Sex and Cannabis: The Kinky New Connection

There’s just something sexy about letting down your guard and doing it like they do on the Discovery Channel. Unfortunately, that’s easier said than done for many people, including those who are currently in a committed relationship with someone they’re physically attracted to. Things like performance anxiety, lacking libidos, decreased arousal and stale orgasms are common issues that modern-day couples and individuals have to face on a daily basis. And while there are numerous over the counter products and prescription medications available to help, not everyone wants to subject their bodies to such harsh measures in pursuit of sexual satisfaction. As a result, contemporary culture is leading all of us in a more natural and holistic direction. That’s where cannabis starts to cum into play (pun most definitely intended).   

The kinky new connection between sex and cannabis is getting talked about everywhere, from daytime sitcoms to late night cable programming and pretty much everything in between. What was once thought of as a gateway drug has turned out to be little more than a gateway to living your best life, both in and out of the bedroom. Therefore, the use of THC and CBD are becoming increasingly common and more accepted by the mainstream than ever before. Virtually reversing the stigma are innovative companies that seem to have sprung up out of nowhere offering various strains for countless purposes in almost any form the human mind can conceive. So, is it all just a bunch of hype or is there really something legit to this “budding” business?

For centuries, people have been using cannabis and/or its many derivatives to enhance their experiences with almost everything – movies, music, social functions, studying, and even sex. Unfortunately, there is limited research available to support the libido-increasing effects of this herbal substance, so the skeptics are many. With outdated U.S. drug policies prohibiting certain studies, We the People have had our heads forced into the wrong kinds of clouds for much too long. On the bright side, however, law reform has led to countless new discoveries about cannabis and have helped us better understand the way it affects our brains and bodies. As it turns out, this honest little herb may be better for our health and happiness than we originally thought.

What Is Cannabis?

In order to understand why so many individuals and couples are sparking it up in the bedroom, you first have to know what cannabis is (and isn’t). Regardless of what the soon-to-be-changed Federal law books say, this naturally occurring substance is in no way similar to strong, damaging drugs like heroin and methamphetamine. It’s literally just a plant that has a chemical makeup which produces a slight psychoactive effect to the user when ingested or smoked. And that’s the kicker right there: Cannabis is one of the most user-friendly arousal substances known to man. It carries very few serious side effects and seldom interacts with prescription medications. But let’s get a little more scientific about it, shall we?

Cannabis, otherwise known as THC, CBD, marijuana, Mary Jane and about a thousand other names, is officially classified as a psychoactive drug but that doesn’t tell the whole story. In contemporary culture, the substance is frequently used for both medicinal and recreational purposes, with the bulk of leisure users enjoying it socially more often than not. It’s important to also note that the word “cannabis” refers to a group of three plants, each of which has its own unique properties for the users to explore. The key here is to appreciate the gentle yet powerful side effects of its main component – a substance that’s present in nearly every strain and form called tetrahydrocannabinol, which, by the way, is just one of the 483 different chemical compounds found inside this ancient plant.

The herb’s humble beginnings involved it being used as a natural remedy for things like anxiety, insomnia, pain and uncontrollable weight loss among other things. Scientific evidence also suggests that the physiological components associated with the human sexual response cycle are gradually elevated and/or enhanced every time cannabis gets ingested. The cool part about all this is that the substance can be used in numerous different ways. Gone are the days of simply rolling a joint and smoking it up. Now, cannabis enthusiasts can enjoy Earth’s erotica in various forms - as an edible food or drink, through a vaporizer or in an extract. Some call it weed, others call it pot, but I call it the next best thing to sliced bread, especially when it’s time to get it on.

NOTE: Although cannabis is widely considered a natural alternative to many prescription drugs, including performance enhancers and anti-anxiety medications, it can still have extremely strong effects on the user even if it’s used in moderation.

