What I didn’t know about CBD + sex (but I’m so glad I do now)
You probably don't need Valentine's Day as a reason for romance, but sometimes the anticipation can be more akin to dread than thrall. Maybe life is clipping along and you are fine, but oftentimes that just is not the case, and the fallout can be stress that affects not only your daily life, but your nightly one, too.
So sometimes coordinating your head, heart and body just might need a little help. And just like caffeine can be the elixir that helps you start your day, CBD can be the one that helps you finish it.
What is CBD?
The marijuana plant, Cannabis sativa, has been used as a medicinal plant for thousands of years. The two most prevalent and commonly known cannabinoids in the cannabis plant are delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These active compounds are known to exert powerful anti-inflammatory, immune response, psychoactive and pain relieving effects through the activation of cannabinoid receptors found throughout your body.
How does CBD work?
Your body has an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that produces its own cannabinoid substances that bind to tiny receptors found in your central nervous system and other peripheral tissues, including your sexual reproductive organs, switching them on or off to regulate a variety of functions including sleep, appetite, pain, inflammation and immune response. Both CBD and THC are chemically similar to your body's endocannabinoids. This allows them to interact with your cannabinoid receptors to effectively enhance these systemic functions.
Will CBD make me high?
No. CBD and THC can both bind to the receptors in your brain, but they operate in opposite ways. In general, THC activates these receptors, causing the euphoria associated with marijuana, and CBD blocks any intoxicating impact caused by the receptors, so you don't get high. And even though CBD doesn't produce psychoactive effects, research has indicated it may boost your mood by enhancing your own endorphin-like neurotransmitter, anandamide, and the love hormone, oxytocin.
Why use CBD in the bedroom?
Most of us associate CBD as a natural remedy used for many common afflictions. But most of us are not aware that the potential therapeutic effects of CBD can also be beneficial in the bedroom. Research suggests that the same mechanisms can work to boost libido and increase lubrication.
How is CBD good for sex?
There are many cannabinoid receptors in your reproductive organs and sexual tissues. When ingested, CBD can enhance your nightlife by reducing anxiety that can be distracting and inflammation that can cause discomfort, allowing you to focus on pleasure. When applied topically, CBD also can help relax blood vessels to increase blood flow to your sexy bits to enhance arousal, sensitivity and lubrication. While not fully understood, if you struggle with dryness and painful sex, using a lubricant that contains CBD can improve sexual performance and relieve pain.
So whether it is stress, anxiety, dryness or discomfort that stands in the way of a randy romp in the hay, CBD is uniquely capable of addressing each and every concern that amounts to your sexual wellness. And by relaxing muscles, easing tension and managing pain, it could be a game-changer for you postpartum.
Want to know what the best CBD products are for getting your groove on? Check out our top picks below!
Best CBD tincture: Deep Roots Full Spectrum CBD Tincture Berry 1000 Mg
If body aches or anxiety are getting in the way of enjoying your time between the sheets, a few drops of CBD can help you unwind. (Just give it an hour or so to really take effect.) The Deep Roots Full Spectrum CBD Tincture from Healthy Roots Hemp are a favorite not only for their efficacy but are also the most palatable we've tried. If you're not a fan of the earthy tasting cannabis, these have a very subtle berry flavor and go down incredibly smooth.
Best CBD Gummies: Equilibria Daily Gummies
Female-founded Equilibria offers a wide array of CBD products along with educational support to help you determine your perfect dose—like with a real, actual human. (Each purchase includes a complimentary appointment to answer all your questions and build a routine that works!) CBD, like any supplement, only works if you keep taking it, so the best CBD is one you'll want to take. That's the brilliance of these delicious daily gummies. The pineapple dragonfruit flavor is delightfully candy-like which personally ensures I'll never miss a dose.
Best CBD Vape Pen: Foria Intimacy Botanical Vape Pen with CBD
Once we got our hands on this crazy-waitlisted vape from Foria, it didn't take long to understand the hype. Elegant, luxurious and oh-so-relaxing, just a few pulls puts you in the perfect state for a connected and intimate session. The blend of ultra-pure botanicals and CBD is smooth and even tasty, with notes of peppermint and ginger, delivering an almost instant (like 15 minutes instant) full body experience.
Best CBD oil for arousal: Awaken Arousal Oil with CBD
If you want a little something to spice things up, Foria Awaken Arousal Oil with CBD is the nightstand superhero you should know about. The plant-based topical oil is designed especially for people with vulvas to enhance the pleasure of sex—whether solo or with your partner.
Just drip a few silky drops on all the places that count and wait about 20 minutes for it to get to work. The unique blend of broad-spectrum CBD and organic MCT coconut oil is mixed with warming infusions of cinnamon, ginger and essential oils to increase sensation and excitement. And don't worry! It's not overly tingly like other arousal topicals can be. It's got that familiar, relaxing CBD feel that helps guide you toward a more euphoric session. NBD.
Best luxury CBD bath salts: Lord Jones High CBD Bath Salts
Admittedly, this is the bougiest pick on the list, but we have reasons. 1. It's actually divine in its scent, performance and presentation, making your regular epsom salts feel very sad by comparison. With the addition of CBD, pink Himalayan sea salt, arnica for pain relief and calendula to soothe and heal, it's a powerhouse for relaxation. 2. The luxe feel just begs you to take this dose of self-care seriously. Treat yourself to a full-on, door closed bath and you might be in the mood faster than you'd think. (Or ready to crawl into bed unbothered. That's fine too.)
Best CBD Oil for Orgasms: Privy Peach CBD Infused Intimate Oil
When a friend uses the phrase "mind-blowing orgasm," well, we listen. The individually packaged CBD intimate oil from Privy Peach works fast to rev things up. As a surprise to, well, exactly no one, the brand's CEO and founder is a woman who clearly knows what works. The magic blend of ultra-filtered virgin coconut oil with nano emulsified broad-spectrum CBD is solid at first but emulsifies when applied topically to help increase sensitivity and even aid in lubrication. What are you waiting for?
Best CBD Oil-Based Lube: Foria Wellness Intimacy Sex Oil with CBD
CBD or no CBD, this lube would still make the top of our list for lube recommendations. The CBD is just an added perk on top of the long (enough) lasting and non-sticky performance that is as enjoyable as it gets. That said, the CBD lends an added layer of relaxation and sensation that can't be overlooked.
Editor's note: If you're considering having a baby, talk with your doctor about the risks of using CBD products. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises against the use of cannabidiol (CBD) in any form during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Nonprescription CBD products are not FDA-approved, and may be inaccurately labeled.
Hemp-derived CBD products (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are legal on the federal level, but are still illegal under some state laws. Check your state's laws and those of anywhere you travel.
We independently select and share the products we love—and may receive a commission if you choose to buy. You've got this.