What can CBD do for Your sex drive?
World Sexual Health Day
Today is World Sexual Health Day and a significant part of having good sexual health is having good sex. Because we still don’t talk openly about sex nearly as much as we should do, due to taboos and embarrassment, there are a lot of issues and scenarios that people go through alone. Talking and learning about sex, and in particular good sex, is a conversation that practically everyone can benefit from.
Everyone is different and has different desires in the bedroom (or wherever you may choose to be). But one thing that we all have in common is that in the moment when things are getting steamy, we want our sex drive to be high and ready to go. Unfortunately, there are a number of factors that can dampen our desires - including stress, mood, hormones, and pain. CBD (cannabidiol) might not be the first thing that comes to mind in this scenario, but due to its numerous benefits, there actually are many ways it can help your sex drive. Stick around to learn just how CBD might be your new best friend in the bedroom.
To begin with, it’s probably useful to have a refresher on how CBD works. This compound (known as a phytocannabinoid) interacts with the body through sets of receptors which impact crucial mental and physiological processes such as mood, physical sensation, energy, and pain management. These endocannabinoid receptors are heavily present in parts of the body linked with sexual pleasure, primarily in and around the genitals, as well as the parts of the brain implicated with the libido: the hypothalamus and the hippocampus. Studies conclude that the concentration of endocannabinoids in the body (encouraged by CBD) has a direct correlation with sexual arousal.(1)
So what exactly is happening to your body when you’re turned on, and if you’re having trouble getting there could anything help? Well, you may have noticed there are a few things that happen to your body when you are becoming aroused, perhaps flushing of the face, some natural lubrication, and a rush of blood to the genitals which can cause swelling and an erection in the man’s case. This increased blood flow is called vasodilation - a process in which blood vessels expand. Particularly when it is used as a topical (cream, balm, or massage oil), CBD can promote vasodilation. What’s important to note is that CBD will not cause arousal of its own accord, but it can definitely act as a little helping hand to get you on your way.
But maybe the first hurdle to overcome is getting in the mood. First and foremost, if you don’t want to have sex, you should never feel pressured to do anything, whether that pressure is coming from yourself or from a partner. However, if you’ve been feeling like your sex drive has just been low recently due to stress, anxiety, or fatigue - this is something that can be addressed. If your head is full of worries, however big or small they may be, it is definitely a mood killer if they keep creeping in and you can’t get your head in the game. CBD is immensely popular as a therapeutic means to manage stress and moderate anxiety, working to maintain a healthy chemical balance. The phytocannabinoid does this by regulating the endocannabinoid system, regulating the output and production of stress hormones, and repairing damaged neurons.
Last, but certainly not least, we need to talk about pain. Being in pain is one of the biggest reasons that people can be put off sex, and unfortunately, it is common yet not openly spoken about. If there is a certain aspect or position in sex that you find painful or uncomfortable, communicate this to your partner. Pain is not pleasant, but also the anticipation of something painful can often be just as bad. If you’re suffering from sore muscles or joints, using a CBD topically can reduce inflammation and soothe the area, allowing you to concentrate on where you want to be.
In many ways, CBD can help your sex drive. This is not a magic pill that you pop for good sex, this takes education and communication. Nevertheless, CBD can help you relax and get in the mood which is the biggest hurdle for many. Physiologically, this plant-based compound can also offer a helping hand whether it’s soothing pain or helping increase your blood flow during arousal. Look after your sexual health with one of nature’s greatest supplements and see what CBD could do for you.
