Last updated: October 2026
There’s no evidence that CBD helps erectile dysfunction: no human trials have tested it. Cannabis use is actually linked with more ED, with a 2019 review finding nearly four times the odds in cannabis users, though that’s mostly about THC. Proven options include lifestyle changes and sildenafil, which you can buy from a UK pharmacy after a short consultation.
Below: what the research shows, why ED happens, CBD with ED medicines, and what works.
Does CBD help ED? The research
| Source | What it found |
|---|---|
| Human trials of CBD for ED | None published |
| Review of cannabis and ED, 2019 | Cannabis users had about 3.8 times the odds of ED compared with non-users |
Claims that CBD “treats ED” aren’t backed by evidence, and selling CBD with that claim breaks UK rules. Products marketed for sexual performance can also contain hidden prescription drugs.
Common causes of ED
The NHS says occasional erection problems are usually caused by stress, tiredness or too much alcohol, and aren’t a worry. If it happens often, it may be linked to:
- high blood pressure or high cholesterol
- diabetes
- depression or anxiety
- hormone problems
- side effects of some medicines
Because ED can be an early sign of heart and blood vessel problems, it’s worth seeing a GP if it keeps happening.
Stress, sleep and performance anxiety
Stress, poor sleep and worry about performance can all play a part, and they can feed each other. Some men use CBD as part of an evening wind-down routine, but it hasn’t been shown to help ED. Talking therapies, including psychosexual therapy, can help when anxiety is the main factor. See stress in men and CBD and alcohol.
CBD with sildenafil and other medicines
- Sildenafil and tadalafil have not been tested with CBD in any study, so the effect of combining them isn’t known. Ask a pharmacist before combining them.
- Blood pressure medicines can also interact. See CBD and medication.
- Avoid THC: choose broad spectrum or isolate if you use CBD at all.
The FSA’s 10mg a day figure is precautionary advice rather than a legal limit, set while longer-term safety research continues. At Evopure we think it is a very cautious figure, and many adults use more. If you go above it, increase slowly, and check with your GP or pharmacist first if you take any medication.
What helps ED
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Lifestyle | Lose weight if needed, stop smoking, exercise daily, keep alcohol within 14 units a week, reduce stress |
| Sildenafil | Available from pharmacies after a short consultation, or on prescription; beware fake medicines online |
| Other prescription medicines | Tadalafil, vardenafil and avanafil, from a GP |
| Talking therapies | For performance anxiety, relationship issues or low mood |
| Checking underlying causes | Blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and hormone checks with your GP |
See also CBD oil for sex: what the evidence says.
Sources 2
- Pizzol D et al. Relationship between cannabis use and erectile dysfunction: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Am J Mens Health, 2019.
- NHS. Erection problems (erectile dysfunction).
