Cannabis has rapidly carved out its place in the natural wellness market, thanks to its hundred different cannabinoids that have been known to offer a wide range of potential wellness and health benefits.
Cannabinoids are compounds found within the cannabis plant that generally promote mental and physical relaxation, supporting everything from (but not limited to) pain relief, soothing effects against inflammation and discomfort, as well as a sense of calm that comes with enhanced focus, increased energy levels, and mental clarity. But that’s certainly not all done by CBD and THC, the most dominant cannabinoids, which have been in the spotlight long enough!
Recent studies have highlighted the importance of rare compounds like CBG and CBN in causing the full-spectrum cannabis effects. In this guide, we will have a detailed discussion on CBN vs CBG, highlighting their key differences, how they’re made, how they’re used, and how to choose the one that fits your wellness goals.
What is CBN?
CBN, or cannabinol, is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that forms when THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, oxidizes over time, under a rare process called decarboxylation initiated when raw hemp is exposed to heat, sunlight, and air in poor storage conditions.
CBN, like THC, its parent compound, offers very mild psychoactive effects (about 25% of THC’s strength). It’s not enough to cause intense euphoria. Still, it has the potential to support a restful sleep at night, without any external or internal disturbances, hence the name “the sleep cannabinoid”. CBN rarely occurs alone in cannabis products. You may find it in blends with common cannabinoids like THC and CBD, known to promote relaxation and help people unwind at night.
What is CBG?
CBG stands for cannabigerol, often called the “mother cannabinoid” because it’s the first cannabinoid to form in young cannabis plants. In its acidic form, CBGA, it acts as the building block for other major cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and CBC. As the plant matures, most of the CBG converts into these other compounds, which is why only trace amounts of CBG are typically found in mature cannabis plants.
While CBG isn’t particularly psychoactive, it may offer a variety of benefits associated with physical comfort, anti-inflammatory effects, and soothing calm against neurological pain. Preliminary studies also suggest it might have neuroprotective and antioxidant properties, which could make it valuable for long-term cognitive support.
How are CBG and CBN Made?
The way CBN and CBG are created in the cannabis plant helps explain why they’re so rare and have unique effects.
How is CBG Made?
CBG is one of the earliest cannabinoids that appear during the growth cycle of a cannabis plant. It first presents as CBGA (cannabigerolic acid), the acidic form of CBG. As the plant matures, enzymes convert CBGA into other cannabinoids like THCA, CBDA, and CBCA. As a result, there’s only a small amount of CBG left in mature plants, usually less than 1%.
This scarcity makes CBG more difficult and expensive to extract. Most producers harvest cannabis plants early to obtain higher levels of CBG before conversion takes place. This requires specialized cultivation techniques, adding to the product’s price.
How is CBN Made?
Unlike CBG, CBN forms as cannabis ages and is exposed to heat, light, and oxygen. Over time, a process called decarboxylation causes THC, its dominant cannabinoid, to oxidize and transform into CBN. This is why older cannabis often has higher CBN content.
Many manufacturers speed up the decarboxylation process through controlled oxidation of THC or by leaving cannabis exposed longer. Due to this, quicker, more active conversion of THC to CBN takes place, and it becomes easy to extract the latter in high amounts.
CBN vs. CBG: Key Differences
Although CBN and CBG share a common origin, they differ in their production, effects, and availability. Here’s a quick breakdown of their key differences.
Chemical Structure
The molecular structures of CBN and CBG are similar, as they both ultimately originate from the same parent compound, CBGA. However, CBN has an oxidized carbon ring structure, similar to THC, which sets it apart from other cannabinoids and impacts how it interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This slight structural variation may contribute to its gentle sedative effects.
Prevalence in Cannabis Plants
CBG is naturally present in very low levels in mature cannabis plants, typically under 1%. CBN is equally rare but is more prevalent in aged cannabis. So, neither cannabinoid occurs in large quantities at any stage of cannabis, but when they’re produced (early vs. aged) is a significant difference.
Psychoactive Properties
Neither CBG nor CBN causes a strong psychoactive effect like THC. However, CBN may produce a very mild sedation or “body calm” sensation, since its molecular structure and binding affinity are similar to THC. CBG tends to be more neutral or even slightly uplifting. For most people, both are safe to use without the worry of feeling “high.”
Effects
CBG has been widely reported to provide a sense of calm energy, focus, and relief from inflammatory discomfort. On the other hand, CBN’s effects have been noticed to be more aligned with promoting relaxation and sleep readiness.
