It's perfectly fine to take CBN and THC together. If you’ve taken any full spectrum cannabis product, you’ve likely experienced the benefits of CBN and THC together through what you’ve probably heard of as “the entourage effect.”
We have found research that points to positive effects when CBN and THC are combined. Their individual effects potentially enhance each other’s personal effects and benefits.
Tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, and Cannabinol, or CBN, are both compounds found naturally in the cannabis plant.
THC is known to be the main psychoactive cannabinoid, and some experts believe that CBN can alter the way THC interacts with the endocannabinoid system to dampen the intensity of THC’s high, which could be a good thing for those who find THC on its own too stimulating.
Another reason people might take these two compounds together is for their enhanced relaxation properties. CBN is thought to support restful sleep, although there isn’t enough evidence to show that CBN on its own has soothing effects. However, when combined with THC or other cannabinoids, CBN compared to THC is believed to have stronger calming effects, making it an ideal paring for a nighttime routine, even if the THC is in a very low, non-psychoactive dose.
Benefits of CBN and THC
Combining CBN and THC creates synergetic potential benefits. A full-spectrum hemp CBN product offers a dose of CBN with a touch of THC so they can enhance each other’s effects. Some commonly reported benefits are increased relaxation, discomfort relief, immune system support, and reduced psychoactivity.
CBN and THC Benefits:
- Relaxation and Rest
- Discomfort Support
- Inflammation Support
- Reduced Psychoactivity
Increased Relaxation
While more research is needed to know exactly how CBN impacts sleep quality, THC and CBN both offer calming effects, and the combination of them may lead to an increased sense of relaxation.
Throughout the years, THC has come to develop a reputation for relaxation. THC binds to the CB1 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. These receptors are primarily found in the central nervous system. This interaction may influence the release of neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin, which are chemicals that help regulate mood, relaxation, and stress.
Similar to THC, CBN interacts with CB1 receptors and CB2 receptors. However, it doesn’t bind to these receptors as strongly as THC. CBN is often thought to have sedative-like effects, so many users report using it as an essential part of their bedtime routine.
Discomfort Support
Consumers online often talk about their use of THC and cannabinoid products for discomfort. These personal anecdotes are important, but research on the analgesic potential of THC and CBN is on the limited side.
In a 2020 study using a preclinical model of peripheral nerve pain, it was determined that THC, CBD, and a balanced combination may be an effective treatment plan to counter peripheral sensory activity [1]. Other studies conducted on animal models also support THC and CBN’s potential analgesic effects [2].
These studies are essential in encouraging funding research better to understand cannabinoids' full analgesic potential in humans.
Inflammation Support
The inflammation support of both THC and CBN is more well-documented than some of the other reported effects of these cannabinoids. THC interacts with CB2 receptors primarily found in the immune system. THC may support the body’s natural responses to inflammation by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
It also found that other cannabinoids also demonstrated strong modulating abilities and encouraged further research into these cannabinoids’ anti-inflammatory behavior [3].
Reduced Psychoactivity
CBN is created as THC degrades, meaning it is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid, but generally, it doesn’t produce the “high” associated with THC. When taking THC and CBN together, CBN may temper the psychoactivity of THC.
When THC is combined with another cannabinoid, the “entourage effect” occurs. This is typically a beneficial response that offers the best of both worlds for each cannabinoid. The cannabinoids interact with each other and the body’s endocannabinoid system, potentially modulating each other’s effects.
THC’s psychoactivity can either be a big plus or a big drawback for users. Some cannabinoid users want the potential health benefits of THC but without the psychoactive effects. Combining CBN and THC can be a way to reduce the intensity of THC’s psychoactivity. Full spectrum CBN products can be a great way to consume low doses of THC with expertly paired doses of CBN.
Are There Any Side Effects to Taking Both?
While adverse side effects are not commonly reported from the combination of THC and CBN, it depends on dosage and individual experience.
Some side effects that may occur are increased drowsiness, dry mouth, impaired cognitive function, and dizziness. There is also a chance that the THC may worsen feelings of anxiety. CBN’s calming effects may tamper THC but most likely won’t counteract THC-induced anxiety for everyone.
Can I take CBN, THC and CBD Together?
Yes, you can take CBN, THC, and CBD together. Combining these cannabinoids may provide enhanced benefits due to their complementary properties. This combination is known for promoting relaxation, deeper and more restful sleep, and greater relief for overall well-being.
Should I take THC and CBN Together?
CBN is degraded THC, but this doesn’t mean they behave exactly the same way. Since they interact with the endocannabinoid system in unique ways, one may offer benefits you find particularly interesting more than the other. However, we believe they are a complementary pair.
If you are seeking support with decompressing and relaxing, then it’s probably worth checking out the combination of THC and CBN. Whether you want to buy a product that already combines the two or consume them separately, its important to follow a dosage guide to ensure a pleasurable experience.
References:
- Linher-Melville, K., Zhu, Y. F., Sidhu, J., Parzei, N., Shahid, A., Seesankar, G., ... & Singh, G. (2020). Evaluation of the preclinical analgesic efficacy of naturally derived, orally administered oil forms of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and their 1: 1 combination. PLoS One, 15(6), e0234176.
- Elikottil, J., Gupta, P., & Gupta, K. (2009). The analgesic potential of cannabinoids. Journal of opioid management, 5(6), 341.
- Li, D., Ilnytskyy, Y., Ghasemi Gojani, E., Kovalchuk, O., & Kovalchuk, I. (2022). Analysis of anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties of 25 high-THC cannabis extracts. Molecules, 27(18), 6057.
