CBN and THC are often paired in nighttime cannabis products for a more relaxing, wind-down-friendly experience.
Many people use this combination for sleep support, since THC may help you fall asleep while CBN is commonly associated with deeper relaxation.
In this guide, we’ll break down how CBN and THC work together, what effects people typically report, potential benefits and side effects, and how to find the right ratio for your needs.
What Happens When You Take CBN and THC Together?
When CBN and THC are used together, many people describe the experience as more calming and body-focused than THC alone.
THC is often associated with mental euphoria, while CBN is commonly described as heavier and more relaxing.
Effects vary by dose and individual tolerance, so starting low is recommended.
CBN vs. THC: Quick Comparison
CBN | THC | Together | |
Typical feel | Body relaxation | Mental euphoria | Balanced/calming |
Common use | Sleep, wind-don | Mood, relaxation | Nighttime support |
Intoxication Level | Mild | Stronger | Moderate (varies) |
Best time | Evening | Anytime (dose dependent) | Evening/bedtime |
What is CBN?
Cannabinol (CBN) is one of 100+ naturally occurring cannabinoids in the cannabis sativa plant.
CBN is considered a minor cannabinoid, since it’s relatively scarce in the plant compared to THC and CBD.
It’s known for its sedative, relaxing properties and is commonly used as a sleep aid, especially when combined with CBD and THC.
Preliminary research suggests CBN may have therapeutic potential for sleep, physical discomfort, eye health, and other uses.
What is THC?
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta 9 THC, delta 9, or THC) is a naturally-occurring cannabinoid in the cannabis plant.
Delta 9 THC is the cannabinoid most people are talking about when they refer to THC. It is what creates the high you feel after you smoke cannabis.
THC is one of the most studied cannabinoids because of its long history of use and its intoxicating effects.
How CBN and THC May Work Together
CBN and THC are often paired because they may complement each other’s effects. THC is commonly associated with mental euphoria, while CBN is more often described as calming and body-focused.
Some users report that combining them shifts the experience toward a calmer, more body-focused feel.
This pairing is often discussed in relation to the “entourage effect,” the idea that cannabinoids may work differently when used together rather than in isolation.
Because research on CBN is still developing, most evidence comes from early studies and user reports, but the combination has become popular in nighttime and sleep-focused formulas.
Can You Take CBN and THC Together?
Many adults choose to take CBN and THC together, and products combining the two are widely available.
While research on this specific pairing is still limited, some users report that the combination feels smoother or more balanced than THC alone.
Because effects can vary based on dose, tolerance, and product type, it’s best to start with a low amount and adjust slowly.
Effects of CBN and THC Together
CBN is commonly described as relaxing or sedating, while THC is more often associated with mental euphoria.
When combined, some users report a more balanced experience that feels less head-heavy and more body-focused.
Common effects people report include:
- Balanced high: Many users describe the combination as smoother and less mentally intense than THC alone.
- Deeper relaxation: Some people say adding CBN makes THC feel more calming and better suited for evening use.
- Body-focused effects: Some users report stronger physical relaxation compared with THC by itself.
Many users also describe the effects as shifting from a primarily mental high to a more full-body experience, though responses vary from person to person.
Benefits of CBN and THC Together
Research on CBN is still developing, but early studies and user reports suggest that combining CBN and THC may support relaxation and sleep for some people.
Sleep Support
Many people use CBN and THC together at night because the combination is often described as more relaxing than THC alone.
Early research suggests CBN may influence sleep duration in animal studies, [1] while THC-dominant medical cannabis has been associated with improved sleep quality in some adults with insomnia. [2]
Some users report the combination feels more sedating than THC alone, which is why it’s commonly used in nighttime products.
Relaxation and Stress Relief
Some users say combining CBN with THC creates a calmer experience that feels less mentally intense.
Research suggests THC may have anxiety-reducing effects at lower doses for some individuals, [3] though responses vary depending on dose and tolerance.
While research specifically on CBN + THC is limited, many users describe the combination as smoother and more relaxing than THC alone.
