Studies about cannabis have been increasing and new ways to utilize this plant have been discovered. Hemp contains over 100 different cannabinoids, which of them with common but also unique properties. The newest cannabinoid that is starting to get attention is CBN oil. Cannabinol is one of the over 100 cannabinoids being studied for its efficacy. It is the first naturally occurring cannabinoid to be isolated in its pure form. It was first isolated by Thomas Barlow Wood, WT Newton Spivey, and Thomas Hill Easterfield way back in 1896. It was first postulated that CBN is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis until THC was first isolated by Israeli researchers Yechiel Gaoni and Raphael Mechoulam in 1964.
As THC has been found to be the cannabinoid responsible for the “high” feeling, it has also been found that CBN oil is the product of THC oxidation. Oxidation happens when THC is exposed to heat and light. High-THC cannabis left unattended will be converted to CBN after a while. It has been found that cannabis that’s over 4 years old converts the THC to CBN. This means that the level of CBN oil is synthesized by environmental factors.
Potential Benefits of CBN oil
There is a little research on CBN for now but it’s already showing a great set of potential benefits. CBN oil is known to be sedative and many people use it as a sleep aid. Cannabinol also contains other properties that may help with a variety of conditions.
Pain management
Aside from potential sedation effects, CBN oil has also been found to have painkilling properties. CBN connects to both CB1 and CB2 receptors releasing peptides to the sensory nerves providing similar results to CBD.
Seizure and Convulsion Prevention
CBN is known to have properties that prevent seizure and epilepsy symptoms. A study done by Carlini, E. A., Leite, J. R., Tannhauser, M., Berardi, A. C. in 1974 provides the first glimpse of CBN’s seizure and convulsion management.
Bone Cell Growth Stimulation
There is great research that indicates that CBN oil has the potential to heal fractured bones and promote the body’s bone growth mechanism.
Antibacterial Properties
CBN has been found to have antibacterial properties like the other cannabinoids. It has been seen to be very effective against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus.
Appetite Stimulation
There was a study done on mice in 2012 that showed increased appetite and feeding duration. CBN oil may be a great option to help to balance appetite.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
Cannabinoids such as THC, CBD, and CBN showed the potential to provide inflammatory effects to users like allergic rhinitis and allergic asthma. It has also been seen to be comparable with CBG in reducing inflammation.
Neuroprotective Properties
CBN has been found to have neuroprotective properties. A study shows that CBN oil has the potential to be used for ALS treatment as CBN has been able to delay the onset of the ALS symptoms. But a caveat to this is that this study has been done on rodents. But this suggests a great potential in the fight against ALS.
The rise of different cannabinoids and the information available on their potential benefits continue to prove the medicinal potential that hemp has.
All information contained in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a physician or a qualified healthcare provider for any questions regarding your health and well-being.