Exploring the Product Potentials of Cannabinol (CBN)

You’ve heard of CBD, but here’s another acronym for you to get familiar with - CBN. Although CBD is the most frequently discussed cannabinoid, the industrial hemp plant produces hundreds of beneficial molecules, including cannabinol (CBN).

It’s no secret that cannabinoids are quickly becoming sought-after ingredients across a wide variety of beauty and wellness products. With continued research, we’re discovering the possibilities of the ensemble effect. The ensemble effect involves the blending of specific isolated cannabinoids to purposefully address a need state. As the market grows, more manufacturers are opting to include CBN in their innovative cosmetic product formulations.  

What is CBN?

CBN is an abbreviation for cannabinol. This rare cannabinoid is one of over 100 molecules produced by the cannabis plant. Not to be confused with the similarly named cannabidiol (CBD), CBN is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid created when THC-A oxidizes.

Despite only recently appearing in cannabinoid markets, our knowledge of CBN can be traced back to the early 1900s. In fact, CBN was the first cannabinoid to be isolated, likely due to poor industrial hemp storage conditions prevalent at the time. 

CBN Benefits and Uses

The recent increase in CBN popularity is likely connected to its potential benefits. Primary research suggests that CBN may support the following needs states: 

  • Improved sleep

  • Neuroprotectant

  • Appetite stimulant 

  • Bone growth

  • Potential psoriasis treatment 

  • Anti-inflammatory  

  • Antibacterial 

Research studies suggest that CBN is more impactful when combined with other cannabinoids. Additionally, producing isolated CBN in high quantities is complex and not simple. For these reasons, CBN is known to be a great addition when combined with CBD to supplement personal care formulas.

Product Applications for CBN 

Over the years, CBN revenues continue to grow exponentially, reaching over $16 million in California by Q2 2021. Still, in its early stages, the current CBN market primarily consists of edibles. With gummies taking the lead, U.S. companies are making the most of their first-mover advantage by launching products that include CBN alongside other cannabinoids.

Well-known brands understand the power of CBN in their carefully crafted cannabinoid ratio products, such as Kiva, BATCH, and Pure Kana.

Soon, the CBN-infused cosmetics market may align with its edible counterparts. When used in skin care, CBN has the potential to aid in reducing the proliferation of keratinocytes, a skin cell that produces keratin. Brands such as MASK Skin Care have already formulated products that include CBN alongside CBD. 

Integrating CBN into Product Formulations

The market potential for CBN continues to grow, quickly turning CBN into a widely sought-after wellness ingredient. With the potential to improve sleep, manage inflammation, and increase appetite, CBN offers a variety of benefits. The current CBN market is dominated by edibles. However, the potential exists for more CBN inclusion in the skin care industry.

As the demand for CBN-infused products expands, now is the time to consider including CBN in your next innovative product. We help companies innovate, formulate, manufacture, and market cannabinoid beauty and wellness products effectively.

Ready to Create a New CBD or CBN Product?

Let our team us experts take the guesswork out of your product development and manufacturing so you can launch a fantastic product faster. Contact us today.

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Ethan B. Russo, Jahan Marcu, (2017) Chapter Three - Cannabis Pharmacology: The Usual Suspects and a Few Promising Leads, Editor(s): David Kendall, Stephen P.H. Alexander, Advances in Pharmacology, Academic Press, Volume 80, Pages 67-134, ISSN 1054-3589, ISBN 9780128112328, https://doi.org/10.1016/bs.apha.2017.03.004

Hergenrather JY, Aviram J, Vysotski Y, Campisi-Pinto S, Lewitus GM, Meiri D. (2020, Jan). Cannabinoid and Terpenoid Doses are Associated with Adult ADHD Status of Medical Cannabis Patients. Rambam Maimonides Med J.;11(1):e0001. doi: 10.5041/RMMJ.10384. PMID: 32017685; PMCID: PMC7000160.

Long, A. (2021, December 18). The cannabinoid CBN might be the cannabis industry's surprise hit. MJBizDaily. Retrieved May 27, 2022, from https://mjbizdaily.com/cannabinoid-cbn-might-be-surprise-hit-in-cannabis-industry/  

Rozyczko, C. (2021, Sept). “What Is Cannabinol (CBN)?” CBD Oil Review, 27 Retrieved from, https://cbdoilreview.org/cbd-cannabidiol/what-is-cbn-cannabinol/. 

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Zygmunt, P. M., Andersson, D. A., & Hogestatt, E. D. (2002). Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabinol activate capsaicin-sensitive sensory nerves via a CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptor-independent mechanism. The Journal of neuroscience: The Official Journal of the Society for Neuroscience, 22(11), 4720–4727. https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.22-11-04720.2002

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