Availability
Due to the complexity of harvesting CBG and its low concentrations in mature plants, CBG products tend to be less common and more expensive. CBN also rarely occurs naturally in cannabis, but it’s easier to manufacture via a controlled, lab-initiated THC decarboxylation process. This makes it slightly more accessible than CBG, but only in specialized products, such as sleep aids.
Price
CBG products are often pricier because they require farmers to harvest early and use refined extraction methods. CBN is less expensive to produce since it can be derived from naturally aging THC, making it a more budget-friendly option for sleep products.
Health Benefits of CBN
CBN is gaining attention for its gentle, non-intoxicating effects that may support overall wellness. Although research is still in its early stages, several promising benefits have already begun to emerge.
Sleep Aid
Many people choose CBN for its calming effects, especially when trying to improve their sleep routine. While more research is needed, early studies and anecdotal reports suggest CBN may help support longer, more restful sleep, particularly when paired with THC or CBD.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
CBN may have gentle anti-inflammatory properties. It’s being studied for its potential to ease chronic muscle aches and joint tightness. Though not as potent as CBG in this area, early findings show it could be part of a supportive wellness routine.
Antibacterial Properties
Some laboratory studies have investigated CBN’s antibacterial effects, particularly against resistant bacterial strains. While not as strong as other cannabinoids like CBG, this early research opens the door to more investigation into topical uses of CBN.
Appetite Stimulation
CBN appears to boost appetite in preliminary animal studies. This could be beneficial for individuals with reduced hunger due to stress or medical conditions, although further human research is needed to confirm its benefits.
Health Benefits of CBG
CBG (cannabigerol) is becoming popular for its potential role in supporting overall wellness. From brain health to digestive balance, early research suggests several promising benefits worth exploring.
Neuroprotective Effects
CBG shows promise as a neuroprotective cannabinoid. Early research is looking into its potential benefits for conditions like Huntington’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and multiple sclerosis. While not conclusive, this makes CBG a compound to watch in the field of neurological wellness.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
One of CBG’s most studied uses is its anti-inflammatory potential, particularly for the digestive tract. Studies on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) suggest that CBG may help reduce inflammation in the gut and improve the quality of life for individuals living with such conditions.
Appetite Stimulation
CBG has been observed to enhance appetite without the intoxication of THC. This could be beneficial for individuals requiring additional caloric intake due to medical conditions or high stress levels.
Potential in Glaucoma Treatment
Some studies suggest that CBG may help reduce intraocular pressure, a key factor in the development of glaucoma. While this research is still in its early stages, it may lead to additional therapeutic applications in the future.
Availability of CBN and CBG Products
Both CBN and CBG are becoming more available in Canadian CBD products, though they’re still rare compared to CBD and THC.
- CBN Products: Typically focused on promoting sleep, CBN products in Canada are generally available as CBN oils, night-time gummies, and softgels. Many are blended with CBD or THC to enhance the calming effects. You’ll also find full-spectrum options that include CBN as part of the cannabinoid mix.
- CBG Products: Designed primarily for daytime support, CBG products may be available in various forms, including tinctures, capsules, and topicals. Some brands offer 1:1 CBD+CBG blends that aim to combine the best of both cannabinoids, clear-headed focus with pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant properties.
Since these products vary in quality and dosage, it’s essential to purchase their fresh batches from reputable brands like CBDNorth, which confirm the best quality and safety standards via third-party lab test results and prioritize complete consumer transparency through appropriate packaging and labelling of ingredients.
Legal Status of CBN and CBG
In Canada, cannabinoids like CBN and CBG are legal under the Cannabis Act, provided they’re derived from industrial-grade hemp grown by federally authorized producers and sold through licensed retailers. Health Canada oversees the regulation of cannabinoid extraction, testing, formulation, and distribution, ensuring product safety and compliance.
That said, the availability of CBN and CBG products can vary by province, as local retail laws and cannabis distribution models differ across Canada. Some provinces offer more options in licensed storefronts, while others may rely more heavily on online channels. As with any cannabinoid product, it’s important to buy from a trusted Canadian source that meets all federal and provincial guidelines, especially when purchasing online.
How to Take CBN and CBG?
CBN and CBG can be taken in various forms, depending on your wellness goals, lifestyle, and preferred delivery method. Each option offers a unique onset time, absorption rate, and duration of effects.
Consumption Methods
- Oils and tinctures: These are among the most popular ways to consume both CBN and CBG. You can place a few drops under your tongue (sublingually) for quicker absorption, often within 10–15 minutes. They’re ideal if you want flexible dosing and faster results.
