Sex is an integral part of life. And let’s face it—for many people, so is cannabis. Aside from all the common reasons people turn to cannabinoids, like anxiety, pain, or poor sleep, we’re now learning that cannabis and sex may play a part in a healthy balanced lifestyle. In one Stanford review of over 50,000 men and women, people who used cannabis reported having more sex than those who didn’t. In men, the increase in sexual frequency was 22%, and in women 34%.
But it’s not that cut and dry. In the past, reports have suggested that cannabis decreases testosterone and disrupts orgasms, thus making sex less enjoyable. The truth? Endocannabinoid systems are complex and cannabis poses some sexy benefits when used correctly, but you can’t just go in with all joints blazing.
Instead, we look at the why around cannabis and sex to get the most benefit to boost sexual satisfaction naturally. But first, it starts with understanding how cannabis interacts with the body.
Table of contents
THC For Sex
Cannabis and Sex: Understanding The Endocannabinoid System
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a complex system of neurotransmitters and receptors tasked with a variety of functions that help the body maintain homeostasis. The ECS impacts everything from the way we feel pain to hormone production, so it’s easy to imagine the direct impact it has on sex. Endocannabinoid receptors are present in the pelvic region, male testes, and the female reproductive tract, and they are also present in the brain and play a key role in sexual arousal.
The Endocannabinoid System functions in a delicate balance. Although Endocannabinoid imbalance has been linked to a variety of different symptoms and conditions, we haven’t narrowed it down to an exact science.
The complex and shifting Endocannabinoid levels from person to person help explain why cannabis works for some but not for others, and also shines light on why some people like whole-plant cannabis (which includes the psychoactive component THC), and others get more benefit out of non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBD.
Although modern research has yet to pin it down to any exact dosing method, that hasn’t stopped us from recognizing the benefits of cannabis for sex for centuries.
The Sexual History of Cannabis
No, we aren’t talking about the complex interbreeding of cannabis plants. We’re talking about the long history of cannabis being used as a sexual enhancer. In ancient India, Cannabis was one of the most commonly known aphrodisiacs. In Uganda, it’s equally well known for treating impotence and erectile dysfunction.
Our historical understanding of cannabis’ ability to produce heightened sexual responses was transformed after we discovered the link between THC, the cannabinoid known for causing the cannabis high, and anandamide, the body’s natural version of the cannabinoid. Anandamide, aptly named from the Sanskrit word for “bliss,” is an important part in stimulating sexual pleasure in the brain.
Thankfully, THC is able to stimulate the same receptor points in the brain as anandamide, which is why even ancient civilizations recognized the link between cannabis and sexual enhancement. Even though we understand more about the molecular mechanism of cannabis for sex, we still have a long ways to go about how cannabis cannabis can boost sexual function.
Benefits of THC on Sex
Perhaps the most common interest surrounds how cannabis affects sex drive. Does interest in sex plummet after cannabis use, or can cannabis increase sex drive? The reviews are mixed, but most recent research suggests a positive link between the two. We get more into the reserach done on the link between cannabis and sex below.
Cannabis, Orgasms, and Sexual Satisfaction
Even if cannabis can help get you in the mood, low libido isn’t the only sexual health problem that strains sexual satisfaction. For some people, getting turned on is easy, but reaching the final destination is a lot more difficult. Luckily, research suggests that cannabis may help increase sexual sensation and intensify orgasms.
In the same research published in Sexual Medicine that we mentioned earlier, the majority of the 127 women surveyed also reported an increase in orgasm intensity. Even in research dating back to the 1980s, over two-thirds of people who used cannabis for sex reported an increase in sexual satisfaction. To date, there’s no research to explain why or how it works, but that hasn’t stopped the cannabis market from exploding with sex-enhancing potential.
Alternatively, it’s worth noting that for some people, cannabis has a positive impact on anxiety. Anxiety can be a mood killer, but especially in response to sexual stimulation and desire. Even worse, many of the medications taken for anxiety can dampen libido as well. If cannabis is able to decrease anxiety, it’s not crazy to think that it also helps boost sex drive, too.
SeaBeDee makes a CBD oil specifically for calming the effects of anxiety in their Calming Blend. When we tried it, we found it helped ease anxious thoughts at night.
