Crohn's disease and multiple sclerosis.
  • CBN also has neuroprotective properties. It supports nerve cell health and protects the nervous system from oxidative stress and damage. Research shows that CBN can delay the progression of ALS by protecting neurons from damage and death. In animal studies, doses as low as 5 mg of CBN demonstrated significant effects in slowing the disease's advancement.
  • Like other compounds found in the Cannabis sativa plant, CBN stimulates appetite and restores healthy eating patterns. Farrimond, et. al. explain that this minor cannabinoid shortens the delay before someone starts eating (increased appetite), and it makes them eat more once they begin (larger portions and longer meals). 
  • The compound's powerful antioxidant effects help combat cellular damage and support overall wellness through multiple therapeutic pathways.

When you start with a low dose, you get CBN's calming benefits while staying clear-headed. Microdosing cannabis is a gentle approach that triggers relaxation and mild euphoria without making you feel overly sedated. 

If you’re looking for a reliable sleep aid—but also want something gentle to decompress—our low-dose melatonin Sleep gummies combine CBN, CBD, and melatonin to help you find your perfect balance.

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How fast does CBN kick in?

When taken in the form of an edible, CBN typically kicks in within 30–40 minutes. For some people, it may be even sooner, depending on their metabolism, stomach content, and the dose taken. The effects usually peak around 2–3 hours after taking it and can last anywhere from 4–6 hours. 

Start with a small amount and adjust based on how your body responds. For the best sleep results, take your CBN microdose an hour before bedtime. This gentle approach lets you ease into relaxation. 

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We source our hemp exclusively from small American farms in Colorado and New Jersey that use organic, non-GMO cultivation practices. Every batch of our artisanal CBN gummies undergoes comprehensive third-party lab testing to verify potency and purity. Our CBN products are federally legal and available nationwide (except in Kansas and Idaho), so you can enjoy our fruit blends with precisely measured CBN content wherever you are. 

Whether you want to feel the mellow buzz of our Delta 9 gummies, experience the restful sleep benefits of CBN, or get the relaxing properties of CBD, we guarantee you’ll find what you need. 

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CBN side effects FAQ

CBN interacts with your brain's endogenous cannabinoid system, primarily through CB1 receptors, but much more gently than THC. Here's how it affects brain function:

  • CBN helps regulate neurotransmitter activity, promoting natural calming effects while preserving mental clarity.
  • 2023 study findings confirm CBN’s neuroprotective properties that help shield brain cells from damage and oxidative stress.
  • It modulates sleep-wake cycles by influencing specific brain regions involved in sleep regulation.
  • CBN reduces pain perception by affecting how the brain processes pain signals.
  • This cannabinoid helps regulate mood and stress responses through indirect effects on serotonin pathways.
  • Unlike THC, CBN's interaction with brain receptors doesn't significantly impair cognitive function or coordination.
  • CBN may support brain health through its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to reduce neural inflammation.

CBN can make you feel sleepy but in a gentle, natural way. Unlike stronger sleep medications, CBN helps ease you into a relaxed state where sleep comes more easily. You'll likely feel drowsy within an hour of taking it, but without the heavy sedation or morning grogginess that comes with traditional sleep aids. The sleepiness is typically mild enough that you can fight it if needed, but pleasant enough to help you drift off when you're ready for bed.

CBN doesn't cause a high like other medical cannabis compounds. While it's derived from aged cannabis plants, CBN produces very mild psychoactive effects, about 1/10th the strength of THC. Most people experience gentle relaxation and calmness rather than intoxication. CBN users remain clear-headed and fully functional while enjoying its calming properties. 

Human studies consistently show that even at higher doses, CBN maintains its beneficial effects without causing significant impairment. This is particularly important for people who seek the potential benefits of cannabis plant products without feeling altered or unable to function normally. 

CBN gently influences serotonin levels through its interaction with the body's endogenous cannabinoid system. Unlike medications that directly alter serotonin, CBN's effects are subtle and supportive. This gentle modulation contributes to CBN's calming properties while avoiding common side effects associated with stronger serotonin-affecting drugs. 

The cannabinoid works naturally with your body's neurotransmitter systems to regulate mood and promote relaxation without aggressive chemical intervention. This makes CBN particularly interesting for therapeutic applications where traditional medications might be too strong or cause unwanted side effects. Many users report improved quality of life and emotional well-being with regular CBN use as a result of this balanced serotonin modulation.

CBN provides moderate sedation that feels more natural than traditional sleep medications or medical cannabis. Unlike some cannabis products that leave you feeling groggy, CBN promotes gentle sleepiness without excessive sedation. Most people describe the effect as a pleasant relaxation that makes it easier to fall asleep naturally, rather than feeling drugged or overly sedated. 

