How to Use CBD Oil for Erectile Dysfunction?

Illustration of a person feeling down because of erectile dysfunction
Written by Livvy Ashton | Last updated: October 27, 2023

This article provides a complete guide on how to use CBD oil for erectile dysfunction. We’ve compiled the available scientific evidence and mapped out the properties of CBD that can help with ED and contribute to better sex quality overall. You’ll also learn whether or not CBD oil is a good alternative to conventional treatments – and how to choose the right product for your needs.

An estimated 52% of men will suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED) at some point in their lives (1). It’s a frustrating problem that may be detrimental to your sex life. Fortunately, most ED cases can be easily treated.

Doctors may prescribe different types of medication for erectile dysfunction, but meds should be your last resort. There are plenty of natural methods and supplements that you can use to improve your sexual performance.

CBD oil is one of them. It can help with many health issues, including those that may trigger erectile dysfunction.

How to Use CBD Oil for Erectile Dysfunction: Highlights

  • CBD is a potent antioxidant that can help protect you against stress by balancing the activity of specific neurotransmitters in the brain.
  • Aside from easing stress and anxiety, CBD oil may help with erectile dysfunction on a strictly physiological level, i.e., by dilating the blood vessels and improving blood flow.
  • By acting on the endocannabinoid system (ECS), CBD helps optimize essential processes in your body, such as hormonal balance, the perception of pleasure, sex drive, mood, memory, etc.
  • CBD may also relieve pain and improve your sleep quality, both of which play an important role in erectile dysfunction.
  • CBD interacts with many pharmaceutical medications. Always consult your doctor before trying CBD oil for ED if you’re taking any pharmaceuticals.

Related: How to Use CBD Oil

What Is CBD?

CBD stands for cannabidiol, one of the chemical compounds found in cannabis plants such as hemp and marijuana. CBD belongs to the class of molecules known as cannabinoids (2).

Although derived from cannabis, CBD doesn’t have any intoxicating properties and won’t make you feel high. The intoxication associated with marijuana is the result of ingesting another cannabinoid called delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

While both CBD and THC are cannabinoids and come from the same plant, they affect the body and brain differently (3).

How Does CBD Affect the Body and Mind?

CBD is the modulator of a complex neurochemical network called the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS works to promote and maintain the balance between the essential processes in the body, including immune function, memory, mood, learning, appetite, body temperature, fertility, sleep cycles, and several organ functions (4).

While CBD doesn’t directly affect the CB1 receptors in the brain (that’s what THC does), it binds to CB2 receptors in the immune system and peripheral nervous system. It also signals the ECS to produce more of its endocannabinoids, improving communication between the other systems and organs.

Before we elaborate on how to use CBD oil for erectile dysfunction, let’s check how CBD is connected with sex.

Can CBD Help Enhance Sex?

Three different sizes of CBD oil bottles with hemp leaves

Although researchers have discovered ECS receptors in the brain and the testicles, studies aren’t conclusive yet as to how much CBD can impact sexual functions.

One major benefit of using CBD for sex comes from its ability to increase the body’s production of anandamide — an endocannabinoid called “the bliss molecule.” (5)

Anandamide facilitates the production of another chemical called oxytocin, dubbed “the love hormone.” Oxytocin is linked to the warm and comfy feeling associated with bonding and love (6).

CBD also reduces stress and anxiety, which may lead to better sexual performance.

Finally, CBD may also decrease the levels of cortisol in the body. This stress hormone can negatively affect testosterone levels. The higher the cortisol, the lower the testosterone, which is the major sex hormone associated with libido (7).

Although research is in its early stages, preliminary results indicate that CBD may be beneficial for sex. One study on cannabis users found that the plant helped to activate the areas of the brain linked to sexual arousal (8). Recent studies also show that cannabis users have more sex in general and draw more satisfaction from it (9).

What Is Erectile Dysfunction?

