Global Research Confirms Cannabinol (CBN) as an Effective Sleep Aid
- Sirona Sciences
- Feb 24
- 4 min read
As medical cannabis gains global acceptance, scientific studies are rapidly validating the benefits of specific cannabinoids. One of the most promising cannabinoids for sleep disorders is Cannabinol (CBN). Researchers worldwide are uncovering its effectiveness in improving sleep quality.
Clinical Study: CBN Reduces Sleep Disturbances1
Ontario, Canada & Colorado, USA
A groundbreaking placebo-controlled study examined the effects of CBN alone and in combination with cannabidiol (CBD) on sleep quality. Conducted between May and November 2022, this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study involved participants aged 18–55 who self-rated their sleep as "poor" or "very poor." The study divided participants into randomized groups receiving:
A placebo
20 mg of CBN
20 mg of CBN + 10 mg CBD
20 mg of CBN + 20 mg CBD
20 mg of CBN + 100 mg CBD
Over seven consecutive nights, researchers assessed sleep quality, the number of awakenings, wake time after sleep onset (WASO), and daytime fatigue. The findings were clear: those who took 20 mg of CBN experienced significantly fewer nighttime awakenings and overall sleep disturbances compared to the placebo. Interestingly, adding CBD did not enhance or diminish CBN’s effectiveness. Moreover, CBN did not cause daytime fatigue, making it a promising option for improving sleep without grogginess.
Study Confirms CBN’s Effectiveness for Sleep2
Smith’s Falls, Canada
Another study published in Experimental and Clinical Psychopharmacology evaluated CBN’s impact on 321 participants who rated their sleep quality as poor. They received either 20 mg of CBN, a combination of CBN and CBD, or a placebo for seven nights. The cannabinoids were consumed in gummy form 90 minutes before bedtime.
Results showed that participants taking 20 mg of CBN experienced fewer nighttime awakenings and less sleep disruption. Again, combining CBD with CBN neither enhanced nor diminished its effectiveness. Only mild side effects, such as headaches, were reported. The study concluded that 20 mg of CBN alone can significantly improve sleep disturbances, warranting further research.
Groundbreaking Trial of Cannabinol Shows Better Than Melatonin for Sleep3
USA
A pioneering trial conducted by Radicle Science compared CBN with melatonin and placebo in over 1,000 participants aged 21 and older. The study assessed different doses:
CBN groups: 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg
Melatonin group: 4 mg
Placebo group
The results were striking. Participants taking 50 mg of CBN experienced the most significant improvements in sleep quality, surpassing those in the melatonin group. Lower (25 mg) and higher (100 mg) doses of CBN also improved sleep quality but not as effectively as the 50 mg dose, forming a "U-shaped" response curve.
This suggests that a 50 mg CBN dosage may be the optimal amount for sleep enhancement. Additionally, the study highlights CBN’s potential to outperform melatonin, a widely used sleep aid, without its common side effects.
Beyond illuminating CBN’s efficacy in enhancing sleep, this research positions it as a formidable player in the pursuit of superior sleep aids, potentially disrupting the conventional over-the-counter sleep aid market.
CBN Improves Sleep and Next-Day Function4
Sydney, Australia
Researchers at the University of Sydney conducted a study to evaluate the effects of CBN on individuals with insomnia. The 20 participants received a single dose of either 30 mg or 300 mg of CBN or a placebo across three separate treatment nights in randomized order 2 hours prior to habitual lights out. Participants underwent an overnight polysomnogram and neurobehavioral function tests the next day.
The study revealed that CBN:
Increased total sleep time (including both NREM and REM sleep)
Reduced nighttime awakenings and overall sleep disturbances
Had no impact on daytime fatigue
These findings confirm CBN’s potential as a safe and effective treatment for sleep disorders.
Why Oral Thin Films (OTFs) Are the Best Delivery Method
The effectiveness of any supplement depends on how much of it is absorbed by the body—this is known as bioavailability. Traditional delivery methods like softgel capsules and oral liquids have bioavailability rates of 45%5 and 33%6, respectively. In contrast, sublingual Oral Thin Films (OTFs) boast an impressive 85%+7 & 8 bioavailability.
Here’s what that means in practical terms:
A 20 mg softgel capsule delivers only 9 mg into the bloodstream.
A 20 mg OTF delivers 17 mg, making it far more efficient.
A 10.6 mg OTF provides the same effect as a 20 mg softgel capsule.
Additionally, the onset time (how quickly the effects start) differs between these methods:
Softgel capsules & oral liquids: 45–120 minutes
Sublingual Oral Thin Films: 9–15 minutes
Because OTFs dissolve quickly under the tongue, they bypass the digestive system, allowing for faster and more efficient absorption. They are easy to consume, taste great, and provide rapid relief, making them the superior choice for CBN delivery.
Final Thoughts
The growing body of research confirms that CBN is an effective, natural sleep aid. With multiple clinical trials demonstrating its ability to reduce sleep disturbances and nighttime awakenings—without causing daytime grogginess—it is emerging as a strong alternative to traditional sleep aids. Moreover, when delivered via Oral Thin Films, CBN offers superior bioavailability and faster onset times, making it an optimal solution for those seeking a better night's sleep.
As studies continue, CBN is set to reshape the sleep aid market, offering a safe, natural, and highly effective solution for sleep disorders worldwide.
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