Delta-8 has hit the market as a legal alternative to smoking marijuana. Given that this cannabis-based product is so easy to obtain, it’s only natural that it has found its way into the bedroom and brings this new question to the nightstand: Is there such a thing as a delta-8 libido?
As with every new type of pleasure humankind has ever discovered, men and women are now exploring how delta-8 affects their sexual function. Many see positive changes in their sex drive, crediting delta-8 as the catalyst behind their heightened sexual desire.
Does delta-8 increase libido? Can delta-8 improve your sex life? We answer these questions below.
What Is Delta-8?
When people ask, “what is Delta-8 THC?” they usually have already heard the word “THC” and are wondering what “Delta-8” means. Cannabis plants contain tetrahydrocannabinol—THC for short. THC varies depending on the plant, and scientists are working to separate these variants as they occur within common cannabis strains. Delta-8 and delta-9 THC are the most common THC variants in cannabis plants.
Delta-9 THC causes the typical high experienced by marijuana users. The next step down from that is delta-8, which has many similar properties but is chemically different from delta-9 THC and offers a less intense high.
What’s the Difference Between Delta-8 and CBD Oil?
Like THC, cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD, is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. This compound is different in structure and effect from delta-9 and delta-8. It offers many of marijuana’s positive effects—such as increased appetite, easier sleep, and pain relief—without altering mental function.
After extraction, one can mix CBD with a carrier oil and use it in everything from bath products to gummies and drinks. Some CBD products are also suitable for animals, though you should always check with your vet before administering CBD to your pets.
Delta-8 may not have the intensity of delta-9, but it is more potent than CBD oil in terms of psychoactive effects.
How Does Delta-8 Affect the Body?
Because marijuana is still illegal in many states, new delta-8 users are finally getting to experience the stimulating effects of THC. Movies and TV shows can show some intriguing responses to THC use, but these are often based on delta-9 and are usually exaggerated or completely invented, depending on the portrayal.
But why does THC affect the body at all? The answer lies in the endocannabinoid system.[1] This system is involved in central nervous system development. THC activates CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors in the brain, both of which exhibit various reactions that affect everything from how you act to the mobility of your body’s cells.
These receptors exist throughout the body, which means that any form of THC can affect your reproductive health and sexual function. While comedy films and after-school specials portray the use of delta-9 THC, they rarely touch on the sexual effects and instead focus on unfavorable reactions such as slowed speech and movement, inability to think correctly, constant hunger, and heightened paranoia.
Delta-8 skips a lot of the adverse effects associated with delta-9 and instead can result in:
● A deep relaxation, sometimes close to semi-sedation
● A floating sensation throughout the body
● Improved focus and higher energy levels
● A higher or improved appetite
● Anxiety or stress relief
Everyone experiences delta-8 THC differently, and users should consider the dosage and vehicle. In other words, how much should you take, and how should you take it?
Low doses of delta-8 can improve your mood, heighten your energy levels, and make you feel better, while higher doses can sedate you or relieve physical pain. You can smoke delta-8, vape it, or ingest it via an edible. Edibles can include anything from gummies to crispy marshmallow treats, but be warned: Delta-8 edibles can give you a high lasting up to eight hours—even longer in some people.
It would be best if you also gave edibles time to work. Because they release more slowly into your system, you may not feel the effects of edibles until one to two hours after ingestion, so don’t get discouraged and go for a second treat too quickly.
Is Sex on Delta-8 Better Than Regular Sex?
Many people find delta-8 to be an exciting enhancement to their sex lives, with increases in desire, arousal, and enjoyment.
While not widely researched, there have been studies on how cannabis-based products affect sexual experiences. Delta-8 is not explicitly named, but because it carries many of the same effects that delta-9 and regular marijuana do, it’s safe to assume that delta-8 sex would be the same if not remarkably similar.
One study from 2017 asked 289 candidates whether they had used marijuana before having sex.[2] Thirty-three percent of those people did, and these are their responses to questions specifically about sex and marijuana use:
● 65% found the sexual experience to be more pleasurable
● 53% agreed that marijuana always improved sex
● 60% believed that their overall sex drive increased with marijuana use
● 53% experienced better orgasms than non-users
A different 2017 study found that in both men and women, the use of cannabis increased not only their sex drive but also the frequency of their daily sexual activities.[3] The candidate pool for this study included over 28,000 women and nearly 23,000 men, making these findings all the more relevant and believable.
The results speak for themselves: Marijuana use can improve your sex drive. Delta-8 sex is sure to be no different, making delta-8 a great addition to bedroom activities.
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How Is Delta-8 Sex an Improvement on Regular Sex?
The most interesting part of both of the above studies is that neither reported any sexual dysfunction due to cannabis use. Researchers found different effects for men and women experiencing delta-8 arousal.
