

Sexually frustrated couples may have to try marijuana to spice up the bedroom, a new study finds.

In a recently published study featured by the National Institutes of Health, experts from Italy’s University of Catania and the Czech Republic’s Charles University and Masaryk University found that both sexes can use cannabis to treat sexual dysfunctions such as Erectile Dysfunction or Sexual Arousal Disorder.

“For centuries, in addition to its recreational actions, several contradictory claims regarding the effects of cannabis use in sexual functioning and behavior (e.g. aphrodisiac vs anti-aphrodisiac) of both sexes have been accumulated,” the study reads. “The identification of delta-9 THC and later on, the discovery of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) have opened a potential therapeutic target for sexual dysfunctions, given the partial efficacy of current pharmacological treatment.”

Marijuana contains therapeutic compounds known as cannabinoids, which researchers have found beneficial in treating problems related to sex.

“In agreement with the bidirectional modulation induced by cannabinoids on several behavioral responses, the endogenous cannabinoid AEA elicited biphasic effects on sexual behavior as well,” the abstract continues. “The present article reviews current available knowledge on herbal, synthetic and endogenous cannabinoids with respect to the modulation of several aspects of sexuality in preclinical and human studies, highlighting their therapeutic potential.”

Several cannabis products are now available where legal as sex aids, including specific marijuana strains and infused lubricants.