CBD has definitely taken the world, and the wellness industry, by storm. But can you really believe the hype? This star ingredient is advertised to relieve inflammation, insomnia and anxiety [1]. A golden ingredient for every phase of your cycle, we love CBD for its calming properties and for easing menstrual pain and cramps. But, CBD and sex? Is that really a perfect match? To answer that, we first have to examine how CBD interacts with our body and libido. 

We’ve partnered with our friends at Quanna to uncover whether CBD can also be considered a modern day aphrodisiac on top of the multitude of other benefits it offers. Let’s get into it. 

What Is CBD?

Cannabidiol, or better known as CBD, is one of over 100 cannabinoids (compounds) found in the cannabis plant. You may be familiar with its more famous sibling, tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the active ingredient in pot that produces a psychoactive effect or “high” feeling. Unlike THC, however, CBD is non-intoxicating and acts upon receptors located throughout your body to produce various possible positive outcomes. The thing about CBD that people don’t usually know is its fundamental interaction with a function in our  bodies known as the endocannabinoid system.

What’s the Endocannabinoid System?

Our endocannabinoid system has been crucial in discovering the benefits of CBD, specifically how it supports your sexual wellness. Our endocannabinoid system is a network of enzymes, receptors, and biological pathways that play a part in how we manage stress, blood circulation, pain and anxiety. It also modulates mood, energy, and physical sensation, all factors that have a direct effect on sexual desire. 

Studies indicate that endocannabinoid concentration in the body plays a significant role in arousal as well [2]. Endocannabinoid receptors are especially dense in many areas of the body associated with reproduction, sexual pleasure and desire. These receptors are found around the adrenal glands, the gonads (ovaries and testes), the clitoris and other parts of the reproductive system, and throughout the parts of the brain most involved with libido, including the hypothalamus and hippocampus. 

CBD interacts with this system by binding to the G protein receptor known as TRPV-1, which mediates body temperature and perceptions of pain and inflammation. CBD in turn gives these receptors signals to increase blood flow and enhance sensitivity for a better bedroom experience. 

What are the benefits of CBD for your sex life?

One of the things that CBD does is imitate neurotransmitters in the brain, the chemicals responsible for making us feel happy, relaxed, or stressed. CBD is a very similar chemical to serotonin (one of the neurotransmitters that makes you feel happy) and so the brain reacts to it in the same way it would react to serotonin itself and can put you in a good mood. CBD has also been found to prevent the breakdown of another neurotransmitter called anandamide. 

Anandamide is named after the Sanskrit word for bliss because it gives feelings of pleasure and euphoria. The body normally breaks down neurotransmitters which cause its effects to wear off, however, according to a 2012 study, the presence of CBD can enhance anandamide effects [3].

Okay, so now that we've gotten the gist of all that CBD can do for your sexual prowess, what’s the best way to take it? Two words – CBD Lube.

What makes Oomf CBD Lube better?

Lube may be one of the best intimate-care inventions to have been created, reducing uncomfortable  friction and giving the power of glide, but it’s time to take your pleasure to the next level with CBD Lube. Meet the all-natural, water-based CBD lube, Oomf. Oomf’s award-winning, gynaecologist-approved blend is enriched with prebiotics and is pH-balanced; Designed to support your vaginal microflora to keep infections at bay.

There are plenty of lubes that say they are water-based lubricants, then you see they have added hemp or CBD oil which is completely wrong. You cannot have a water-based lubricant with oil inside. Quanna deliberately sourced a water-soluble formula so that it dissolves within our lubricant which means you get the full benefits even with a small drop. Oomf’s unique CBD extraction with a purification method means better (higher bioavailability) and faster absorption rate of CBD for more immediate results to alleviate vaginal dryness and discomfort. Try it for yourself and discover the additional Oomf perks:

• Increases sensitivity to promote better orgasms
• Improves headspace & performance anxiety
• Amps the blood flow for pelvic relaxation
• Eases painful sex & vaginal dryness
• Free from nasty ingredients like parabens, glycerin, & alcohol
• Make sex easier, more fun and enjoyable!

Is CBD lube safe for vaginal use?

CBD lube is generally well-tolerated vaginally, but due to its relatively recent addition to the wellness world, there isn’t a ton of long-term data on its side effects. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, we would recommend erring on the side of caution and avoid use in these cases. Like anything not naturally produced by your body, it can hypothetically cause irritation or discomfort. If this happens, you should stop using whatever product you’re using immediately and check in with your doctor. It is also important to ensure that the CBD products you are buying are from a reputable (and legal) source. Make sure they are a member of a recognised trade body, have the appropriate accreditation and that products are lab-tested.

This article is a Guest Editor contribution by QUANNA. Like us, QUANNA are passionate about CBD and believe it can be a gamechanger in our wellness rituals. Creating all natural, nasty-free products that are good for our bodies and the planet, QUANNA has been inspired by the ancient healing powers of CBD, and are redefining our relationship with our most intimate selves. Explore our full QUANNA range on site here. 

References

[1] Shannon, Scott et al. “Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series.” The Permanente journal vol. 23 (2019): 18-041.

[2] Klein, Carolin et al. “Circulating endocannabinoid concentrations and sexual arousal in women.” The journal of sexual medicine vol. 9,6 (2012): 1588-601.

[3] Leweke, F M et al. “Cannabidiol enhances anandamide signaling and alleviates psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia.” Translational psychiatry vol. 2,3 e94. 20 Mar. 2012, doi:10.1038/tp.2012.15