Do Edibles Make You Horny? The Effects On Libido

It’s no secret that edibles have evolved. They’re far from the mysteriously dosed weed brownies you’d make back in college.

Today’s market is packed with so many cannabis products that consumers are starting to wonder, are there edibles out there for your sex life, and do edibles make you horny? For many users, smoking marijuana can enhance sexual experiences and bliss you out in the bedroom.

Does the same go for the psychoactive effects of THC edibles? Let’s understand how these tasty THC and CBD-infused treats might affect sexual desire, performance, and pleasure, based on both scientific research and anecdotal evidence.

Definitely. While it’s a bit more complex than taking any edible and hoping for libido-enhancing effects, research suggests that cannabis use, including gummies and baked goods, can increase sexual arousal and satisfaction for many people.

A 2019 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found a positive association between cannabis use and increased sexual frequency across different demographic groups. In other words, people who smoked weed had more sex, increased sexual performance, sensation, and increased intensity of orgasms when using weed.

Here’s a deeper dive into why cannabis increases libido and might make you horny:

1. Anxiety reduction: THC and CBD can decrease stress and sexual anxiety, helping people feel more comfortable and present during sexual encounters.
2. Enhanced sensory perception: Cannabis can intensify touch, taste, and other sensations, which can lead to more intense sexual pleasure.
3. Blood flow increase: THC may increase blood flow to the genitals (similar to how it causes red eyes), which can enhance physical arousal.
4. Endocannabinoid system interaction: Cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which has a major role in regulating mood, sexual function, and pleasure.

In most cases, the active ingredient in edibles that makes you horny is THC—the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. But if you’re looking for a more balanced, full-body effect, CBD and terpenes can enhance the experience through what’s known as the entourage effect, helping boost both pleasure and relaxation.

Some brands even go a step further, infusing their edibles with natural aphrodisiacs like blue lotus and other botanicals traditionally linked to increased arousal and sensuality.

As mentioned, cannabis edibles can have very different effects from person to person. While some users report enhanced arousal and pleasure, others feel relaxed, tired, or even disconnected. Here’s why your experience might differ:

Strain type: Sativa-dominant cannabis strains typically produce energizing, uplifting effects that may enhance arousal, while indica strains tend to be more sedating and may lead to drowsiness.

Cannabinoid content: Look at the product label to see what’s inside. Edibles that contain THC, CBD, and a diverse terpene profile are more likely to provide a balanced, well-rounded experience. Terpenes like linalool, limonene, and myrcene can all influence mood and arousal differently through the entourage effect.

Dosage: Low to moderate doses of THC (around 5–10mg) are more likely to enhance libido and sensitivity. High doses, on the other hand, can lead to fatigue, anxiety, or even decreased desire, especially in users with lower tolerance.

Individual biology: Your endocannabinoid system—the internal network of receptors that interacts with cannabinoids — is unique to you. This means the same product can make one person feel euphoric and turned on, while another might just feel sleepy.

Consumption method: Edibles hit differently than smoking. They take longer to kick in and produce more intense, longer-lasting effects. For some, that sustained body high can be a game-changer in bed — for others, it can be overwhelming.

Set and setting: Never underestimate your mindset and environment. Feeling safe, relaxed, and emotionally present can enhance cannabis’s positive effects, including sexual arousal. Stress or an uncomfortable setting can dull or even reverse those effects.

To optimize edibles for sex:

1. Start low: Take 2.5-5mg THC at first, especially if you’re new to sex on edibles or cannabis use.
2. Time it right: Take edibles 1-2 hours before sexual activity to align peak effects with arousal.
3. Combine with CBD: A 1:1 THC:CBD ratio can reduce stress while helping sexual function.
4. Stay hydrated: Cannabis can cause dry mouth. Keep water nearby for kissing and oral sex.
5. Don’t mix with alcohol: Edibles and alcohol can be a messy and unpredictable combo, likely impacting sexual performance (and not in a good way—cough cough, whisky d*ck).

