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Context

Scientists at the University of Sydney have provided the first objective evidence that cannabinol (CBN) - a constituent of cannabis, can improve sleep.

What is Cannabidiol (CBD)?

Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a chemical compound found in the Cannabis plant. It is one of over 100 compounds called cannabinoids. Unlike another well-known cannabinoid called THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not make people feel "high."

It was the first cannabinoid to be isolated from cannabis and was discovered in 1896.

Read about cannabis in detail: IAS GYAN

Read about Marijuana in detail: IAS GYAN

Where Does CBD Come From?

CBD is extracted from the hemp plant a type of cannabis plant with very low levels of THC. It can also be found in the marijuana plant but hemp is more commonly used for CBD products because it is safer and legal in many places.

How Does CBD Work?

Our body has a system called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system helps control:

Mood
Sleep
Pain
Appetite

CBD interacts with this system to support the body's natural balance without causing intoxication.

What is CBD Used For?

CBD may help people feel calmer. It is often used to manage chronic pain or inflammation. CBD might help people with sleep problems by relaxing their mind and body. CBD is an approved treatment for rare forms of epilepsy such as Dravet syndrome. CBD is sometimes added to creams to help with acne or other skin conditions.

Forms of CBD

CBD comes in many forms to suit different needs:

Oils and Tinctures: Placed under the tongue.

Capsules and Pills: Swallowed like vitamins.

Edibles: Infused in gummies or chocolates.

Creams and Lotions: Applied directly to the skin.

Vapes: Inhaled through special devices.

Is CBD Safe?

CBD is generally considered safe for most people. However, some may experience:

Dry mouth
Drowsiness
Changes in appetite

Is CBD Legal?

In many countries, CBD from hemp (with less than 0.3% THC) is legal. CBD from marijuana is often illegal because marijuana contains higher levels of THC.

How is CBD Different from THC?

CBD	THC
Does not make you feel high	Makes you feel high
Used for health benefits	Can be used recreationally
Legal in many places	Illegal in some areas

About Cannabis Plant

Aspect	Details
Scientific Name	Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, Cannabis ruderalis.
Common Names	Marijuana, Hemp, Weed, Ganja, Pot.
Parts of the Plant	Leaves, Flowers, Seeds, Stems, Roots.
Uses	Medicinal: Pain relief, epilepsy treatment. Industrial: Hemp for textiles, ropes, paper. Recreational: Psychoactive effects.
Legal Status	Varies by country; legal for medical, industrial or recreational use in some regions.
Main Chemicals	Cannabinoids (e.g., THC, CBD), terpenes, flavonoids.
Growth Requirements	Warm climate, well-drained soil, proper light conditions.
Health Risks	Addiction, mental health issues in some individuals, lung issues when smoked.

Cannabinoids

Cannabinoid	Details
THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)	Psychoactive compound in cannabis. Causes the "high" feeling. Used medically for pain, nausea, and appetite stimulation.
CBD (Cannabidiol)	Non-psychoactive. Known for anti-inflammatory and calming effects. Used to treat epilepsy, anxiety, and chronic pain.
CBG (Cannabigerol)	Considered the "parent cannabinoid". Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
CBN (Cannabinol)	Created as THC ages. Mildly psychoactive helps with sleep.
THCV (Tetrahydrocannabivarin)	Found in smaller amounts. Potential appetite suppressant.
CBC (Cannabichromene)	Non-psychoactive. May contribute to mood elevation and pain relief.

Sources: NDTV

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Consider the following statements about Cannabinol (CBN):

Cannabinol is a non-psychoactive compound derived from the oxidation of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
CBN is commonly found in aged cannabis plants or poorly stored cannabis products.
CBN has been extensively studied and is widely used in modern pharmacology as a sleep aid.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

a) 1 only
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: b)

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct:

Cannabinol (CBN) is a mildly psychoactive cannabinoid derived from the degradation or oxidation of THC. Over time, THC in cannabis plants breaks down into CBN particularly in improperly stored cannabis.

Statement 2 is correct:

CBN is found in aged or poorly stored cannabis products as THC naturally degrades into this compound. This characteristic is why it is associated with older cannabis plants.

Statement 3 is incorrect:

While CBN is being researched for its potential as a sedative and sleep aid, it is not yet extensively studied or widely used in pharmacology. Most claims about its effects remain anecdotal or in preliminary research stages.

CANNABINOL (CBN)