CBD for ED: Does It Really Work?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active ingredient and cannabinoid derived from organic hemp — also known as the Cannabis sativa plant (or, popularly, “weed”). For a long time, normalizing the usage of cannabis beyond the “stoner” crowd seemed out of reach.
As regulations slowly evolve, we can gather more data on the potential health benefits (and, yes, risks) of CBD. Today, it’s found in a growing number of consumer products.
CBD is typically marketed for relaxation effects. Many men wonder if it has a place in the bedroom for ED. After all, if CBD can promote calmness, can it increase blood flow or even be used as an alternative to Viagra?
ED is a very common condition affecting at least 30 million men in the United States alone. Understandably, it leads some guys to seek natural solutions.
So let’s examine what the research says about CBD.
What Is Cannabidiol (CBD)?
The Cannabis sativa plant contains over 80 cannabinoid compounds. Two of the most well-known are CBD and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Unlike THC, CBD doesn’t produce any psychoactive activity. In other words, it doesn’t get you “high.”
The way CBD works isn’t totally understood. It’s thought to bind to cannabinoid receptors throughout the nervous system and interact with certain neurotransmitters.
Researchers continue to examine all possible health-related uses for CBD. For example, there are potential applications in reducing inflammation, treating neurodegenerative diseases and certain cancers, and managing chronic pain as well as mood and sleep disorders like sleep apnea. Many people look to CBD as a natural remedy for anxiety or are curious about CBD for depression.
You don’t have to go far when looking for CBD health products. The cannabinoid is found in things like:
CBD oil
Capsules
Gummies
Melty tabs
Sleep aids
Topical lotions and muscular pain-relief creams
Hair oils
Lip balms
Beverages
The question is whether these types of products are helpful for their intended purposes, like treating ED.
(Related: 12 Ways to Stay Harder Longer)
CBD for ED: Does It Work?
CBD is being studied as a potential treatment option for several health conditions. So, are there potential benefits of CBD for ED? While we’re at it, does CBD make you last longer in bed?
Despite how convincing the marketing is for CBD products that allegedly boost intimacy drive, improve performance and strengthen arousal, there’s nothing to back these claims. Additionally, we can’t find any evidence that CBD increases blood flow or acts on the nerves and muscles involved in arousal.
Most research on CBD and intimacy health is mixed.
One study that surveyed 325 middle-aged men found an association between a higher frequency of cannabis use and increased male function. But the authors concluded that the association is unlikely clinically significant, noting that selection bias makes it difficult to generalize the findings.
Another study found that some men who used cannabis experienced increased arousal in certain parts of their brains when exposed to erotic photos. However, the results weren’t specific to CBD but rather the use of marijuana.
On the other hand, some animal studies suggest that CBD usage can negatively impact sperm function and male reproductive hormones.
At the end of the day, there’s not enough data to say whether CBD could be helpful for ED or other intimacy health issues.
CBD and Performance Anxiety
Lots of guys struggle with bedroom performance anxiety. In some cases, overwhelming nervousness around preparing for intimacy interferes with the ability to perform. This can feed into more anxiety, a vicious cycle that can really mess with your mojo.
For example, in a 2022 review of six studies, researchers examined psychological factors — like anxiety, depression and relationship conflicts — involved in intimacy dysfunction (especially ED) among men under 40. Over 85 percent had a “psychogenic primary cause” of their bedroom problems – meaning it was due to something mental rather than physical.
Furthermore, another review of 12 studies found a high prevalence of ED among men with anxiety disorders, suggesting that ED may be more severe in this population.
A meta-analysis of 48 studies, including almost 170,000 participants, found that the risk of ED increased by 39 percent for men with depression.
Psychological ED is real and can have devastating effects. If left unaddressed, some men may find themselves in a state of anxiety and shame that fuels depression.
There’s no research on CBD for bedroom performance anxiety specifically, but some studies on CBD for anxiety have been optimistic. Here’s a rundown of the findings:
A 2020 review found that CBD showed promising results as an alternative treatment for anxiety disorders.
