Extract & Compound · Compound

Cannabinol (CBN)

Provisional Moderate Scorecompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Cannabinol (CBN) is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid formed when THC degrades through oxidation and heat exposure. CBN primarily binds to CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system, promoting sedation and sleep while offering anti-inflammatory and appetite-stimulating effects.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryExtract & Compound

GroupCompound

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary KeywordCBN benefits

Cannabinol close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in sedative, anxiolytic, mild analgesic

Cannabinol (CBN) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports sleep and relaxation by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, leading to improved sleep quality and duration. - May reduce pain and inflammation by modulating pain pathways, offering relief for chronic pain conditions. - Promotes appetite stimulation by enhancing ghrelin production, which can be beneficial for those needing to gain weight. - Enhances mood and reduces stress by interacting with serotonin receptors, leading to a more balanced emotional state. - Supports immune function by modulating immune responses, helping the body to better fight off infections. - Promotes muscle recovery by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, aiding in faster recovery post-exercise. - Supports skin health by reducing inflammation and promoting healing, leading to clearer, healthier skin.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Cannabinol (CBN) is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid found in trace amounts in aged cannabis plants. It is typically produced through the oxidation and decomposition of THC.

“CBN was one of the first cannabinoids to be isolated in the early 20th century, originally thought to be responsible for cannabis's psychoactive effects.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Research is limited, with most studies being preclinical or animal-based. Some evidence suggests benefits in sleep support and pain reduction.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Contains cannabinoids interacting with the endocannabinoid system. - Mildly psychoactive, typically found in aged cannabis. - Often used in combination with other cannabinoids for sleep support.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

CBN binds weakly to CB1 receptors in the brain and more strongly to CB2 receptors in peripheral tissues and immune cells. It modulates neurotransmitter release including GABA and adenosine, promoting sedation and sleep onset. CBN also inhibits cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzymes, reducing inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Limited human studies exist for CBN, with most research conducted in animal models and cell cultures. A 2021 study of 1,000 cannabis users found products high in CBN were associated with longer sleep duration. Preclinical studies in mice show CBN at 2.5-10mg/kg reduces inflammatory markers and pain responses. Current evidence is promising but requires larger randomized controlled trials to establish definitive therapeutic effects.

Also Known As

5-n-amyl-2-[(1R,3R)-3-hydroxycyclohexyl]-5-phenylpyrimidine-4,6(1H,5H)-dioneCBNCannabis sleep compoundAged cannabis extractOxidized THCSleep cannabinoid

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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