- Capsules: Capsules are a convenient option for those looking to add cannabinoids to their daily supplement routine. They’re tasteless, easy to carry, and offer consistent dosages, making them perfect for long-term use.
- Edibles: CBN and CBG gummies are not only tasty but also offer longer-lasting effects due to their processing through the digestive system. Expect a slower onset (30–90 minutes), but the benefits may last several hours.
- Topicals: While less common for CBN, CBG-infused creams or balms are great for localized discomfort or inflammation. These don’t enter the bloodstream but work where applied, ideal for joint or muscle support.
Dosage Recommendations
Start low and increase slowly. For CBN dosage, a typical starting amount is 5–10 mg before bed, with most people finding 15–30 mg helpful for better rest. CBG may range from 10–30 mg daily, depending on the desired effect (focus or inflammation support). Everyone’s endocannabinoid system is different, so it’s best to monitor how your body responds and consult with a healthcare provider if you’re unsure.
Do CBG and CBN Show Up on a Drug Test?
Pure CBG and CBN, in their isolated forms, are not typically screened for in standard drug tests. Most workplace or athletic drug tests are designed to detect THC and its metabolites, not minor cannabinoids like CBG or CBN. So, if you’re consuming a product that contains only isolated CBG or CBN and no THC, it’s unlikely to result in a positive drug test.
However, the story changes when you’re using full-spectrum products. These formulations include a wide range of cannabinoids, including trace levels of THC (legally up to 0.3%). While that amount is minimal and non-intoxicating, it can accumulate in the body over time, especially with frequent use. Depending on the test’s sensitivity and how your body metabolizes cannabinoids, this small amount of THC could still show up on a drug test.
CBN vs CBG: Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between CBN and CBG largely depends on your specific wellness goals. Both cannabinoids offer distinct benefits, so understanding your needs will guide you in making the right decision.
- For Sleep or Relaxation: If your primary goal is to improve sleep quality or relax after a long day, CBN might be the better choice. Known for its calming properties, CBN is often used by those looking to unwind before bed or create a more restful sleep environment. It can also be a great option for reducing anxiety and stress, as its mild sedative effects may promote deeper relaxation.
- For Daytime Focus and Inflammation: On the other hand, CBG may be the go-to option if you’re seeking support for mental clarity, focus, or inflammation relief. Whether you’re dealing with joint aches, digestive discomfort, or need a little extra boost during the day, CBG is often reported to promote a sense of calm energy without the sedative effects of CBN.
- For Broader Support: Many people choose to incorporate both cannabinoids into their wellness routines to experience the combined benefits. This approach taps into the “entourage effect,” where CBN and CBG (along with other cannabinoids) work synergistically to enhance each other’s effects.
At CBDNorth, we are committed to offering high-quality CBG and CBN products that you can trust. Each product is backed by third-party lab reports and detailed ingredient listings, ensuring you get the best in purity and potency for your wellness journey.
Conclusion
When it comes to CBN vs. CBG, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It all depends on what you’re looking to support. If better rest and nighttime relaxation are your goals, CBN may be the right fit. For those who need daytime focus, physical comfort, or support for inflammation, CBG may be a more suitable option.
CBDNorth, a trusted brand for CBD oil Canada, offers a wide range of cannabinoid products to support your wellness journey. All our products are third-party tested, clearly labelled, and crafted with care right here in Canada. Whether you’re just getting started or expanding your wellness toolkit, you can trust CBDNorth to deliver the quality and transparency you deserve. Shop now and enjoy free shipping on orders over $99, plus a 15% welcome gift on your first order.
FAQs About CBN Vs CBG
While CBG is absolutely non-psychactive and won’t deliver any high or euphoria, CBN may be mildly sedative owing to its derivation from THC, a prominent psychoactive compound in natural hemp.
Yes, it’s best to combine CBG and CBN in your daily wellness routine to achieve wholesome daytime and nighttime wellness benefits. While CBG promotes mental clarity and physical comfort during the day, CBN is considered ideal for unwinding in a more relaxed way at night.
CBG is generally preferred to relieve pain and inflammation due to its more potent anti-inflammatory properties without the associated cannabis high. However, some users also rely on CBN for soothing effects against discomfort for a relaxed and restful sleep at night.
CBN is commonly chosen to enhance and improve sleep quality owing to its calming effects on the mind. Plus, the mild euphoria it causes helps avoid any unwanted disturbances that may interrupt your sleep cycle.
Not necessarily! Their strength and effectiveness depend on your needs. Use CBG during the day for focus and relief, CBN at night for calming support.