How To Use Cannabis for Sex
There’s more than one way to incorporate cannabis between the sheets, and choosing one has a lot to do with personal preference. For many, just a couple of puffs of a joint helps set the mood, but others prefer to incorporate cannabis in other ways.
Because of its ability to stimulate circulation and possibly decrease pain, some turn to cannabis lubricants to improve the quality of sex. For others, CBD-based products provide the results they seek without the psychoactive effects.
Certain brands, like Foria and Quim, focus on sex-positive products that help people get the most out of their sexual encounters.
Although topical application is one of the most common ways people directly incorporate cannabis into sex, oral tinctures, edibles, or vaporizers may also deliver the benefits of cannabis and CBD. Typically, for internal issues resulting from cannabinoid deficiencies, these systemic products are the best way to go.
Of course, there’s nothing that says you can’t combine the two and many couples find that a pre-sex smoke session combined with a CBD lubricant like Foria’s Intimacy Lubricant helps them get the most out of their bedroom tango.
Study Results for THC on Sex
One study published in Sexual Medicine involved 127 women who reported using cannabis prior to sex. The study showed that most women reported an increase in sex drive. Further review linked cannabis intoxication to an increase in activation of the brain in response to sexual stimuli, which means it may help people who have trouble getting in the mood.
In the same research, the majority of the 127 women surveyed also reported an increase in orgasm intensity. Even in research dating back to the 1980s, over two-thirds of people who used cannabis for sex reported an increase in sexual satisfaction. To date, there’s no research to explain why or how it works, but that hasn’t stopped the cannabis market from exploding with sex-enhancing potential.
Benefits of CBD on Sex
CBD and Orgasms
Orgasms. The big O. Getting off. No matter what you call it, it’s the preferred end result of any sexual encounter, whether going it solo or with a partner (or partners!). However, not everyone has a satisfying sex life, and up to 75% of women report not regularly having orgasms with their partners from intercourse alone. 75%! But can CBD help with orgasms?
Although it is one of the newer frontiers of sexual wellness being explored, CBD does have an incredible amount of potential! In fact, many people believe that it can significantly improve sexual experiences and make orgasms more accessible.
While evidence at this point is strictly anecdotal, almost 70% of people who use CBD to help enhance their sex lives report that it actually works. This isn’t a small percentage and, once more studies are done, the general belief is that the benefits of CBD for sex will go on to be backed up with scientific evidence as well.
CBD Can Help You Relax Mentally During Sex
Almost everyone has experienced some sort of anxiety in the bedroom. Whether that anxiety is related to how you might internally feel or are experiencing outside of the bedroom, say work stress, this added pressure can control your focus and mood. Not being able to fully relax and be in moment can surely make having an orgasm next to impossible.
One of the most important keys to being able to reach that climax is to be presently living in the moment, both physically and mentally. If your brain wanders off elsewhere, your sensory feelings will wander off with it. This is especially the case for women, when so much of the ability to enjoy intercourse and have orgasms is tied to being turned on both physically and emotionally.
One of the benefits of CBD is that it can help minimize those mood-killing thoughts by reducing anxiety, stress, depression, and even symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. The psychological benefits of CBD can even extend to how you feel about yourself in the bedroom and feel about the experience as a whole.
Without the weight of added to-do lists or conversations with yourself, you can finally relax enough to let orgasms happen when they are intended to. The brain really is more than half the battle when it comes to reaching an orgasm.
There are a number of CBD products aimed specifically at helping reduce stress and anxiety. Calming CBD gummies from Charlotte’s Web are one of our favorites, and let you get a little sweet snack before jumping into bed. Another calming gummy we recommend are Medterra’s Keep Calm Gummies.
If you prefer a calming CBD oil, we recommend Restore CALM hemp oil from Restorative Botanicals, Chill CBD Oil from Calm by Wellness, and SeaBeDee’s Anxiety blend.
CBD Can Help with Physical Pain During Sex
While anxiety and mental clarity are major factors in the ability to have orgasms, physical pain can also play a huge part. For some women, the pain associated with sex can be placed into two categories; pain with a physical cause and pain with a psychological cause.
Physical causes of painful intercourse can be related to dryness (oftentimes stemming from menopause), or certain medical conditions like endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, or ovarian cysts. Some women might even experience pain during intercourse that comes from a psychological cause is often called “vaginismus.”
