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Cannabis can be fun, flirty, and downright sexy. But what about when it comes to heating things up between the sheets?
Despite countless people swearing by cannabis as a game-changer for intimacy, scientific research on the topic is still frustratingly scarce—especially when it comes to pinpointing the best weed for romance. Preliminary research and numerous firsthand experiences suggest that cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, can enhance arousal, alleviate tension, and intensify sensations.
To shed light on this topic and help demystify the connection between cannabis and intimacy, I reached out to my two go-to resources for cannabis and sex: award-winning sex educator and coach Ashley Manta, and Maureen Dube-Savage, MS RD, Cannabis and Nutrition Educator and Guide, Founder of More Canna Care, LLC and Leaf411 ambassador.
While research is still in its early stages, they draw from their personal experience, work with clients, and anecdotal evidence to share insights on the link between cannabis and sex, recommended strains and products, and share their best tips for unlocking plant-powered pleasure.
According to Dube-Savage, cannabis can enhance your sex life in two ways: physically and mentally. She explains how cannabis can help ease tension and discomfort and improve performance: “For women who experience dryness or men with erectile dysfunction, topical cannabis products, and suppositories may help with the stimulation response, muscle relaxation, and blood flow.”
When discussing your state of mind, she emphasizes the importance of being present with your partner. “Intimacy occurs through connection, and with the right formulation of cannabis, you can elevate your mood, reduce performance anxiety, and fully enjoy the moment.”
Manta agrees that cannabis “can help quiet the mental chatter and allow you to drop into your body, your breath, and the moment. It’s also made me more attuned to my desires and boundaries—because when I feel good in my body, I can communicate better with my partner.”
When it comes to the best weed for arousal, both experts recommend experimenting to find your sweet spot because it’s less about the strain and more about how your body reacts to it.
“The references to strain types as sativa, hybrid or indica and how you will respond to them is outdated,” says Dube-Savage.
Manta has some general guidelines to help you start your journey. “Instead of focusing on strain names, I encourage people to pay attention to cannabinoid and terpene content.”
Cannabis preferences are as unique as your fantasies, but there are some indicators like terpene profiles that can help you find the best type of weed for sexual pleasure based on your unique needs and preferences.
While these strains were curated with females in mind, the principles behind the selections apply to everyone. Wondering about the best strains for male arousal? We dive into some strain options that enthusiasts appreciate for their potential effects below. Don’t be shy — keep reading to discover some popular picks!
If you’re looking to level-up your sex drive, you may want to avoid strains high in the terpene myrcene, which can make you sleepy and might dull your enthusiasm.
Low-myrcene strains include:
Consult Leaf 411’s Nurse Hotline and Guidance Call Center, and ask a trusted budtender or someone you trust who has explored integrating cannabis into their sexual experience for more recommendations.
Keep in mind that like all terpenes, myrcene might affect you differently than others, so avoiding myrcene isn’t a hard and fast rule. The relaxing outcome might end up helping you enjoy yourself more, or it could synergize with other terpenes in the strain to have a more energizing effect.
Pain is a barrier to a healthy sex life for many.
Strains rich in caryophyllene, limonene, myrcene, and pinene—terpenes known for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties—may offer relief by relaxing muscles, reducing discomfort, and enhancing overall relaxation.
Additionally, CBG is a cannabinoid that shows promise for pain relief.
Strains high in CBG and pain-easing terpenes include:
If vaginal dryness is causing pain or discomfort, cannabis-infused lubricants like OM Wellness Yoni Balm may provide localized relief and enhance comfort where it’s needed most.
Note: If you're experiencing persistent pain during sex, it's important to consult a doctor to rule out underlying health issues.
Moisturize, stimulate, relieve, and soothe your body and senses, all while promoting balance with this multi-purpose balm.
Reducing stress is one of cannabis’ specialties — and that’s not just hearsay. A growing body of research shows that CBD and low doses of THC can reduce anxiety.
If you are prone to anxiety and you’re new to cannabis, sticking with a low dose of THC is key. “Often new or inexperienced Cannabis users overdo the THC and have unwanted effects,” says Dube-Savage.
Most strains tend to be higher in THC compared to CBD, but high-CBD, low-THC options are becoming more popular in dispensaries.
For those confident in their cannabis tolerance and wanting something stronger, one study found these strains were best for taking the edge off:
Looking for the best weed strain for arousal? Manta recommends strains with limonene or pinene which may offer “an uplifting boost.”
Strains to try for enhanced sensation and arousal include:
Dube-Savage has good news for women who struggle to reach orgasm or have never been able to: You may qualify for a medical marijuana card. “Female orgasmic disorder has been added to qualifying medical conditions that can be treated with cannabis in some states.”
Arousal oils with CBD are a great way to test the waters with cannabis in the boudoir, particularly if you’re hesitant about the psychoactive effects of THC or live in a prohibited state.
