CBD vs. CBN vs. THC

CBD, CBN, and THC are natural compounds from the cannabis plant that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system — though very similar, have distinct effects. 

CBD (cannabidiol) is the most abundant compound in the cannabis plant and is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid. It’s best known for its calming effects that help to support stress, sleep, and discomfort. 

CBN (cannabinol) is mildly psychoactive in extremely high doses. It comes from the breakdown of the THC and is primarily associated with sleep and deep relaxation. 

The most notorious of the three is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the primary psychoactive cannabinoid most abundant in marijuana plants. Though most recognized for its intoxicating effects, it’s also used for mood enhancement, stress relief, discomfort management, and appetite stimulation. 

The best way to remember these cannabinoids is that CBD is your all-arounder — great for relaxation and balance. CBN for sleep and THC for those who want some of the elevating effects of cannabis with some of the benefits of relaxation and discomfort support. 

How They Differ

CBD, CBN, and THC are three of the most well-known cannabinoids, each offering distinct effects and benefits based on their interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system.

• CBD: Is one of the most well-studied cannabinoids next to THC. It’s non-psychoactive, making it accessible to more people and best known for promoting balance and well-being by supporting healthy immune system function, stress levels, and recovery. 

• CBN: Is made from the breakdown of the THC cannabinoid, so it’s found in older cannabis plants. Unlike THC and CBD, CBN is found in very small quantities naturally (less than 0.1%), making it a minor cannabinoid. CBN is mildly psychoactive because it has more of an affinity to the CB1 endocannabinoid receptors. Still, its effects are only felt in extremely high doses, so it’s not typically used for elevating effects. CBN is associated with sleep support, although it doesn’t directly have sedative properties on its own and is supposed to provide a more enhanced benefit for sleep when combined with other cannabinoids and terpenes [1]. 

• THC: The primary psychoactive compound in cannabis, THC produces the "high" commonly associated with marijuana. In addition to its psychoactive effects, it has been associated with discomfort support, appetite stimulation, and euphoric feelings. Its effects are largely dose-dependent, which means it’s possible to have a more energizing experience with lighter doses and a heavier, sleepier effect with heavier doses [2,3]. 

Similarities Between CBD, CBN, and THC

CBD, CBN, and THC are all cannabinoids, natural compounds found in the cannabis plant that interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Despite their differences, they share several similarities:

1. Cannabis Origin: All three are derived from the cannabis plant and play a role in its wellness and recreational uses.

2. Interaction with the Endocannabinoid System: Each cannabinoid interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, which regulates various functions such as mood, sleep, appetite, motivation, and pain.

3. Potential Wellness Benefits: While their effects have slight differences, all three cannabinoids are used to improve well-being by potentially supporting relaxation and managing stress and discomfort.

4. Entourage Effect: When combined with other cannabinoids and terpenes, CBD, CBN, and THC can work synergistically, enhancing their overall effectiveness in a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.

Benefits

The most commonly associated benefits of CBN, CBD, and THC include relaxation, mood support, and supporting a healthy immune system response. It’s also worth mentioning that the effects of each cannabinoid tend to be dependent on the dose and the individual, as they interact with the endocannabinoid system, and everyone’s ECS is different. 

• CBD:

• Promotes relaxation and stress support.

• It supports a healthy immune system and recovery.

• Mood support.

• Supports overall wellness by promoting a sense of balance without psychoactive effects.

• CBN:

• Encourages restful sleep and relaxation.

• Gentle effects suitable for those seeking calmness. 

• May help with discomfort and muscle soreness.

• THC:

• Discomfort support and helps with maintaining a healthy immune system response.

• May stimulate appetite.

• May enhance mood and creativity.

• Psychoactive effects can promote euphoria and relaxation.

Together, these cannabinoids cater to different health goals, from improving sleep and relieving discomfort to managing stress and boosting mood. 

That being said, the research on these compounds is still in its early stages, especially with CBN, as it’s a minor cannabinoid. Much of what we know about these compounds comes from anecdotal reports. None of these compounds are approved by the FDA to treat or mitigate any health conditions, so please speak with your healthcare professional to ensure that CBN, CBD, or THC compliments your wellness plan. 

Our Personal Choice

While CBD and THC have a special place in my wellness routine, CBN has become a recent go-to for me. I find my wellness routine is only as effective as my sleep routine. CBN makes having a consistent bedtime routine effortless.  

Although further research on CBN’s benefits is needed, preclinical research shows us that CBN may be able to prolong sleep and be particularly effective when combined with other cannabinoids [1]. Due to its potential to be enhanced in combination with other cannabinoids, I prefer my CBN products to be full spectrum, which means the formula will contain other cannabinoids with a higher dosage of CBN. 

The Fan Favorite

While CBN is becoming more popular and THC has a long-time fanbase, CBD is our customers’ choice.

One of our customers, Anastasia, raved about her CBD experience, “Having one gummy with 90mg of CBD just hits the spot for me — immediately amps up the chill vibes without knocking me out! Seriously, I believe if everyone gave these a shot, the world would be a much better place." 

Another customer said, “CBD has surpassed my expectations in alleviating my anxiety. I vividly recall the doctor's words at Southern California Hospital: "It would merely be a band-aid." With CBD, I've proven him wrong."

Their versatility, balance, and non-psychoactive nature fit well into daily routines, so you can feel the benefits without lethargy affecting your daily routine. 

References

1. Gannon, W., Bronfein, W., Jackson, D., Holshouser, K., Artman, B. E., Schestepol, M., ... & Rudnic, E. M. (2021). Novel formulation of THC and CBN in a repeat-action tablet improves objective and subjective measurements of sleep. Am. J. Endocannabinoid Med, 3(1), 12-18.

2. Baron, E. P. (2018). Medicinal properties of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids in cannabis, and benefits in migraine, headache, and pain: an update on current evidence and cannabis science. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 58(7), 1139-1186.

3. Crane, N. A., & Phan, K. L. (2021). Effect of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol on frontostriatal resting state functional connectivity and subjective euphoric response in healthy young adults. Drug and alcohol dependence, 221, 108565.