Physical Comfort
Studies suggest both CBN and THC may have therapeutic potential for pain and inflammation.
Early research suggests CBN may have anti-inflammatory properties, [4] while THC has been studied for its role in chronic pain management. [5]
Some users report that combining the two feels more physically relaxing, especially as part of an evening routine.
How CBN May Change the THC Experience
A small older study found that combining CBN with THC changed the psychoactive experience compared with THC alone [6].
Responses vary, but many users describe the overall experience as more wind-down-friendly than THC alone.
Differences Between CBN and THC
THC is more likely to feel intoxicating and head-focused, especially at higher doses. CBN is typically described as milder and more physically relaxing, though human research is still developing. Because they feel different on their own, combining them can change the overall experience and side effects.
Side Effects of Taking CBN and THC Together
Combining CBN and THC doesn’t appear to create unique side effects, but you may experience a mix of effects associated with each cannabinoid.
Side Effects of CBN
- Tiredness
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Grogginess the next morning (if taken at too high a dose)
Side Effects of THC
- Difficulty thinking and speaking
- Anxiety
- Dry mouth
- Increased appetite
- Rapid heart rate
- Memory loss
- Red eyes
- Slowed reaction time
Best CBN:THC Ratios
A common starting point is a 1:1 ratio, though the best balance varies depending on tolerance and desired effects. A 1:1 blend may promote a balanced high and strong physical relaxation with minimal THC-induced anxiety.
Generally, greater amounts of CBN will create a more sedative experience with a weaker head high, while greater amounts of THC will leave you feeling more energized while still experiencing CBN’s benefits.
Based on this, here are the CBN:THC ratios we recommend for sleep, anxiety, and pain:
- The best CBN:THC ratio for sleep is 1:1 or 3:2. Even amounts of each cannabinoid ensure you get the optimal blend of psychoactive and restful effects.
- The best CBN:THC ratio for anxiety is 1:1 or 2:1 CBN:THC. Even amounts of each cannabinoid, or slightly more CBN, will create relaxing effects without creating too much drowsiness or anxiety.
- The best CBN:THC ratio for pain is 2:1 THC:CBN. Higher THC levels ensure you get a potent head effect to help tune out the discomfort, while the CBN will reduce the anxious or paranoid sensations caused by THC while increasing its physically relaxing benefits.
These ratios are just starting places; we recommend experimenting with different ratios until you find what works with you.
How to Use CBN and THC Together for Sleep
Sleep is one of the main reasons you might want to take CBN and THC together.
Some users say CBN makes THC feel more body-focused and less mentally intense, which is why the combination is often used at night.
If you’ll be taking CBN and THC together for sleep, here are some tips for the best results:
- Dosage: We recommend you start low and go slow with CBN and THC, as both can feel psychoactive depending on dose and individual sensitivity. You can start with a 2:1 (for less psychoactivity) or 1:1 (for stronger physical effects) ratio and take 5-10mg of total cannabinoids per day. Once you’ve taken this dose a few times, gradually adjust it until you find the amount that’s just right.
- Timing: For the best sleep, take your CBN:THC dose 30-60 minutes before bed. That gives your body time to process the cannabinoids and ease into a relaxed state. Keep in mind that the effects will hit sooner if you’re taking a tincture or inhaling the cannabinoids (via flower or vape), in which case you’ll want to consume 15-30 minutes before bed.
- Full-Spectrum vs. Isolate: Full-spectrum products include extra cannabinoids and terpenes that may slightly change the experience. Some people prefer them for a more well-rounded feel, while others choose isolates for more predictable effects.
- Consult Your Doctor: If you’re on medication, have a complex sleep disorder, or just want help tailoring your cannabinoid routine, we recommend you talk to a medical professional who understands cannabis. They can help you take CBN and THC safely and effectively.
Getting great sleep with cannabinoids comes down to experimentation – follow our guidelines as a starting point, then adjust until you find what works best for you.
