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If you spend time on the internet, you’ve probably seen hit articles about a Vice journalist that drank a bottle of weed lube, or “weed tampons,” and maybe you’re curious. “But will it make my [insert genitalia of choice here] high?” you might ask — and perhaps that’s a proposition that will either excite or scare you. Maybe you’re wondering how to access products in your state. Or maybe you’re trying to keep up with these wild times we live in. Let’s take a closer look.

weed lube on eggplant

Understanding THC and CBD in Sexual Wellness Products

There are two main types of these products: those that contain THC, and those that contain CBD. THC is an abbreviation for tetrahydrocannabinol, the most abundant and well known cannabinoid and the compound that’s responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, or the “high.” THC is also believed to be integral to the medical benefits of cannabis.

On the other hand, CBD is the commonly used abbreviation for cannabidiol. It is one of at least 85 cannabinoids found in cannabis and is second only to THC in terms of average volume. Recently, CBD has gained support for its use as a medical treatment, as research has shown it effectively treats pain, inflammation, and anxiety without the psychoactive effects associated with THC.”[1] Though THC in lube won’t get you high, the sensation and effects it produces will differ. These are distinct from those of a lubricant that contains only CBD. Both can, however, increase pleasure and reduce pain.

Effects and Uses of THC-Infused Lubricants

THC-infused lubes like Foria were the first to be marketed in the US following the legalization of recreational and medical cannabis in various states. They have a variety of effects on users. According to Foria’s website, “FORIA Pleasure harnesses the complex powers of marijuana to promote relaxation and increase blood flow thereby creating a potent ‘therapeutic aphrodisiac’.” Beyond just sexual pleasure, products of this kind offer significant help for those experiencing vulval pain conditions, extreme cramps during menstruation, and other forms of genital pain. The cannabinoids in these products are applied directly and topically. Mucous membranes absorb them easily, enhancing their effectiveness.

Pleasure Enhancement and Individual Experiences

In terms of pleasure, the increase of blood flow is the key. Blood flow is at the center of arousal–it’s what causes an erection, and causes the internal and external clitoris to engorge, increasing sensitivity. People report a variety of experiences with the pleasure potential of these products. Ranging from a wide-spreading tingle to feeling relaxed and more easily aroused. This variety in experiences makes a lot of sense. This variety in experiences makes a lot of sense. Different bodies process and react to cannabinoids in various ways. Similarly, the way bodies process and react to pleasure also varies from one person to another. I won’t tell you that it’ll give you mind-bending orgasms. However, I also can’t deny the possibility that it might.

Inclusivity and Effectiveness Across Genders

Though I have mostly seen these products marketed to women, they are, of course, effective for any person with a vulva. They may even have some effect for people with penises. They may even have some effect for people with penises. Lubes infused with THC will have more effect on mucous membranes. These can be found in the vagina, on the external apparatus of the vulva, in the rectum, and under the foreskin of an uncircumcised penis. I have yet to find any information about the effects on uncircumcised versus circumcised penises. However, feel free to give it a try.

On the flip side, many people have reported success in using these products to relieve vulval or other genital pain. This kind of pain can make sex uncomfortable or even excruciatingly painful. Many people experience this kind of pain, which can be due to various causes. These include extreme cramps during one’s menstrual cycle, cysts, endometriosis, muscle tension, nerve pain, and more. The reasons for this kind of pain vary greatly. Anyone consistently experiencing pain or discomfort during sex, or at any other time, should talk to a medical professional.

CBD-Infused Lubricants and DIY Options

Most available hemp-infused lubes don’t involve THC at all, but instead have some level of CBD in their formulation. Though it can be hard to know how therapeutically effective products like this are, it’s probably unlikely that you’ll feel a “body tingle” with them–but you may experience heightened blood flow, pleasure, and pain relief. It’s worth giving it a try if you’re interested and can’t access THC-infused products like Foria.

Suppositories for Pain and Pleasure

There are also suppositories–no, not “weed tampons,” that’s a misnomer–that are either high-THC or high-CBD. Again, Foria seems to be the most known company making these kinds of products, with one intended for anal use and another aimed at relieving vaginal or vagina-adjacent pain, though they would likely also be effective for heightening pleasure. I know multiple people who have tried the vaginal suppositories for severe pain, endometriosis, and other forms of genital pain and had near miraculous results.

Access and Alternatives

Of course, most people will not have access to cannabis-infused suppositories or THC-infused lubricants, even those in states that have legal medical marijuana. There are some cannabis-infused lubricants with CBD, like one offered by Foria and another from Good Clean Love, as well as others, but they may not have as strong an effect for some people. For those looking for the relief or pleasure of these kinds of products, there are plenty of tutorials online for making your own; some are as simple as infusing coconut oil. Though DIY options are available, dosing may be unpredictable, so the real deal is preferable if you can access it.

Further questions or concerns? Feel free to reach out and I can try to answer your questions to the best of my ability!

Read More: Should I Use Protection for Oral Sex?

[1] Pg. 215, Marijuana: The World’s Most Misunderstood Plant. Jeffrey Friedland, 2015.