In a world that never sleeps, getting a good night’s rest can feel more like a luxury than a necessity. With stress, screens, and schedules interfering with our circadian rhythms, many are turning to natural sleep aids to help them wind down and recharge. Two of the most talked-about sleep-supporting compounds today are melatonin and CBN (cannabinol). But which one is more effective for achieving quality rest?
In this blog, we’ll dive into the differences between melatonin and CBN, how they work, their benefits and side effects, and which may be the better option depending on your sleep needs.
What is Melatonin?
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It plays a key role in regulating the body’s sleep-wake cycle (also known as the circadian rhythm). Melatonin levels rise in the evening, signaling to your body that it’s time to wind down, and fall in the morning when it’s time to wake up.
Melatonin supplements have become popular over-the-counter sleep aids, often used to treat:
- Insomnia
- Jet lag
- Shift work-related sleep disorders
- Delayed sleep phase syndrome
Pros of Melatonin:
- Naturally produced in the body
- Effective for jet lag and circadian rhythm issues
- Non-habit forming in small doses
Cons of Melatonin:
- Can cause next-day grogginess or vivid dreams
- Less effective for general insomnia
- Dosing can be tricky; too much can disrupt sleep instead of helping
What is CBN (Cannabinol)?
CBN, or cannabinol, is a lesser-known cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its famous cousin THC, CBN is non-psychoactive and known primarily for its sedative properties. It’s often referred to as the “sleepy cannabinoid” and is typically derived from aged THC.
CBN works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a key role in regulating processes like sleep, mood, and pain.
Potential Benefits of CBN:
- Promotes deep relaxation and sleepiness
- May reduce inflammation and pain, improving sleep quality
- Non-habit forming and non-intoxicating
CBN vs. CBD:
While both CBN and CBD are cannabinoids, they serve different functions. CBD is more associated with anxiety relief, inflammation reduction, and overall wellness, while CBN is more specifically linked to sleep promotion.
Melatonin vs. CBN: How They Work Differently
|
Feature |
Melatonin |
CBN |
|
Source |
Hormone produced by the brain |
Cannabinoid found in aged cannabis |
|
Primary Function |
Regulates circadian rhythm |
Promotes sedation and deep sleep |
|
Onset Time |
30 minutes to 1 hour |
15–30 minutes (when used in tincture or gummy form) |
|
Duration |
Short-term effects (4–8 hours) |
May offer more sustained rest |
|
Side Effects |
Grogginess, headaches, and hormonal disruptions |
Minimal side effects, occasional mild drowsiness |
|
Habit-Forming |
Generally no |
No |
|
Best For |
Travel, jet lag, shifting sleep schedules |
Trouble falling or staying asleep, chronic restlessness |
The Case for CBN: A More Targeted Sleep Aid
Melatonin has long been a go-to for those struggling with rest, but recent studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that CBN may be a more targeted and effective solution, particularly for people who experience trouble staying asleep or wake up frequently throughout the night.
Unlike melatonin, which acts more like a sleep signal, CBN functions more like a sleep supporter, helping you stay asleep longer and improving sleep quality. It may also support those who struggle with pain-related sleep issues, as it’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Why Some People Are Ditching Melatonin
While melatonin is naturally occurring in the body, supplementing with synthetic melatonin has raised concerns for several reasons:
- Overuse can disrupt natural melatonin production. Taking too much or using melatonin too frequently can confuse your body’s own sleep-wake signals.
- Hormonal side effects. Melatonin is a hormone, and taking it as a supplement can affect hormonal balance, especially in children or individuals with hormonal conditions.
- Inconsistent dosing. Many melatonin products vary widely in potency. A study found that 71% of melatonin supplements did not contain the amount listed on the label.
- Lingering grogginess. Melatonin can help you fall asleep, but it may also cause a "hangover effect" that leaves you feeling sluggish the next day.