Shop The Best CBN + THC Gummies
If you’re looking for gummies that combine CBN and THC in the optimal ratios, we’ve got you covered.
3Chi Comfortably Numb gummies provide a balanced high through even doses of CBN and delta 8 THC. Each piece contains 12.5mg of CBN and 12.5mg of delta 8 THC. The CBN creates deep mental and physical relaxation, while the delta 8 THC reduces the sedative side of CBN. The result? A relaxing full-body experience that’s best described as comfortably numb.
DriftyZZZ’s THC:CBD:CBN gummies provide sleep support through a three-cannabinoid blend. Each gummy contains 7.5mg THC, 10mg CBN, and 75mg of CBD. The THC and CBN will give you a slight head high and deep relaxation, while the potent dose of CBD will temper the inebriating effects of THC and CBN. All that will be left over is straight relaxation.
Conclusion: Should You Take CBN and THC Together?
CBN and THC have unique effects, and you may decide your situation calls specifically for one or the other.
But if you’re looking for a slightly different set of effects, you might find that taking CBN and THC together is just what you need.
If you want a head high but also want to ensure you get restful sleep (or the other way around), the CBN-THC combination is the way to go.
CBN and THC Together: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions our customers frequently ask us about using CBN and THC together.
What do CBN and THC do together?
CBN may reduce THC’s inebriating effects while adding to its relaxing effects, making for a more sedative sensation that’s great for evening relaxation and sleep support. The two cannabinoids also work together to increase each other’s overall benefits for numerous other bodily processes. Similar benefits can be seen combining CBN with CBG or CBD.
Can you take THC and CBN together for sleep?
Yes, you can take THC and CBN together for sleep. Doing this creates a more sedative, less anxious version of the regular THC high, allowing you to drift off to sleep and wake up refreshed the next morning.
What is the best THC CBN ratio for sleep?
For sleep, a 1:1 or 3:2 ratio of CBN to THC ensures you get the optimal blend of psychoactive and restful effects. You can also consider adding more CBN (a 3:1 or 4:1 ratio) if you’re not as interested in the strong head high, but still want the therapeutic effects of THC.
What happens when CBN is mixed with THC?
Mixing CBN with THC will create a deep, relaxing head high that’s neither overly sedative or overly strong.
Does CBN make THC stronger?
CBN makes THC’s physically relaxing effects stronger, while tempering its head-focused psychoactive effects.
Does CBN cancel out THC?
CBN tends to cancel out some of THC’s inebriating aspects (euphoria), but it adds to THC’s physically relaxing benefits.
Sources
[1] Yoshida, H et al. “Synthesis and pharmacological effects in mice of halogenated cannabinol derivatives.” Chemical & pharmaceutical bulletin vol. 43,2 (1995): 335-7. doi:10.1248/cpb.43.335
[2] Ried, Karin et al. “Medicinal cannabis improves sleep in adults with insomnia: a randomised double-blind placebo-controlled crossover study.” Journal of sleep research vol. 32,3 (2023): e13793. doi:10.1111/jsr.13793
[3] Lichenstein, Sarah D. “THC, CBD, and Anxiety: A review of recent findings on the anxiolytic and anxiogenic effects of cannabis’ primary cannabinoids.” Current addiction reports vol. 9,4 (2022): 473-485. doi:10.1007/s40429-022-00450-7
[4] Hergenrather, Jeffrey Y et al. “Cannabinoid and Terpenoid Doses are Associated with Adult ADHD Status of Medical Cannabis Patients.” Rambam Maimonides medical journal vol. 11,1 e0001. 30 Jan. 2020, doi:10.5041/RMMJ.10384
[5] Weber, Janet et al. “Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta 9-THC) Treatment in Chronic Central Neuropathic Pain and Fibromyalgia Patients: Results of a Multicenter Survey.” Anesthesiology research and practice vol. 2009 (2009): 827290. doi:10.1155/2009/827290
[6] Karniol, I G et al. “Effects of delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabinol in man.” Pharmacology vol. 13,6 (1975): 502-12. doi:10.1159/000136944
