If you’re looking for a party in your pants, CBD won’t get your tender parts high. But when infused into lube, it could help get the party started when it comes to your sex drive. As well as a few other things. Read on to find out everything you need to know about CBD lube. Including what it can and can’t do, and whether it’s worth adding to your goody drawer. And don’t forget to check our CBD Lube shopping guide.
What is CBD lube?
CBD lube is personal lubricant infused with CBD—or cannabidiol if you want to get technical.
We already know that using lube can make sex more enjoyable. And we also know it has the potential to ease discomfort caused by vaginal dryness. But what happens when you add cannabinoids to lube is something researchers are still working on. So let’s dig into what we know so far.
Also Read: 3 Pros and 3 Cons of CBD Capsules
The benefits of CBD in and out of the bedroom
Here are some of the science-backed benefits of CBD and other cannabinoids that could translate to the bedroom.
It increases blood flow
CBD promotes vasodilation, meaning it widens the blood vessels, allowing for better blood flow.
Blood flow plays a role in a lot of what you feel down there. It increases sensation and helps enhance vaginal lubrication. It is also responsible for making the clitoris – which is basically a teeny-tiny penis – bigger and more sensitive. This could help get you in the mood before sex and make orgasm easier to achieve.
Important note: CBD takes a little time to work. So we recommend applying any CBD lube 15-30 minutes for the fun begins.
Also read: 5 simple tips for using CBD topicals
It wakes up your body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS)
The ECS is a complex cell-signaling system in the body that plays a role in many different processes. Including some that directly impact sex and the sexy feels that go along with it. We’re talking touch sensation, sexual functioning, and mood.
When you use CBD or THC products, they interact with the ECS in different ways, enhancing these functions. This could explain why people report increased sensitivity to touch, pelvic floor relaxation or overall feelings of relaxation, and an easier time climaxing when they use CBD or weed lube.
Also Read: 10 Dietitian-Approved Tips for Starting (or Sticking to) a Plan-Based Diet
It can potentially relieves pain
Let’s start by saying that sex shouldn’t be painful—unless that’s what you’re both going for, which is totally cool. (We don’t judge!)
Otherwise, pain during sex can happen for a number of reasons. Some of which include: Vaginal dryness due to hormonal changes, not being sufficiently aroused, Vaginismus, Pelvic inflammatory disease, and Vulvodynia
People have been using CBD and THC products for pain relief for years. Research is ongoing, but both have been found to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Which potentially provides the ability to relieve pain, including when applied topically.
Using a CBD or CBD/THC lube could potentially tackle pain during sex a few ways. First, it’s lube, which on its own can help reduce friction and make sex more enjoyable. It may also increase natural lubricant production, as well as aid in relaxation of the muscles.
Also Read: The pros and cons of CBD lube
Not everyone’s experience with CBD lube is the same
It’s not all unicorns and rainbows for everyone the second they slather on some CBD lube. No two people’s experience with CBD lube—or anything else for that matter—are exactly alike.
Different body chemistry, differences in tolerance and sensitivity to cannabinoids, and varying sex drives are just a few factors in play. Then there are the differences in products, ranging from ingredients and quality, to dose, and how you use it.
You might have to try a few different products and brands to find what wows your nether regions.
Keep in mind that the effects aren’t going to be instant. Some products take around 30 minutes before you start to feel anything. This isn’t necessarily bad though. Especially if you like to take time to get in the mood before the main event.
What to consider when choosing CBD lube
Now that you’ve got the lowdown on these lubes, here’s what to keep in mind when shopping for your CBD lube:
Choose a water-based lube that’s oil-free if using condoms since oil weakens latex and can cause the condom to break.
If back door play is on the menu—solo or with a partner—oil-based CBD lube has a thicker consistency. That bodes well for butt play. Just remember to pick up some non-latex condoms if going oil-based.
Stimulating lubes can help you spice things up down there. But if you have sensitive skin, you could find these heating/tingling/cooling concoctions uncomfortable.
If you want a CBD-only lube without THC, check the label. Stick with those made from hemp and not marijuana.
If you’re cool with a THC/CBD lube, keep in mind that you or your partner may feel a hint of the psychoactive effects. That will depend on the dosage, especially if you’re not used to it. Or if your partner performs oral while you have it on the skin.
Stick with reputable brands that have good reviews and have been third-party tested. And as always, check out the certificate of analysis (COA).
Lube makes sex better. Period. Since CBD lube is generally safe for use, it’s worth finding out if it lives up to all the hype. Especially if you’re curious and looking to ramp things up in the bedroom. Even if all it does is lube things up and keep sex from feeling like sandpaper, it’s already a win.
Adrienne Santos-Longhurst is a freelance health and lifestyle writer that has written for Healthline, Medical News Today and Verily Magazine just to name a few.
