Cannabis and Sex: Exploring Pleasure and Connection

At The Travel Agency, we know every journey is better with a bit of adventure, including in the bedroom. Cannabis can help you relax, tune in, and feel every sensation more deeply. From soothing strains that set the mood to uplifting options that spark curiosity, the right choice can turn an ordinary night into an unforgettable trip — no passport required.

The history of cannabis and sex

Cannabis and sex have been linked for thousands of years. In ancient China and India, cannabis was consumed to heighten pleasure, boost desire, and deepen intimacy, sometimes even in spiritual practices like Tantra. Fast forward to the 1960s, and cannabis became part of the Western “free love” movement, celebrated for opening minds and loosening inhibitions.

Across cultures and centuries, one thing is clear: Cannabis has long been a companion to human connection and pleasure.

Cannabis, arousal, and enjoyment

Research suggests that cannabis may meaningfully influence sexual arousal, enjoyment, and the overall experience, though effects typically vary with dose, frequency, and individual response.

Increased desire, sensation, and orgasm intensity

A large survey of adults who consume cannabis found that most participants reported enhanced sexual functioning and satisfaction when consuming cannabis before sex. Over 70% said cannabis increased sexual desire and orgasm intensity. Many also reported heightened senses, including touch and taste, which can be key components of pleasure during intimacy.

The impact of your cannabis dose

A recent scientific review highlighted that low to moderate doses of cannabis are associated with increased sexual desire and enjoyment, while higher doses may reduce both. This suggests that there’s a sweet spot — an ideal dose at which cannabis may enhance arousal without the negative side effects that may come with overconsumption.

The same study also noted that people who consume cannabis more frequently tend to report higher levels of sexual activity. There’s no cause-and-effect relationship to be found here, though. As with all things cannabis, individual tolerance and expectations play a part in how the plant affects one’s desires and choices.

Pain reduction and sexual comfort

Cannabis’s potential pain‑reducing properties are well documented in the broader scientific literature, in which cannabinoids have been shown to decrease pain intensity in certain conditions. These effects, whether through muscle relaxation, reduced inflammation, or altered pain perception, may help diminish painful sensations during sex, allowing you to focus more on pleasure.

Cannabis and frequency of sex

Cannabis lovers often find themselves hitting “repeat” on more than just playlists. Although the plant isn’t a magic libido booster, it may help your body relax, your mind let go, and your senses tune in, making intimacy feel more enjoyable and effortless. Many people notice that they’re more present, more in sync with their partner, and more willing to explore pleasure.

Put simply, cannabis can help make connections feel a little easier to prioritize — and those moments a lot more memorable.

Cannabis and human anatomy

Cannabis may interact with the body in ways that may influence sexual response, thanks largely to the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This system may affect your mood, sensation, arousal, and blood flow. For some people with vulvas, cannabis may increase relaxation, heighten sensory perception, and improve blood flow, all of which can contribute to natural lubrication. This is why you’ll often see the question, “Does being high make you wetter?” (It may.)

While there’s no definitive, one-size-fits-all answer, some studies and self-reported experiences suggest that cannabis may make it easier to become aroused and reach orgasm, particularly for those who struggle with anxiety or difficulty climaxing.

Cannabis may also influence sexual function for people with penises, though research is limited and mixed. Some evidence points to cannabinoids interacting with CB1 receptors in ways that could support erections. Other findings suggest heavy or frequent consumption may contribute to challenges like erectile dysfunction or changes in ejaculation timing.

As with most things cannabis-related, the effects depend heavily on the individual, the product, the dose, and the context, making mindful experimentation and honest body awareness key to figuring it out.

Cannabis and hormones (as it pertains to sex)

The way cannabis interacts with hormones and sexual experience is complex and multifaceted. The plant works with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which may overlap with hormone‑regulated pathways involving estrogen and serotonin — chemicals that may shape mood, desire, and sensation. Because these systems influence one another, cannabis may affect how we experience intimacy in subtle ways.

Many women report that consuming cannabis before sex helps them relax more deeply, tune into the moment, and enjoy more satisfying orgasms. In one recent observational study, most women who had difficulty reaching orgasm said cannabis made it easier, more frequent, and more satisfying compared with when they didn’t consume cannabis.

