The push for cannabis legalization in the United States was started largely by the plant’s ability to provide not only a plethora of therapeutic benefits, but also its capacity to enhance the overall quality of life. The biological magic mix of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and our body’s endocannabinoid system may help to reduce pain, stress, and anxiety and enhance activities like eating, art, and of course…. sex.
Weed is a popular addition to intimacy for many people because it can relax the body and enhance pleasure. Cannabis, like sex, requires a sense of curiosity, playfulness, and openness to explore different options till you find what suits you best. Today, smoking a joint while getting frisky is no longer the only option. Depending on your access to cannabis or cannabis products, infused lubricants, massage oils and suppositories, sexy edible drinks and treats, and classically desirable cultivars can act as an aphrodisiac to your love-making session.
In this article, we discuss how cannabis enriches sexual experiences, how to infuse it into your undersheet adventures, and recommend a few cultivars for the bedroom.
Can Cannabis Make Sex Better?
Emerging research has explored and emphasized that cannabis acts as a neuromodulator to the sensory system.¹ Cannabis consumers have long shared stories how cannabis consumption heightened their senses, made food taste and smell better, enhanced the look of their environments, made music sound better, and sex feel better.
The Journal of Sexual Medicine published a survey in 2019 of 216 people, where a large majority who used cannabis before sex reported positive experiences of enhanced sexual desires, sensitivity to touch, increased satisfaction, and more intense orgasms. Others had mixed results, and the benefits of cannabis as a sexual aid depend on the individual, couple, product, and method of consumption. Of the participants, 38% said cannabis made sex better, 16% said better and worse, and 10% said worse.²
A 2021 survey of 274 young adults found that cannabis users have increased desire, arousal, and orgasm levels.³ The results linked this increased pleasure to reduced levels of shame and anxiety that benefited sexual relationships. Researchers noted that the results also correlated with increased unsafe sexual behavior and called for further research and sex education.
While these findings offer exciting insight into how cannabis can increase sexual experiences, they also suggest that there can be adverse effects for some users. Additionally, the studies should not be construed as proof that cannabis helps or hurts sexual relationships as they relied on self-reported surveys and did not report the cannabinoids used, dosage, or consumption methods practiced.
It is best to practice safe consumption practices, like starting low and going slow (a satisfying approach that’s suitable for sex, too). If you are curious about exploring sex and weed but hesitant about experiencing psychoactive effects, there are other ways you can infuse a little cannabis into the bedroom, like massage oils and lubricants.
Can Cannabis Increase Your Libido?
Libido refers to the energy of sexual desire. It is affected by a combination of biological, environmental, and psychological factors and can fluctuate throughout your lifetime. Sexual desires range from none to intense, from healthy to unhealthy. They are unique to the individual, and any level is considered “normal” as long as it’s safe and doesn’t affect other aspects of your health.
The science of how cannabis interacts with the biological mechanisms of sex is still being explored, but consumers have demonstrated that consumption can be a healthy part of a person’s sex life. Although finding what works best for you can take some time, cannabis has generally been linked to effects like uplifted mood, pain relief, increased sensitivity to touch, reduced anxiety, and muscle and body relaxation, all of which can potentially benefit libido levels.
Although most research results are based on self-reports, that hasn’t reduced consumer enthusiasm. And early findings have shown promise that cannabis may help increase libido. A 2019 study of 373 women found that 34% of women consumed weed before sex, and many of those women experienced an increase in sex drive.⁴ Psychology Today reported that Standford researchers found that of 22,943 men, those who used cannabis weekly had 22% more sex.
A variety of cannabis consumption methods can be used to try and boost sexual appetite. And because different methods have different onset and duration times, you’ll want to plan your dosage according to whether you’re using a topical, edible, lubricant, suppository, or smoking.
Can Cannabis Enhance Orgasms?