Understanding the Main Components of Cannabis

Like most women, Mary Jane is a beautiful and complex creature that needs to examined more closely before formulating an opinion on her. For starters, realize that cannabis is made up of over 120 different active components, each of which are referred to as cannabinoids. The two most popular and best understood components of the herb are known as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). Both affect the human body in different ways, thus they’re used for completely separate purposes most of the time, although often administered in the same way. Interestingly, CBD is federally legal in every U.S. state and it’s also more conducive with enhanced sexual experiences. Let’s break it down even further:

• CBD – Used most often in medicinal products like massage oils, edible pain relievers and topical tinctures, CBD is the non-psychoactive component in this dynamic duo, meaning it won’t get you high no matter how much of it you slap on or ingest. It’s known to help reduce inflammation, decrease physical discomforts, stop nausea, migraines and seizures, as well as fight anxiety with the same side effects as most mood-altering pharmaceuticals. However, science is still trying to understand the full scope of this component.
• THC – Used most commonly for recreational purposes (but by no means 100% of the time), THC is the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, meaning it will most definitely get you stoned if enough of it is ingested. Most people automatically assume that cannabis and its derivatives are packed with tetrahydrocannabinol but that’s simply not the case. Due to the newly relaxed legal standards and a subsequent increase in scientific research, talented horticulturalists are now able to separate, splice, enhance and alter various components of cannabis, including its THC density and strength (or lack thereof).

These days, you’ll hear the word “hybrid” quite a bit when talking about cannabis and that’s because consumers, scientists and green thumbs have been working hard to create the world’s most perfect marijuana strain. A hybrid is just a careful combination of both CBD and THC, offering more customized sensations and a tailored approach to enjoyment of the components. Shop around before settling on a strain because, quite frankly, the untrained eye could be fooled very easily. For example, there are CBD-only buds (you know, the ones without any THC) that can be smoked in a bong just like the real thing. And sometimes, THC-only strains can provide the same amazing side effects of CBD while also offering a nice little buzz to go along with it – perfect for improving intimacy between reluctant couples. Hey, they don’t call it a “joint” for nothing.

How Do THC and CBD Affect Your Libido?

So far, there have been numerous studies conducted in an effort to better understand how cannabis affects a person’s libido. The University of California Santa Barbara published findings that suggested very little correlation between the two, but other research says something completely different. Truth be told, an individual’s reaction to CBD and/or THC depends heavily on several factors, including the strain being used, the administration method preferred and the overall mood and health of the person at the time. Therefore, it’s difficult for anyone put produce a definitive answer when it comes to this kinky new connection.

On the other hand, user surveys have been launched all over the world and results have been tallied with great excitement. For example, an informal poll done by Psychology Today revealed quite a remarkable correlation between cannabis use and sexual satisfaction. Their data showed that nearly 70% of respondents felt their sex lives were improved because of cannabis use. The other 30% of people claimed that it was possible but also dependent on other circumstances such as attraction to their partners and the strain being consumed. Either way, the Australian Research Center found that both men and women were more likely to enjoy multiple sex partners if they partook in cannabis consumption regularly.

That same study showed us even more about how THC and CBD affect our collective libidos but only after further, unbiased research was conducted. As it turns out, there’s a direct connection between stamina and marijuana use, at least for the majority of healthy participants. While libido and stamina were generally improved through this natural relaxation process, some guys felt like they reached climax too early after partaking, and some women felt like it took them too long. However, it’s important to note that cannabis consumption can skew a person’s concept of time, meaning what feels like 5 minutes may, in fact, be more like 30 (and vice versa). More studies are underway to better understand this curious correlation, but it’s interesting to note that certain CBD strains are often recommended for men (and women) with sexual endurance problems and/or performance issues.

Cannabis has the power to affect both the body and the brain, but only if the right strain is used at the right time. In general, Sativas are consumed for increased energy levels and more potent social interactions. As for Indicas, they’re popular for enhanced feelings of relaxation and togetherness – two emotions that pair well with a healthy sex life. So, while some studies have shown a slight decrease in testosterone levels after cannabis was consumed, those studies are considered inconclusive because they don’t represent the entirety of the marijuana market. The sheer number of different strains is alarming to the newbie, but it only means there’s a little something out there for everybody. You just need to know where to look.

