Disclaimer: We do not condone the use of recreational marijuana for those under the age of 21 or in states where marijuana is not yet legal.
Over the last few years, the weed and sex combo has become a hot topic. And for good reason! Some people find that using cannabis in the bedroom helps soften anxiety, increase connection, and even strengthen orgasms. (And TBH, who wouldn’t want that?)
You might be thinking, “I tried weed once in college and it was only okay,” or “WTF is CBD, and how does it make sex better?” Don’t worry; we’re here to review the basics of cannabis and sex so you can understand if it’s the right experience for you. The most important thing is to approach your cannabis and sex journey with intention and education.
A Quick Breakdown of the Basics
When incorporating weed into your sex life, it can be incredibly beneficial to understand what’s what, as different strains produce different feelings and sensations in the body. When or if you shop for cannabis online or at your local dispensary, you might see products labeled as indica, sativa, CBD, or a combination of all three. It’s important to note that all three of these labels represent different things, and learning the basics is a crucial first step in your weed and sex adventures.
- First off: while indica and sativa are strains of the marijuana plant, CBD is an element of all cannabis plants, A.K.A., a cannabinoid.
- THC is another cannabinoid, though it creates a different effect than CBD.
- THC is the element that produces that “I’m high” feeling, while CBD actually blocks some of the more intoxicating effects of THC.
- Because of this, some first-time users might find it more beneficial to use a strain with higher CBD content. Yay, science!
Stimulate with sativa.
Sativas generally have a reputation for producing “head highs,” or creating a stimulating and uplifting effect. They also generally have higher THC and lower CBD content than indicas, but not all sativas are the same.
Some people report that sativas help them focus, find inspiration, or complete creative projects. While it’s important to note that not all sativa strains will energize a person, lots of people report feeling euphoric, energized, creative, and upbeat after consuming or smoking a sativa-heavy strain.
Get intimate with indica.
Indica-based strains are jokingly referred to as something that makes you feel like you wanna sink “in da couch”—though this definitely isn’t the case of all indicas. Many people who consume or smoke indicas do report more of a body-high (tingling, physical relaxation) and it’s also often used to cope with insomnia or aid in relaxation.
Slow it down with CBD.
As we mentioned earlier, CBD is not a particular strain, but rather an element that’s present in strains. Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t create a “high,” but rather affects mood and can be beneficial in soothing stress and anxiety. When applied topically, it can alleviate pain and promote muscle relaxation. All of these properties (and the lack of a head-high) make it a pretty stellar addition to your sex life.
“CBD is well known for its relaxation and pleasure-supporting benefits,” says Kiana Reeves, Chief Brand Educator at Foria. “CBD has been studied for enhancing blood flow and relaxing muscle tension. When used topically FORIA’s all-natural intimacy products can support pleasure, access to orgasm, and diminish discomfort.”
CBD can be consumed or applied topically. For sex (both solo and partnered), we’re obsessed with Foria’s lineup of sexual wellness products. The Awaken Arousal Oil is a topical that uses broad-spectrum CBD to increase blood flow and promote relaxation, leading to a more pleasurable and comfortable sexual experience.
“This multi-botanical blend is really a hero in the bedroom, the synergy between the plants means it isn’t only helping with arousal, pleasure, and sensation enhancement,” Kiana adds. “It’s also helping support lubrication, relaxation, and sexual comfort. My favorite thing about Awaken is that everyone can benefit from using it, no matter your stage of life—more pleasure is beneficial for everyone.”
Many users report that Foria’s Arousal Oil helps them to physically relax and decrease any pain/discomfort during sex. And if you don’t have pain, the arousal oil helps promote blood flow, which is crucial AF when trying to feel more turned-on and experience better orgasms!
Round out your experience with Foria’s Intimacy Natural Lubricant with CBD and their Intimacy Bath Salts with CBD and Cacao. Psst…Sex With Emily readers get a 20% off deal on their first-time purchase with the code EMILY. Start shopping ASAP!
Go slow and stay intentional.
If you’re still confused as to whether cannabis is right for your sex life, take baby steps! If you’re curious, don’t be afraid to ask your budtenders (the nice people who work at the weed shop) for recommendations. Oftentimes, you can explain the sort of experience you’re looking to create and they’ll help guide you in the right direction. It might take you a minute to find your fave product but have fun experimenting.
Another great thing to keep in mind is intentionality. You control the cannabis experience—it doesn’t control you. Ask yourself what you want out of the session. To feel more connected with your partner? To spend more time enjoying the pleasure? Whether you’re having solo or partnered sex, getting clear on your intention can help you achieve the best experience possible.
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Amanda Kohr is the Content Coordinator at Sex With Emily. She also writes for VICE, Refinery29, Betches, and Hello Giggles. You can visit her via her website and Instagram.
