Those who don’t know much about cannabis will likely just think of smoking the plant as a way to get high. However, the cannabis plant has more than 100 different cannabinoid compounds, each with its own effects, benefits, and uses.  Cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabinol (CBN) are two cannabinoids that are mostly used for the medical benefits that they provide. While CBD and CBN share some similarities, the way they act in the body is quite different.

Let’s take a closer look at both cannabinoids, their benefits, and how they can be consumed.

First and foremost, you may be concerned about whether the plant is legal. After all, it was, in fact, illegal for many years. However, cannabis has been legal in Canada since 2018, including CBD and CBN products. You can now buy cannabis in Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and all other major cities across the country either online or in-store with ease if you are over the age of 19.

Although cannabis is now readily accessible to Canadians, it’s important to remember that everyone will react to cannabis products differently. Knowing the different effects associated with each cannabinoid is essential before use. Please consume responsibly.

Benefits of CBD

CBD is one of the most popular cannabinoids. It doesn’t contain any psychoactive elements meaning it won’t produce a high in users.

Because of its calming effect, CBD can be beneficial for those with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). CBD has also been found to help manage symptoms associated with chronic pain as it can be anti-inflammatory, antipsychotic, and immunosuppressive.

Benefits of CBN

CBN is starting to gain popularity in the cannabis world as more research on different cannabinoids because available. CBN comes from when tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis, is oxidized or exposed to heat and light. Because of this, it is often found in older plants. Despite being derived from THC, CBN is much less psychoactive.

This cannabinoid can help with pain management and glaucoma and can be anti-convulsant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Some people also find that taking CBN helps them sleep better; however, it is still unclear in the research whether this is due to the CBN itself or because of the fact that it comes from an aged cannabis plant.

How to Consume CBD and CBN

Both CBD and CBN can be consumed and used in various ways that go beyond just smoking the plant. Some of the most popular CBD/CBN products include:

  • Oils: concentrated cannabinoids that can be ingested by placing drops under the tongue. They can also be added to food and drinks.
  • Edibles: gummies, baked goods, or other edible products that have the cannabinoid baked into them.
  • Teas: parts of the cannabis plant steeped in hot water. It can be combined with other tea leaves for flavour.
  • Vapes: liquid or oil cannabinoid that is heated in order to become vapour that the user then inhales.
  • Topicals: lotions, serums, and creams that are infused with the cannabinoid and applied topically to the skin.