Cannabinol, more commonly known as CBN, is a unique non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in matured hemp material that has been exposed to heat and oxygen for prolonged periods. Discovered by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in 1999 while they were testing the potency loss of cannabis, it was found that THC molecules break down as hemp material matures into CBN molecules. This process is known as decarboxylation.
CBN's potency is only one-fourth of THC's strength, making it mildly psychoactive when compared to CBD and THC. It is often referred to as "the sleepy cannabinoid" due to results from rodent experiments demonstrating its sedative effects. To date, most of the research regarding CBN’s sedative effects has been conducted on animals and further studies are needed to determine if the same effects can be seen in humans. However, specific terpenes may cause the effect observed in these tests.
The UNODC study also revealed that THC degradation happens most during the first two years of improper cannabis storage, which established a link between THC’s conversion into CBN and cannabis vulnerability. As time progresses, more THC will convert into CBN so if a hemp material test reveals higher levels of CBN then this indicates that it has aged significantly more than other samples.
As research surrounding CBN cannabinoids remains limited, scientists are now beginning to explore various potential therapeutic applications including anti-inflammatory properties and potential use as an appetite stimulant for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. There are also many anecdotal reports from consumers who find that CBD is effective for treating anxiety or insomnia through its ability to produce a calming effect within their bodies.
In conclusion, Cannabinol (CBN) is an interesting compound with many untapped therapeutic possibilities but further scientific exploration needs to be undertaken before any claims can be made on its medical benefits or side effects. This cannabinoid could potentially play a vital role in helping individuals find natural relief from various physical and mental health issues without having to resort to traditional drugs or treatments with potentially serious side effects. More research must be done before any definite conclusions can be drawn about its true potential but the preliminary findings suggest that Cannabinol could make an excellent addition to any existing health regimen looking for safe alternatives for symptom management.