Cannabinoids & Sexual Wellness | Why Sex Gummies Are Popular

Cannabinoids and Sexual Wellness

In a survey with over 800 participants ages 18-85, over 70% of people reported that cannabis increased their desire and orgasm intensity. Many also shared that cannabis made masturbation more pleasurable and enhanced their senses of taste and touch [1].

Cannabinoids are the active components of the cannabis plant that interact with our endocannabinoid system (ECS), which can influence various physiological processes, including mood and pain perception, which are involved in sexual pleasure.

Cannabis' long association with relaxation, discomfort relief, and heightened senses may have sparked a new trend in the cannabis industry — tapping into sexual wellness.

These products blend the calming effects of CBD (cannabinol) with the sensation-heightening effects of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which may help enhance one's pleasure in the bedroom.

But how does cannabis impact sexual wellness, and what makes products like these so appealing?

The Endocannabinoid System & Sexual Health

The endocannabinoid system and sexual health are intertwined in several ways.

The ECS is a cell-signaling system made up of endocannabinoids (messengers), receptors (CB1 and CB2), and enzymes. These work together to maintain homeostasis (body state of balance) and regulate various physiological processes, including mood, pain sensation, appetite, immune response, and reproductive function.

The CB1 and CB2 receptors are associated with different roles:

• CB1 Receptors: These are found in high concentrations in the brain and central nervous system, including areas of the brain that influence sexual behavior and arousal.
• CB2 Receptors: These are commonly found in the peripheral nervous system and immune cells but are also present in reproductive organs [2].

The two primary endocannabinoids — cannabinoids produced in the body — are anandamide and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).

These endocannabinoids help to keep the endocannabinoid system in balance. Anandamide, nicknamed the "bliss molecule," can enhance mood and promote feelings of euphoria, which are conducive to sexual enjoyment. 

2-AG regulates pain perception, which may help reduce discomfort during sex. It's also involved in maintaining healthy hormone levels that are essential for libido and arousal. This system promotes a harmonious interplay of mood, sensation, and hormonal balance [3, 4].

CBD for Sexual Health

CBD is one of the main cannabinoids that interact with the endocannabinoid system. It's best known for its calming effects that may help with relaxation, sleep, and even discomfort without the psychoactive properties associated with cannabis use.

Rather than directly interacting with the CB1 and CB2 receptors, CBD has a more supportive role in the endocannabinoid system by inhibiting enzymes that break down anandamide, the bliss molecule [5].

Although CBD won't replace the little blue pill, there are several reasons why people seek CBD products to enhance their sex life.

1. Supports Relaxation: Performance stress can impact one's sexual desire and experience, which can often present as erectile dysfunction. By calming the mind and body, taking CBD internally may help set a better mood for sex.
2. Discomfort Support: Some people experience discomfort during penetrative sexual intercourse. By supporting the endocannabinoid system in managing pain sensations and easing stress, CBD may help sexual activity feel more enjoyable.
3. Enhanced Sensation: While CBD doesn't get you high, some users report heightened sensitivity to touch and intense orgasms with CBD products.

THC for Sexual Health

THC’s effects are much more prominent in the body when ingested or smoked. It's the main component in cannabis that produces the "high." In the context of sexual pleasure, THC might lend a hand in the following departments:

1. Lowered Inhibitions: By reducing inhibitions, THC can help individuals feel more confident and adventurous in the bedroom.
2. Increased Arousal: The high from THC can enhance tactile sensations, potentially increasing sexual arousal and pleasure.
3. Euphoria and Emotional Connection: THC's euphoric effects may help to amplify emotional and physical connections during intimacy [6].

Do Cannabis Gummies Help with Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is a complicated condition that can arise from physical and psychological problems. Some people find cannabinoids helpful for sexual performance because it can have calming effects on the mind and body and overall improve mood. But it's not a replacement for erectile dysfunction medications or other treatments for underlying conditions prescribed by a healthcare professional.

For some people, THC can be a double-edged sword. A lighter dose might help with relaxation, but too much can make some people feel anxious or more nervous, which can get in the way of sexual pleasure.

And frequent THC use can have some negative consequences, too. In males, THC can lower sperm production and hormone levels, affecting sexual behavior [6].