These oils contain sensation-boosting ingredients to lubricate, improve comfort, and enhance pleasure. Some people even swear they make orgasms better.
A physician-formulated full-spectrum intimacy oil infused with CBD + CBDV and THC + THCV to enhance pleasurable experiences and sensitivity.
A word to the wise from Dube-Savage: “Do note that some oils decrease the effectiveness of a latex condom so further prevention should be considered before use.”
Deepening your emotional connection can elevate your coupling into euphoric territory.
To get on the same level as your partner, find a strain you can enjoy together.
Leafly has a database of the best weed strains for sex based on user reviews and the effects they observed. These strains are reported to help you feel aroused, relaxed, talkative, and euphoric:
The best weed strains for sex don’t discriminate against gender. That said, there are some things men may want to consider when seeking out the best weed for sex.
For more strain ideas, see the best strains for female arousal above. You just might discover your — or your partner’s — new favorite.
Low testosterone is one known cause of low libido in men.
Recent studies suggest that occasional marijuana consumption may elevate testosterone, contradicting earlier research. Although these studies are small, this could mean that the occasional toke is good for your sex drive. (Stay tuned for more research.)
Strains that might help you get in the mood in the moment are:
Remember, these suggestions are just a starting point — cultivation methods and how your body metabolizes cannabis are the main factors in how strains affect you.
There’s a fine line between relaxation and fatigue, so it’s important not to overdo it.
Manta says strains containing myrcene or linalool may help you with full-body relaxation.
If that tips you into couch potato territory, she adds that a 1:1 THC-to-CBD option (with equal parts THC and CBD) can “provide a pleasant sensation without tipping into intensity.”
Strains with a 1:1 CBD: THC ratio include:
No, you’re not imagining things — cannabis heightens your sensitivity to touch.
If you follow the old conventional wisdom about indica vs sativa strains, the “body high” from indica strains would be the go-to for touchy-feely results.
But in a world of strain innovation, it’s not so cut-and-dry. The Leafly strain database says the vast majority of strains that left users feeling “aroused” and “tingly” were hybrids.
Fan favorites include:
Topicals such as massage oils are another wonderful way to infuse THC or CBD into your intimate moments. Massaging your partner with cannabis-infused oils promotes relaxation and circulation.
Use this luxurious CBD oil as a massage, bath, or body oil, from head to toe. Enjoy with your partner, but keep in mind that this body oil is not safe for use with latex.
Although topicals are applied externally, she also reminds to check for quality and content. “Do be sure that all your products have been tested for safety and accuracy by having a Certificate of Analysis (COA) just like you would expect from any cannabis product and make sure to read the label so you are aware of every added ingredient.”
There are many causes of low stamina in men, including sleep disorders, depression, and stress. Cannabis shows promise in addressing these symptoms in both men and women, potentially helping improve endurance both in and out of the bedroom.
For a quick performance boost, look for strains with pinene, a terpene known to improve blood flow.
Strains dominant in pinene include:
If maintaining an erection is a concern and cannabis seems to help, it may be worth seeing if your state recognizes erectile dysfunction (ED) as a qualifying health condition.
From oils and lubes to gummies and drops, there’s no shortage of cannabis products to help you find your erotic bliss inside and out. Let’s dive into Manta and Dube-Savage’s favorite picks and best advice for choosing pleasure-enhancing products.
Manta is a fan of low-dose (5mg or under) THC gummies and tinctures for sex due to their gentle, longer-lasting effect without the quick rush that comes from smoking and vaping.
“I especially like edibles that contain minor cannabinoids like CBC and CBG for their enhancing effects,” she adds.
For those who are new to cannabis, Dube-Savage suggests CBD products, or products with 2.5mg or less of THC.
This CBD oil contains CBG, known as the "mother of all cannabinoids" for a synergistic effect that supports mental and physical wellness.
“If you're going to go the inhalation route--start with one puff of something with a THC percentage in the 10-15% range,” Manta recommends. “Higher THC strains (25% or more) are more likely to put you in a headspace that is not conducive to pleasure.”
Consuming too much THC can lead to anxiousness, feelings of overwhelm, and, of course, the munchies. The fast-acting effect of vapes can amplify these results.
Vape cartridges are typically labeled with THC contents, so moderate THC-strains should be easy to identify. When in doubt, ask your budtender.
Gummies are a popular and favorite form of cannabis for many, and they can be a fun way to add flavor to passionate moments. With a wide variety of THC and CBD options, you’re sure to find the best gummies for female arousal, and male arousal.
The best weed gummies for sex are likely not the same ones you’d reach for when you want to sleep for 12 hours.
When shopping for THC gummies for arousal, look for gummies with dosage options of 5mg or less so you can control the dose and effects.
