When we think of intimacy, we often think about the passion, pleasure, and love that follows it. However, we also may feel stressed, fearful, insecure, and in pain as well. Performance may also be an area of concern where people may feel like they can’t perform at their best potential. With Valentine’s Day in just a few days, intimacy may be something people are looking forward to, or are having anxiety about for various personal reasons. As with many other areas of concern, people are turning to cannabis when looking for some help in the bedroom.
What is the connection between cannabis and intimacy?
Well, evidence has shown that certain terpenes found in the cannabis plant can help to enhance relaxation, boost mood and energy levels, reduce pain and stress, and enhance more pleasure. Terpenes are compounds found in each cannabis strain that are responsible for giving off certain flavors and effects. From what is understood from current research, they are thought to communicate with certain protein cell receptors in the endocannabinoid system (ECS) which exists in both humans and animals. The ECS is responsible for creating balance and regulating things like pain, appetite, stress, mood, sleep, etc. Therefore, by introducing certain terpenes to the ECS, we have the potential to create balance where it may be lacking.
What are some terpenes that can enhance intimacy?
There are certain cannabis terpenes that have been found to make intimacy more enjoyable compared to others. A few of these terpenes will include Limonene, Linalool, Caryophyllene + Humulene, and Terpinolene.
- Limonene: Best to Increase Sex Drive
- Also Found In: Lemon Rind, Orange Rind, and Juniper
- Strains with a high concentration of limonene, the terpene responsible for the bright citrus flavor in many popular strains, may be effective at increasing our desire for intimacy.
- Linalool: Best for Stress Relief
- Also Found In: Lavender and Birch Bark
- Although Linalool is technically classified as a terpenoid, strains with high levels of this compound have been shown to be particularly effective at reducing stress and alleviating depression-like symptoms.
- Caryophyllene + Humulene: Best for Relieving Muscle Tension
- Caryophyllene is Also Found In: Black Pepper, Cloves, and Cinnamon
- Humulene is Also Found In: Hops and Wood
- Caryophyllene, which provides a spicy, musky flavor to strains, has anti-inflammatory properties due to its ability to activate the CB2 cannabinoid receptor. Many strains high in caryophyllene also contain humulene, the terpene responsible for the woody, earthy flavor found in many strains. Like caryophyllene, humulene has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain. Combined, the two terpenes can have a powerful impact on body pain.
- Terpinolene: Best to Boost Energy
- Also Found In: Lilacs, Nutmeg, and Cumin
- Sativa-dominant strains with high levels of terpinolene can help invigorate the mind and body. Terpinolene has a herbaceous, sometimes floral and piney flavor. While this terpene is often found in small amounts in cannabis, it is known to have uplifting and energizing effects and can also help sharpen mental focus.
A terpene that should be avoided when looking to stimulate intimacy is myrcene. Studies show myrcene to be effective at reducing pain and inflammation, but this terpene can often act as a powerful sedative for the mind and body. The deep sense of euphoria and relaxation that a high concentration of myrcene often results in intense drowsiness and “couch-lock”, making movement slow. Myrcene is one of the most commonly found terpenes in cannabis, so it can be tricky to avoid at times, but for intimacy, it is best to avoid strains where myrcene might be the dominant terpene.
Is there any sort of research that supports a connection between cannabis and intimacy?
In 2018, researchers conducted an analysis of self-reported sexual effects of marijuana in a small group of men and women aged 18-25, and found that “the majority of marijuana users reported an increase in sexual enjoyment and orgasm intensity, as well as either an increase or no change in desire.” Another small survey of men and women explored how cannabis alters people’s sexual experience. The researchers found that 38.7% said sex was better under the influence of cannabis, 58.9% said cannabis increased their desire for sex, 73.8% reported increased sexual satisfaction, 74.3% reported an increased sensitivity to touch, 65.7% reported an increased intensity of orgasms and 69.8% said they could relax more during sex.
To review all of this information, there is a connection between cannabis and intimacy. Cannabis contains compounds known as terpenes which give cannabis its effect and flavor, so picking a cannabis product with terpenes known for their intimacy enhancing properties will be best when searching for this end goal. However, be sure to avoid the terpene myrcene as it may be too sedating for when you want to get busy in the bedroom! When it comes to selecting the right cannabis strains for you, it’s often a process of trial and error. The best way to determine which ones you and your partner like is to try them and see how they make you feel. At the end of the day, it will depend on how your body responds to the strain as everyone’s body is different and the desired effect you are after.
Intimacy Products at Nurse Wellness
Here at Nurse Wellness we do offer products blended for intimacy! One of our most popular ones will be the Enjoy His & Her’s Gummies. These fast-acting gummies are formulated to build sexual arousal, heighten your senses, and spice up the action in your bedroom on your first-time using them! The main features of these gummies include stimulating blood flow, enhancing performance, and increasing sex drive.
