ED? Consider Trying THC-Rich Medical Marijuana

According to the International Journal of Impotence Research, erectile dysfunction—commonly referred to as simply ED—is expected to affect 322 million men around the world by the year 2025. The Cleveland Clinic goes as far as to say that one in 10 men will be diagnosed with ED during his lifetime. 

Fortunately, as a growing number of doctors begin specializing in the realm of medical cannabis—a global industry predicted to be worth USD $16.47 billion in 2022—are finding that the plant could hold promise as an aid for spicing up experiences in the bedroom.

What Is ED? 

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, erectile dysfunction is very common. The condition, which affects about 30 million men in the United States, occurs when a man struggles to get an erection or keep an erection long enough to have sex.

When a man is sexually aroused, nerves inside the body begin pumping chemicals to boost blood flow in the direction of the penis. Two erection chambers, the corpus cavernosum chambers, fill with blood. Inside these chambers is spongy muscle tissue that traps blood at increased pressure, thus leading to an erection. ED interferes with this process.

Although ED is very common, it is not a normal part of aging. Talk with your healthcare professional about treatment: Many healthcare specialists, including urologists, can usually assist patients with ED. In many instances, ED could be an indicator of serious cardiovascular disease, such as a defect in the man’s vascular system. A number of studies indicate that men who suffer from ED have a higher risk of leg circulation problems, stroke, or heart attack.

Almost all cases of ED will take their toll on male wellbeing. Moreover, ED will likely have a negative effect on a man’s relationships and quality of life. By seeking out corrective treatment, the chances of depression and other health issues can be slashed.

Cannabis and Libido Studies

Research into cannabis’ effect on libido and cases of ED is limited, but it does exist. For example, a recently conducted survey of medical cannabis consumers was commissioned by the telemedicine platform HelloMD. Based on the results, both men and women noticed a surge in their sex life after consuming cannabis.

Separately, a group of researchers observed the results of 216 questionnaires that were filled out by sexually active people who use cannabis. Of that amount, 112 respondents (52.3%) claimed to have used cannabis as a way of changing their sexual experience, whereas 82 respondents (38.7%) noticed an improvement in their sex life, 34 (16%) acknowledged some improvements and some non-improvements, 52 (24.5%) experienced a boost to their sex life sometimes, and just 10 (4.7%) felt that their sex life had gone downhill since consuming cannabis. 

More than half (119) of 202 study subjects claimed that cannabis amplified their sexual desire for sex, whereas 149 of the 202 study subjects (73.8%) claimed to experience increased sexual satisfaction. Meanwhile, 144 of 199 participants (74.3%) said their sensitivity to touch increased post-consumption, while 132 of 201 participants (65.7%) noticed the intensity of their orgasms increase.

Conversely, 139 (69.8%) of 199 participants felt that they were able to relax more during sex if they consumed cannabis beforehand, and 100 of 198 people (50.5%) enjoyed improved focus during sexual experiences. Moreover, among the 28 people who found it difficult to reach orgasm, 14 said that it was easier under the influence of cannabis, but just 10 acknowledged an improvement in their sex quality.

Final Takeaway

Although the latest research lends credit to the claims that cannabis may help prevent erectile dysfunction and boost libido, traditional medical literature doesn’t paint the same picture—various other studies dating back to the ’80s and ’90s indicate that cannabis may even hurt a man’s sexual function. Some research even goes as far as to say that cannabis could actually trigger low testosterone or erectile problems.

Nonetheless, it’s important to remember that this topic is very underresearched, and much more evidence is needed to make any definitive claims. Additionally, the plant’s effects may differ depending on the person. Follow Veriheal to stay up to date on the developments in cannabis and sexual health.