Although cannabis is still a Schedule I substance according to US federal law, medical marijuana is legal in 30 states and the District of Columbia. Nine other states permit adult recreational marijuana. This legalization opens the doors for researchers to study the efficacy of cannabis in treating various ailments. Currently, medical marijuana is available for treating seizures, chronic pain and panic disorders. Preliminary research also links cannabinoids such as CBD (cannabidiol) with improvements in appetite, moods and sleep quality. However, can cannabis improve sexual relations?

According to new population-based studies, using cannabis before sex can improve sexual drive, libido and orgasms. The study, published in the Journal of Sex Medicine (JSM), sought to establish if there is any relationship between cannabis and sexual frequency among reproductive-age women. Cannabis users have been eluding that it improves their sexual relations in various ways. These findings finally substantiated their claims and provided ground for further research. The study includes surveys from over 51,000 participants nationwide, organized by the CDC (Center for Disease Control). Researchers also pursue the impact of cannabis in different functions that affect sexual drive and performance. This includes moods, blood circulation, metabolism, weight loss, stamina, libido, sleep and recovery, among others.

CANNABIS AND SEX

Although no clinical research or studies exist on the link between cannabis and sexual function, most users claim that smoking marijuana has sexual benefits. Active cannabinoids in the cannabis plant attach to CB-1 and CB-2 receptors within the human endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is an extensive network of nerves and neurotransmitters. The ECS regulates various body functions, including mood, sleep, appetite, pain and emotions. Taking cannabis can result in improvements in pain relief and anti-inflammation, rest and recovery, appetite, moods and energy.

Cannabis also increases the level of anandamide, a feel-good fatty-acid neurotransmitter that can temporarily relieve anxiety, depression and negative emotions. What’s more, marijuana increases the release of endorphins, which experts believe will improve interest in sex and promote lubrication in women. However, the JSM study indicates no real benefit in lubrication. According to most participants (68%), using cannabis before sex mainly improves libido, sex drive and quality of orgasms.

Research indicates that the body releases natural endocannabinoid, 2-AG, during orgasm. This suggests that endocannabinoids may have a role in sexual function. Since cannabis contains cannabinoids that interact with the endocannabinoid system, its use can have positive benefits for your sexual drive and orgasm. Moreover, cannabis is a vasodilator that expands blood vessels and improves blood flow. This can benefit men with erectile dysfunction, especially those who find it challenging to maintain an erection for the entire duration of intercourse. Nevertheless, this area requires more study.

HOW DOES CANNABIS IMPACT YOUR SEX LIFE?

Most information available about cannabis stems from animal studies. Cannabis contains numerous cannabinoids that might have positive benefits. However, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD are the most popular. CBD, in particular, takes all credit for the medicinal properties of cannabis. Its interaction with the endocannabinoid system can enhance various body functions that, in turn, improve sexual drive and performance. Scientifically, cannabis can improve sexual function in the following ways:

• Pain relief

For most women, especially those who do not have enough lubrication, intercourse can result in pain. According to experts, pain is a real issue in most relationships and it can develop into the fear of coitus. Pain may also make it impossible to achieve satisfying orgasms or have sex multiple times. Cannabis for pain relief, on the other hand, is one of the areas that boast substantial research. Taking CBD oil can temporarily relieve pain and make it easier for women to enjoy sex. Another option is to try FORIA PLEASURE lubricant available at HPC. “Foria’s “Pre-Lube” formula prepares you for sex or self-pleasure, creating deep relaxation & increased blood flow in intimate areas, allowing for enhanced sensation, while also stimulating natural lubrication to help relieve tension, discomfort and dryness.”

• Reducing anxiety

Anxiety is another common cause of dissatisfying sex. This may also be as a result of pain or previous experiences. Some people use alcohol and other drugs to reduce nervousness during sex, but these options have an extensive profile of side effects. If the thought of having sex leaves you feeling more anxious than excited, cannabis can help calm your nerves and reduce any panic or fear. It is essential to pay close attention to the potency of the cannabis you take. The onset of edibles can take up to three hours while vaping is almost instant, so experiences may vary depending on what product you choose. Cannabis is also perfect for reducing first-time sex anxiety.

