Is Cannabis an Aphrodisiac?

Cannabis might help you score extra points on Valentine’s Day this year. That’s right – a smoke sesh before your special night could improve your performance in the bedroom. 

If you’re a seasoned smoker, this likely isn’t news to you. This belief is so well-known that there are lines of cannabis-infused sex products, like CBD lubes and oils. 

So, where’s the proof? Is cannabis an aphrodisiac? 

Unfortunately, the FDA does not regulate sex products, meaning that research on the connection is few and far between. But look anywhere on the internet, and you’ll find a sentiment that proves otherwise.

Tune into your body

Cannabis is likened to a “does-it-all” cure – and for good reason. The plant’s effects on the body are vast due to how it interacts with our endocannabinoid system. This system is key in regulating pain, pleasure, and homeostasis. When we smoke, the plant’s natural compounds, like THC and CBD, bind with receptors that can benefit us in unique ways. For instance, cannabis is used as an alternative pain reliever, anti-depressant, and sleep aide. Among these things, one of its most popular “off-label” uses is as an aphrodisiac. 

You might be familiar with other aphrodisiacs; maca, saffron, and even chocolate are said to help improve sexual desire and function. Throughout human history, various foods and herbs have built a reputation for making sex more pleasurable. However, from a scientific standpoint, these alleged results have been debated as a result of the placebo effect. Significant research is lacking in the aphrodisiac qualities of most foods, but our knowledge of the endocannabinoid system gives us a clearer picture of why so many people use weed to get them in the mood. 

Cannabis as an aphrodisiac 

Endocannabinoids are interlinked with most functions of the body. From our immune system to motor activity and coordination, there isn’t much that isn’t affected by these receptors. The system is also tied to our hormones and neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine – elements that can enhance our sexual desire. 

To answer the question, “Can cannabis improve sex?” – you have to consider why people aren’t in the mood. Maybe they haven’t been sleeping well, or perhaps their stress is getting the best of them. On average, the most common reasons for problems in the bedroom relate to stress, poor sleep, hormonal imbalances, and medication. 

Cannabis can help regulate a majority of these problems. Studies have shown that weed reduces stress, improves sleep, and promising research is still being conducted on its effects on certain hormones. Knowing these benefits, and the causes for dead bedrooms, it’s no surprise that marijuana smokers have more sex than non-smokers. 

Another reason why many consider cannabis to be an aphrodisiac is because of how it enhances our senses. Smoking can feel euphoric; our sensitivity to touch increases, food tastes better, and our perception of sounds feels more acute. These good feelings, along with lower anxiety and stress, enable us to surrender to the moment. It may also give us a confidence boost and a willingness to experiment or be bold. With all factors considered, these changes can put you in the right mindset to get it on. 

But you don’t need to take our word for it, anecdotal accounts mirror these theories by and large. One survey found that cannabis smokers, both men and women, reported increased sexual pleasure and increased sensations after smoking. Another found that women who used cannabis before or more frequently were twice as likely to have a satisfactory orgasm than those who did not smoke. 

Bottomline 

So, is cannabis an aphrodisiac? Well, we can’t say for certain. Surveys show that many people use it to improve their sex life, and history shows that this isn’t a new concept. At the same time, significant research on aphrodisiacs is lacking, and there is still much to be discovered about how cannabis affects the body. Of course, cannabis cannot fix all medical problems or relationship problems. But if you want to experiment and see how it can improve your sex life – we don’t blame you. 

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