Unlike THC, CBD does not cause a high or intoxication. Some data suggests that it may actually counteract some of the strength and adverse psychoactive effects of THC.
CBD has many properties and their effects on anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, and more. They are increasingly being scientifically proven.
So what about sex? Can CBD really improve your sex life? Want to know how it works?
Can CBD Really Improve Your Sex Life?
Here’s what you need to know about the science of CBD and sex, as well as people’s intimate experiences with cannabidiol.
To understand how CBD can help your sex life, we should first understand how researchers believe CBD works in the body.
You have little receptors in your body that are part of an overall system that scientists call the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The endocannabinoid system is a complex cell signaling system responsible for regulating specific functions like memory, appetite, sleep, and overall mood.
While CBD doesn’t directly turn them on, it can trigger a series of responses in the body that stimulate the system. Through indirect activation by CBD, the body can respond in a variety of ways that may help improve intimate life.
According to a 2009 study published in the New York Academy of Sciences, some of these receptors can also be found in the reproductive system. Specifically, CB1 receptors are found in the testicles, ovaries, and spleen.
According to a 2017 study, cannabis is able to activate parts of the human brain that are directly related to sexual desire.
Recent studies have shown that CBD can enhance sexual intercourse by increasing lubrication, increasing libido, relieving tension, and helping men treat erectile dysfunction.
CBD Increases Lubrication
People choose CBD for sex for a variety of reasons, including pain from chronic conditions, endometriosis, and more.
Other reasons include: increasing pleasure; relieving stress and anxiety, including performance anxiety; setting the right mood.
Regarding lubrication issues during sex, CBD may help. There are too many cannabinoid receptors in the reproductive organs and sexual tissues.
CBD can increase blood flow to tissues, which increases sensitivity and promotes the body’s own natural lubrication.
For those who experience lubrication issues during sex and experience pain as a result, adding lubricants can be helpful in two ways: reducing the pain component and making everything else more pleasurable.
Many CBD product manufacturers have also begun producing CBD lubricants. The effects of topical CBD products have been studied.
CBD products applied to the skin, such as creams, oils, or ointments, have been shown to be very effective anti-inflammatory agents and can theoretically help sexual relationships as well.
CBD Relieves Sexual Anxiety
Performance anxiety is one of the main reasons people have memorable and sometimes disastrous experiences in the bedroom. For some men, it’s that inner voice that makes them doubt themselves. For some women, it can manifest as difficulty getting aroused or reaching orgasm.
CBD may turn some people on to romance. Studies show that CBD may be effective in reducing stress and anxiety. This relaxation, in turn, can reduce distractions and annoyances that can get in the way of a positive sexual experience.
While CBD is not psychoactive, it can improve your mood by boosting a neurotransmitter called anandamideTrusted Source.
CBD helps increase the natural neurotransmitters and endorphins that we make ourselves, ultimately leading to a better sexual experience.
While early research has CBD enthusiasts excited about its potential for health and sexual performance, some experts say more research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
But one expert believes: CBD is completely ineffective for sexual performance. The main advantage is the lack of toxicity, even if it’s just a placebo, which is widely accepted.
CBD and Erectile Dysfunction
The exact way CBD helps with erectile dysfunction isn’t entirely clear. One theory is that CBD can help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. Better blood flow to the penis can ease erectile dysfunction and make sexual relations last longer.
With ED, poor blood flow can lead to “erection” problems. Some of the emotional and physical conditions associated with erectile dysfunction include low testosterone levels, high blood pressure, and common stress, anxiety, and depression.
A 2017 study showed that a single dose of cannabidiol helped lower blood pressure to normal levels in healthy volunteers. This could address one of the many issues on the list.
According to a 2015 study, CBD has been linked to the relaxation of vascular muscles and blood vessels. This is achieved by activating CB1 receptors and TRP channels. In short, CBD may help relax those tense muscles and ultimately stave off erectile dysfunction.
CBD What Products Is It Included In?
Although CBD is relatively new to the mainstream market, it is widely available in many forms – from oils and gummies to topical creams and drinks.
Recently, CBD has also made its way into the bedroom. The substance is found in a variety of products that are designed to help improve the user’s sex life. These products include:
- Personal lubricants
- Massage lotions
- Oral sprays
- Edible gummies
A recent survey recorded an interesting fact: 93% of those who participated in the survey admitted that they took some form of CBD for sexual intercourse, adding that when they did orgasm, their orgasms were more intense. This is worth looking into.
Conclusion
If you’re interested in trying CBD in your sex life, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Buy a Quality Product
Don’t just buy any CBD product. Read reviews and check if the product has been verified by an independent lab before buying.
You should also know that CBD can come from hemp or marijuana, and that hemp-derived CBD products contain THC. Additionally, while hemp and marijuana are both cannabis plants, they have different THC levels. Hemp must contain less than 0.3% to be legal at the federal level.
Use CBD Before Entering The Bedroom
Whether you use CBD as a lubricant or take it orally, CBD doesn’t necessarily work the moment you decide to use it. Plan ahead and start taking it 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime – or apply it – to give it enough time to warm up in the bedroom.
Finding Your Ideal Dose
Everyone is different when it comes to CBD dosage, and there is no definitive evidence on how much CBD someone should take to achieve certain effects or health benefits.
Start with a low dose and work your way up. Slowly increase a little every few days, and if you continue to experience increased benefits, keep going. If you add more and don’t feel better or start to feel worse, go back to your previous dose.
We have to remember that sex can be greatly affected by many other factors. Talk to your doctor and mental health professional, and try CBD with someone you trust, and gradually adjust your dose. Good luck!