The orgasm is a biological response that happens when an individual reaches the peak of their sexual arousal and tension and pressure are released. It is the climax of sexual experiences when the genitals contract and the body emits the “feel-good” hormone dopamine.⁵ It is not a required part of a positive, healthy sexual encounter, but it is usually welcomed. It can be affected by a lot of internal and external factors.
There is limited clinical evidence exploring how cannabis interacts with sexual functions like an orgasm. Some textbooks have noted one positive effect of cannabis-infused sexual experiences can be improved orgasms and increased satisfaction.⁶ But with limited studies on the subject, self-reports have provided the most insight for researchers.
In 2020, cannabis-tech company Eaze partnered with smart-vibrator company, Lioness, to see how cannabinoids affect bedroom pleasures with their device that senses and tracks climax. Products used included vapes, edibles, and lubricants. Participants of all demographics reported increased quality of orgasms and overall pleasure.
The cumulative findings of available reports suggests that cannabis can impact the duration and intensity of an orgasm, as well as how satisfied an individual is after sex. More studies are needed to determine why and how this occurs, though one theory is that cannabis enhances the overall mood and improves senses7, like taste and touch, rather than a particular biological function.
The results of using cannabis in the bedroom are unique to the individual and dependent on the dosage, consumption method used, and the user’s current biological and psychological state. Adverse effects are a risk when consuming cannabis, and what works for one individual or couple may not work for another.
Is Sativa or Indica Better for Sex?
There is no evidence to suggest that the type of cannabis used has an effect on the overall outcome of the sexual experience. Consumers have reported success with all types of products – THC, CBD, ratioed options, topicals, edibles, and smokables can all be potentially beneficial to intimacy.
When adding cannabis to sex of foreplay, start with products you’re comfortable and familiar with to experience the best results.
There is debate within the cannabis community on the validity of the indica, sativa, and hybrid labels, but they are currently an appropriate way to narrow down options at the dispensary, based on your desired effects. Sativa strains, or cultivars, are most commonly used to feel uplifted, energized, and focused, while indicas are known to affect the body and provide feelings of relaxation. Hybrids fall on a scale between the two. Not every person experiences these effects. Each cultivar's effects depend on its terpene profile and cannabinoid content and is subjective to the individual.
The type of product used will also change the effects. Edibles and flower may result in a more full-body feeling, but topicals and lubricants are targeted toward a single area and may not result in any psychoactive effects. Traditional edibles can take up to two hours to take effect unless it’s nano-emulsified, which will speed that onset time up. The effects from smoking flower or using a tincture can typically be felt within 15 minutes. And the duration of all of these experiences may vary.
Similarly, sexual needs are just as subjective. While one person may need to ease anxiety, another may be looking to relieve pain. Some users want to feel the euphoric effects of THC edibles, and others prefer not to feel any psychoactive or intoxicating effects, instead opting for CBD topicals or lubricants to play with. What works for one person may not work for the other. Explore different brands and products, be open with yourself, and be communicative if you’re engaging with a partner or partners.
The Best Ways to Use Cannabis for Sex
Adding cannabis to your sex life may require experimentation. Cannabis preferences and sexual desires are unique to the individual, so finding the right product and method of consumption is key. And it is generally best to assume that what is best for you may not be what’s best for others. If you’re engaging in sexual activity with a partner or partners, you may need multiple products to deliver the best experience for each person.
Some ways you can infuse cannabis into sexual activity include:
- Topicals. THC and CBD are excellent additions to massages that are already sexy and relaxing.
- Bath Bombs. Baths are one way many people start their sex adventures, and infused bath bombs may add an extra layer of sensuality.
- Lubricants. Lube is great for sex, and a necessity for some individuals. Some users (mainly women) report that infused topicals can increase the intensity and duration of their orgasm. Take note of the type of oil base used as some may not be safe to use with latex or inside the vagina.
- Edibles. Options for edibles have come a long way with legalization. Chocolate is a known aphrodisiac and there are a lot of delicious cannabis-infused varieties. Drinks are also fun and can take effect faster than food-based options.
