Cannabis Lube: Can THC and CBD Make Sex Better?

Cannabis lube is a personal lubricant infused with THC or CBD, and users say it can boost arousal, sensitivity and comfort during sex, mostly by increasing blood flow and relaxing tissue where it's applied. The research is still early, but the link between weed and sex is anything but new: for centuries, different civilizations used cannabis in erotic rituals, recognizing its potential benefits.

In cultures like India's, it was used for impotence, to lower inhibitions and to improve lubrication. That history is a good reason to take a closer look at cannabis and sexuality, and at what it might actually do for intimacy.

What is cannabis lube?

Cannabis lube, as the name suggests, is a product made with cannabinoids, terpenes and other compounds from the cannabis plant, for sex or solo play. These lubes usually come in two types: oils, with a texture like massage oil, and gels, which feel more like the regular lube you'd grab at a drugstore.

Weed lubes have caught on in recent years, riding the wave of topical products that have taken over the beauty and wellness industry worldwide.

What about CBD lube?

CBD lubes are products enriched with cannabidiol and other non-psychoactive compounds extracted from hemp. Since they contain no THC, the main psychoactive compound in weed, they're easier to get your hands on, because hemp is usually less tightly regulated than other types of cannabis.

How does THC lube work? What we know so far

Like other cannabis topicals, cannabis lube delivers cannabinoids and other compounds straight to receptors in the skin. That sets off a chain of effects that may change the sexual experience for the better. Here's how it's thought to work and what it might do:

• Arousal: Studies have looked at the link between endocannabinoid levels and arousal, especially in women. By interacting with the endocannabinoid system, THC or CBD lubes could influence sexual arousal.
• Vasodilation: Research suggests both THC and CBD can widen blood vessels, which means they could affect blood flow in the areas where they're applied.
• Sensation: CBD, THC and other cannabis compounds are being studied for their potential pain-relieving and immune-modulating effects, which could have a positive impact on sexual sensation.
• Heightened sensitivity: By increasing blood flow to the genitals, cannabis lubes may increase sensitivity and make sex feel better.

How can one lube do all that? It comes down to how its active compounds interact with the endocannabinoid system, a complex network that helps regulate a whole range of processes in the body.

User reports back up a possible boost in arousal and sensitivity with cannabis lubes. Applied topically, these products act mainly on local receptors, and most users don't report getting high from them, although mucous membranes can absorb some of what you put on them.

Anyone can enjoy what cannabis or CBD lube has to offer, but women seem to feel stronger effects because of their anatomy. The vulva and vagina are lined with more exposed mucous membranes, which take in the compounds more easily.

Potential benefits and uses of THC lube

THC lube may offer a handful of potential perks for your sex life. Keep in mind it isn't considered a medical product and hasn't been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), but users report some effects that could be worth knowing about. Here are the main potential benefits and uses:

Better arousal

Thanks to its vasodilating action and its effect on the endocannabinoid system, THC lube may promote stronger, longer-lasting arousal.

Enhanced sensations

Users report that once they figure out how to use it, the lube can heighten sensations during sex.

More tactile sensitivity

More blood flow to the genital area can increase sensitivity to touch, which could intensify pleasure, whether you're with a partner or flying solo.

Pain relief

Some people report that THC lube can ease pain during and after sex. It may also help with vaginal dryness, making things more comfortable and penetration easier.

Better orgasms

Some users say they've had longer, stronger and more frequent orgasms with this kind of lube.

Massage oil

Beyond the bedroom, oil-based THC lube can also double as a massage oil to soothe sore muscles elsewhere on the body.

Relaxation

Some users say THC lube helps them relax, which could make for a more enjoyable sexual experience.

Possible risks and side effects of cannabis lube

Most people can use THC lube without any problems, but there are a few potential risks to keep in mind:

• Ingredient reactions: People with sensitive skin may react to other ingredients in the lube. Read the label, and be careful if you're allergic to certain carrier or essential oils.
• Latex condoms don't mix with oil: Oil-based THC lubes shouldn't be used with latex condoms, and check with the manufacturer before using them on silicone sex toys. Oil can weaken latex and raise the risk of the condom breaking, which can lead to unplanned pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections (STIs).