CBN and THC Together: Effects and Benefits
There are more than 100 naturally occurring cannabinoids in the hemp plant. Each cannabinoid impacts the mind and body in a different way. When cannabinoids come together, they work with or against each other.
THC and CBN both naturally occur in hemp. Their potential effects and benefits change when they're used in conjunction with each other. Let's look at how these two compounds work side by side, what they can do for your daily wellness, and why you might want to consider adding them to your routine.
How do cannabinoids work in your body?
The human body is made to produce and use cannabinoids. Everyone has an internal cannabinoid system, called the endocannabinoid system, that exists broadly throughout the body. The endocannabinoid system is more widespread than the central nervous system or the digestive system because it exists within the cells in almost every part of your brain and body.
What are cannabinoid receptors?
There are two primary cannabinoid receptors, called CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are the cannabinoid receptors in your brain and nervous system. CB2 receptors exist throughout your body. In addition to cannabinoid receptors, there are other receptors throughout your body (like vanilloid receptors) that can be influenced by cannabinoids.
Your body makes and uses its own cannabinoids (called endogenous cannabinoids) to stimulate receptors throughout your endocannabinoid system. This happens all the time, and it’s unlikely you’ll ever notice when it’s happening.
How do hemp cannabinoids interact with your receptor?
Cannabinoids from hemp can easily interact with the cannabinoid receptors throughout your brain and body. Each cannabinoid has its own binding affinity, which refers to which types of receptors it likes to interact with and how it prefers to interact with them.
Some cannabinoids (like THC) can bind to your receptors and modify the way your body sends and receives messages, which significantly changes the way you feel. Some cannabinoids (like CBD) aren’t particularly interested in binding to your receptors. They pass by and stimulate your endocannabinoid system, encouraging it to perform its job more efficiently.
How cannabinoids interact with each other
Cannabinoids find balance among each other. Different ratios of cannabinoids can produce unique effects. For example, CBD tends to prevent THC from efficiently binding to receptors. CBD can dampen the effects of THC. Sometimes, this is the desired result, like in the case of hemp-derived full spectrum tinctures.
THC and CBN also have a unique relationship that changes the way they work when used together.
What is CBN?
CBN, or cannabinol, is a naturally occurring compound in cannabis. Unlike THC, CBN does not have strong mind-altering effects.
CBN is formed when THC ages and breaks down, creating a unique cannabinoid that has a more calming and grounding quality.* Many people describe CBN as a gentle companion to THC, offering a sense of ease without feeling too intense.
CBN is simply THC that has lost potency and changed structure. While they come from the same source, they've matured or aged into different things — they're both important, but for different reasons.
CBN's soothing nature makes it a popular cannabinoid to encourage rest, recovery, and overall balance. When combined with THC, CBN enhances some of the positive effects, creating a synergy that can make both compounds work even better together.
How does THC work?
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the most well-known compound in cannabis. It is responsible for the familiar uplifting, relaxing effects that many people enjoy. THC interacts with receptors in the body that influence mood, comfort levels, and overall balance. This is why THC can create feelings of joy, calmness, and even creative inspiration.
While some people enjoy THC on its own, combining it with CBN can lead to a more well-rounded experience. The combination can help smooth out THC’s intensity, making it a great option for those who want to feel at ease without feeling overwhelmed.
What is the entourage effect?
There's an ongoing research concept in cannabinoid science called the entourage effect, which explores how different compounds in cannabis work together.*
CBN helps mellow out THC’s stronger qualities, which means you can experience relaxation without feeling too heavy or too elevated. The two work in harmony to create a state of calm that feels natural and supportive. Many people who try this combination describe it as the perfect balance between unwinding and staying present.
Full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate
There are three types of CBD products: full spectrum, broad spectrum, and isolate. Full spectrum CBD products are capable of producing the entourage effect because they contain every cannabinoid within the hemp plant.
Broad spectrum CBD products contain every naturally occurring cannabinoid except THC, which has been isolated and extracted so that no detectable THC remains. Isolate products contain only CBD and no trace amounts of other cannabinoids are present.
Because cannabinoids work together to create synergistic effects, most people prefer to use full spectrum or broad spectrum CBD. They’re seeking the benefits of the natural harmony that occurs when cannabinoids can work within your body in the same way they work within the hemp plant.
What are the benefits of using CBN and THC together?