Researchers have identified some evidence in support of the anti-anxiety benefit of CBD. This could be because of how the cannabinoid affects the limbic and paralimbic areas of the brain, which serve many crucial cognitive and emotional functions. However, this is limited to short-term use.
In a 2011 study, researchers gave 24 never-treated patients with generalized social anxiety disorder either a placebo or 600 milligrams of CBD an hour and a half before a simulated public speaking test. Those who received CBD experienced significantly reduced anxiety, discomfort and cognitive blocks in their speech performance compared to the placebo group.
At the end of the day, there’s not currently enough evidence to recommend CBD for ED. But that doesn’t mean it won’t be helpful for some.
More rigorous, long-term human research is needed in order for it to become a mainstream treatment option.
How to Use CBD for ED
CBD is used in several ways, depending on the type of product, such as:
Putting CBD oil drops or spray under the tongue, letting it sit for up to a minute before swallowing
Adding CBD tincture oil to beverages like coffee, tea, smoothies or water
Taking a CBD capsule with water
Chewing CBD gummies
Note that the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) has limited data on the safety of using CBD. It warns that more information and risk assessments are needed before it can recommend CBD for any reason — not just for ED.
Side Effects of Using CBD for ED
Like any natural remedy, CBD comes with potential risks and side effects. How well CBD is tolerated and how effective it is can vary among individuals. It can also depend on things like where it originated, the dosage and why it’s being used.
Studies of use in humans have reported side effects of CBD, including:
Diarrhea or vomiting
Fatigue or excessive sleepiness
Abnormal liver function
Changes in appetite
Unintentional weight gain or loss
Irritability or increased anxiety
Skin rash
Headaches
What’s more, CBD may interact with certain drugs, including epileptic drugs, antidepressants, opioid pain-relievers and THC, as well as common medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and alcohol.
Besides possible safety issues, it’s important to be aware that most CBD products aren’t subject to the same regulations as FDA-approved medications. Like other over-the-counter dietary supplements, they aren’t required to undergo rigorous testing and ongoing clinical trials.
(Related: The Best Pills to Increase Male Libido)
Alternatives to CBD for ED
CBD may be a gray area yet for intimate health, but several alternatives have shown to be effective for managing and treating ED.
PDE5 Inhibitors
Drugs called PDE5 inhibitors are commonly prescribed as a first line of treatment for ED. They work by inhibiting the enzyme phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) found in the smooth muscle cells of the blood vessels of the privates.
Normally, this enzyme reverses the process of arousal. When it’s blocked from doing so, it enhances the activity of nitric oxide, promoting blood flow and harder, longer-lasting arousal.
The most well-known PDE5 inhibitors include:
Sildenafil. This is the active ingredient in the popular ED medication Viagra, or the generic version of the “little blue pill.” Sildenafil is designed to alleviate ED for roughly four hours.
Tadalafil. This is the active ingredient in the ED medication Cialis. Tadalafil is effective for up to 36 hours.
Avanafil. This is the generic version of Stendra. Among the newer ED medications available, it’s designed to have fewer side effects than the OGs.
Vardenafil. This is the active ingredient in the ED drug Levitra. It’s formulated to provide relief for four to eight hours.
Another option is hard mints. These chewable ED meds contain the same active ingredients as the PDE5 inhibitors in Cialis, Levitra and Staxyn but at different dosages.
ED medications can be highly effective when used as directed. You’ll need a prescription to try one, which can be acquired by speaking with a healthcare provider.
Mental Health Support
You should definitely consider if psychological factors are involved in your ED. Research shows that higher self-reported stress is associated with reduced intimacy activity and satisfaction.
If this is the case, consider online therapy or another form of mental health support.
Everyday Habits
Your everyday lifestyle can make an enormous difference in your intimate health. To improve your odds of maintaining arousal, consider the following tips:
Maintain a healthy weight. Research shows that obesity is an independent risk factor for ED.
Understand your heart health markers. Monitor and manage your blood pressure and cholesterol. These are risk factors for heart disease and can negatively affect your arousal function when elevated.
