While studies of every claim are still ongoing, CBD is appearing in more and more creams, ointments, and candies with claims of being able to treat an ever-growing list of symptoms related to anxiety, depression, high blood pressure, and many issues and ailments.
This cure-all tincture we are talking about, more specifically, is cannabidiol: It is the second most active ingredient in marijuana, but unlike THC, it doesn’t have any psychoactive effects (i.e., it won’t get you high).
It is posited that CBD can impart the benefits of marijuana without it affecting motor functions, and is usually extracted from hemp (a cousin of marijuana) or synthesized in a lab.
And while there are promising results for treating those aforementioned ailments and more (again, research is ongoing), there is also a fair amount of exploration about how CBD oil usage can affect sex.
Here are some of the ways that CBD oil is said to improve sex or enable people to have sex. Keep in mind that as more and more research is carried out, this list will surely become longer:
Lubrication. Perhaps the first thing you’ll find when looking for CBD supplements specifically for enhancing sex will be sexual lubricants with added cannabidiol.
This isn’t just an arbitrary addition or gimmick: In fact, it might be the best application of CBD there is (so far).
Even without the addition of CBD, lube is a must. It makes everything glide better and greatly minimizes the chance of abrasions and chafing when you’re having a marathon or an especially energetic session.
And when it contains CBD, all the better: Claims include increased sensitivity in the area it is applied (which would be your lady bits).
CBD can also add even more slip and slide to your lovemaking, as it can kick-start your body’s natural lubrication.
You see, your sexual organs and tissues feature many cannabinoid receptors, and the application of CBD can increase blood flow to these areas. With the improved or increased circulation, you can ensure better function.
Reducing anxiety and performance-related stress. Taking CBD oil orally is shown to be a de-stressor that some people take in order to help them relax.
For some people who are unable to relax themselves for sex, using a CBD oil or supplement can provide that additional ease of mind to overcome a mental hurdle to lovemaking.
As we said before, CBD doesn’t contain the psychoactive agents that THC does, and will not get you ‘high’. It does however, stimulate your anandamide, a neurotransmitter associated with bliss as well as oxytocin, known as the ‘cuddle hormone’ or ‘love hormone’.
When we naturally increase our body’s production of these neurotransmitters, we can open ourselves up more fully to the inherent pleasures of sex.
Treating pain and discomfort. Another thing that makes CBD lube great is its potential for treating pain. A topical application of CBD may reduce inflammation and can ease muscle aches and spasms.
This means that many people who experience pain during sex can greatly reduce it and improve their experience.
People dealing with pelvic floor dysfunctions (or, to a lesser extent, cramps) that inhibit comfortable lovemaking can use CBD topically–usually in the form of a CBD-infused lube–to relax tensed muscles, making sex more comfortable.
Those experiencing the effects of menopause are said to also be able to use CBD delivered in suppository form to help them manage symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness.