Last updated: October 2026
There’s no good research showing CBD directly increases libido or improves sex. Any benefit is likely indirect: some people find CBD helps them relax and worry less, and stress is a common reason for low desire. Don’t use ordinary CBD oils or balms as lubricant, as oils can weaken latex condoms. The FSA advises people trying to conceive to avoid CBD.
This guide covers what’s known about CBD, desire and arousal, the products marketed for the bedroom, safety points most articles skip, and when to see a GP.
Does CBD improve sex? What the evidence says
The honest answer is that it hasn’t been properly studied. The body’s endocannabinoid system is present in reproductive tissues and plays a role in sexual function, which is why the idea is plausible. But most research on cannabis and sex involves THC, the intoxicating compound in cannabis, not CBD, and those results don’t apply to THC-free CBD.
There are no controlled trials of CBD for libido, arousal or sexual satisfaction in men or women. Surveys of CBD users report a range of experiences, but they can’t separate the effect of CBD from expectations or other factors.
Can CBD increase libido?
Not directly, as far as we know. Where people notice a difference, it’s most likely because they feel more relaxed. Stress, anxiety, poor sleep and tiredness are among the most common reasons for low desire, and many people use CBD to unwind. Research on CBD and anxiety is still early, though; see CBD for anxiety: what the research shows and CBD for sleep.
CBD products for the bedroom
| Product | How it’s used | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| CBD oil drops or capsules | Taken by mouth beforehand to help you relax | Not for use as a lubricant |
| CBD lubricants | Applied to intimate areas | Only use products made for intimate use; check if they’re condom-safe |
| CBD massage oils and balms | Massage on the body | Keep away from intimate areas; oils damage latex |
| CBD bath products | Relaxing bath before bed | A gentle way to wind down together |
Safety: condoms, intimate skin and fertility
- Condoms: the NHS advises against using oil-based lubricants with latex condoms, as they can weaken them and make them more likely to split. CBD oils, massage oils and balms are oil-based. If you use condoms, choose water-based or silicone-based lubricant.
- Intimate skin: only use products designed for intimate areas. Balms and massage products may contain essential oils, menthol or fragrance that can sting or irritate, and can upset vaginal pH, increasing the risk of infections such as thrush.
- Trying to conceive: the FSA advises people trying to conceive, as well as those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, not to take CBD as a precaution. Animal studies have raised questions about effects on male reproductive health, though human data is lacking.
- Medicines: CBD can interact with some medicines, including some antidepressants. Check with your pharmacist.
- THC: some products sold online contain THC, which is illegal in the UK. Choose THC-free products with a lab report.
How people use CBD before sex
If you want to try it, the simplest approach is CBD oil under the tongue 30 to 60 minutes beforehand, or as part of your evening routine. Start with a low amount, around 10mg, and don’t mix it with alcohol, which tends to dull arousal and performance. 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.
Our Sleep CBD Oil is designed for winding down in the evening. Our oils and balm are not lubricants and shouldn’t be used on intimate areas. See when to take CBD oil.
Common causes of low libido
According to the NHS, common causes of a loss of libido include:
- relationship problems
- stress, anxiety and depression
- tiredness and poor sleep
- menopause and other hormonal changes, including low testosterone
- some medicines, including certain antidepressants
- drinking too much alcohol
- long-term health conditions
Practical steps such as better sleep, less alcohol, regular exercise and talking openly with your partner often help more than any supplement. See stress in men, magnesium for menopause and CBD and menopause.
When to see a GP
See a GP if low libido is worrying you or affecting your relationship, or if you have erection problems. Erection problems can be an early sign of heart disease or diabetes, so it’s worth getting checked. Your GP can look for physical causes, review your medicines and refer you to sex and relationship therapy if helpful.
FAQs
Does CBD increase libido?
There’s no good evidence it does directly. Some people find it helps them relax, and stress is a common cause of low desire, so any effect is likely indirect.
Is CBD oil good for sex?
It hasn’t been properly studied. Some people use it to relax beforehand, but ordinary CBD oil isn’t a lubricant and can weaken latex condoms.
Can I use CBD oil as lube?
No. Use a lubricant made for intimate use. CBD oils are oil-based, which can damage latex condoms and may irritate intimate skin.
Does CBD help with erectile dysfunction?
There’s no evidence it does. See a GP about erection problems, as they can be a sign of heart disease or diabetes, and effective treatments are available.
Is CBD lube safe with condoms?
Only if the product says it’s condom-compatible. Oil-based lubricants can weaken latex condoms, so check the label or choose water-based or silicone-based lube.
Can I take CBD if we’re trying for a baby?
The FSA advises people trying to conceive not to take CBD as a precaution.
Does CBD affect testosterone or sperm?
Some animal studies suggest possible effects on male reproductive health, but there’s little human data. If you’re trying to conceive, avoid CBD and speak to your GP.
Sources
- NHS. Loss of libido.
- NHS. Condoms.
- NHS. Erection problems (erectile dysfunction).
- Food Standards Agency. Cannabidiol (CBD): advice for vulnerable groups.
- Carvalho RK et al (2020). The effects of cannabidiol on male reproductive system: a literature review. Journal of Applied Toxicology.
This guide is general information, not medical advice.