Cannabis and Delta-8 for Women
From March 2016 until February 2017, women visiting an OBGYN office received a questionnaire asking about their use of marijuana and how it affected their sex lives.[4] The questionnaire did not require the patients’ information to ensure truthful answers, and participants dropped their answers into a locked box upon completion.
The responses were glowingly positive: 373 women stated that they had used marijuana before engaging in sexual activity. Not only did they report that they enjoyed stronger sexual desire, but they reported better orgasms and less sexual pain.
Cannabis and Delta-8 for Men
A 2020 survey found that cannabis also makes sex more enjoyable for men.[5] The study used answers from 325 participants, only 4% of whom had never used marijuana. All other participants reported marijuana use at least one or two times a week.
Men in this study reported better erectile performance, more intense orgasms, and better satisfaction during sex.
The men who reported the highest overall sexual satisfaction smoked at least six times a week, thus confirming the link between cannabis and better sex.
Delta-8 Erectile Dysfunction: Should You Worry?
The answer is probably not. While there have only been a limited number of studies on the use of cannabis and erectile dysfunction (ED), the studies present mixed results that lean toward the positive end of the spectrum.[6]
Researchers found that cannabis didn’t cause ED or other sexual dysfunctions, and in some studies, there were definite benefits to using cannabis. More studies are needed, though some recent animal experiments show positive results. THC may help erectile dysfunction by stimulating certain parts of a man’s biological build, enhancing erections, and helping those suffering from ED.
Why Does Delta-8 Improve My Sex Life?
The answer to that question is different for each person. Because cannabis affects everyone differently, your experience with delta-8 in the bedroom may not be the same for your partner.
Cannabis of any kind has a pleasurable effect on the body. It relaxes your mind, relieves physical pain, and heightens the senses, especially those involving touch. When it comes to choosing delta-8 over delta-9 or CBD oil, it’s the sweet spot between the more potent delta-9 THC and the much weaker CBD oil.
With delta-8, you’re less likely to experience the paranoia or anxiety of THC consumption and more likely to feel the typical positive effects of maintaining a high. Those positive effects include higher sensitivity, which can only make sexual encounters more pleasurable.
We can’t promise that your sex life will improve with delta-8, but it’s a great option if you’re looking for a new experiment to bring to the sheets.
How Can I Use Delta-8 To Make Sex Better?
There are hundreds of different products to explore when taking advantage of a delta-8 sex drive. If you’re specifically looking to improve your sex life, the best way to start is by experimenting with different products and seeing what works best for you and your partner.
Smoke Or Vape It
You’ll find delta-8 in many smoke shops, and convenience stores packaged with loose, crushed leaves, rolled into cigarettes, or in the form of disposable vape products. When smoking delta-8 THC, it’s best to start slow with one hit. Wait a few minutes, then try another if you’re not feeling anything yet.
Eat Or Drink It
The variety of ways you can consume delta-8 makes it easy for new users to get started. You can find delta-8 drinks, candies, and even foods made to taste like your favorite cereals and snack cakes.
We noted it above, but it’s worth restating: The effects of edibles can take longer to kick in and subside, so be careful with how you take them.
Rub It In
Like CBD oil, you can find delta-8 in massage oils, gels, and lotions. If you’re particularly curious, you can purchase delta-8 lube to increase your libido and sensitivity during sex. It may not give you the high you’re used to, but increased sensitivity can certainly raise the sexual bar.
Before using any delta-8 product, pay attention to the dosage. Most products start at 5 mg, and if you’re not a typical THC user, you’ll want to start low and make sure you’re comfortable throughout the experience.
You can increase your dosage if you don’t feel anything after a couple of hours, but self-evaluation is crucial when finding the right place for you. Over time, you will develop a certain tolerance. Many THC users find that delta-8 hits them harder than delta-9, so even if you’re an experienced user, you’ll want to take the time to find the safest amount for you.
Does Delta-8 Have Any Negative Effects?
Much like any cannabis-based product, delta-8 does have some adverse effects. The most common effects include:
● Dry, scratchy eyes
● Grogginess or sleepiness
● Dry lips
● Excessive thirst
● Long-lasting body high
When taking delta-8 or any cannabis product, self-regulation and self-care are crucial. Drink lots of water, sleep when necessary, eat when hungry, and don’t neglect your responsibilities.
It’s also important that you never operate heavy machinery or vehicles while using delta-8. Wait to do anything involving dangerous equipment until your high is over—there’s no worse way to come down than during a medical emergency.
Conclusion
Delta-8 THC is a wonderful addition to your sexual activities. Whether smoking, ingesting or using it as an oil, gel, or lube, users of delta-8 find more pleasure in all aspects of their sex lives. Many studies and testimonials report improved libido after using cannabis-based products.
References
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4789136/ [2] https://www.isswshmeeting.org/isswsh2017-abstract?abstract_id=93 [3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29110804/ [4] https://www.smoa.jsexmed.org/article/S2050-1161(19)30009-1/fulltext [5] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2050116120300787 [6] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1743609515334901