Choosing the Best Cannabis Strains for Arousal

Picking out an ideal strain of cannabis can seem like an impossible task, especially when well-known industry insiders give you more than a hundred different options at once while expecting you to do the leg work. Budtenders at marijuana dispensaries can only do so much in terms of helping you. That’s because the perfect pairing for a kinky night depends heavily on your intentions, not to mention your tolerance level and the legality of THC in your state. For some, their options are limited to CBD-infused products only, while some American citizens can go all out with high-grade cannabis flowers, oils and waxes. No matter what your situation, there will come a time when you’ll have to choose the best strains for arousal and stimulation.

In general, Indica species are best for inducing extreme relaxation, which is amazing for experimental sex and boundary breaking. Sativas help energize participants, which is a tremendous advantage for those who enjoy intense sexual situations that last a long time. Both can be used to increase stamina, libido and orgasm but neither can be enjoyed fully if the wrong strain is consumed. As a good rule of thumb: Higher THC levels can cause social anxiety and paranoia when taken in large doses, while CBD is known as a natural mood booster that can treat minor psychological conditions without causing mental or emotional turmoil. It’s all about experience and personal preference, folks. Everyone is different, so tread lightly and be patient (at least in the beginning).

Interestingly, High Times Magazine featured an article recently titled, “People Who Live in States Where Cannabis Is Legal Have More Sex.” The contents were centered on a Harvard University study and strain selection was mentioned quite a bit. The takeaway: There is no one-size-fits-all marijuana strain and there probably never will be. For good measure, however, here are five of the most popular cannabis strains for arousal and performance enhancement:

(WARNING: The following have some pretty hilarious names but should be taken very seriously anyway.)

• Sour Dream – THC/CBD
  This is a hybrid strain of cannabis that’s used for a quick and natural energy boost, thereby assisting its user with sexual stamina, performance quality, and social interactions. It’s also used a lot for the treatment of depression and anxiety – nothing sour about that.
• Granddaddy Purple – THC
  This is an old-school Indica strain that offers a nice, euphoric feeling alongside a long-lasting, relaxing high. It helps with muscle spasms, treats insomnia and allows the consumer to lower his or her inhibitions as well. Now that’s what I call a legacy worth leaving behind.
• Hindu Skunk -THC
  This is a fragrant new Indica strain that has a cool, mellowing effect almost immediately, allowing it to be used quite frequently for the treatment of muscle pains, stress and even headaches – three things that happen as a result of too much sex or not enough.
• Green Crack - THC
  This is an energizing sativa that helps enhance mental clarity and focus while alleviating fatigue in its various forms. The buzz is especially sexy too, but mostly because this strain boosts the user’s mood while making them “friendlier” to other people…like crack, without all the missing teeth and felonies.
• Atomic Northern Lights – THC
  This is a smooth yet uplifting hybrid of Indica and Sativa, giving consumers the best of both worlds in one single dose. It helps treat pre-game jitters, relieves headaches and eliminates depression (temporarily). Some go so far as to say this strain lets their mind wander and their bodies follow suit.

When in doubt, ask for help. Most dispensary employees know and ins and outs of cannabis strains, at least enough to help you choose the right one and pick out the correct consumption method. Just remember that each strain will have its own unique brand of positive and negative results when enjoyed, just like everything else under the sun. The best way to have your cake and eat it too is by studying, understanding and properly managing the most common side effects of cannabis in whatever form you get it. But first, you have to know what those side effects are so you can prepare yourself for a bitchen bedroom brawl.

The Most Common Side Effects of Cannabis Consumption

Keep in mind that all strains of cannabis, whether THC or CBD-derived, have a laundry list of side effects which may or may not affect everyone. High-grade ganja will present a wide range of short-term results but it’s important to note that everyone will react differently to the potency and components thereof. Here are some of the things you can expect when using cannabis for the first (or 400th) time:

• Extreme physical relaxation or increased energy
• Giddiness (AKA: hopefully non-annoying silliness)
• Intensification of the five senses
• Slightly altered perception of space and time
• Short-term memory loss
• Increased cravings for food and drink
• Lethargy
• Minor nausea
• Rapid heartbeat or slowed blood pressure
• Paranoia
• Enhanced sexual arousal
• Better creativity and collaboration

NOTE: Most negative side effects are the result of using too much or selecting the wrong strain.

