How does CBD affect libido?
The truth is that no cannabinoid directly improves sexual desire. At least in the sense that they don’t work like other aphrodisiacs or sexual stimulants. Instead, CBD works in a more passive way.
Traditional aphrodisiacs usually support the health of your body, which can boost your libido. There are very few aphrodisiacs that are direct sexual stimulants. Most of them are simply adaptogens or generally health-promoting herbs. When we are healthier, we are hornier. It’s that simple. You can think of CBD in a similar way. It’s not that CBD directly increases libido, but it relaxes the body and regulates homeostasis (balance). This ultimately leads to a higher sex drive and/or better sex.
CBD’s positive effect on a person’s libido stems from its interaction with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). It increases libido indirectly by addressing other factors that can have a negative impact on libido – such as stress, lack of sleep, nervousness about anticipated performance, pain, and more. We know that people enjoy better sex when they are relaxed, stress-free, and pain-free. This may seem obvious to you, but the reality is that many people don’t meet these basics, and realizing the connection between mental or physical stress and decreased sex drive can be complicated. When your body is stressed, sick, or generally out of balance, it doesn’t focus on reproduction. The result is symptoms that are collectively referred to as “low libido.” Of course, people don’t engage in sex every time just for reproduction, but reproduction is what motivates the human body to feel aroused.
However, the majority of evidence about CBD improving sex life comes from anecdotal reports. Since we lack more quality studies, it’s difficult to make claims in that regard.
Erectile dysfunction (ED)
In an article published in the journal BioMed Research International, the authors stated that Ayurveda practitioners have practiced cannabis therapies for many years to ease erectile dysfunction and enhance performance in bed. The exact way that CBD may help ED isn’t fully understood. One theory is that CBD could help relax the blood vessels and promote blood flow. Better blood flow to the penis can relieve ED and promote longer-lasting sex. However, this theory needs to be clinically tested before doctors can start ruling out any recommendations.
Poor lubrication
Researchers have studied the effects of topical CBD as a dermatology treatment. According to a 2010 article in the journal Fitoterapia, topical CBD has an anti-inflammatory effect, which could theoretically make sex more comfortable. However, there aren’t any studies specific to CBD and lubrication.
Bottom line
It’s tough to say whether CBD truly revs up your sex drive. If you struggle with anxiety about sex or body image, it’ll probably help if you’re hoping to feel lustier in general, probably not.
It’s certainly possible CBD could reduce ED, enhance sexual pleasure, and boost libido, but there’s not enough current research to prove these theories. Because CBD products currently don’t have many known side effects, they may be worth trying if you’re looking for ways to enhance your sex life.
However, if you’re considering having a baby with your partner, talk with your doctor about the risks of using CBD products.