Are you struggling to get a good night's sleep? Millions of people have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep through the night. Knowing how important sleep is to overall well-being, you should spare no effort in your search for natural, effective solutions.
If you're looking for a natural solution to your sleep problems, you may have heard about CBN, a lesser-known cannabinoid found in hemp.
In this article, we'll explore what CBN is, how it differs from CBD and THC, and its potential as a natural sleep aid.
Key Takeaways
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Preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence suggest CBN may improve sleep duration, reduce nighttime awakenings, and help regulate the sleep-wake cycle.
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Unlike THC, CBN is only mildly psychoactive and does not cause a high.
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Compared to CBD, CBN has a greater affinity for CB2 receptors and is often considered more effective for sleep due to its sedative effects.
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Consistent use, proper dosing, and combining CBN with good sleep hygiene practices (like reducing screen time before bed) can enhance its effectiveness.
What Is CBN?
CBN (cannabinol) is a minor cannabinoid found in hemp plants. It's known for its sedative properties, which may help promote sleep.
Unlike CBD and THC, CBN isn't produced directly by the hemp plant. Instead, it's formed as THC ages and breaks down over time. When THC is exposed to air, light, or heat, it slowly converts to CBN.
How CBN Differs from CBD and THC
While CBD, THC, and CBN are all cannabinoids, they have distinct differences in their effects and how they affect the body.
CBD is non-psychoactive and is known for its potential to reduce anxiety, inflammation, and pain. THC, on the other hand, is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces the "high" associated with marijuana use.
CBN is often compared to CBD because it's non-psychoactive, but it has unique properties that set it apart. For instance, it has a greater affinity for the CB2 receptors, which are primarily found in the immune system. CBD, on the other hand, has a low affinity for both the CB1 and CB2 receptors, where it acts as an agonist or antagonist.
Another fundamental difference between CBD and CBN is psychoactivity. Technically, CBN is mildly psychoactive, unlike CBD, which is completely non-psychoactive. However, CBN’s psychoactivity does not even compare to that of THC and is almost 10 times weaker.
CBN's Potential as a Natural Sleep Aid
Research on CBN's effects on sleep is limited, but it does exhibit a broad pharmacological profile that includes antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties.
While more research is needed to fully understand CBN's potential as a sleep aid in humans, studies show that it may “significantly improve insomnia disorders,” reduce nighttime awakenings, and improve total sleep time.
Anecdotal evidence from users also suggests it may help with falling asleep faster, staying asleep longer, and improving overall sleep quality. These findings are undoubtedly promising and highlight CBN’s potential as a sleep aid.
In fact, CBN is commonly referred to as the “sleepy cannabinoid in old weed,” perhaps in reference to its sleep-promoting property.
As a result, many people are turning to CBN products like oils, gummies, and capsules as a natural alternative to prescription sleep medications, which can have unwanted side effects and be habit-forming.
How CBN Improves Sleep Quality
CBN interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system to potentially promote better sleep in several ways.
Promotes Relaxation and Reduces Stress
CBN has been shown to have a calming effect on the body and mind, helping you unwind and let go of stress and anxiety that can keep you up at night. By promoting relaxation, CBN can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Enhances Sleep Duration and Depth
CBN may help you sleep longer and more deeply. In a study, participants who took CBN reported sleeping an average of 6.8 hours per night, compared to 5.6 hours for those who took a placebo. CBN may also increase the amount of time you spend in deep, restorative stages of sleep.
Supports the Body's Natural Sleep-Wake Cycle
The body has an internal clock that tells it when to sleep and wake up. This internal clock (circadian rhythm) can sometimes be disrupted when you sleep outside your normal patterns due to issues like jet lag and shift work.
CBN helps the ECS regulate the body's natural circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycle. It may also help reset the internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep at night.
Best CBN Products for Sleep: 3 Options from R&R's
When shopping for CBN products to support sleep, look for high-quality, third-party-tested options from reputable brands. CBN can be found in various forms, including oils, gummies, and softgels, so you can choose the best form according to your needs and preferences.
1. CBD Sleep Gummies
R&R’s CBD Sleep Gummies are a natural, effective way to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. With a unique blend of full-spectrum CBD, CBN, and adaptogens, these Gummies provide a gentle, melatonin-free solution for improving sleep quality. Enjoy a restful night’s sleep without grogginess or the side effects of conventional sleep aids.
