Annie Hall tells us smoking a joint helps her relax and get in the mood for sex while her boyfriend says it only cheapens the experience. If you’ve wondered which statement is true, definitely check out this blog!

So is there any link between sexual desire and marijuana? According to a recent study, daily cannabis smokers had approximately 20% more sex during the previous 4 weeks compared to those who do not. Although cause and effect were not shown, it still makes us wonder what the connection between sex and marijuana is.

Marijuana Effects on Sexual Drive

Although it is still cloudy how exactly cannabis boosts libido, according to Connecticut-based sex therapist Amanda Pasciucco, it helps the users relax. Without performance anxiety, people will be able to enjoy every moment during sex. Also, a small amount of cannabis gets you bolder to share your preferences to your partner.

Another sex therapist, Lawrence Siegel, also shares with us that the cannabinoid THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) targets the brain part associated with sexual excitement, at least in females. Our pleasure, pain, homeostasis, and relaxation are regulated by the body’s natural endocannabinoid system. According to Peter Barsoom, founder of the 1906 company, the cannabinoids in cannabis activate the system, leading to a more enjoyable sexual experience with relaxation, increased pleasure, and decreased pain. However, marijuana can also make some people more anxious, so it is important to find the type of cannabis that works for you. You should start with a small dose of each type (sativa strains, indica strains, or a mixture of both) to see what suits you the best.

Delivery and dose matter

It’s highly recommended to start with a small amount of marijuana in a specific delivery way. If it’s your first time, try smoking or vaping for an unforgettable experience as well as to overshoot with edibles. If you cannot control the amount of marijuana in edibles, you might experience a longer-lasting or unpleasant high. However, the amount of cannabis should be dosed carefully as it is only helpful to your sex life when consumed in low to moderate doses. Overdose can lead to the opposite effect.

What to Choose Between THC and CBD

Among roughly 100 cannabinoids, THC seems to be the most well-known. This cannabinoid is believed to be the main source of contribution to the psychotropic effects of marijuana, including its high. A safer bet is CBD as it doesn’t cause euphoria and if it is derived from either hemp or marijuana for medicinal purposes, you can use it legally in 46 states.

Some products claiming to enhance your sex life contain CBD, not THC. These topical creams, lubricants, or ointments maximize the anti-inflammatory effects of CBD. If you have problems such as endometriosis and other types of chronic pelvic pain, you might want to give Privy Peach’s CBD-based lubricants a try. This product claims to fight inflammation and improve circulation, which results in improving sexual function and arousal in women. Or if you experience pain during sex, the topical CBD product from Foria Awaken might be of help. If your vaginas turn dry due to THC in marijuana, a CBD-based lube can counteract that side effect.

Legality

The first thing you have to do before giving cannabis a try is to check whether it is legal in your region. Currently, recreational marijuana is legal in 9 states while medicinal marijuana is allowed in 29. If your state doesn’t legalize cannabis, don’t put yourself at risk. Even clinicians are in a double bind as they cannot recommend it or use it themselves.

However, keep in mind that cannabis is by no means a heal-all that can fix all the root causes of your sexual dysfunction or relationship problems. However, if you are keen on boosting libido and enhancing your sex life, marijuana can help heat things up in the bedroom. Many cultures have been using marijuana as an aphrodisiac for centuries. For example, Indians have used it since the 7th century. Its usage for sexual health was documented in China, Germanic tribes, and African cultures.