Usually, THC and CBD side effects can be minimized if you consume them with food in your belly or closely monitor your intake, slowing increasing consumption as time goes on. Moreover, products made from CBD only don’t typically render the same results, as THC (the psychoactive component) is primarily responsible for things like giddiness, lethargy and the spins. However, none of the listed side effects are any worse than those associated with drinking alcohol. In fact, LoveKief says wine moms are the new weed moms and it’s because the side effects of cannabis consumption are much more manageable by comparison, allowing families and couples all over the world to enjoy a relaxing mood boost and better sex lives without all the messy cleanup. It’s called “the peace pipe” for a reason, ya’ll.

NOTE: Every consumer has a unique body chemistry, which means side effects can vary widely from one person to another even when the same cannabis strain is used.

Cannabis Usage Tips and Tricks for Sex

Getting down like James Brown isn’t for the faint of heart, nor is it for people who haven’t done the proper amount of research when it comes to cannabis components, strains and participation methods. THC and CBD side effects can be manipulated and exploited if you play your cards right, but one false move and the night could go south in a hurry. They don’t usually tell you this, but here’s a stone-cold fact of life I learned from the old-school sex-pot playas:

“Orgasms are wonderful but they can turn sex into a goal-oriented activity that breeds unnecessary pressure. Please is better because it’s all about the experience – being grounded in the moment without carrying the weight of future expectations.”

Making the most out of this safe, all-natural smoky session of yours is the best way to enjoy extreme guilty pleasures alongside equally intense O-faces. The idea of using cannabis for enhanced sex is as ancient as the herb itself, but only recently have we been able to talk about this openly and honestly. This newfound freedom has led to the development of a more refined approach to reefer madness. Here’s what the sexiest stoners have to say: 

• Strains of sativa should be fluffy to the touch, with plenty of pistils to make them pretty.
• Strains of Indica are usually dense, tight and lacking the abundance of pistils (although just as pretty).
• Weed nor its extracts should have a smell or texture similar to hay or grass, regardless of what that weird hippie from next door calls it.
• Odor pungency is directly related to the active component potency and terpene content, so let your nose guide you a little bit.
• Your stash should not come with visible stems and/or seeds because that’s so 1999.
• Remember that quality ganja comes from the female plant so you don’t get dicked around at the dispensary.

Now that you’ve selected the best buds, oils, vaping materials and/or edibles (which, face it, we all know you probably got all of the above), it’s time to get down to brass taxes. According to chemists, doctors and cannabis experts, a participant’s enjoyment methods can significantly increase and/or decrease the quality of the experience. In other words, you’ve got to get out there and look like you know what you’re doing.

Just in case you’re still green, here are 8 quick and easy tips to help you get the most banging for your bud:

