We recently discussed the differences between CBD and THC for sex. Now it’s time to spotlight CBD and explore the myriad of reasons folks might choose to integrate it into their sex lives (solo or partnered).
Why Use CBD for Sex?
Last week I tried using a small amount of a CBD topical before sex and honestly, I was blown away. I experience pain with penetration, so having the ability to apply only a small amount of whole-plant topical balm (as opposed to numerous THC-only oil sprays on the market) was an entirely different experience. While I didn’t feel much of a difference in my orgasm, I definitely noticed feeling a more profound level of comfort and similar improvements on blood flow and lubrication. Another individual who used a CBD balm prior to intercourse shared, “I am in menopause so sometimes sex is painful due to dryness—using [the CBD] oil helped a lot! It felt natural and good.”
There are numerous reasons why people choose to use CBD, rather than THC, for sex. The following are a few possible groups who may benefit most from this cannabinoid:
- People with anxiety. One of the most common problems folks share with me during coaching sessions is that they get stuck in their heads during sex. They feel self-conscious about their bodies—shape, smell, taste, arousal, responsiveness … the list goes on. Smoking, vaping, or dabbing a high-CBD strain or concentrate before sex can help get you out of your head and into your body.
- People who can’t or don’t want to be high. Maybe you have kids running around and can’t commit to being in an altered state for any period of time. Perhaps you just straight up don’t enjoy the psychoactive effects of THC. There are many entirely valid reasons that someone might not want to feel the heady effects of cannabis but still want to enjoy the health benefits associated with the plant. CBD can provide a wide range of those benefits.
- People with acute or chronic pain. I’ve spoken with a number of people living with chronic pain about the positive impact that cannabis has on their sex lives. Additionally, I recently pulled a muscle in my low back, and my lover gave me a massage with Apothecanna’s 1:1 CBD:THC Extra Strength Pain Relieving Cream: It worked wonders and kept an injury from putting a damper on our sex life. (Note: I had access to the 1:1 because I live in California and have a medical card, but their CBD-only formulations are available in all 50 states.) Whatever type of pain you’re experiencing, CBD can help.
Pain, anxiety, convenience—all are very valid reasons why you might consider using high-CBD products for sex. Others who aren’t experiencing any issues at all may still choose to use CBD for its ability to relax the mind and body—two things that benefit almost any sexual experience.
Best High-CBD Strains for Sex
CBD can help address the issues listed above whether you choose to smoke, vape, dab, consume edibles or tinctures, or utilize topicals. Some great high-CBD strains to look for at your favorite local dispensary include ACDC, Ringo’s Gift, Harlequin, and Charlotte’s Web.
It’s also worth mentioning briefly the difference between whole-plant extracted CBD and hemp-derived CBD. Many people, especially in prohibition states, choose to use hemp-derived CBD products because that’s often the only way to access this medicine. I caught up with Shannon Barnett, nurse and founder of Sana Sana Wellness, and she explained why she chooses whole-plant extract CBD for her medicine. “When patients are looking for cannabis alternatives to traditional medicine, there’s a great disservice being done to patients that are being led to believe CBD sourced from hemp is equal to that sourced from CBD-rich cannabis strains,” she explains. While both can provide benefits, Barnett says CBD from hemp provides a smaller spectrum of those benefits. Sana Sana, for their part, uses Ringo’s Gift to extract their oil, which is intended for microdosing and can be ingested or used topically.
Has CBD improved your sex life? Share your favorite strains, products, and stories in the comments!
