The cannabis plant contains hundreds of cannabinoids with two making its most composition. Tetrahydrocannabinol, the psychoactive component, is often eliminated from most cannabis products.
The second most dominant entity is cannabidiol and it’s the most in-demand due to its legal state. It’s rare to see products mentioning other cannabinoids other than CBD and THC.
Thanks to more cannabis-focused research, we have a third cannabinoid seeing colossal interest. Cannabidiol (CBN) is attracting loads of attention due to its potential benefits.
It’s thus important that you understand the difference between CBD and CBN products. Our guide here explains how the two compare and contrast.
What Is CBD?
CBD is one of the abundant cannabinoids in cannabis and hemp plants. It’s non-psychoactive and increasingly popular for recreational and medicinal uses. The FDA-approved epilepsy medication Epidiolex is made of this CBD.
Being non-psychoactive, CBD doesn’t make you high or euphoric like THC. People use it as a natural supplement but it’s popular due to its potential benefits. Some research shows CBD is a possible remedy for pain, anxiety and sleep problems.
In both the medical and recreational worlds, CBD has earned its reputation due to its calming impact. A THC-CBD combination improves Marijuana tolerance. Medics using THC may administer CBD to counteract the nauseating effects of THC. CBD’s presence eases the worrying THC side effects.
CBD and Types of CBD
Extracting CBD from Marijuana may produce a compound with few or zero THC traces. This compound may contain other cannabinoids and terpenes. But its potency levels depend on the manufacturer’s intention.
There are different types of CBD based on potencies that are a result of extraction levels. CBD in its purest form is known as CBD isolate. It’s also the least potent.
CBD isolate is obtained by removing all other Marijuana components through post-extraction. This type of CBD is 99% pure. It comes free of terpenes, other cannabinoids, THC and flavonoids.
Potent CBD can either be full-spectrum or broad-spectrum. Full-spectrum CBD contains every compound including THC. It’s the most potent type of CBD.
Broad-spectrum is THC-free but full of terpenes, cannabinoids and flavonoids. It’s like CBD isolate but more potent due to the presence of other entities. This the type of CBD to consume when you want to access all benefits of CBD but avoid the psychoactive elements.
Benefits of CBD
An increasing number of testimonials show CBD may provide various health benefits. 60% of CBD users use it for relaxation and stress relief. Let us look at other CBD benefits.
CBD for Epilepsy
CBD can treat seizures according to the Foods and Drugs Association. In 2018, the FDA approved the first CBD-made drug to treat epilepsy in children of 2 years and above.
CBD Can Reduce Pain
CBD can impact the endocannabinoid system which regulates pain, sleep and moods. Cannabinoids are said to be helpful for chronic pain when other treatments fail.
CBD for Calming and Anxiety
Anxiety disorders affect over 40 million US adults. The recommended remedy is pharmaceutical drugs which most people are avoiding. Antidepressants can cause drowsiness, headaches, lack of sleep and sexual dissatisfaction.
CBD is a potential anxiety remedy and there’s increasing proof coming up. One survey showed that 50% of CBD users use CBD for anxiety. 55% use it to relax and overcome stress. In Brazil, 57 men successfully used CBD to combat public speaking anxiety.
What Is CBN?
CBN is one of the non-intoxicating compounds in cannabis. Unlike other cannabinoids, CBD arises when THC ages. It’s denser when you store cannabis for some time.
Fresh cannabis contains tiny CBN amounts. If decarboxylated Marijuana stays unconsumed, its THC converts to CBN. Exposing cannabis to light and air stimulates this process.
Surprisingly CBN is mildly psychoactive─ unlike THC. It won’t get you high unless you consume large doses. Instead, it’s much more famous for its sedation properties.
CBN’s signature effect is drowsiness so it makes you sleepy. Consuming 5 mg of CBN is as potent as 10 mg of valium when it comes to triggering sleepiness.
Here are some potential CBN Benefits;
- CBN is as effective a sedative as valium but with lesser psychoactive effects so it can help you calm, relax and overcome anxiety without the overwhelming impact of THC
- Studies show CBN is a potent antibacterial agent that helped deal with resistant MRSA strains of bacteria
- CBN can stimulate eating and help you overcome appetite problems.
In one study, CBN triggered rodents to eat more food and showed proof it can boost appetite. More benefits will likely come to light as research with CBN continues to grow.
What Is the Difference Between CBD and CBN Products?
CBN and CBD are active components in the marijuana plant. Their names seem similar but they are very different compounds. One of the major differences between CBD and CBN is their existence in the cannabis plant.
CBD exists naturally in cannabis and its levels can vary based on the cannabis strain. CBN is a series of processes. It arises after the oxidation of Marijuana. Meaning farmers can’t influence its levels in particular strains.
CBN is sedative, unlike CBD which has no known side effects. But they both influence the endocannabinoid system. CBD is much easier and less costly to extract. CBN extraction process may take long before you remain with the pure compound.
Dosages for CBN vs CBD
Whether you’re using CBD or CBN, you need to know what’s the proper dosage. Both compounds may be beneficial but you can only enjoy the impact if you use the correct amounts.
Generally, both dosages depend on several biofactors. These variables can have an effect on the dosage you need:
- Your environment
- Tolerance levels
- Bodyweight
- Genetics
- Diet
- Metabolism
CBN tends to be more potent and most people recommend starting a dose of 5 mg. Meanwhile, with CBD, you can start from as low as 10 mg. Begin with a lower amount and adjust appropriately for both compounds.
Should You Be Using CBN or CBD?
As seen, there are many differences between CBD and CBD. Both compounds also come with benefits and are promising for alternative therapy. This guide can help you figure out when and why to use any of the cannabinoids.
Utimately the choice between the two is yours. For more advice on cannabis, read the rest of our blog.