Erectile dysfunction is diagnosed when a man experiences trouble achieving and maintaining an erection firm enough to make love with his partner (10). The problem may stem from many causes, so men find it difficult to identify the root cause and effectively treat erectile dysfunction.

The most common physical issues with erection are linked to the cardiovascular and circulatory systems, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and high ratios of triglycerides to LDL cholesterol.

Psychological triggers of ED include stress, anxiety, depression, and performance fears.

In certain cases, doctors may recommend medications for treating erectile dysfunction. They belong to the class of compounds known as Phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors, such as Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis.

These medications help to dilate blood vessels and relax muscles in the penis. This, in turn, leads to improved blood flow into the penis, helping to sustain an erection. PDE5 inhibitors work in most cases.

However, if you’re struggling with psychological factors, erectile dysfunction may not respond to these drugs because they still require enough arousal and sexual stimulation.

This is where alternatives like CBD oil may come in handy.

Does CBD Help With Erectile Dysfunction?

CBD-rich cannabis strains, as well as pure CBD in the form of oils and other supplements, have long been used by humans for various medicinal purposes.

Cannabis is a well-known aphrodisiac that can be used to treat erectile dysfunction.

The effects of CBD haven’t been tested by thorough placebo-controlled trials, but there are studies focusing on its effects on certain areas of health that are closely connected to sex.

For example, CBD may dilate vessels and reduce blood pressure.

Circulatory function plays a critical role in an erection. The stronger the blood flow, the better the erectile function will be. A 2017 study concluded that CBD could reduce blood pressure focused on the arteries that run to the heart and not on those located in the penis or pelvic region (11). Other studies also focused more on pulmonary diseases and hypertension than ED. That doesn’t mean CBD can’t improve blood flow in these areas — just that it hasn’t been clinically tested (12).

CBD may be more useful for men who are going through psychological issues. Stress, anxiety, and depression may also cause erectile dysfunction. The anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and antidepressant properties of CBD have been widely studied and reviewed in the scientific literature (13).

Two bottles of CBD oil with hemp leaves

How to Use CBD Oil for Erectile Dysfunction

There’s no such thing as a bad way to use CBD, but some options are better than others. It mostly depends on what you want to achieve with CBD and how you want to use it before your intimate time.

Some of the most popular forms of using CBD oil for erectile dysfunction include:

  • Tinctures: a tincture contains a full-spectrum CBD extract suspended in a carrier oil (usually MCT) to improve bioavailability and speed up absorption. To use CBD oil this way, you need to measure out your dose with a glass dropper that comes with the bottle, transfer it under the tongue, and hold it there for up to 60 seconds before swallowing. The effects should be noticeable after 15-30 minutes and last for up to 6 hours.
  • Edibles: whether you pick gummies, chocolates, or just a capsule, an oral form of CBD is a great way to alleviate anxiety and stress. Here you need to plan ahead because edibles kick in with a slight delay (60-90 minutes) due to being metabolized in the liver. But once they do, the effects can last for up to 10 hours.
  • Massage Oil: a sensual massage can add pizzazz to your bedroom. Aside from soothing the nerves and relaxing the body, CBD oil comes with the added benefit of reducing pain and curbing inflammation.
  • Lubricant: you can use this form of CBD on the penis to help open up the blood vessels (in you or your partner) and pump more blood to the genitals.

How Much CBD Oil Should I Take to Treat Erectile Dysfunction?

There’s no one-size-fits-all CBD dosage. The efficacy of CBD for erectile dysfunction depends on a range of personal factors, such as your weight, age, metabolism, anxiety and stress levels, your tolerance to CBD, and whether you take it on a full or empty stomach.

The best approach is to start low and go slow, e.g., take 2-5 mg of CBD for every 10 pounds of your weight, and test the dose for a few days. If you don’t notice any improvements after that time, increase the dosage — and continue until you find your optimal range.