Looking for edibles for libido? Not all THC edibles will help with sexual arousal. Stay on the lookout for certain ingredients and cannabis strains, which might have some aphrodisiac effects:

Best Weed Strains For Libido:

• Northern Lights
• Wedding Cake
• Sour Diesel

Complementary Ingredients:

• Chocolate: Contains anandamide, which interacts with the endocannabinoid system
• Maca: An aphrodisiac that can complement cannabis effects
• Ginger: Improves blood circulation, which might enhance cannabis’s potential effect on blood flow, including your more intimate areas

Both cannabinoids can have an impact on your sex life. But their key effects are pretty different:

THC:

• Has stronger psychoactive effects
• Boosts sensory perception for increased sensation
• More directly increases blood flow to erogenous zones
• Can increase arousal at low doses but negatively impact performance at higher doses

CBD:

• Helps with relaxation without feeling high
• Reduces anxiety (can indirectly improve sexual function)
• May counteract THC-induced paranoia or performance anxiety
• Potentially helps with pain relief during sex, especially beneficial for female arousal

Even the most experienced cannabis users make these common mistakes when attempting to spice things up for better sex. It doesn’t matter if you’re using the best edibles from the best strains, or even edibles specifically marketed to increase sex drive.

Try to avoid these common pitfalls:

1. Taking too much: High doses can cause anxiety, paranoia, or excessive sedation—all libido killers.
2. Bad timing: Edibles typically take 30-90 minutes to kick in. That means timing is key to align it with the heat of the moment.
3. Ignoring strain effects: Not researching whether a product contains Sativa, Indica, or Hybrid strains will lead to unexpected effects.
4. Not communicating: Cannabis affects everyone differently. Be sure to have an open discussion with your partner about what they’re comfortable with.
5. Unrealistic expectations: While cannabis may enhance sex drive for many, it’s not a guaranteed solution for everyone.

Do edibles make you last longer in bed?

Article TLDR? Here’s the summary. On the one hand, edibles can reduce anxiety and enhance relaxation. That could remove sexual anxiety from the picture completely, potentially meaning orgasms come on quicker. On the other hand, higher doses of THC can delay orgasm and extend performance.

For men, cannabis use might help with premature ejaculation, but excessive consumption can cause erectile difficulties. It’s a similar concept for women—too much THC can lead to delayed orgasms but also vaginal dryness and discomfort. The key is to find a happy medium.

None of this is confirmed by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, but they’re currently funding and monitoring research on cannabis and sexual health. Systematic reviews are also scarce. Only time will tell.

What makes you hornier, Sativa or Indica?

Why does weed have so many different effects? It all comes down to genetics. Sativa strains produce more energizing, cerebral effects that enhance arousal and sexual creativity, making them a solid choice for increasing libido. Indica strains often create more body-focused, relaxing effects that may enhance physical sensation but can sometimes decrease energy and motivation in a sexual experience.

How long before sex should you take an edible?

Take edibles 60-90 minutes before you plan on doing the deed. This lets the effects fully develop while ensuring you’re not past the peak high when it’s go time. Individual metabolism affects onset time, so definitely consider experimenting beforehand.

How much THC should I take before sex?

2.5-10mg THC will do the job. Any more, and you could approach THC paranoia. Even for experienced users using the best edibles made from the best strains, a low dose of weed is always best for sex. And this goes for both male and female arousal.

How much CBD should I take before sex?

A starting dose of 15-30mg CBD may help reduce anxiety without causing significant impairment. For balancing the effects of THC, a 1:1 or 2:1 CBD:THC ratio often works well for sexual enhancement. Pure CBD products (without THC) typically require higher doses (25-50mg) to affect arousal.

Is it safe to use edibles regularly for sex?

Moderation is key. It’s always best to stick with occasional cannabis use when it comes to your sex life. Regular use, specifically for sex, might lead to psychological dependence or difficulty getting and staying horny without weed.