Best Uses:
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Ideal for individuals struggling with sleep disturbances or those looking for a natural sleep aid.
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Suitable for improving sleep duration and quality without the side effects of conventional sleep medications.
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Beneficial for individuals seeking to maintain a regular sleep-wake cycle, especially when disrupted by stress, anxiety, or irregular schedules.
Features:
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Contains Full-Spectrum CBD and CBN: Each Gummy contains 30mg of CBD and 5mg of CBN to enhance its calming and sleep-promoting properties.
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Melatonin-Free: Unlike many sleep aids, our Gummies do not interfere with your body’s natural melatonin production, ensuring long-term sleep cycle regulation.
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Infused with Adaptogens: Ashwagandha and L-theanine are included to further enhance relaxation and stress relief.
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Natural Ingredients: This product is made with organic hemp extract and all-natural blueberry flavoring, ensuring a delicious, safe, high-quality experience.
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Lab-Tested: Third-party tested for purity and potency, free of contaminants like heavy metals or pesticides.
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Non-Groggy Formula: These gummies are designed to help you wake up refreshed, without the morning grogginess that is common with other sleep aids.
How to Use:
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Take 1-2 gummies an hour before bed for a peaceful night’s rest.
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Consistent daily use enhances results over time as CBD accumulates in your system.
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Perfect for anyone seeking a natural alternative to prescription sleep aids and wanting to avoid the hangover effect associated with melatonin or other sleep supplements.
2. Multifunctional CBD Softgels
R&R’s Multifunctional CBD Softgels offer a convenient, time-released method to experience the calming and pain-relieving benefits of full-spectrum CBD. These softgels are perfect for managing pain, stress, and sleep disturbances with long-lasting effects, making them a versatile addition to any wellness routine.
Best Uses:
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Ideal for individuals seeking long-lasting relief from pain, stress, and sleep issues.
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Suitable for those who prefer a convenient, time-released CBD solution that works throughout the day and night.
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Beneficial for managing anxiety, promoting healthy sleep cycles, and improving overall wellness.
Features:
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Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract: The Softgels contain a blend of cannabinoids (CBD, CBN, CBG, and more) that work together to relieve pain, reduce stress, and improve sleep.
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Time-Release Formula: The Softgels are designed to release gradually into the bloodstream for long-lasting effects, ensuring relief throughout the day and night.
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Rich in Terpenes and Flavonoids: These Softgels contain natural compounds like α-Bisabolol, β-Caryophyllene, and α-Humulene, which enhance the entourage effect to amplify CBD's benefits.
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Multiple Potencies Available: Offered in 30mg, 60mg, and 90mg doses to cater to different levels of relief and experience with CBD.
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Natural Ingredients: Made with organic MCT oil and full-spectrum hemp extract, free of synthetic additives or fillers.
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Lab-Tested and USDA Organic Certified: Ensures purity, potency, and safety.
How to Use:
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Take 1-2 softgels daily for general wellness, pain relief, and stress management.
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Take 1-2 softgels about an hour before bedtime to promote deep and restful sleep.
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Can also be used for on-the-go relief from stress or anxiety or as part of a pain management routine.
3. Multifunctional CBD Tinctures
R&R CBD’s Multifunctional CBD Tinctures provide fast-acting relief from pain, stress, and sleep issues. With a potent full-spectrum blend of cannabinoids, these Tinctures allow easy, precise dosing and are ideal for those seeking a powerful, customizable CBD experience.
Best Uses:
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Ideal for individuals seeking relief from pain, stress, and sleep disturbances.
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Suitable for people looking for a fast-acting, potent CBD solution that can be easily adjusted for personalized dosing.
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Beneficial for those dealing with chronic inflammation, anxiety, or difficulty achieving restful sleep.
Features:
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Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract: Contains CBD, THC, CBN, CBG, and other cannabinoids for a comprehensive “entourage effect” that enhances therapeutic benefits.
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Fast-Acting Sublingual Dosing: Provides rapid relief as the CBD enters the bloodstream directly when taken under the tongue.
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Multiple Potency Options: Available in 1000mg, 2500mg, and 5000mg strengths to cater to different levels of relief.
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Organic and Natural Ingredients: This product is formulated with organic MCT oil and natural mint flavoring for a refreshing taste, with no synthetic additives or fillers.
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Lab-Tested: Certified by third-party labs to ensure purity, potency, and safety.
How to Use:
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Take 1-2 mL under the tongue, hold for 60 seconds, and swallow to relieve stress, anxiety, or pain quickly.
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For sleep support, take a dose about an hour before bedtime for a calm and restful night.
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Consistent, daily dosing improves the effectiveness of the tincture over time, helping to regulate pain and promote overall wellness.
Benefits of Combining CBN with CBD for Sleep

CBN and CBD work together synergistically to enhance relaxation and promote better sleep. When combined, these two cannabinoids interact with your body's endocannabinoid system to create a balanced approach to sleep support.
CBN's sedative properties help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, while CBD's calming effects reduce anxiety and stress that can keep you up at night. Together, they address multiple factors that contribute to sleep issues, including pain, inflammation, and an overactive mind.
Many top-rated CBN sleep products often contain a blend of CBN and CBD to maximize their effectiveness. This combination targets both the physical and mental aspects of sleep, helping you achieve a more restful, rejuvenating night's sleep.
CBD also helps the ECS regulate your sleep-wake cycle by interacting with receptors in the brain that control circadian rhythms. This means taking CBN and CBD together may help reset your internal clock, making it easier to establish a consistent sleep pattern.
When shopping for CBN and CBD sleep products, go for full-spectrum or broad-spectrum options. These products contain a range of beneficial cannabinoids and terpenes, which work together to enhance the overall benefits of the product.
How to Use CBN Products for Optimal Sleep
While finding the right CBN product may not be hard, dosing may take some experimentation. Generally, it is recommended to start with the lowest dose and gradually increase it until you find the amount that helps you sleep better.
For most people, taking CBN about an hour before bedtime works best. This gives the cannabinoid time to take effect and helps you relax and unwind before you turn in for the night.
Consistency is key when using CBN for sleep. Take your CBN product at the same time each night as part of your regular sleep routine. This may train your body to associate CBN with sleep and can enhance its effectiveness over time.
Consider pairing CBN with other good sleep hygiene practices like avoiding screens before bed, keeping your bedroom cool and dark, and practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
If you're new to CBN, start with a product that contains a low dose of the cannabinoid (e.g., 5mg CBN Gummy or a 10mg CBN Softgel). Take it about an hour before bed and see how you feel. If you don't notice any improvement in your sleep after a few nights, gradually increase the dose until you find the sweet spot that works for you.
For best results, take CBN consistently for at least two weeks. This gives your body time to adjust to the cannabinoid and allows you to track any changes in your sleep quality over time.
Keep a sleep journal to record how you feel each morning. Note any changes in how quickly you fall asleep, how often you wake up at night, and how rested you feel in the morning. This can help you determine the optimal dose and timing.
Remember, CBN is just one tool in your sleep toolkit. Combining it with other natural sleep aids like melatonin, valerian root, or magnesium may enhance its effects and help you achieve your best night's sleep.
CBN Safety and Side Effects
While CBN is generally safe and well-tolerated, it's important to be aware of potential interactions with certain medications and possible side effects.
Like CBD, CBN may interact with certain prescription drugs, particularly those that are metabolized by the liver or that have sedative effects. These include blood thinners, anti-anxiety medications, and some antidepressants. Always check with your healthcare provider before adding CBN to your routine, especially if you take other medications.
Some people may experience side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, or dizziness. These are usually mild and go away on their own, but if you experience severe or persistent side effects, stop taking CBN and consult your doctor.
To minimize the risk of side effects, start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find the amount that works for you. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how CBN affects you, as it may cause drowsiness.
Tips for Choosing High-Quality CBN Sleep Products
When shopping for CBN products to support restful sleep, choose high-quality options that are safe, effective, and backed by science. Here are some tips to help you find the best CBN sleep products.
Third-Party Lab Testing
Third-party lab tests verify that a CBN product contains the amount of cannabinoids listed on the label and is free from contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, or solvents.
Reputable CBN brands provide third-party lab results on their websites or upon request. This transparency ensures you get a potent product that delivers CBN's sleep-promoting benefits.