Prioritize nutrition. Emphasize minimally processed foods in your diet, like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, lean proteins and whole grains. This way of eating is associated with a lower incidence of intimate dysfunction. On the other hand, eating lots of ultra-processed foods high in saturated fat and added sugar and low in fiber may promote dysfunction.
Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use. The nicotine in cigarettes may reduce response to stimulation. While alcohol itself isn’t directly linked to ED, some research has shown that the most significant predictor of someone developing intimacy dysfunction is how much they drink.
Exercise. Engage in physical activity most days, as exercise can help improve blood flow to the privates and promote function. Combine several things you enjoy, such as swimming, bicycling, jogging, playing tennis and strength training.
Get quality sleep. Poor sleep has been linked to a higher risk of ED. Sleep experts say adult men should get at least seven hours of sleep per night.
Have your testosterone levels checked. Low testosterone may reduce your interest in intimacy and impact your ability to get hard, though the link isn’t fully understood. Ask your healthcare provider about getting this tested.
CBD and ED: Is It Worth It?
We get it — ED is a big interruption to your bedroom life. If you’re in the thick of it, you might be grasping for any treatments available to regain confidence in the bedroom.
The idea of CBD for ED is a fascinating intersection of age-old health concerns with emerging science. Some preliminary research suggests that CBD may positively impact certain aspects of bedroom health. Other studies find no such luck.
In the end, you’re wise to take a discerning approach when deciding what’s best for you.
When it comes to CBD and ED, remember that:
It’s not a cure-all for ED. CBD doesn’t increase blood flow to the privates or promote longer-lasting arousal, nor will it reverse the underlying causes of ED. A better option is likely a combination of ED medication, lifestyle changes, mental health support and possibly vitamins and supplements for ED. Your healthcare provider can help you come up with the right solution.
More research is needed. Limited studies suggest that CBD may be helpful for some men experiencing anxiety related to intimacy performance. However, larger and more rigorous human studies are needed before this cannabinoid can be recommended as an ED treatment option.
Responses can vary. CBD can have varying effects depending on who’s using it, how much is used and what it’s used for. Some people report side effects like nausea, sleepiness and weight changes. CBD can also interact with certain medications and alcohol, resulting in other side effects.
This article originally appeared on Hims.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
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The 7 Best Vitamins & Supplements for ED
If you’ve been googling “what is the best vitamin for ED” or “supplements for ED” and coming up short on answers, there’s a reason for it: the “natural male enhancement” pills that you find online and in gas stations are released by brands that make dubious claims about what their products can do, and often, those claims aren’t backed by a lot of research. In fact, many of them are dangerous.
That said, certain vitamins and supplements (not the stuff you see at the gas station) — like vitamins B3 and D, or supplements like L-arginine, to name a few — may offer some erectile function benefits that are backed up by some science.
So, whether you came here in search of vitamins for erectile strength or supplements for ED, we’re happy to share what research shows about vitamins that help with ED…maybe. We’re going to go through all the vitamins you should look for, and the foods in which you can find them
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You’re probably aware of ED treatments like Viagra, which work by increasing blood flow to your privates when you’re in the mood for love-making. But what about the options available without a prescription?
Well, if you’ve been looking at the “natural male enhancement” stuff on gas station shelves, we have some bad news. As we’ve discussed in our guide to herbal supplements for ED, most non-prescription products for treating ED are, to put it lightly, lacking in scientific evidence (unless they are something specifically approved or authorized by the FDA for ED, like vacuum devices or the topical gel, Eroxon).
That said, as we mentioned above, some research shows that deficiencies of certain vitamins might contribute to ED. If you’re deficient, adding these vitamins to your diet might improve your overall health, including your ability to get and stay so.
To put things in perspective, here’s the current wisdom:
Numerous factors can play a role in ED, including your cardiovascular health, psychological well-being and your level of interest in love-making.
Currently, the most effective oral treatments for ED are PDE5 inhibitor medications, such as sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra).
