Lubricants have long been used to improve sex. These water, oil, or silicone-based options – better known as lube – improve relations by reducing friction and irritation. Or, more simply put, lubricants make sex feel better.
Cannabis may improve sexual experiences as well. For many consumers, cannabis can often lead to increased creativity and comfort levels. These comprehensive benefits can reportedly help improve feelings and open-mindedness in the bedroom.
A growing number of couples are turning to THC lube to improve physical intimacy. Cannabis lubes bring with them a number of benefits, including some you might not expect. While THC lubricants are the most common, there are also some exciting new options, like CBD and delta-8 lubricants coming to the market.
What is THC Lube?
Lubricants are used to improve the sexual experience in various ways. In addition to reducing friction and skin irritation during intercourse, lubes can help improve pleasure by warming the skin, increasing climaxes, and even making sex safer.
Adding THC to the equation only increases the potential benefits. Stories from cannabis couples combined with a few lab studies which explored the topic have piqued public interest. And today, tons of options are available for purchase.
Thanks to an endless supply of products and ever-growing pot slang, you may know THC lube by names like:
- THC lube
- THC lubricant
- Weed lube
- Cannabis lube
- Marijuana lube
No matter the name you call it, let’s explore this exciting and growing option.
What Are the Effects and Benefits of THC Lube?
Lube helps improve sex for adults of all ages, young and old alike. Lube has been studied and anecdotally reported as an effective intimacy enhancement. Some of the benefits include:
- Decreased skin irritation and friction
- Increased blood flow
- Increased moisture on the genitals and with condoms (with select lubes, notably water- and silicone-based options)
- Increased skin sensitivity
- Muscle relaxation
- Prolonged climaxes
- Quick acting effects
- Stronger orgasms
THC lube’s reported bedroom benefits closely resemble those above. By adding a THC topical to the equation, users may encounter additional beneficial effects, including:1
- Analgesics
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-itching
- Anti-proliferative
- Wound healing
Clinical research has revealed that cannabis could yield particularly beneficial results for women. A 2021 study of 21 women found a significant relationship between endocannabinoid concentrations and sexual arousal levels. Researchers concluded that subjects saw an increase in both physiological and subjective indices.2
More recently, researchers focused on the effects cannabis had on women's sexual functions. The survey was conducted at one adult-use dispensary over several months in 2019 and 2021. Female shoppers agreeing to the study were asked various questions about their demographic, health status, cannabis use, and other relevant information. In total, 452 women responded, with most being between the ages of 30 and 49.
The self-reported survey concluded that increased use of cannabis was associated with improved sexual function. Analysts noted that strain type and method of consumption did not appear to impact the outcome.3
Additional analysis should be on the rise in the coming years, as sexual wellness and cannabis use increase in the mainstream. Today, some researchers are analyzing the supposed “orgasmic journey” that cannabis provides.4 Meanwhile, there is no shortage of sexual wellness and cannabis experts to glean information from. Be sure to vet your sources and your lube products, and purchase from licensed dispensaries only. While most brands are well-intentioned and beneficial, there are a few products that are either misguided or fraudulent.
What are the Risks and Side Effects of THC Lube?
Using lubes and THC topicals are typically considered low risk. But there are some cautions and adverse reactions to be aware of before choosing to add THC lube to your routine.
- Allergic reactions: Consult with your medical professional if you have any skin issues or conditions that lube may negatively affect.
- Skin irritation: Lubes can contain many ingredients, including chemicals like glycerin. These ingredients can irritate the skin and even lead to bacteria overgrowth and conditions like yeast infections.
- Fertility interference: Would-be parents should use caution as particular lubricants – even natural lubricants, like saliva – can reduce the sperm’s ability to move toward the egg. To avoid this result, look for products free of fragrances or parabens. Also, look for lubes labeled as sperm or fertility friendly.
Can I Get High from THC Lube?
Except for the rare few, topicals are not meant to penetrate the bloodstream. Without doing so, you will not feel high. Even if you consume THC lube, it’s unlikely to include enough THC to cause intoxication.
While THC lube is very effective on the skin, that isn't the case when using it as an edible. Most standard 250 milligram bottles would contain just over 8 mg of THC. So, you likely won’t feel much unless you eat a lot of it. Now, before you start chugging that bottle, consider the other ingredients inside. While many lubes are food safe to consume, it doesn't mean they will taste pleasant, and added ingredients could leave you feeling unwell or nauseous.
If you want to be high while using THC lube, turn to a proper edible or your favorite method of using cannabis. Using a THC lube alongside a smoked, vaped, or edible option is a great way to enhance the experience. Just be aware of your dosage to avoid overconsumption.
Can I Fail a Drug Test Because of THC Lube?
Cannabis can stay in your system for several hours (or up to several months for some heavy, frequent consumers). But that isn’t the case when using a topical like lube.
Since topicals don’t deliver THC into the bloodstream, you aren't going to fail a drug test because of THC lube unless you are somehow ingesting it like an edible. As long as you avoid that pathway, you should be fine.
While this is generally accepted to be the case, scant clinical research has confirmed these findings. The research includes a 2017 study of three adult male subjects that showed no transdermal uptake of THC via a topical.5
Other Cannabis-Infused Ways to Spice Up Sex Life
Couples can use cannabis in various ways to spice up their sex life. Consider sharing a joint or bowl packed with a strain known for improving sexual intimacy. Or stick with tried and true methods people have been using for centuries to enhance intimacy and find out how cannabis can be integrated into the equation.
- The perfect starting point is food. If you like a bit of whipped cream or strawberries, consider using an infused option for a boost of THC.
- Consider the aromas as well. Instead of smoking to get high, you can use terpenes found in cannabis and other plants to introduce the scent into the scene.
- And let's not forget about aftercare. From a subtle session to a heavy cardio workout, couples can benefit from a little downtime after their intimacy. Rather than reaching for a cigarette or a cocktail, cannabis can help add to post-sex relaxation and recovery without as many health concerns attached.
No matter how you choose to use cannabis in your intimacy, be sure to research the products you'll be using so you get the best option and the right dose. Stay safe out there.
References
1. Makhakhe L. Topical cannabidiol (CBD) in skin pathology – A comprehensive review and prospects for new therapeutic opportunities. South African Family Practice. 2022;64(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.4102/safp.v64i1.5493
2. Klein C, Hill MN, Chang SCH, Hillard CJ, Gorzalka BB. Circulating Endocannabinoid Concentrations and Sexual Arousal in Women. The Journal of Sexual Medicine. 2012;9(6):1588-1601. doi:https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02708.x
3. Kasman AM, Bhambhvani HP, Wilson-King G, Eisenberg ML. Assessment of the Association of Cannabis on Female Sexual Function With the Female Sexual Function Index. Sexual Medicine. Published online July 2020. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esxm.2020.06.009
4. Cordero Hernandez L, Francisco S. A WOMAN’S ORGASMIC JOURNEY USING CANNABIS-INFUSED SEX PRODUCTS.; 2021. Accessed February 27, 2023. https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/downloads/5712mc97h
5. Hess C, Krämer M, Madea B. Topical application of THC containing products is not able to cause positive cannabinoid finding in blood or urine. Forensic Science International. 2017;272:68-71. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.forsciint.2017.01.008
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.