1. Choose Your Weapon Wisely
   The type of pipe, bong, paper or vaper you’re using will determine how much enjoyment you get out of this perfectly picked pot of yours. Don’t settle for just anything; think about it like a condom: The more features it has, the less likely you’ll be able to handle it when you’re high. Keep it simple and have some of your stash ready to go before getting it on. If possible, ask your partner what method they prefer and then try to accommodate like you’re not a selfish asshole.
2. Stay Hydrated
   Cannabis gives you cotton chops, there’s just no way around it. Depending on the strain you chose, dry mouth may be slight or severe. Smart stoners always keep something to drink on standby, even if they’re partaking by themselves. Considering how much heavy breathing is about to take place either way, it makes perfect sense to have a glass of cold, refreshing water next to the bed. Oh yeah, and certain marijuana strains can cause vaginal dryness too. Ain’t nobody got time for that.
3. Let the Lubricant Flow
   Since things might turn into a desert up top and on bottom, you’ve got to have tons of high-grade personal lubricant on deck at all times. After all, certain backdoor body parts don’t make their own lubrication (if you know what I mean). Pair that with a pussy that’s all dried up and the friction could cause irritations and/or injuries of epic proportions. So, can you really get the best of both worlds with this one? I mean, are there lubes made with CBD or THC? Does a bear shit in the woods?
4. Take No Appointments
   The longevity of your buzz (or lack thereof) will be based off of several factors, including the potency and type of strain you used, the administration methods chosen, your tolerance levels and how vigorously your physical activities were. Because of that, it’s important to keep your schedule clear when partaking in cannabis-centered kink and try not to enjoy it before upcoming engagements until you’re well aware of your tolerance level. Furthermore, don’t make any promises while you’re stoned because you’ll probably forget. Let’s be honest.
5. Keep Your Circle Small
   They say a friend with weed is a friend indeed, so don’t get fooled by folks who are just coming around to catch a buzz. Real erotic entertainment with cannabis as a backer should be an intimate thing that you share with only your closest friends and partners. If you expand your circle too much you run the risk of being exposed to the strains you’re not familiar with or ready for, plus you’ll probably speed through your stash a lot faster and that can get crazy expensive.
6. Learn Your Limits
   Everyone’s got their limits so you should never be ashamed or embarrassed of yours. Just like some folks can drink other folks under the table, certain people have an unnaturally high (or low) tolerance to the active ingredients in CBD and/or THC. It’s all relative, ladies and gents. The point is to find the goldilocks zone and try to stay there the entire time you’re boning. This might take some practice, so either start small by yourself or experiment with only the friends or sexual partners you trust the most.
7. Stash Balm for Your Lips
   You know that cotton mouth we were talking about earlier? Yeah, it has the power to leave a nice, white crust around the outer part of your lips which, by all accounts, isn’t exactly the sexiest thing you can show off to a potential mate. Instead of looking like you have rabies or scabies, and to avoid passing the pipes and joints with pieces of dead, dry skin attached to them, keep some lip balm handy so you can keep your face kissably soft.
8. Decide on a Safe Word
   At some point in all this, don’t be surprised if you lose control of your senses. It happens most common when you’re experiences one of those super awesome orgasms you’re working towards. Regardless of the intensity of your sensations, it’s always a good idea to have a safe word decided on before you start playing with fire. Cannabis use may be safe and all-natural but that doesn’t mean there aren’t risks involved. Play like a champion and know where the on/off switch is located just in case.

This is your time now, and nobody can tell you what to do or how to do it (except state legislators who may or may not agree with your use of cannabis). Make sure it’s legal in your area before going off the deep end here. Meanwhile, get to know a little more about what’s available in this “budding” industry because we all know that it’s going to be decriminalized sooner or later anyway (fingers crossed, am I right?).

Here are the 12 states where recreational marijuana use is perfectly legal so far:

• Colorado
• California
• Nevada
• Washington
• Washington D.C.
• Vermont
• Maine
• Massachusetts
• Alaska
• Michigan
• Oregon
• Illinois

It’s uncertain how many more states will become advocates of recreational cannabis use, but as the industry grows and THC/CBD-infused arousal products become increasingly popular, many speculate that marijuana, hemp and their derivatives will build a billion-dollar home in our hearts as well as our economy. In the meantime, please enjoy your stash responsibly and never break the law to get it done. Good people may break bad laws, but those are not the kind of handcuffs you want to be wearing right now, boys and girls.

The Top 5 Trail-Blazing Products and Brands

Are you one of the lucky ones who can freely explore the magic of cannabis while also pursuing a righteous orgasm? Do you live somewhere that’s not so friendly to THC? Fortunately for us all, there are dozens of reputable companies that have sprung up over the last few years and most of them offer products that have THC, CBD, neither or both. Oh, what a wonderful time to be alive. In fact, there are so many different brands these days the average person has little clue on which products to choose. Variety may be the spice of life, but things can be a bit too spicy for some.

Not to worry because, as usual, certain manufacturers have managed to make a name for themselves long before most of us ever had a chance to seek them out for ourselves. Having been put through the ringer by conscientious consumers, doctors, horticulturists and so-called experts, these brands paved the way for of us and now a handful of them sit at the top of the heap where they deserve to be. In fact, many of these top-selling cannabis-erotica companies are responsible for a significant portion of that billion-dollar net worth owned by the industry. It’s not enough to be hip anymore. Now, you’re expected to be horny and fun as well. No problemo anymore. 

For a good foot in the right direction, here are just five of the most popular cannabis-friendly brands that have a knack for sexuality, romance, performance enhancement or just straight-up kink:

• High on Love
  Gone are the days of automatically associating weed with dirty hippies. The High on Love brand is so sophisticated that a lot of people have to double-check to make their products actually do contain CBD and/or THC. Luxurious, attractive and innovative, their high-end lineup of massage oils, body paints, personal lubricants, stimulation gels and complimentary sex toys is impressive to say the least. I dare you to put the bong down and check them out right quick.
• Foria
  Foria’s fine ass doesn’t mess around when it comes to improving people’s experiences in the sack and that’s probably why they’re becoming a household name in terms of cannabis and intimacy enhancement. Their gently formulated lineup of lubricants, lotions and oils is an exclusive example of how delicate the human sexual experience can be. Recently, they added cannabis-infused products to their collection and the industry hasn’t been the same since (thank God).
• Kush Queen
  The Queen of Kush, or Kush Queen, has a bunch of bud-tastic stuff to set your love life ablaze. Their expertly infused inventory includes things like bath bombs, lip balms, massage oils, lubricants, and even dietary supplements in the form of delicious gummies. The brand’s implied motto: It’s one thing to enjoy cannabis like an expert, but it’s another to look and feel like a sexpert while doing it.
• CBD Daily
  As one of the most legit cannabis companies on the planet, CBD Daily has been around since the beginning. Their best-selling sex-related product: a 3-in-1 candle that acts as a massage oil when it gets all hot and bothered. They have lotions, lubes, oils, sprays and balms as well. In fact, theirs is one of the most diverse collections in the entire industry which is probably why they’re taken so seriously even in states where cannabis products aren’t allowed for recreational purposes.
• Dosist  
  Dosist is a remarkably innovative company that studies the effects of various cannabis strains on the libido to formulate a pair of highly effective vape pens containing specialized blends of CBD and THC. They have other stuff as well, but this dynamic duo has captured the attention of people all over the world because of how clean, easy and enjoyable they are to use by men, women and everyone in between.

The list of popular brands is virtually never-ending at this point. It would be impossible to list them all in one place. So, it’s up to you to do your homework and find a representative of your ideal sex life, especially if you plan to incorporate CBD or THC in any way. Still at a loss for what to get? Talk to your local budtender, consult a friend or join a 420-friendly social group or dating site for more customizable suggestions.

BONUS TOKE: Getting in Rotation with Cannabis-Culture Dating Sites

Did you know that there are millions of people in the United States alone who swear by the kinky new connection between sex and cannabis? They’ve started a community and many of them are accessible through up-and-coming dating apps that cater to 420-friendly adults. Getting into the rotation on one of these groups can help you achieve the following goals:

• Becoming more familiar with cannabis strains and enjoyment methods
• Getting realistic advice on how to use cannabis for sexual enhancement
• Finding affordable and exciting product recommendations
• Gather recipes for CBD/THC-infused goodies and aphrodisiacs
• Learning about law reform and social norms
• Scheduling dates with like-minded people

How cool would it be to start having threesomes with Mary Jane? Cooler than the other side of the pillow. Single and unsure how to inject your love life with this new trend? Try your luck on one of these cannabis-culture dating sites (all of which are accessible through a smart phone):

• Highly Devoted
• High There
• 420 Singles
• My 420 Mate
• Match.com
• Plenty of Fish

Whatever you do and wherever you go to do it, make sure you stay safe at all times by thoroughly vetting any potential mates before letting them in on the rotation. Cannabis can be a very enlightening and uplifting addition to your bedroom but only if you use it responsibly and respect the wishes of individuals while also minding any instructions provided alongside your favorite products. For more information on how THC and/or CBD will affect you or your libido, consult a doctor because this is by no means medical advice. Good luck out there, kids, and remember: Puff, puff, pass or you get skipped on the next round.