Organic and Non-GMO Ingredients
Choosing CBN products made with organic, non-GMO ingredients ensures you get a clean, natural product without harmful additives or fillers. Organic hemp is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.
Similarly, non-GMO ingredients are not genetically modified, so you can be confident that you're getting a pure, unadulterated CBN supplement.
Customer Reviews and Testimonials
Customer reviews and testimonials provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and quality of a CBN sleep product. Look for reviews from verified buyers who have consistently used the product.
Pay attention to comments about how quickly the product takes effect, how well it helps with falling and staying asleep, and any reported side effects. User experiences can help you gauge whether a particular CBN product will likely work for your sleep needs.
When evaluating CBN sleep products, factors like the type of product (oil, gummy, capsule), the CBN potency and serving size, and any additional ingredients that may enhance the sleep-promoting effects should also be considered.
Some CBN products contain melatonin, chamomile, or other natural sleep aids that synergize with CBN to support better sleep.
Comparing CBN to Other Natural Sleep Aids
Though CBN is gaining popularity as a natural sleep aid, it's not the only option available. Plant-based remedies like melatonin, valerian root, and chamomile are also commonly used to promote better sleep. So, how does CBN stack up against these traditional sleep supplements?
CBN vs. Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the body that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. It's also available as a supplement and is one of the most popular natural sleep aids. While it can be effective for some people, it may cause side effects like grogginess, headaches, and vivid dreams.
CBN works differently than melatonin. Rather than directly regulating the sleep-wake cycle, it modulates the ECS to promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety. This makes CBN a good option for people who have trouble falling asleep due to racing thoughts or feelings of unease.
CBN vs. Valerian Root
Valerian root has been used for centuries as a natural sedative and sleep aid. It's thought to work by increasing levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety.
Like valerian root, CBN’s calming effects can help you unwind and prepare for sleep. However, CBN may offer additional benefits beyond promoting relaxation. Some research suggests that CBN has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, which could be helpful for people who have trouble sleeping due to chronic pain or discomfort.
CBN vs. Chamomile
Chamomile has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. It's often consumed as a tea or taken as a supplement.
Like chamomile, CBN has calming properties that help you relax and drift off to sleep more easily. However, CBN may offer more potent sedative effects than chamomile alone. As such, combining CBN with natural sleep aids like chamomile may enhance its effectiveness.
CBN oil tinctures are a versatile option for those who want to customize their CBN dose. These tinctures can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) or added to bedtime tea or beverage for a soothing, sleep-promoting elixir.
Final Thoughts
If you're considering adding CBN to your sleep routine, look for high-quality, third-party-tested products from reputable brands. As with any new supplement, it's a good idea to talk to a healthcare provider before taking CBN, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or take medications.
Using the right CBN product can significantly improve your sleep quality. R&R CBD offers a range of high-quality CBN products to help you relax and achieve restful sleep. Check them out here and make your order today.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does CBN Help with Sleep?
CBN is believed to have sedative properties that promote relaxation, improve sleep duration, and reduce nighttime awakenings.
Is CBN the Same as CBD?
No, CBN and CBD are different cannabinoids. While both are non-intoxicating, CBN is mildly psychoactive and primarily known for its sleep-inducing effects, whereas CBD is more widely used for stress relief, inflammation, and overall wellness.
What Is the Best Way to Take CBN for Sleep?
CBN is available in various forms, such as gummies, softgels, and tinctures. Sublingual tinctures provide faster absorption, while gummies and softgels offer longer-lasting effects. The best method depends on personal preference and desired onset time.
Are There Any Side Effects of Using CBN?
CBN is generally well-tolerated, but some users may experience drowsiness, dry mouth, or mild dizziness. It’s recommended to start with a low dose and adjust as needed. Consulting a healthcare provider is advised, especially if taking other medications.
Sources Used
- Cannabinol Overview
- Cannabinol Research Study
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- Cannabinol Pharmacology
- Cannabinol in Biology
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- Cannabinol Clinical Findings
- Cannabinol Effects Study
- CBTI Research Paper
- Cannabinol Safety Study
- Cannabinol Mechanisms
- Cannabinol Extraction Methods
- Cannabinol Therapeutic Potential