CBD can help with both of these causes by allowing the body (including the pelvic floor) to fully relax, which reduces or relieves any pain you may experience during sex. Combined with the positive psychological effects of reducing anxiety, this can be a major game changer.
In addition, the way that CBD affects a woman’s endocannabinoid system helps with the actual physical part of sexual arousal. Applying a CBD product specific for the vagina directly to the vulva can increase blood flow to this area, which can make everything feel more sensitive. These products have also been said to add another level of lubrication that regular lubes just don’t achieve. All of these products also help orgasms happen easier.
We really like Quim’s products, which are specially-formulated for vaginal health.
On the other hand for men, CBD can help with erectile dysfunction. According to some experts, it can help increase both nerve sensation and blood flow to the area. This can help erections last longer, while also reducing performance anxiety.
Use of CBD products during sex greatly reduces the rate of post-intercourse pain and soreness by about 30%. While also greatly decreasing inflammation and even leading to better post-sex sleep!
Legal CBD Brands Focused on Sex
Choosing to intertwine cannabis and sex may sound a bit unconventional, but its benefits cannot be denied. With products ranging from massage oil to CBD-infused lubricant, people everywhere are beginning to see the positive relationship between cannabis and intimacy. With the variety of products available that are designed for sexual experiences, there’s truly something out there for everyone.
Regardless of if you’re someone who struggles with having painful intercourse or is simply looking for something to spice up your sex life, cannabis-infused products can achieve all that and more. We love brands like Foria and Quim who are solely focused on CBD and sexual health. We dive into some of their best products below!
Lubricant can also be combined with tinctures and vaporizers to help increase arousal and heighten the physical sensation to help people have better, fuller, easier orgasms. One other option taking CBD orally 30 to 60 minutes before any sexual activity. This option from cbdMD has 33.3 mg of CBD in each capsule. When used orally, it can help the entire body relax, both physically and mentally. Combined with either (or both!) of the above products, and you can totally revamp your sex life.
The Best CBD Products to Enhance Your Sex Life
Cannabis is one of the best all-natural ingredients to take your sex life to the next level. Even if you’re someone who isn’t keen on smoking, don’t worry! As the cannabis industry continues to grow, more and more products – from topicals to vapes – are being crafted to appeal to every person, especially within the bedroom.
While cannabis specifically pertains to both cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), products are available that either isolate one single cannabinoid, or utilize both of the compound’s synergistic properties. This means that whether you’re in need of alleviation from pelvic pain or are looking for an extra boost in your orgasm, the perfect cannabis and sex product is out there waiting for you.
To make the search a bit easier, below, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best cannabis products available for intimate experiences. Options for you alone or with a partner, we’ve listed a variety of products that are made for before, during, and even after sex. All of these sensual choices can provide you with overall pain relief, euphoria, and relaxation during some of the most electrifying moments of your life.
Best CBD Product for Arousal: Foria Awaken Arousal Oil
If you’re looking to completely take your sex life to new heights, Foria Awaken Arousal Oil is the cannabis product that will do it. This multi-aphrodisiac oil is created for people with vulvas, to enhance tactile sensation & pleasure while decreasing tension, discomfort and dryness. Awaken by Foria is a natural, organic arousal lubricant made with broad-spectrum CBD and synergistic botanical & aromatic oils.
Made to apply all over and within female intimate areas, you will start to feel this invigorating personal lube within about 30 minutes. This gives the cannabinoid properties time to take effect, relaxing both your mind and body, as well as providing you with euphoric, yet sensitive reactions. Whether you want to use this massage oil for personal use or to warm up a night of play with your partner, we’ll let you decide.
Best CBD for Sexual Health: Quim Happy Clam CBD Lube
Great for more than just sex, Quim’s Happy Clam CBD hemp-infused serum is an everyday oil is designed to keep your quim happy, healthy and moisturized. They describe it as ‘eye cream for your vagina’™. Made with hemp, tea tree and damiana, a plant that has been known for its aphrodisiac properties whose use dates back to Mayan civilization as a natural remedy to increase sexual arousal and stamina, increase the frequency of orgasms, and reduce vaginal dryness, Happy Clam is here to help your clam.