For some people, CBD may need more time to produce its effects. It’s best to wait for a minimum of 2 weeks to objectively evaluate the efficacy of CBD for your erectile dysfunction.

Is CBD Safe to Use for Erectile Dysfunction?

Yes, CBD has a remarkable safety profile. It only comes with a few mild side effects, most of which are non-existent in normal doses (14).

Potential adverse reactions to CBD oil include:

  • Appetite fluctuation
  • Dry mouth
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Diarrhea

CBD is also a potent inhibitor of the CYP450 enzyme system, which metabolizes the majority of pharmaceutical medications.If you take any meds for erectile dysfunction, consult your doctor before trying CBD oil.

Doing so will help you adjust the doses of both substances and space out the timing to avoid interactions and second-hand side effects.

Best CBD Oils for Erectile Dysfunction

Whether you’re trying to overcome erectile dysfunction or address another health problem, it’s important to do your homework before choosing CBD oil. If you have erectile dysfunction, speak with your doctor before self-treating. Some CBD oils are safer and more effective than others.

Here are the top three on the market:

1. Royal CBD

Bottle of RoyalCBD 2500mg Hemp Oil on White Background

Get 15% off all Royal CBD products. Use code “CFAH” at checkout.

Royal CBD is a brand specializing in premium CBD oils, gummies, capsules, and topicals. It’s one of the most trusted names in the hemp industry.

The guys at Royal CBD use Colorado-grown hemp and make their oils with CO2 extraction to ensure the maximum purity and consistent potency of their products.

These are full-spectrum CBD oils, so you’re getting the whole range of minor cannabinoids and terpenes that enhance the effects of CBD.

You can choose from three potencies: 500 mg, 1000 mg, and 2500 mg. The strongest version packs enough CBD to reduce severe stress and anxiety, which may help you deal with ED if it stems from psychological factors.

All Royal CBD products are 100% organic. The hemp plants used to produce them are grown in clean soil and without dangerous plant-growth regulators. The company provides batch-specific CoAs from third-party laboratories on request.

2. Gold Bee

Image of Gold Bee CBD Oil in White Background

Gold Bee sells high-quality CBD supplements infused with superfoods such as raw honey and organic MCT oil. Its collection includes CBD oils, capsules, gummies, topicals, and CBD products for pets.

The Gold Bee full-spectrum CBD oil is available in two strengths — 1200 mg and 2400 mg. The former comes in two flavor variants (Kiwi and Lychee), while the latter doesn’t have any flavored variants for the sake of preserving its original potency.

Gold Bee uses natural flavoring and honey extract to enhance the flavor profile of its products. They’re one of the best-tasting CBD oils out there.

3. Area 52

Product Image for Area 52 UFO Full Spectrum Oil

Get 15% off all Area 52 products. Use code “CFAH” at checkout.

Area 52 is a manufacturer of premium delta-8 THC extracts that offer a milder alternative to regular high-THC cannabis. In the meantime, the brand has released a new line of “true full-spectrum” products that includes HHC gummies, delta-8 honey, energy gummies, sleep gummies, immunity gummies, and full-spectrum UFO tincture.

The UFO tincture can be a game changer for erectile dysfunction because it combines 2400 mg CBD with 600 mg CBG and 150 mg THC. This unique blend creates a potent entourage effect that not only relaxes your muscles and reduces stress but also improves your motivation and creates a pleasant buzz that sharpens your senses.

Final Thoughts: Men With Erectile Dysfunction May Benefit From Taking CBD Oil

Using CBD oil may help men with erectile dysfunction by addressing both physical and psychological factors.

When it comes to physical roadblocks to sustained erection, they include issues with the cardiovascular and circulatory system. If you have diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease, you’re more likely to suffer from erectile dysfunction.

From a psychological perspective, stress and anxiety take a serious toll on your sexual performance. Here CBD oil may also help, but if you’re looking for the best results, consider cognitive-behavioral therapy. Professional counseling may help you reach the root cause of your ED and solve the problem permanently.

