Sleep better with cannabis? The science behind cannabinol (CBN)

Sleep problems are one of the most common complaints that many of us struggle with on a daily basis. But what if a natural product from the cannabis plant could help? Researchers at the University of Sydney have recently published groundbreaking findings suggesting that cannabinol (CBN) – a lesser-known component of cannabis – could have a positive impact on sleep.

What is cannabinol (CBN)?

CBN is a breakdown product of THC, the known psychoactive component of cannabis. As cannabis ages, THC slowly converts to CBN. Interestingly, older cannabis flowers often contain higher amounts of CBN, which has long been associated with a sleep-inducing effect. However, there has been a lack of scientific evidence to support these claims – until now.

The study: How does CBN affect sleep?

In a recent study published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology, the team from the Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics at the University of Sydney investigated the effects of CBN on sleep patterns in rats. Using state-of-the-art monitoring methods, both the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) and Non-REM (NREM) phases of sleep were analyzed.

• NREM sleep: This phase is crucial for physical recovery and memory.
• REM sleep: In this phase, dreams are processed and emotions are regulated.

The result? CBN increased both the REM and NREM sleep phases, which led to an overall longer sleep duration. The effect was comparable to that of the sleeping pill zolpidem, but without its known side effects.

CBN: The difference to THC

Unlike THC, which is responsible for the intoxicating effect of cannabis, CBN does not have a strong psychoactive effect. This is because CBN only weakly activates the cannabinoid receptors in the brain (CB1 receptors). However, an unexpected finding of the study was that a metabolite of CBN (11-OH-CBN) has a significantly stronger effect on CB1 receptors and may contribute to the sleep-promoting effect.

What does that mean for us?

Although the results are promising, they have so far only been tested on animals. Professor Jonathon Arnold, the lead author of the study, emphasizes that further research is needed to transfer the results to humans.

However, in a parallel, as yet unpublished study, an initial clinical test has already been carried out on people with sleep disorders. According to the researchers, the results are also promising and suggest that CBN could be a natural alternative for people with sleep problems.

The next step: research for the future

The team is now planning to conduct further research into the sleep-promoting effects of CBN – including in combination with other cannabis substances such as melatonin or conventional sleeping pills. The aim is to develop new, effective treatment options for sleep disorders.

What’s the bottom line?

CBN could be an exciting new option for people with sleep problems. But before you run to the nearest CBD store to buy CBN products, you should know that there are still many unanswered questions. Current CBN products on the market are often based on limited scientific evidence, and the best way to use them – from dosage to frequency – has yet to be researched.

At Herba di Berna, we support you on this journey with our experience and expertise. Whether you need help choosing the right products or have questions about studies like this one – we are here to provide you with in-depth knowledge and personal advice to offer you natural support for your sleep.

Stay curious and well informed – we look forward to accompanying you on your journey to better sleep! 😊

Source reference:
Arnold, J. et al. “A sleepy cannabis constituent: cannabinol and its active metabolite influence sleep architecture in rats”, Neuropsychopharmacology (2024), DOI: 10.1038/s41386-024-02018-7