Yes, CBN is technically psychoactive because it can alter the brain’s function, just like CBD or caffeine in coffee. However, what most people want to know is if CBN is psychotropic— meaning, does it get you high? The short answer is: not really.
In very high doses, CBN can have mild psychotropic effects, but it’s not typically used for that purpose. There are other cannabinoids, like THC, that are much better suited for those seeking a “high”.
CBN forms as the THC compound degrades due to exposure to oxygen or heat. As THC breaks down, it loses its potency and psychoactive strength. It changes molecular structure to become CBN.
Despite being psychoactive, CBN is primarily used for other purposes, such as promoting relaxation and aiding to feel sleepiness, which is why it’s often found in products aimed at helping with sleep support.
Psychoactive Effects Compared to THC
There aren’t really any studies that prove exactly how psychoactive CBN is, but people who have taken really high doses upward of 60-80 MG have reported slight euphoria.
CBN is thought to work by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates various functions, including mood, sleep, and pain perception. Users of CBN typically report feelings of mild relaxation, making it popular for nighttime use.
CBN may be a better alternative to THC for those who are anxiety-prone or sensitive to the psychoactive effects of THC. THC’s psychoactive effects may worsen feelings of anxiety, so CBN’s mild effects may provide a more enjoyable experience. However, with some aiming for better sleep, some users prefer THC and CBN together as it provides them calming effects, and the combination of them may lead to an increased sense of relaxation.
You can start by taking the CBN and THC gummies to see how you react, as the total amount of THC is fairly low and subtle.
Each individual responds to these effects uniquely, so it's important to start with a low dose, monitor your response, and build up gradually.
