CBD has piqued interest as a possible natural treatment for the “growing” problem of Erectile Dysfunction (ED), which currently effects 52% of men between 40 and 70 years of age. However, there is only anecdotal evidence to support claims of CBD’s effectiveness in treating ED.
CBD advocates hoping to validate its benefits are facing the same challenges as those who believe in the healing power of cannabis. The large, peer-reviewed scientific studies required to prove CBD improves blood flow to the penis to the extent that it constitutes a viable ED treatment have yet to be completed and published.
Nonetheless, those making a case for CBD point to its reported ability to reduce stress, anxiety and depression (all underlying psychological factors that contribute to ED) as evidence that CBD can already help solve part of the ED problem. Their closing argument boils down to, “Try it. What have you got to lose?”
What is CBD?
CBD (Cannabidiol) is one of more than 85 active chemical compounds found in traditional marijuana. However, it is far more abundant in another form of cannabis, industrial hemp. Unlike the best-known cannabis compound, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is not psychoactive. In other words, it doesn’t make you high.
CBD has become widely popular as a natural treatment for a broad range of health conditions. Research suggests that it is a powerful antioxidant and has the potential to strengthen the immune system, manage pain, reduce inflammation and anxiety, and improve mood.
CBD also helps manage certain types of seizures and is recognized by the U.S. government as a neuroprotectant, which means it helps protect the brain against the effects of concussions and other traumatic brain injuries.
How CBD Works
CBD works in your body via the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). This recently discovered and little understood system is thought to control several critical processes that sustain life, especially homeostasis – the ability to maintain a constant operating environment inside your body regardless of the constantly changing environment outside your body.
Science is just beginning to unlock the secrets and the potential of the ECS. It is a network of “receptors” located throughout the body. CBD is just one cannabinoid that “feeds” these receptors, which, in turn, activate various body functions to help regulate body temperature, blood pressure and reproduction, as well as immunity, pain, inflammation, sleep, mental health and more.
If CBD plays a role in regulating blood pressure and subsequently improving blood circulation throughout the body, including the penis, larger research studies could eventually prove CBD as an effective treatment for ED.
Focusing on the Problem
One of the most important factors in achieving and maintaining an erection is proper circulatory function. Better blood flow results in better erectile function. A few small placebo-controlled studies of CBD with respect to ED showed an increase in blood flow. Another focused on CBD and blood flow to the arteries around the heart rather than in the pelvic area or the penis. That doesn’t mean doesn’t increase blood flow to the penis, it just hasn’t been studied and proven in a large-scale clinical study.
In any case, CBD may ultimately be more likely to help men who suffer from ED as a result of a psychological issue as opposed to a physical problem. Since people believe CBD can relieve stress and anxiety, which are also known to impair libido, it may help men experiencing stress and/or performance anxiety related to having sex.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Overall, using CBD oil is considered safe. Some people may experience a skin reaction or other side effects, such as fatigue, weight or appetite change, and, in rare cases, diarrhea.
Studies have also shown that CBD can interfere with certain medications, so it’s important to contact your healthcare provider if you plan to take CBD for ED or any other reason.
What To Buy
The most common types of CBD are 1) pure CBD “isolate” extracted from raw hemp or marijuana oils and 2) “broad spectrum” or “full spectrum” oils, which can contain a wide range of other cannabinoids, including THC, terpenes, and other plant components that can work together to deliver additional benefits.
Research has revealed that the cannabinoids and terpenes in broad and full spectrum CBD products increase their bioavailability and the activity in throughout the body. This powerful synergy, known as the Entourage Effect, is not possible when using CBD isolate products. However, cannabinoids, terpenes, which produce various flavors and aromas, and other ingredients can be added back into to CBD isolates to produce similar results.
CBD products sold in states where THC is legal often offer a combination of CBD and THC in various ratios e.g., 90% CBD to 10% THC (a 9:1 ratio) or 50/50 blends. However, the use of these could be problematic for users who are subject to drug testing.
CBD derived from industrial hemp can be sold where permitted as long as it contains less than .3% THC. Many hemp CBD products contain far less than this amount. They can be considered “THC-free” and are highly unlikely to show up in drug testing.
CBD can be consumed in various ways:
- Smoking hemp or marijuana
- Vaporizing cannabis oils and extracts
- Ingesting tinctures, infused beverages or edibles, such as gummies, chocolates, chewing gum, etc.
- Applying topical lotions, creams, sprays or oils directly to the skin
For ED, CBD-infused topical oils or lubricant can be applied to the penis, allowing the CBD to be absorbed directly into its tissues. This may help improve blood flow and aid in achieving a firm erection naturally.
Dosing
There is currently no clinically recommended CBD dosage for any treatment. Because its effects vary from person to person, it may take some experimentation to determine the optimal CBD dose that works best for you as a treatment for pain or inflammation or anxiety or ED, etc.
Most CBD manufacturers and authorities recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing or decreasing it. Always consult your healthcare provider before trying CBD for any condition, including ED.
Where to Buy
CBD is legal and widely available in many states across the country, and is able to be shipped and delivered across state lines.
Shango dispensaries carry a proven, popular CBD line called NeuroXPF, which includes tinctures, gummies, gel caps and topicals. NeuroXPF products are tailored to the specific needs of athletes, but are also effective for general use for adults, as well as children. Shango also produces its own CBD for use in some of its edible products.
CBD can be found in:
- Walk-in dispensaries, including Shango locations in Oregon, Nevada, California, Arizona, Missouri and Michigan
- Manufacturer websites and retail locations
- Large CBD and health and wellness e-commerce sites
- Health and wellness, nutrition and CBD-only stores
Dealing with ED can be frustrating and embarrassing, and can jeopardize healthy relationships. If you are struggling with this condition, it’s important to talk with your healthcare provider to determine its underlying physical and/or psychological causes.
Your provided can also determine if your ED is a symptom of one or more other health issues and help you understand different treatment options. CBD is one alternative option that is safe and easily available.
This information does not constitute advice. Any purchase made from the above blog is made at your own risk. Consult an expert advisor/health professional if you have questions.