Before you start to use CBD oil for erectile dysfunction, consult a holistic doctor to discuss the best practices for dosing and avoid potential interactions with other medications that you might be taking.

Related:

Sources:

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  2. National Center for Biotechnology Information (2022). PubChem Patent Summary for US-6630507-B1, Cannabinoids as antioxidants and neuroprotectants [2].
  3. Atakan Z. (2012). Cannabis, a complex plant: different compounds and different effects on individuals. Therapeutic advances in psychopharmacology, 2(6), 241–254. https://doi.org/10.1177/2045125312457586
  4. Zou, S., & Kumar, U. (2018). Cannabinoid Receptors and the Endocannabinoid System: Signaling and Function in the Central Nervous System. International journal of molecular sciences, 19(3), 833 [4].
  5. Deutsch D. G. (2016). A Personal Retrospective: Elevating Anandamide (AEA) by Targeting Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase (FAAH) and the Fatty Acid Binding Proteins (FABPs). Frontiers in pharmacology, 7, 370. https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2016.00370
  6. Wei, D., Lee, D., Cox, C. D., Karsten, C. A., Peñagarikano, O., Geschwind, D. H., Gall, C. M., & Piomelli, D. (2015). Endocannabinoid signaling mediates oxytocin-driven social reward. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 112(45), 14084–14089. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1509795112
  7. Zuardi, A. W., Guimarães, F. S., & Moreira, A. C. (1993). Effect of cannabidiol on plasma prolactin, growth hormone and cortisol in human volunteers. Brazilian journal of medical and biological research = Revista brasileira de pesquisas medicas e biologicas, 26(2), 213–217.
  8. Lynn, B. K., López, J. D., Miller, C., Thompson, J., & Campian, E. C. (2019). The Relationship between Marijuana Use Prior to Sex and Sexual Function in Women. Sexual medicine, 7(2), 192–197 [8].
  9. Sun, A. J., & Eisenberg, M. L. (2017). Association Between Marijuana Use and Sexual Frequency in the United States: A Population-Based Study. The journal of sexual medicine, 14(11), 1342–1347. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsxm.2017.09.005
  10. Yafi, F. A., Jenkins, L., Albersen, M., Corona, G., Isidori, A. M., Goldfarb, S., Maggi, M., Nelson, C. J., Parish, S., Salonia, A., Tan, R., Mulhall, J. P., & Hellstrom, W. J. (2016). Erectile dysfunction. Nature reviews. Disease primers, 2, 16003. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrdp.2016.3
  11. Jadoon, K. A., Tan, G. D., & O’Sullivan, S. E. (2017). A single dose of cannabidiol reduces blood pressure in healthy volunteers in a randomized crossover study. JCI insight, 2(12), e93760. https://doi.org/10.1172/jci.insight.93760
  12. Baranowska-Kuczko, Martaa,b; Kozłowska, Hannaa; Kloza, Monikaa; Sadowska, Olgaa; Kozłowski, Mirosławc; Kusaczuk, Magdalenad; Kasacka, Irenae; Malinowska, Barbaraa. Vasodilatory effects of cannabidiol in human pulmonary and rat small mesenteric arteries: modification by hypertension and the potential pharmacological opportunities. Journal of Hypertension 38(5):p 896-911, May 2020 [12]. | DOI: 10.1097/HJH.0000000000002333
  13. Blessing, E. M., Steenkamp, M. M., Manzanares, J., & Marmar, C. R. (2015). Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders. Neurotherapeutics: the journal of the American Society for Experimental NeuroTherapeutics, 12(4), 825–836. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13311-015-0387-1
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Livvy is a registered nurse (RN) and board-certified nurse midwife (CNM) in the state of New Jersey. After giving birth to her newborn daughter, Livvy stepped down from her full-time position at the Children’s Hospital of New Jersey. This gave her the opportunity to spend more time writing articles on all topics related to pregnancy and prenatal care.