Best Organic CBD Lube: Foria’s Intimacy Lubricant
For the best all-natural, organic CBD-infused lubricant option, Foria’s Intimacy Lubricant cannot be beat. This high-quality lube is 100% plant-based and utilizes organic MCT coconut oil to give your body enhanced blood flow with decreased muscle tension (a perfect recipe for a successful night.) Crafted using only US-sourced organic hemp, Foria’s Intimacy lubricant is safe and healthy, reassuring that it’s okay to apply to your most intimate areas.
This particular lube contains 200mg of broad-spectrum CBD, giving you all the medicinal, blissful properties of the cannabinoid right where you need it most. With Foria’s pesticide-free, certified organic products, you can be guaranteed a comfortable, pain-free bedroom experience every time you use it.
Best CBD Product For Guys to Keep Handy
Luckily, we have options like Quim’s Smooth Operator Intimate Serum to allow us to fully enjoy our special nights. One of our favorites is this Smooth Operator by Quim. Formulated with 100 mg of CBD, this water-soluble, aloe vera based product is safe to use with latex condoms. Great to add moisture directly where necessary and help with inflammation and pain. That makes it a great option for people who find penetration to be uncomfortable or even painful.
Best CBD Massage Oil: CBDfx Rejuvediol Massage Oil
For those looking for the perfect start to their special night, CBDfx provides some of the best CBD-infused massage oils on the market. Organic, non-GMO, and completely vegan, CBDfx Rejuvediol Massage Oil is designed to relax muscle tension while simultaneously invigorating your senses. Along with CBD’s beneficial properties, CBDfx’s unique massage oil utilizes aromatherapy to give you and your body widespread calming effects, better than any day at the spa.
This relaxing, rejuvenating massage oil won’t leave you feeling sticky, and soaks right into your skin for a mess-free experience and quick onset of effects. Whether you use it strictly for tight muscles or as preparation before you get down to business is entirely up to you, but CBDfx’s Rejuvediol Massage Oil is sure to help you unwind and have you feeling better than ever.
Best Vaporizer To Get You in the Mood: Specktra Tranquility Vape Pen
Specktra has crafted one of the easiest ways to get aroused while also getting relaxed with their Tranquility vape pen. This easily accessible CBD vape has a rapid onset and a pleasant taste of a variety of natural botanical terpenes. Utilizing the cannabis terpenes, the tranquility pen produces feelings of relaxation, pain relief, and pleasure all in one hit. This combination is sure to get you and your partner feeling excited.
Best CBD Bundle for a Sexy Evening: Whispr
Treat yourselves to a luxurious CBD set with this bundle from Whispr. The roll on oil is perfect for a massage to set the mood with a therapeutic blend of essential oils and active botanicals including peppermint, orange peel, lemon, clove bud, avocado, and rosemary oils – rich in nourishing fatty acids, antioxidants and minerals to soothe the body and calm the mind.
The set also includes a tincture made with full spectrum CBD, nootropic and essential oils, specially formulated to support stress. Start or end your evening with the CBD bath bomb, handcrafted with naturally-derived sodium bicarbonate, citrus, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, star anise, formulated to help you restore balance and melt away stress.
Best CBD Edible For Warming Up The Evening
Charlotte’s Web Hemp Extract-Infused Calming Gummies – For some people (especially women), sex can cause a lot of anxiety. Taking a gummy an hour or so before intimacy happens can help take some of the edge off, so that you have a higher likelihood of not only enjoying sex more, but also being able to have an orgasm.
Best CBD Bath Bomb to Set the Mood
Canna Comforts CBD Bath Bomb – These bath bombs come in two different scents – Cavalier (more masculine with notes of cedar and bergamot) and Femme Fatale (with jasmine and sage). They’re both great for taking a long, luxurious bath with your partner or for getting yourself ready and in the mood prior to a date night. The CBD helps you to stay nice and loose and pain-free for hours afterward.
Best CBD Suppository for the Adventurous
Foria Intimacy Suppositories – Stay with us here. While it may sound weird, these suppositories are the real deal. They can be used both vaginally or rectally pre- or post-sexual encounter, and the CBD helps you to relax from the inside so that sex can be deeper and more pleasurable.