First of, what is CBD?
CBD, also know as Cannabidiol, is a derivative from the hemp plant. Largely found in central Asia, it originates from the Cannabis Sativa plant and is believed to have medicinal properties.
Unlike Cannabis, CBD doesn’t provide users with a ‘high’. THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol is the cannabis component that provides users with said high, however CBD doesn’t contain any.
As humans, we are equipped with an endocannabinoid system. This is a cell-signaling system that helps regulate our bodies.
It signals pain, mood, appetite, sleep and immune functions to our brain in order to maintain homeostasis, a state where optimum good health can only be achieved when all bodily functions are in harmony. CBD products create an effect on our system and the signals it diffuses which help regulate these processes.
How can CBD positively impact our sexual health?
Through the effects of CBD on our endocannabinoid system and overall bodily mechanisms, many have found that this has benefited their sexual drive and health.
Firstly, CBD is know to have anxiolytix propreties which reduce anxiety.
Research has shown that this can help with feelings of social anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. Leading up to or during sex, if you’re experiencing feelings of anxiety or nerves CBD can help reduce those feelings. It can help people feel more relaxed and in control during sex which makes the overall experience more pleasurable.
CBD is also known to have anti-inflammatory properties which can help with pain during sex, a taboo not often talked about when discussing the topic.
Some women may suffer from Vaginal Dryness or Vaginismus, a condition where the muscles of the vagina involuntarily tighten during attempted penetration. Causing pain and much discomfort, this decreases pleasure during intercourse and can negatively impact women’s mental health.
CBD may help alleviate some of these symptoms. Vaginal Dryness is caused by the inflammation of the vaginal tissue. By interacting with our endocannabinoid receptors, CBD reduces inflammation and repairs the vaginal tissue. Through CBD's analgesic (pain-relieving) properties, symptoms can lessen allowing women to feel less discomfort and experience more pleasurable sex.
However, women’s sexual health isn’t the only subject to benefit from CBD. Men suffering from conditions such as Erectile Dysfunction (ED) can also gain from consuming CBD.
ED can effect any man at any age, however it is most common as they get older. CBD can be a natural way to treat the condition. By regulating hormones and boosting moods, male libido is increased leading to a betterment in overall male sexual health.
Cannabidiol is also know to help with blood circulation: it opens up blood vessels and boosts blood flow to the genitals allowing to get aroused. More factors of ED are anxiety and stress. These feelings can interfere with sexual desire and impact performance.
As discussed above, CBD helps reduce these feelings and maintain an erection. Erectile Dysfunction can also be a result of poor sleep quality. Research has shown that CBD helps with falling asleep and improves overall sleep quality, resulting in better sexual function.
It is important to note, as with any medical condition it is good to seek help from a medical professional and work towards a safe solution that best suits you. If you are looking to try out CBD it is always good to go for high-quality, reputable products.