Cannabis and Sexual Dysfunction
Cannabis has been used in Asia since ancient times to
kindle, and sometimes suppress, sexual desire. https://www.cnsproductions.com/pdf/Touw.pdf
Reports of these uses
emphasized the biphasic effect cannabis has on sexual desire – aphrodisiac and anti-aphrodisiac
effects depending on the user’s sex, administration method, timing, and
dose. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27884725
Cannabis has been reported to improve sexual desire and
function since the 1970s. Many studies noted gender differences, with women
reporting better sexual outcomes.
The most recent thinking is that cannabis can
improve sexual response and function at low doses, while impairing response and
performance at high doses.
Women in many surveys have reported the positive effect of
moderate cannabis consumption on sexual desire and satisfaction, pleasure, and
orgasmic quality. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14660135
Men have reported better satisfaction and response, but the
studies have been contradictory, and researchers often cite a 1974 study that
showed lower testosterone levels among men that chronically used cannabis. https://www.nejm.org/doi/pdf/10.1056/NEJM197404182901602
Currently, it is believed that low doses of cannabinoids
enhance sexual response and function by activating CB1 receptors, but higher
doses impair that response through activating the TRPV1 channel. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26226145
Dosing Cannabis for Sexual Dysfunction
Always talk to a trusted medical professional about your condition, cannabis, and the endocannabinoid system. Their guidance should help you decide on a proper dose.
Observational reports from California indicate that very
small doses, ranging from 1 to 4 mg of THC, accompanied by a broad terpene
entourage, appear to be most effective for encouraging pleasurable response.
THCA and CBDA may prove useful in treating sexual dysfunction as well.
Sublingual or ultralow dose oral preparations are
recommended. At very low doses, inhaled cannabis is quick and effective.
Vaginal topicals have pharmacokinetics similar to suppositories: high
absorption and initial bypass of liver metabolism. Depending on the compounding
vehicle, they can deliver high and long-lasting levels of cannabinoids and
terpenes.
Broad terpene entourages with Myrcene, Limonene,
Beta-caryophyllene, and Linalool, such as those found in some OG Kush
cultivars, are most effective.
Information about Cannabis and Sexual Dysfunction was taken from the amazing book Cannabis Pharmacy by Michael Backes, Andrew Weil, M.D. and Jack McCue, M.D.
You can find the book right here.
For more information about Cannabis Education, please visit LunaGardens.co
