Awareness is growing about the benefits of using CBD for sex, specifically for women.
But what about men? Will using CBD oil for erectile dysfunction (ED) help? And if so, how?
Sometimes referred to as impotence, ED affects about 1 in 10 men in the UK (around 2.3 million). It becomes more common with age but can affect younger men too.
Despite being the most common sexual disorder in males, the stigma still exists around erectile dysfunction. The condition can often cause men to suffer with their mental health and can even be a contributing factor in depression and impacting sex lives.
This article covers how to use CBD oil for erectile dysfunction, plus:
- How CBD oil works for erectile dysfunction
- Does CBD oil increase blood flow?
- Side effects of using CBD oil for ED
Let’s get stuck in.
In this guide:
Can I use CBD oil for erectile dysfunction?
The condition is defined as men having trouble getting or maintaining an erection during sex. If this happens occasionally, it might not be ED. But this might be the case if it is a consistent problem.
Only your doctor can confirm if you have ED, so always seek professional help if you think you have a problem.
So, can you use CBD oil for erectile dysfunction? Does it actually work?
Firstly, note that no conclusive science supports using CBD for erectile dysfunction.
However, anecdotal evidence does support the use of CBD in helping men with ED. As opposed to directly treating ED, CBD may be able to help manage the underlying causes of the condition.
As ever, it’s crucial to differentiate between CBD and cannabis here. While CBD may be able to help with erectile dysfunction, there is some evidence that suggests that cannabis smokers may be more likely to suffer from ED.
A systematic review of the relationship between erectile dysfunction and cannabis smoke indicated that ED is twice as high in cannabis users compared to controls. However, we can’t be sure if a causal link is being established here – for example, if cannabis users were smoking and using tobacco, this may be an underlying root cause.
Contrary, an article published in BioMed Research International describes Ayurveda practitioners using Cannabis Sativa (from which CBD is derived) for many years as a way to improve ejaculatory function and sexual performance.
Read more: CBD oil for sex
How does CBD oil work for erectile dysfunction?
Unfortunately, we don’t yet have all the information.
While CBD might help improve ED and the ability to get and maintain an erection, no one is exactly sure why. There are many theories, though – one being that CBD might have a role in relaxing blood vessels and thus promoting blood flow.
It’s well known that poor blood flow can impede and affect the quality of erections. So, by improving blood flow to the penis, CBD may promote long-lasting sex. Remember that we only have theories at this stage – not enough research has been done on the topic to conclude either way.
Despite the limited evidence, we can try to understand further how CBD might work for erectile dysfunction. We must first look at the known causes of the condition.
Erectile dysfunction can occur due to stress, anxiety and depression, sleep disorders, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease.
In helping manage these underlying issues, CBD may, in turn, be able to reduce or impede experiences of ED.
CBD and cardiovascular health
A growing body of research links CBD to reducing risk factors that might lead to heart disease, including high blood pressure. This is related to both CBD’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties.
If erectile dysfunction is linked to a man’s cardiovascular health, using CBD to help improve heart function may, in turn, reduce experiences of ED.
CBD and depression
CBD helps balance the endocannabinoid system, a complex network of cells and receptors throughout the body.
Rather than being a certified treatment for depression, in balancing the ECS, CBD can be an effective supplement in improving wellness and negating symptoms of depression.
However, one study conducted in 2014 found CBD positively interacts with serotonin receptors in the brain. While the link between serotonin and depression is under review, preliminary clinical trials “also support the efficacy of CBD as an anxiolytic, antipsychotic, and antidepressant,” according to a study published in the National Library of Medicine.
Read more: CBD oil for depression
CBD and managing anxiety
Like depression, CBD may improve feelings of anxiety helping to regain balance and promote general wellness.
If erectile dysfunction is manifesting as a symptom of anxiety, it may be that relieving this anxiety improves ED.
One study published in 2015 found that “existing preclinical evidence strongly supports CBD as a treatment for generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder when administered acutely.”
Read more: CBD oil and anxiety
How to use CBD oil for erectile dysfunction
So, how should you use CBD oil for erectile dysfunction? If you’re still keen to try the supplement, you can use CBD for your ED in several ways.
The best way to use CBD for your ED will depend on the underlying cause of your ED.
One option is to use CBD topicals or CBD-infused lubricants to specifically target a localised area. These can be applied directly to the penis, and the CBD will be absorbed through the skin.
However, if your ED is anxiety induced, using a topical product will not be effective. Instead, choosing a high-quality CBD oil or using CBD capsules will directly help to rebalance the ECS and therefore have a greater chance of indirectly positively impacting ED.
What is the best CBD oil for erectile dysfunction?
As there isn’t much available research on erectile dysfunction and CBD, we can’t point to the best CBD oil specifically for ED.
However, we have a few pointers for choosing high-quality and effective CBD.
- Consider the type of CBD oil you want. We recommend either a broad-spectrum or full-spectrum CBD oil to ensure you can take advantage of the entourage effect.
- Choose an organic product to avoid consuming harmful toxins or chemicals.
- Always ensure the brand supplies third-party lab reports to ensure you know exactly what is in your product.
Side effects of using CBD for erectile dysfunction
What are the side effects of using CBD for ED? Are there any side effects you need to know about?
CBD is generally a very safe supplement to use. While it is unlikely that you will notice side effects from consuming CBD, the cannabinoid may cause changes in weight and appetite, diarrhoea, or fatigue.
It’s also important to note that CBD might interfere with other medications you are prescribed. For this reason, it’s especially important to consult with a medical professional before taking CBD oil for erectile dysfunction.
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Final thoughts
Is CBD a magic bullet that will instantly cure erectile dysfunction? Unfortunately, the evidence doesn’t support this.
While much more research is needed on this topic, there are some key takeaways. The primary one is that CBD might be able to combat causes of ED, such as anxiety and depression, or help prevent cardiovascular trouble which may cause ED.
However, it isn’t easy to prove such causal links. If you know what is causing or contributing to ED, you will likely be able to treat it appropriately, both with prescribed medication and by supporting your health with supplements such as CBD.
It’s also worth repeating that speaking with a doctor or other medical professional is crucial before trying CBD for ED. They will be able to diagnose a problem and offer treatments.
Taking CBD for ED might be effective, but it’s wise to explore all avenues and have the best possible understanding of any health condition you may have.