Do Cannabinoids Affect The Menstrual Cycle?

The ECS helps regulate the release of reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Cannabinoids can influence these hormone levels, potentially affecting the menstrual cycle.

THC may impact ovulation. In some studies, THC has been shown to delay or inhibit ovulation by affecting the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) for ovulation. THC can also influence the length of the menstrual cycle. Chronic use of cannabis has been associated with changes in cycle regularity, including longer cycles [6].

Some people use cannabinoids like CBD and THC to support discomfort such as period menstrual cramps. The effects of cannabinoids can vary depending on how much you use. For example, higher doses of THC might have a more substantial impact on hormone levels and the regularity of your menstrual cycle.

How To Use Cannabinoids For Your Sex Life

Enhancing your sex life with cannabinoids has become a popular trend, and one of the most convenient ways to do this is through sex gummies.

VIIA's High Love Libido Gummies not only contain cannabinoids like CBD and THC but also include other natural herbs known for their aphrodisiac properties, such as damiana, muira puama, and horny goat weed.

If you’re new to cannabis, start with a low dose to see how your body reacts. This helps prevent any potential side effects like dizziness or anxiety. The VIIA Hemp High Love Libido Gummies contain a balanced dose of 5 mg THC, 10 mg THCv, and 10 mg CBD per gummy square, but if you're still feeling nervous about these doses, you can cut the gummy in half before going in for the full experience.

Remember that the timing for taking these gummies matters, too. Take the gummy about 30 minutes to an hour before sexual activity. This allows time for the cannabinoids and herbs to take effect.

And don't just rely on cannabis to set the mood.

Set the mood with a comfortable and relaxing environment, and make sure you speak with your partner about trying sex gummies. Open communication can enhance the experience and ensure you and your partner are comfortable and excited about trying something new.

The Takeaway: Do Cannabinoids Affect Sexual Performance and Desire?

It turns out cannabinoids may impact sexual function in more ways than one.

Through their interaction with the endocannabinoid system, cannabinoids like CBD and THC can influence relaxation, arousal, and pleasure. Because CBD and THC are the main cannabis cannabinoids, most of the research is centered on these two compounds. Still, with cannabis becoming more mainstream, we can expect to see minor cannabinoids such as THCV, CBN, and CBG explored in the future.

Moreover, combining cannabinoids with other natural aphrodisiacs in products like sex gummies can give you an extra mood boost. Herbs like damiana, muira puama, and horny goat weed have been used for ages to increase libido and enhance sexual function. When these are paired with cannabinoids, they can work together to support your overall sexual wellness.

While many people see positive effects from using cannabinoids for sex, it's not the same for everyone.

Everyone's body reacts differently to cannabinoids because of the unique nature of everyone's endocannabinoid system. We also want to stress that cannabinoids aren't a cure for any underlying health issues that might affect your sexual health, and it's important that you speak with a healthcare professional for your concerns related to sexual dysfunction.

References:

1. Moser, A., Ballard, S. M., Jensen, J., & Averett, P. (2023). The influence of cannabis on sexual functioning and satisfaction. Journal of Cannabis Research, 5(1), 2.
2. Lu, H. C., & Mackie, K. (2016). An introduction to the endogenous cannabinoid system. Biological psychiatry, 79(7), 516-525.
3. Scherma, M., Masia, P., Satta, V., Fratta, W., Fadda, P., & Tanda, G. (2019). Brain activity of anandamide: a rewarding bliss?. Acta Pharmacologica Sinica, 40(3), 309-323.
4. Blanton, H. L., Barnes, R. C., McHann, M. C., Bilbrey, J. A., Wilkerson, J. L., & Guindon, J. (2021). Sex differences and the endocannabinoid system in pain. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, 202, 173107.
5. Bisogno, T., Hanuš, L., De Petrocellis, L., Tchilibon, S., Ponde, D. E., Brandi, I., ... & Di Marzo, V. (2001). Molecular targets for cannabidiol and its synthetic analogues: effect on vanilloid VR1 receptors and on the cellular uptake and enzymatic hydrolysis of anandamide. British journal of pharmacology, 134(4), 845-852.
6. Stella, N. (2001). How might cannabinoids influence sexual behavior?. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 98(3), 793-795.