There’s also evidence that hormonal fluctuations, such as rising estrogen at specific points in the menstrual cycle, may make the body’s endocannabinoid receptors more responsive. However, this area of research is still emerging, and not everyone will experience the same effects.

The best cannabis products and cultivars for sex

Different cannabis strains and products can have unique effects, from uplifting and euphoric to calming and soothing, offering options for a wide range of experiences. Whether to deepen connection, ease tension, or explore new sensations, these selections may help make intimate moments feel more enjoyable and memorable.

1906 Love Drops and Love Beans

1906 Love Drops are designed for intimacy-forward moments, combining a 1:1 ratio of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) with botanicals traditionally associated with arousal and circulation. Ingredients like damiana, Muira Puama, and ashwagandha promote a more embodied, relaxed state that can make it easier to tune into sensation. One of these herbs, Catuaba, is sometimes called “the Viagra of the Amazon.”

Because they’re swallowable rather than chewed, Love Drops tend to kick in fairly quickly, often within about 20 minutes. The bottle format makes for easy dosing, offering a flexible, approachable way to explore desire, connection, and pleasure.

TribeTokes CBD Libido Lift Gummies

TribeTokes Cannabidiol (CBD) Libido Lift Gummies are designed for those who want a gentler, lower-pressure approach to supporting desire. The formula pairs cannabinoids like CBD and cannabichromene (CBC) with traditionally used botanicals such as Maca, Muira Puama, Catuaba, and Mucuna, ingredients often associated with mood, circulation, and stress relief.

Some people notice subtle, immediate shifts in relaxation or body awareness with these gummies, while others find they work best when taken consistently as part of a routine. In the latter case, they may support feeling more grounded, connected, and at ease over time — which, for many, is what actually makes intimacy easier to access.

Cereal Milk

Cereal Milk is a balanced hybrid cultivar with a sweet, creamy flavor and hints of fruit and herbs. Its uplifting, euphoric effects may heighten sensation and spark arousal, while its THC-forward profile (18-23% THC on average) may provide a soothing, relaxing high. With key terpenes like caryophyllene, limonene, and humulene, Cereal Milk is a versatile choice for intimacy or simply enjoying the moment.

Gelato

Like Cereal Milk, Gelato is a balanced hybrid with sweet, creamy flavors and subtle fruity notes. Its uplifting, euphoric effects may likewise boost mood and arousal, while a gentle body high may melt away tension without clouding the mind. With THC levels typically around 17% and a terpene profile rich in caryophyllene, limonene, and humulene, Gelato may provide a stimulating, soothing experience that supports presence, connection, and enjoyment.

Jack Herer

Jack Herer is a classic strain known for its energizing, clear-headed effects, with a high terpinolene content that may help ease anxiety. For anyone who finds stress or nervous energy interfering with intimacy, Jack Herer may support relaxation and presence, helping make special moments feel more comfortable and connected.

Tips for pairing cannabis and sex

A few simple tips help you make the most of the moment:

Start low and go slow. Everyone responds differently to cannabis, so begin with a small amount and let your body guide you. Think of it as easing into a warm bath — no need to jump straight in.

Don’t fall into the “sativa vs. indica” trap. Sativa versus indica isn’t the most important factor when choosing a cannabis product for sex. Instead, focus on what you want from the experience: a relaxing strain if you tend to get anxious, or something more uplifting and energizing if you want to feel playful and adventurous.

Try solo play first. Yes, we mean masturbation. Exploring how cannabis affects your body and arousal on your own can make partnered moments feel more comfortable, confident, and satisfying.

Prioritize consent and communication. Let your partner(s) know you’re consuming, and check if they want to join the ride. Shared experiences can be fun, but only when everyone’s on the same page.

Keep water handy. Cannabis can dry out your mouth, and nobody wants that mid‑moment. A quick sip (or mint) can help keep things smooth and comfortable.

Elevate your experience with The Travel Agency

Cannabis may offer a fun and exciting way to explore intimacy, maximize sensation, and deepen connection. At The Travel Agency, we’re here to guide your journey. With our wide selection of cannabis strains, edibles, and thoughtfully curated products across our NYC dispensaries (plus convenient same-day cannabis delivery), finding your perfect match is easy. Explore, experiment, and follow what feels good.