- Traditional smoking. Sometimes, a good pre-roll or hit from a bowl does the trick.
Best practices for infusing cannabis into sex:
✓ Start low and go slow. There’s no need to consume high dosages or products you are uncomfortable with. Find a product you enjoy, and take your time.
✓ Be open and honest. If one product didn’t work, maybe another will. Take note of how you feel and adjust accordingly. And it’s ok to acknowledge if the whole cannabis and sex combo isn’t your thing.
✓ Be safe. Practice safe sex and only use trusted cannabis products. Shopping at state-licensed medical cannabis dispensaries ensures you’re using products that have been properly tested for consumer safety.
✓ Stay hydrated. Both sex and cannabis can make you dehydrated.
The 7 Best Strains for Sex
Which strain is best for sex is a personal choice. But if you aren’t sure where to start, there are some strains that have a track record of enriching sexual activity.
- Wedding Cake
Wedding Cake is one of the most popular strains recommended by the cannabis community for sexual intimacy. It’s rich in linalool which promotes relaxation, and limonene which can stimulate energy and focus.
- Do-si-do
The Do-si-do cultivar tends to be rich in limonene and has euphoric effects that may increase libido.
- Cannatonic
Cannatonic is a CBD-rich cultivar that some consumers turn to as a way to reduce any pain or inflammation that impedes sex.
- Green Crack
The iconic Green Crack is known for its energetic potential, which might be ideal if stamina is a concern.
- Trainwreck
The Trainwreck cultivar tends to be rich in myrcene and terpinolene. These terpenes can aid in enhancing mood, reducing anxiety, and relaxing the body. Some users also reported an increased sensitivity to touch.
- Mimosa
Mimosa is another cultivar commonly referred to for sex. It is an uplifting sativa-hybrid that provides a gentle body buzz.
- Bubba Kush
Bubba Kush is a notable cultivar, known for its heavy body effects. Many users claim the strain helps relax the body and reduce anxiety.
Sources:
¹ Zou, Shenglong, and Ujendra Kumar. “Cannabinoid Receptors and the Endocannabinoid System: Signaling and Function in the Central Nervous System.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 19, no. 3, 13 Mar. 2018, p. 833, www.sativaisticated.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Cannabinoid-Receptors-and-the-Endocannabinoid-System-Signaling-and-Function-in-the-Central-Nervous-System-Medical-Cannabis-Medical-Marijuana-Research-for-the-Central-Nervous-System-CNS.pdf, 10.3390/ijms19030833.
² Wiebe, Ellen, and Alanna Just. “How Cannabis Alters Sexual Experience: A Survey of Men and Women.” The Journal of Sexual Medicine, vol. 16, no. 11, Nov. 2019, pp. 1758–1762, 10.1016/j.jsxm.2019.07.023.
³ Roman, Pablo, et al. “The Influence of Cannabis and Alcohol Use on Sexuality: An Observational Study in Young People (18–30 Years).” Healthcare, vol. 10, no. 1, 1 Jan. 2022, p. 71, www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/10/1/71/htm, 10.3390/healthcare10010071.
⁴ Lynn, Becky K., et al. “The Relationship between Marijuana Use prior to Sex and Sexual Function in Women.” Sexual Medicine, vol. 7, no. 2, June 2019, pp. 192–197, 10.1016/j.esxm.2019.01.003.
⁵ “Orgasm: What Is an Orgasm, Types of Orgasms & Health Benefits.” Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22969-orgasm.
⁶ Scimeca, G., et al. “Chapter 19 - Cannabis and Sexual Behavior.” ScienceDirect, Academic Press, 1 Jan. 2017, www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780128007563000211. Accessed 31 Oct. 2022.
⁷ Moser, Amanda. “The Influence of Cannabis on Sexual Functioning and Satisfaction - ProQuest.” Www.proquest.com, 2019, www.proquest.com/openview/a1738be934c6080b4cb52493ff500471/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y. Accessed 1 Nov. 2022.
The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