Vitamins B3, B9, C and D have been linked with blood flow, ED or testosterone levels in scientific studies. However, there’s very limited research on the link between vitamins and ED, meaning our understanding of this potential link isn’t very strong right now.
To get reliable relief from ED, it’s best to talk to a licensed ED healthcare provider online to learn how you can improve blood flow to your privates and strengthen your erections.
Depending on your medical history, they may check your blood pressure, cholesterol and other tests that can screen for health conditions like heart disease, type 2 diabetes and other things that are a risk factor for ED.
Okay, now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk vitamins.
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Vitamins are critical for the proper functioning of your body. They play vital roles in the development of your bones and organs. They also power essential biological processes that keep you alive, from your metabolism to the operation and function of your brain.
Because vitamins play such important roles in your health and survival, vitamin deficiencies can have serious negative effects on your well-being. What vitamins are good for erectile dysfunction, then, are the ones you don’t have enough of.
Some potential vitamins for ED include:
Vitamin B3 (niacin)
Vitamin B9 (folic acid)
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
Vitamin D
Let’s look into each one to learn more.
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Some scientific research suggests that vitamin B3, or niacin, may be helpful for managing ED.
For example, a study in 2011 found that adult men with ED and dyslipidemia (abnormal amounts of lipids in the blood) experienced improvements in erectile function after taking niacin for 12 weeks.
Vitamin B3 is an important vitamin for metabolic function. It’s linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cardiovascular disease thanks to its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects.
Niacin is widely available as a health supplement. It’s also found in a variety of foods, including:
Red meat, poultry and fish
Bran, yeast and whole-grain cereals
Peanuts, legumes and seeds
Eggs
(Related: The Best ED Pills for Men: Pros & Cons of ED Medication)
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Another vitamin that may be linked with ED is vitamin B9, or folic acid.
A study published in the Asian Journal of Andrology analyzed the folic acid levels of men with ED and found that men with ED typically had lower levels of folic acid than healthy, unaffected men.
Interestingly, low levels of vitamin B9 were also linked to PE — another common male performance issue.
A newer study from 2020 noted a more direct link between vitamin B9 and health. In this study, men with ED showed measurable improvements in erectile function after taking a vitamin B9 supplement on a daily basis for three months.
Vitamin B9 plays key roles in the synthesis of DNA and RNA — essential molecules for storing and reading genetic information. It’s also important for the production of healthy red blood cells.
You can purchase vitamin B9 as a health supplement, but it’s also found in a wide range of foods, like:
Leafy green vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, asparagus and lettuce
Meats, including liver
Fish and other seafood
Peanuts, sunflower seeds and beans
Milk and other dairy products
Eggs
Folic acid is also commonly added to many breads, cereals, pastas and other grain products in order to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
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Vitamin C is one of the most important vitamins for our bodies. When it comes to erectile health, research suggests that it might play a role in certain biochemical pathways that allow you to get and stay hard during intimacy.
For example, a review published in the journal Fertility and Sterility noted that vitamin C is one of several vitamins and minerals that support the biochemical pathway that leads to the release of nitric oxide.
Nitric oxide, or NO, is generally viewed as the principal agent responsible for relaxing the tissues inside your privates and allowing blood to flow in and create arousal.
Beyond its potential role in your health, vitamin C plays a key role in the biosynthesis of several neurotransmitters, as well as important structural proteins — like collagen, for example.
It’s also essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, absorbing iron and promoting proper wound healing.
Good sources of vitamin C include:
Citrus fruits, such as orange, grapefruit, lemon and lime
Other fresh fruits, including kiwifruit, guava and papaya
Strawberries, blackberries, raspberries and blueberries
Red peppers, green peppers, broccoli and other vegetables
Many fruit and vegetable juices also contain plenty of vitamin C. You can also find it in most multivitamin supplements.
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Although research into the effects of vitamin D on performance is limited, some studies have found that vitamin D deficiency is linked to ED.
A small study published in the International Journal of Impotence Research found that men with vitamin D deficiency or insufficiency had lower levels of function than men with normal vitamin D levels.
