What is CBN? A Simple Guide
If you’ve browsed hemp products lately, you’ve probably seen “CBN” on labels next to CBD — especially on evening or “PM” formulas. So what is CBN, and how is it different from the CBD you already know? Here’s a straightforward, no-hype explanation from the team at CBD on Broadway.
What is CBN? The short answer
CBN stands for cannabinol. It’s one of the many naturally occurring compounds — called cannabinoids — found in the hemp plant. What makes CBN interesting is where it comes from: it’s formed over time as THC ages and is exposed to oxygen and light. In other words, CBN is largely a product of the plant maturing, which is why fresh hemp contains only trace amounts of it.
Is CBN the same as CBD or THC?
No — they’re three distinct cannabinoids:
- CBD (cannabidiol) is the most common cannabinoid in hemp products and is non-intoxicating.
- THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the compound known for the “high” associated with marijuana. Legal hemp products contain no more than 0.3% THC by dry weight.
- CBN (cannabinol) is non-intoxicating in the amounts used in hemp products, and is typically present in small quantities.
Want the fuller picture on how these compounds relate? Our Cannabis Education page is a good next stop, and you can compare CBN with CBG (cannabigerol) in our companion guide.
What kinds of CBN products are there?
Because CBN is often associated with evening and nighttime product lines, you’ll usually see it formulated for an end-of-day routine — and frequently blended with other familiar ingredients like melatonin. Common formats include:
- CBN gummies — for example, our CBN Sleep Gummies and Sleep Gummies with CBN + Melatonin.
- CBN tinctures — such as our 1200mg CBN Tincture and CBD/CBN blends.
- CBD + CBN combinations, where the two cannabinoids are paired together in one formula.
You can browse the full range on our edibles and tinctures pages.
How do I know what’s actually in a CBN product?
Read the label and check the lab report. Every product line we carry is backed by third-party testing, so you can confirm the cannabinoid content and verify the THC stays within the legal limit. See our lab results page for details.
Have questions about CBN?
The easiest way to learn more is to ask a human. Call or text us at (720) 999-3989, or stop by CBD on Broadway at 5809 S. Broadway, Ste C, Littleton, CO — we’re happy to walk you through the options. Not local? Shop online and we’ll ship to you.
This article is for general educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any hemp or CBD product, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medication.