CBD gummies often have formulations to help you achieve a specific outcome, like reducing stress and improving focus. Think about what will help you enjoy your romantic time and shop from there.
Find peace amidst the chaos with these gummies containing 100mg of CBD, 5mg of THC, and 10mg of CBN, all in a simplified, potent formula designed to bring balance to your mind and body.
These physician formulated full-spectrum CBD gummies help promote a state of euphoria while releasing a sense of tranquility.
Cannabis has long been associated with relaxation and open-mindedness, earning it a reputation as an aphrodisiac. But what does science say about the relationship between cannabis and sex?
In a 2019 survey of men and women who have experienced using marijuana with sex, around 38% reported that sex was better overall, while less than 5% said it was worse. In the same survey, 65% reported an increased intensity of orgasms, and 74% said they had more sexual satisfaction.
Interestingly, the anecdotal evidence doesn’t always align with what scientists can measure.
A 2020 study examined how cannabis interacts with the endocannabinoid system—a key regulator of physical and emotional responses and the system that processes cannabinoids in cannabis — and its role in sexual arousal in females. (Sorry, gents — this one is ladies only.)
Researchers found that as sexual arousal peaked, the body’s natural cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) decreased.
To be clear, the study didn’t look at the link between consuming cannabis and sexual arousal. It only identified that arousal seems to reduce the body’s natural cannabinoids, which suggests that cannabinoids such as THC and CBD aren’t aphrodisiacs.
Of course, many satisfied people would disagree!
So does a 2017 study, which suggests cannabis might activate the part of the brain that controls sexual arousal, and a 2019 survey that found women who use cannabis frequently were more than twice as likely to report satisfactory orgasms.
While it may help some individuals feel more connected or adventurous, the relationship between cannabis and arousal is complex. In the absence of clear findings, trusting your instincts and honoring your (and your partner’s) preferences is the best approach.
Ready to get hot and heavy with cannabis? Before you get started, Manta has some sage advice:
“Always test a product solo before incorporating it with a partner—this way, you can get a feel for how it affects your body without the pressure of performance.”
Once you feel comfortable with your products, here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re ready to romp in the hay with hemp:
If you are taking medication or have any medical conditions and you’re thinking about trying cannabis for the first time, be sure to let your doctor know or check in with Leaf 411’s nurse hotline for a guidance call or physician referral in your state. Whether you want to let them know about your steamy plans is up to you!
While there’s a lot of debate about how strains might impact your experience, finding the right products to support your body and mind on your journey from foreplay to climax can help you create a cannabis ritual that enhances your sex life.
Experimenting to find cannabis strains that vibe with your body when you’re in the mood, using arousal oils and topicals, and getting adventurous with gummies and edibles is the best way to find what’s right for you. Also, Ashley Manta’s, The CBD Solution: Sex: How Cannabis, CBD, and Other Plant Allies Can Improve Your Everyday Life, will give you a great primer for exploration.
To explore the best cannabis for intimacy and sex, consider starting with products that contain the best terpenes known for arousal:
“Of course, context is everything. How you’re feeling emotionally, who you’re with, your environment and your dosage will all impact the experience just as much—if not more—than the strain itself,” Manta adds. “I always encourage people to experiment intentionally, take notes on what works for them, and find their own personal cannabis pleasure toolkit.”
CBD and Viagra serve different purposes.
Viagra is a prescription medication designed to treat erectile dysfunction by increasing blood flow to the penis.
CBD, on the other hand, doesn’t directly affect blood flow but may help with relaxation, anxiety reduction, and mood enhancement—all of which can positively influence sexual performance.
While some people find CBD beneficial for reducing performance anxiety, it is not a direct substitute for Viagra.
Strain effects vary from person to person, but some people find that strains containing the terpenes pinene and limonene are more energizing.
However, everyone’s response to cannabis is different due to factors like metabolism, tolerance, and the strain’s cannabinoid and terpene profile. Experimentation is key to finding what works for you.
CBG (cannabigerol), like CBD, interacts with the endocannabinoid system but has unique properties. Although research on CBG and sexual health is limited, some findings suggest it may promote relaxation, reduce pain, and reduce anxiety, which might help you get in the mood.
For these reasons, some people say high-CBG strains are the best strains for arousal.
The best CBD product for sex depends on your goal. If you want something to help you unwind, consider CBD oils or edibles. If you’re looking to level-up sensation and reduce discomfort, products like OM Wellness Yoni Balm, Foria Awaken, and Quim Rock are popular CBD lubricants.
THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid) is the non-psychoactive precursor to THC, so you aren’t likely to notice any physical effect from it. Unless you don’t want any noticeable high, it’s not the best THC for sex.
When heated through smoking, vaping, or another form of heat processing, THCA turns into THC, which is psychoactive and can help you relax, heighten sensation, and give you a sense of euphoria — all of which might improve your sexual experience.
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