• Improving focus and awareness

Cannabis has long been part of yoga and meditation practices for its ability to heighten concentration and awareness. Swaying attention during sex is quite popular among men and can result in loss of erection and other undesirable symptoms. According to experts, taking cannabis before sex can help calm you down, allowing you to focus on pleasing your partner and attaining orgasm. It also improves mental health, preventing brain tumors and promoting the growth of new cells and connections. As such, cannabis can help improve your mindset and allow you to have better experiences.

• Overall health

General health and wellness are essential for a healthy sex life. Although CBD is mostly a medicinal product, you can add it to your daily diet. Cannabis can improve sleep, rest and recovery, appetite, gut health and metabolism as well as immunity. It can soothe sore muscles and aid post-sex recovery, allowing you to rejuvenate your banks. Some even suggest it for improving testosterone and sperm count. Since leading a healthy life will also result in better sex, adding cannabis products like CBD can significantly improve your sexual relationships.

HOW TO TAKE CANNABIS

Cannabis comes in various forms ranging from dry herbs and flowers to concentrates and isolates, waxes, shatters, edibles and gummies, among others. Whether you prefer THC-free cannabis products or want to enjoy the euphoric benefits of concentrated cannabis buds, there are many options available. It is vital to choose the best CBD or THC delivery for your needs. Common ways to take cannabis include:

• Smoking

Smoking is the traditional way to inhale cannabis. It involves rolling dry cannabis herbs and flowers into cigarette joints or blunts. Smoking is quite potent, especially since most products contain high amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). You will experience the effects of smoking soon after the first draw. It is recommendable to smoke marijuana just a few minutes before your intercourse, especially since the “high” tends to wear out quickly.

• Vaping and dabbing

Vaping and dabbing are other ways of inhaling cannabis. However, unlike smoking, these two methods involve preheating cannabis to generate vapor that you can then inhale. Vaping is ideal for those who want to avoid the adverse effects of smoking. It uses atomizers and combustion chambers to preheat concentrates, e-liquids and dry herbs. Vaping is also potent and has an onset similar to smoking. Make sure you choose the right vaporizer for your product.

• Cannabis edibles

Ingesting cannabis edibles like oil, seeds, weed cookies, cakes, candies, chocolate chips, bars and gummies is another creative way to deliver the medicinal benefits of this infamous flowering herb. However, cannabis edibles have a more prolonged onset, so you should take them early enough if you are planning to have sex. Edibles are also suitable if you prefer smoke-free cannabis options. The effects also remain longer than smoking and vaping.

• Oral tinctures

Oral sprays, oils and tinctures require a dropper (tit pipette) to place the cannabis under your tongue. They are more potent than ingesting cannabis but slower than vaping and smoking. Blood vessels in the mouth can absorb the active compounds in cannabis. If you choose tinctures, pay close attention to the concentrations of the cannabinoids.

• Topical application

Topical balms, sprays and lotions are more suitable for treating skin infections such as dermatitis, psoriasis, acne and dry skin. The active compounds will not end up inside your system, so this method may not suit those seeking sexual pleasure. However, it still improves your health and skin, which can raise your confidence and increase your partner’s desire.

Although there are various ways of taking cannabis, some like topical applications do not suit those who want instant benefits. Smoking and vaping are still the best options for obvious reasons; they are very potent, so you can take cannabis a few minutes before sex. You can also enjoy a blunt with your partner, which is a great way to set the mood. However, if you do not want the smoke and heat, ingestion and oral application remain the best options.

CONCLUSION

Most people use wine and dining to set the mood for better sexual experiences. Unfortunately, alcohol can have a myriad of adverse effects. Cannabis offers a natural solution that both increases your sex drive and improves your health. Nonetheless, you should choose high-quality products from reputable licensed retailers such as HPC and use marijuana in moderation. Habitual cannabis use may also result in undesirable symptoms, so you should consult your doctor for the right dosage and delivery system. It is also essential to identify the root causes of your sexual issues and resolve them. Several other factors can disrupt your sex life and make it impossible to have satisfying experiences. Dealing with these issues will give you a better chance of enjoying the benefits of cannabis for sexual pleasure.

Written for HPC by: Sophia Cooper