From the Guidelines
THC and CBD can have varying effects on libido, but there is limited direct evidence on their impact, and thus, their use for libido enhancement should be approached with caution. When considering the effects of THC and CBD on libido, it's essential to look at the broader context of sexual health and function. A study from [2016@] [@1@] discusses sexual function in cancer survivors, highlighting issues with orgasm, low desire, libido, or intimacy, but does not directly address the effects of THC or CBD on libido. However, understanding that libido can be influenced by numerous factors including psychological state, physical health, and hormonal balance, it's plausible that substances like THC and CBD, which can affect mood and physiological responses, might also impact sexual desire. Some individuals may experience enhanced libido due to the relaxing and inhibitory effects of these substances, while others might see a decrease, potentially due to overuse or individual tolerance and sensitivity. Given the lack of direct evidence from high-quality studies specifically examining the effects of THC and CBD on libido, as seen in the discussion on sexual function [2016@] 1, any recommendation for their use to enhance libido must be made cautiously and with consideration of the individual's overall health and potential for substance interaction. Key factors to consider include:
- Starting with low doses to gauge personal response
- Being aware of the potential for decreased libido with regular or high-dose use
- Considering the balance of THC to CBD in products
- Recognizing the significant variability in individual responses to cannabis products.
From the Research
Effects of THC/CBD on Libido
- The effects of THC/CBD on libido are complex and can vary depending on the individual and the dose consumed.
- A study published in 2019 found that 58.9% of participants reported an increase in desire for sex after using cannabis, while 73.8% reported increased sexual satisfaction 2.
- Another study published in 2020 found that low doses of cannabinoids can facilitate female sexual desire and receptivity, while high doses can inhibit it 3.
- However, a review of the literature on the effects of cannabidiol (CBD) on the male reproductive system found that CBD can have negative effects on the reproductive system, including reduced testis size and impaired sexual behavior in mice 4.
- The therapeutic efficacy of CBD is still being researched, and while there is evidence to support its use in treating certain medical conditions, such as epilepsy, the evidence for its effects on libido is still limited and mixed 5.
- A study published in 2011 found that the effects of cannabis on male sexual health are still not well understood and that more research is needed to determine the potential links between cannabis use and male sexual function 6.
Key Findings
- Cannabis can enhance sexual function and increase desire for sex in some individuals 2.
- Low doses of cannabinoids can facilitate female sexual desire and receptivity, while high doses can inhibit it 3.
- CBD can have negative effects on the male reproductive system, including reduced testis size and impaired sexual behavior in mice 4.
- The therapeutic efficacy of CBD is still being researched, and more studies are needed to determine its effects on libido 5.