However, it’s also worth noting that this study only investigated function and depression symptoms in young men with low vitamin D status.
A meta-analysis from 2020 also found that vitamin D deficiency may be associated with severe forms of ED.
According to a review published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, around 24 percent of people in the United States have low vitamin D levels. Low vitamin D levels are even more common in Canada and Europe.
Your skin produces vitamin D when it’s exposed to sunlight, and it doesn’t take much to maintain healthy levels. Most people will be able to produce enough vitamin D to stay healthy with natural sun exposure from going for a daily walk or running errands.
If you live in an area with limited sunlight or prefer not to spend too much time outdoors, you can also take in vitamin D from food or vitamin D supplementation.
Foods that contain vitamin D include:
Fish, including salmon, trout, tuna, sardines and many fish oils
Cheese, milk and other dairy products
Red meat and poultry
Soy, almond and oat milks
Mushrooms
Apples, bananas and other fruits
Rice, lentils, sunflower seeds and almonds
Broccoli, carrots and other vegetables
Research on other supplements for ED is often inconsistent or not very strong. Some men might see an effect, many might not.
ED supplements that may produce improvements in function and health include:
L-arginine. This amino acid plays a key role in the production of nitric oxide, which is a molecule that relaxes your blood vessels and promotes healthy blood flow.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). This hormone is a precursor to testosterone, which is important for regulating your drive.
Ginseng. This herbal supplement might produce improvements in function and satisfaction, but the quality of research is low.
Just like with vitamins, it’s important to keep in mind that supplements aren’t subject to clinical trials like medications. This means that there’s a lot that we don’t know about them, including the safety and effectiveness of using them as ED treatments.
(Related: What Foods Help You Get Hard: 8 Foods For Erectile Dysfunction)
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None of the “vitamins for erection health” listed above — or anything else you can find in a multivitamin — are proven, evidence-based treatments for ED.
Currently, among the most effective options for treating ED are FDA-approved medications called PDE5 inhibitors. These treatments work by dilating the arteries that supply your privates, allowing for better blood flow to your tissues.
Unlike vitamins and natural remedies, they’re subject to large-scale clinical trials before they go onto pharmacy shelves, meaning we know that they’re safe and effective for most men.
If you find it difficult to get or maintain an erection, consider one of the following medications:
Sildenafil. The active ingredient in Viagra, sildenafil provides relief from ED for around four hours per dose.
Tadalafil. The active ingredient in Cialis, tadalafil is a long-lasting medication that can provide relief from ED for up to 36 hours.
Vardenafil. The active ingredient in Levitra, vardenafil provides relief from ED for four to five hours.
Avanafil. Sold as Stendra, avanafil is a newer treatment that provides relief from ED for up to six hours, with a lower risk of side effects than other oral ED medications.
Chewable ED medications. These fast-acting chewable mints include ingredients like sildenafil, tadalafil and vardenafil to help you get and stay hard during intimacy.
Although research is limited, some studies have shown a link between ED and certain vitamin deficiencies.
If you’re deficient in vitamins B3 (niacin), B9, C or D, increasing your consumption might improve your overall health, and maybe your ED symptoms. However, there are several things you’ll want to keep in mind before turning to vitamins as a “proven” ED treatment:
Vitamins like B3, B9, C and D are important for your overall health and health, and may help in the management of ED. More research is needed to determine whether natural supplements containing L-arginine, ginseng and others are as effective as supplement makers claim.
It isn’t clear if these vitamins help with function if you don’t have a vitamin deficiency. In other words, if you’re healthy, taking extra vitamin C may not have any impact on your performance in the bedroom.
More isn’t always better when it comes to vitamins. Certain vitamins are toxic when consumed in excess, meaning you shouldn’t exceed the recommended intake if you choose to use a vitamin supplement.
Vitamins aren’t a replacement for FDA-approved ED medication, or for healthy, natural habits and lifestyle changes that can make maintaining an arousal easier.
This article originally appeared on Hims.com and was syndicated by MediaFeed.org.
Your ED Pill Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Starting Them