Nighttime hemp products often include CBN and THC together because of their natural synergy. Many people feel as though they work hand in hand to create a balanced experience that's ideal for relaxing at bedtime.
Encourages deep relaxation
If you have ever struggled to quiet your mind after a long day, CBN and THC together may be just what you need. The combination helps create a peaceful state that encourages restfulness.*
CBN’s naturally grounding effects can help balance THC’s uplifting nature, making it easier to ease into relaxation without feeling overly drowsy. They meet each other in the middle, making THC's psychoactive effects more manageable and less overwhelming.
Supports comfort and recovery
Everyday life can bring moments of discomfort. Desk workers who sit most of the day and highly athletic people are both prone to tension, albeit for different reasons.
CBN and THC work together to support a greater sense of ease, helping you feel more at home in your body.* Many people find this combination especially helpful after exercise or physical activity, as it allows for a smoother recovery process.
Encourages a positive mood
When you feel good, everything in life seems a little brighter. CBN and THC work together to uplift your mood, helping you feel more present and engaged.* The combination can create a gentle wave of positivity that carries you through the evening with ease.
Helps you feel more rested
One of the biggest reasons people are turning to CBN and THC together is their ability to encourage restful nights. The natural calming qualities of CBN help take the edge off, making it easier to settle in and wake up feeling refreshed. The combination supports a deep, peaceful state ideal for bedtime.*
Plus, turning to CBN and THC for sleep support won’t lead to drowsiness the following morning — which is a common side effect of other forms of sleep support or sleep products. This is a huge advantage for those looking to elevate their sleep routines without having to face the consequences when trying to start their day in the morning.
How to use CBN and THC together
CBN and THC are usually incorporated into nighttime tinctures together. Most CBD for sleep uses both CBN and THC to support relaxation at night. You don't need to mix the two together yourself or use two separate products to achieve the effect you want. You only need to determine which ratio to use and which serving size would work best for you.
Start low and go slow
Since everyone’s body responds differently, it is best to start with a small amount of CBN or THC and gradually adjust depending on how you feel. It can take several weeks of regular nightly use to fully notice all of the benefits of a nighttime CBD or CBN tincture.
Using a minimal serving size for a week or two and gradually increasing your serving size the next week can help you find the sweet spot for your specific needs.
Choose the right ratio
Different products offer different ratios of CBN to THC. Some people prefer a balance of both, while others like a little more CBN for a gentler effect. Experimenting with different ratios can help you find the perfect combination for your needs.
THC is very potent, and the trace amounts in nighttime CBD and CBN tinctures are often enough to help you achieve the ideal level of relaxation without experiencing any side effects of THC.
Consider timing
If you are using CBN and THC to encourage relaxation, taking them in the evening will work best. It doesn't take CBN and THC very long to reach your endocannabinoid system. If you take them too early, you may begin to feel relaxed before you're fully ready to wind down for the night.
It's best to use CBN and THC after you've already completed your nighttime routine. Take a shower, put your pajamas on, and brush your teeth before you take your serving. You can read, knit, or meditate while you're waiting for the effects to become apparent.
How often can I use CBN and THC together?
You can use CBN and THC together as often as you feel you need to, but keep in mind that sustained effects stem from consistency.
Some benefits of cannabinoids become apparent shortly after you consume a serving. The most noticeable benefits come from consistently incorporating CBN and THC into your nightly routine. Small changes that impact your wellness are cumulative.
You won’t notice a world of difference after one workout or healthy meal — it’s the sustained commitment to your wellness goals that yields the best result.
It’s also important to have a consistent bedtime routine. If your sleep patterns are unpredictable and you don’t give yourself enough time to wind down at the end of the night, you’re going to have trouble falling asleep.
CBN and THC can play a role in that routine, but it won’t replace it. It’s vital to honor what your body needs.
The bottom line on CBN and THC
If you are looking for a natural way to support relaxation, balance, and recovery, the combination of CBN and THC may be worth exploring. These two cannabinoids work in harmony to create a state of calm that feels both grounding and uplifting.
As always, take the time to listen to your body, adjust as needed, and embrace the experience with an open mind. Wellness is a personal journey, and finding what makes you feel good is what matters most.
Sunmed CBD for sleep combines the botanical power of CBD, THC, and CBN in a full spectrum CBD sleep tincture. Experience the entourage effect of soothing cannabinoids in gummy or tincture form.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Sources:
THC and CBD: Similarities and differences between siblings | National Library of Medicine