Enter lost range.®: CBD+CBN Sleep Gummies and CBD+CBN Sleep Tincture
If you’re looking for a clean, effective way to support better sleep, lost range.® offers two premium CBN-infused options: CBD+CBN Sleep Gummies and CBD+CBN Sleep Tincture, both crafted with high-quality, Colorado-grown hemp and designed to help you get the rest you deserve.
lost range.® CBD+CBN Sleep Gummies
These easy-to-enjoy gummies are a convenient way to incorporate CBN into your nightly routine. Each gummy contains a precisely dosed combination of CBN and CBD to promote the Entourage Effect, a synergistic boost from multiple cannabinoids working together to enhance results.
Benefits:
- 33mg CBD + 10mg CBN per gummy
- Delicious huckleberry flavor with no artificial junk
- Easy to take before bed
- Promotes calm, relaxation, and restful sleep
lost range.® CBD+CBN Sleep Tincture
Prefer a customizable, fast-acting option? The CBD+CBN Sleep Tincture allows for flexible dosing and quicker absorption, ideal for those who want to dial in their ideal dose or who have trouble falling asleep quickly.
Benefits:
- Full-spectrum hemp extract with a sleep-focused cannabinoid profile
- Dropper delivery for easy, under-the-tongue dosing
- Fast absorption; feel effects within 15–30 minutes
- Non-habit forming and THC compliant (less than 0.3% THC)
How to Choose the Right Natural Sleep Aid
When deciding between melatonin and CBN, or incorporating both, consider your sleep challenges:
- Trouble falling asleep? Try a low dose of melatonin or a fast-acting CBN tincture.
- Trouble staying asleep? CBN may be more effective for sustained sleep support.
- Jet lag or circadian rhythm shifts? Melatonin can help reset your internal clock.
- Sensitive to hormones? CBN may be a gentler, more natural fit.
Ultimately, your personal sleep needs will determine the best solution. But for many, CBN provides a more well-rounded approach, helping you fall asleep and stay asleep without hormonal interference.
Final Thoughts: Why CBN Might Be the Better Choice
When it comes to better sleep, melatonin may be the familiar friend, but CBN is quickly becoming the new go-to for those seeking a natural, non-hormonal solution. As research continues to uncover the benefits of cannabinoids, more people are choosing CBN as a gentler, more effective sleep aid.
With products like lost range.® CBD+CBN Sleep Gummies and CBD+CBN Sleep Tincture, getting restorative sleep doesn’t have to come with a groggy trade-off. These thoughtfully formulated products are designed to support your wellness goals, night after night.
🛌 Ready to Try CBN for Yourself?
Discover the difference restful sleep can make. Shop lost range.® CBD+CBN Sleep Gummies and CBD+CBN Sleep Tincture, and say goodbye to tossing and turning.
👉 Shop Now – Sweet dreams start here.
FAQs: Melatonin vs. CBN for Better Sleep
1. What makes CBN different from melatonin?
CBN is a cannabinoid derived from the hemp plant that supports rest by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system, promoting deep relaxation and sustained sleep. Melatonin, on the other hand, is a hormone that signals to your body that it’s time to sleep, primarily helping with sleep onset and circadian rhythm adjustments.
2. Will CBN make me feel “high” like THC?
No. CBN is non-psychoactive and will not make you feel high. While it’s derived from aged THC, it does not produce intoxicating effects, making it a safe, natural option for rest without the mental cloudiness.
3. Can I take CBN every night?
Yes, lost range.® CBN products are designed to be non-habit forming and can be used as part of a consistent bedtime routine. As with any supplement, it's a good idea to start with a lower dose and adjust as needed.
4. How fast do lost range.® CBD+CBN Sleep Gummies or Tincture work?
The CBD+CBN Sleep Gummies typically take effect within 30–60 minutes, while the CBD+CBN Sleep Tincture (when taken sublingually) may work in as little as 15–30 minutes. Effects may vary based on individual metabolism and body chemistry.
5. Can I combine melatonin and CBN?
Yes, some people find combining melatonin and CBN beneficial, especially if they struggle with both falling and staying asleep. However, always start with low doses and consult your healthcare provider before combining supplements, especially if you're taking other medications.
