Overview: If you are looking to improve your sex life, you might want to try CBD. Many have debated whether or not the health benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) are due to its chemical properties or placebo effect. Recently, experts have attempted to pinpoint the usefulness of CBD in improving sexual function and pleasure. Anecdotal evidence points to CBD being beneficial to sexual function, but the research is not as clear.
Interested in putting CBD to the test? Read on to learn more about how CBD can improve your sex life.
What is Cannabidiol (CBD)?
You have likely heard of cannabidiol, more commonly referred to as CBD. This compound is found in the cannabis sativa plant, also known as hemp or marijuana. Using CBD by itself does not result in the “high” associated with marijuana use.
CBD is often isolated and used in oils, lotions, tinctures, and other products. It is promoted for its use in inducing calm and relaxation, in addition to a number of other health claims. Medical research has not shown CBD to be habit-forming.
Many people debate the differences between CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the compound found within marijuana that produces a feeling of being “high.” In medical marijuana compounds, CBD and THC are combined for an ultimate effect for the patient.
CBD is marketed as a supplement, not a medication. It is not currently regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). You should carefully consider compound and manufacturer options prior to using CBD products.
What are the Potential Health Benefits of CBD?
CBD use has become increasingly popular within the past decade. As states have allowed this compound to be marketed to the general public, it has been added to food, drinks, oils, lotions, and other everyday products. The main push for this product on the market has been the number of health claims promoted by sellers.
CBD is commonly promoted for its use in:
- Acne
- Anxiety
- Back pain
- Cancer-related conditions and management
- Child epilepsy
- Depression
- Headaches
- High blood pressure
- Pain management
- Sleep and insomnia
CBD is generally considered safe for use by most people, though the FDA warns there are potential risks still being investigated. However, anyone living with a chronic condition or taking prescription medications should obtain a medical provider’s counsel prior to using CBD products. CBD products may interfere with prescription medication or supplement use.
Anyone living with a chronic condition or taking prescription medications should obtain a medical provider’s counsel prior to using CBD products.
How Can CBD Improve My Sex Life?
Both the physiological and psychological effects of CBD use can be beneficial to your sex life. CBD has primarily been researched for its use in anxiety and pain-related conditions, which can have a tremendous impact on sexual function and pleasure. However, CBD use may not have the same effect on everyone.
If you suffer from performance anxiety, or any other anxiety surrounding sex, CBD use may help to alleviate some of this stress. A 2015 scientific review revealed that CBD use is a promising alternative to traditional prescription medications for an array of anxiety disorders. This means that taking CBD prior to sex may enable you to relax and enjoy the experience.
For those struggling with pain or sensitivity during sex, you may find CBD lubricants on the market to be useful. Not only can they help with lubrication during sex, but these topical products can also decrease tenderness or sensitivity. There are many cannabinoid receptors located on the reproductive organs, making these products ideal for sex play.
Remedy Review recently conducted a national survey about CBD use for sex. Out of 5,398 Americans surveyed, 9.3 percent reported they had taken CBD specifically for sex. Those who used CBD for sex also reported experiencing more intense and satisfying orgasms during their encounters.
Note that the Remedy Review survey was not a scientific study, so all results are self-reported and not part of a controlled trial. Additional research is needed to clarify the link between CBD use and sexual function and pleasure.
What are the Cons of Using CBD?
Just like with any other substance or supplement, CBD use is not for everyone. Some people are more sensitive to the side effects of CBD use. People living with certain medical conditions should abstain from using CBD products unless approved by a medical provider.
Potential side effects of CBD use include:
- Changes in appetite
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Medical experts caution that there is not enough scientific evidence linking CBD use and improved sexual function and pleasure. While studies have been conducted to demonstrate potential benefits of marijuana use for specific sexual dysfunctions, CBD research is less established. You should always speak to a medical provider before using a medication, supplement, or substance for sexual function.
How Can I Use CBD?
You should know that CBD does not typically have an immediate effect. If you want to use CBD with your partner, then you should plan to use your product prior to initiating sex. Make sure your partner is comfortable with CBD use during sex.
A few tips for safely using CBD with a partner include:
- Carefully consider your product options. The FDA warns the general public to carefully review product and manufacturer details prior to using a CBD product. Carefully consider the form of product you prefer (e.g., oil versus drops), read user reviews, and check that the product has been verified independently.
- Get familiar with dosing. Your dosing will likely vary from your partner’s. You may want to begin with a low dosage and work your way up until you reach the desired effect. Speak with a medical provider if you take other medications or if you are unsure of how to safely dose CBD.
- Time the use of your product. You may want to try CBD before using it for sex. The timing from your first dose to feeling the desired effect will vary from person to person. You may feel the effect in a matter of minutes, but it can take over an hour.
- Practice open communication with your partner. Above all else, you should openly and honestly discuss CBD use with your partner prior to using it for sex. You and your partner should agree to what you are and are not willing to use to improve pleasure and sexual function together.
How Else Can I Improve My Sex Life?
While the jury is still out on whether or not CBD will improve everyone’s sex lives, you can still take action to improve your sexual function and pleasure. If you are suffering from conditions like erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation, you may benefit from both CBD and a prescription medication like Viagra. The first step to improving your sex life is speaking to a medical provider to identify the root cause of any sexual function problems you would like to address.
Fortunately, you can now speak with a U.S.-licensed physician and choose from a variety of treatment options with our online services at eDrugstore.com. If you have questions about sexual dysfunction, see our lifestyle medication guide and take advantage of our free online consultation to order erectile dysfunction medications at the click of a button.
Shelby is a public health professional with research and field experience in sexual and reproductive health. She holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) and is a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES).