The stories swirl around marijuana about it being an aphrodisiac. For most consumers, cannabis heightens senses, puts you in a relaxed state and gives a feeling of connectedness to your partner. A relaxed evening makes can make for fun, but does marijuana really make you frisky?

Cannabis is strongly linked to Hindu culture in many ways—it’s been a traditional folk medicine in India since the fourth century BCE, and it’s still widely known as an aphrodisiac in that country. The plant was used in tantric sex and yoga practices associated with the goddess Kali as early as 700 AD.

In a Journal of Sexual Medicine study, women were having sex 7.1 times per month on average when using marijuana, while men clocked in at 6.9 times per month. Those who abstained completely? For women it was 6 times per month versus 5.6 times a month for men.

What’s happening? THC, the psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana, releases dopamine in the brain. Dopamine acts as a neurotransmitter and it mimics anandamide, the naturally occurring neurochemical.  And in intimacy, and is a buffet of feel goods.

Increased Stamina

Marijuana appears to delay ejaculation for most men. Their isn’t enough data, but but it suggests cannabis eliminates stress and allows your brain to “just go with the flow.” Marijuana also creates a sensation of time slowing down, allowing the user to be more in the moment.

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Achieve Orgasm

About one third of American women report difficulty achieving orgasm with a male partner. When cannabis is consumed, it activates a receptor in your endocannabinoid system, creating physical and mental stimulation.  According to Dr. Mitch Earleywine, professor of psychology at the State University of New York: “The CB1 receptor seems to be involved in improved tactile sensations and general euphoria.”

Intensify Orgasms

Once again, there hasn’t been much research, so the data is unclear. But the intensity of the sexual activity is heightened under the influence of cannabis, especially among women. Dr. Earleywine attributes this sensation to the CB1 receptor’s ability to convert the THC into a more tactile experience. The euphoric feeling lasts longer, or at least the perception is the orgasm is longer. And whether it is perception or reality, the smile is the same.

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Eliminate Stress

Anxiety and stress are sex killers. For most people, marijuana is a stress reliever and calms down your active brain. There is nothing worse than trying to enjoy an intimate moment when you’re stressing out about your job or your bank account.

A Word Of Warning

Chronic, long-term cannabis consumption in some people can cause low motivation. And, unfortunately, this includes sexual activity.