Clinical studies show CBN helps improve sleep quality and sleep depth without significant morning hangover effects. The sedation typically builds gradually, allowing you to finish evening activities before bed.

CBN has been extensively studied and proven safe at a wide range of doses. While you could take up to 50 mg safely, most people find their sweet spot between 5–10 mg daily. Start low with 2.5–5 mg to see how your body responds. Our CBN gummies contain only 5 mg per serving, so you can take half or the whole gummy and feel relaxed but functional.

CBN remains safe and effective even with regular use, and most people don't need to increase their dose over time. Side effects are typically mild and rare, mainly involving temporary drowsiness when first starting.

CBN and melatonin work differently to support sleep. While melatonin supplements your body's natural sleep hormone, CBN works through the endocannabinoid system to promote relaxation and sleep. Many people report more natural sleep with CBN, experiencing fewer morning grogginess effects than with melatonin. 

Anecdotal reports show that CBN offers additional therapeutic benefits beyond sleep, including anti-inflammatory properties and anxiety reduction. CBN's broader effects on sleep quality, not just sleep initiation, make it particularly valuable for those seeking comprehensive sleep support. 

Some users find the best results by combining low doses of both substances—which is why our Sleep Plus edibles work so well to ease you into sleep and relieve chronic pain and stress.

Always consult your healthcare professional before combining CBN with other medications. CBN may interact with:

  • Drugs that affect brain chemistry or are processed by the liver, particularly medications for sleep, anxiety, or depression.
  • Medications for neurological conditions such as Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome or tuberous sclerosis complex.
  • Blood thinners and drugs that cause drowsiness (CBN might enhance these effects).
  • Certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications.

Your doctor should review your current medications and medical history to ensure safe CBN use. This is especially important if you take multiple medications or have liver conditions that might affect drug metabolism.

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Resources

Khouchlaa, A., Khouri, S., Hajib, A., Zeouk, I., Amalich, S., Msairi, S., El Menyiy, N., Rais, C., Lahyaoui, M., Khalid, A., Abdalla, A. N., Ibrahim, S. E., El Omari, N., Goh, B. H., Kumari, Y., Tan, S. L., & Bouyahya, A. (2024). Health benefits, pharmacological properties, and metabolism of cannabinol: A comprehensive review. Industrial Crops and Products, 213, 118359. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indcrop.2024.118359

Murphy, L. L., Steger, R. W., Smith, S., & Bartke, A. (1990). Effects of Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol, cannabinol and cannabidiol, alone and in combinations, on luteinizing hormone and prolactin release and on hypothalamic neurotransmitters in the male rat. Neuroendocrinology, 52(4), 316–321. https://doi.org/10.1159/000125604

Corroon J. Cannabinol and Sleep: Separating Fact from Fiction. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2021 Oct;6(5):366-371. doi: 10.1089/can.2021.0006. Epub 2021 Aug 31. PMID: 34468204; PMCID: PMC8612407.

Wong H, Cairns BE. Cannabidiol, cannabinol and their combinations act as peripheral analgesics in a rat model of myofascial pain. Arch Oral Biol. 2019 Aug;104:33-39. doi: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2019.05.028. Epub 2019 May 28. PMID: 31158702.

Weydt P, Hong S, Witting A, Möller T, Stella N, Kliot M. Cannabinol delays symptom onset in SOD1 (G93A) transgenic mice without affecting survival. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Other Motor Neuron Disord. 2005 Sep;6(3):182-4. doi: 10.1080/14660820510030149. PMID: 16183560.

Farrimond JA, Whalley BJ, Williams CM. Cannabinol and cannabidiol exert opposing effects on rat feeding patterns. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2012 Sep;223(1):117-29. doi: 10.1007/s00213-012-2697-x. Epub 2012 Apr 28. PMID: 22543671.

Bonn-Miller MO, Feldner MT, Bynion TM, Eglit GML, Brunstetter M, Kalaba M, Zvorsky I, Peters EN, Hennesy M. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study of the safety and effects of CBN with and without CBD on sleep quality. Exp Clin Psychopharmacol. 2024 Jun;32(3):277-284. doi: 10.1037/pha0000682. Epub 2023 Oct 5. PMID: 37796540.

Further reading

The difference in effects between CBN and CBD

What are the potential benefits of CBN oils?

How much CBN should I take for sleep?

Can microdosing cannabis reverse brain aging?

How do low-dose edibles relieve anxiety?

How much THC is in our Delta 9 edibles?

Does CBD oil help you sleep better?

Our microdosed gummies that give you energy

What is cannabis toxicity?

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