If you could take a supplement to get to sleep with little to no side effect, would you take it? CBN, or Cannabinol, is an option many turn to for sleep and overcoming insomnia. How does CBN, this magic sleeping potion work?
What are Cannabinoids, specifically Cannabinol (CBN)?
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that act on cannabinoid receptors in the brain. The most notable cannabinoid for sleep is called Cannabinol, or CBN. Our bodies have an endocannabinoid receptor system that responds to cannabinoids like CBD and CBN. CBN is one of the many cannabinoids in the cannabis plant that creates a shift in our system. Our bodies and minds begin to relax as the receptors take it in and let go of tension or inflammation.
What does this mean for your night’s sleep? It means people who spend the night tossing and turning can counteract the stress and worry that is keeping them awake with the help of cannabinol.
CBN and REM
Users who want to try to sleep with the help CBN should be aware that it will change the way they sleep and dream. The CBN compound relaxes more than your muscles, it also inhibits your Rapid Eye Movements, (REM) and the stage five REM cycle is shortened. While someone who uses a little cannabis to nod off will reach deeper sleep faster, they won’t experience sleep and dreams the same way. If you’re prone to night terrors or suffer from traumatizing nightmares, this could be good news. If that isn’t the case, a person could miss their usual subconscious adventures.
The other big effect that happens for some users, (but not all), is a hangover. These are caused by strains with pesticides on them, an unhealthy diet or the higher concentration of CBN. While it won’t send you running to the bathroom, this level of hangover could make for a slow, groggy morning and you may need more time to get up and moving.
Because no sleep aid is intended for long-term use, we recommend you work with your doctor to find the root cause of your sleeping issues. However CBN is an effective, non toxic and natural sleep solution.
How to use CBN for sleep
If you want to try the herbal nightcap, you want to combine it with a few things.
First, talk to a professional. Do your own research as to which strains are best, but then check in with someone who works with cannabis, has participated in a study or has more experience than you.
Second, maintain a healthy diet. Unhealthy foods are a huge inhibitor for sleep and can add to inflammation. Talk to a nutritionist if you are uncertain about your choices.
Third, you want to drink plenty of water as any amount of cannabis can cause dehydration.
Get a CBN tincture from a reputable purveyor, (we recommend Octavia Wellness), and put a small, starting dose under your tongue, one hour before bedtime. You can also vape or smoke an indica strain if you prefer. Some dispensaries also offer rubs, gels and salves for direct application to joints or anything that might be bothering you.
In the mean time, check out our article in where to buy legal cannabis, if you’re in California.