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These days, there is seemingly little that CBD can’t solve. Feeling anxious? Sip a CBD latte. Need to wear an uncomfy pair of high heels? Slather the stuff on your feet in balm form. Want to ramp up your romps in the hay? Slap some CBD lube on your bits. Yup, you read that last part right. Just when we thought we’d found every possible use for CBD, we discovered that CBD lube is a thing. And—surprise, surprise—it might just be the best use of CBD yet.
What does CBD-infused lubricant do, exactly? And which are the ones worthy of lathering on during your lovemaking? Ahead, you’ll find the best CBD lubes you might want to try to enhance your time in bed. Plus, learn everything you need to know about diving into the wild(ly fun) world of intimate CBD oil. And, no—it won’t get you high.
What is CBD?
Before we write a love note to CBD lube, we need a quick-and-dirty lesson on WTF the buzzy ingredient is all about. Cannabidiol (CBD) is an active—but non-psychoactive—compound that is found exclusively in the cannabis plant. The cannabinoid’s main claim to fame? It’s analgesic and anti-inflammatory, which means it works double-time relieving pain and quelling inflammation, Jenelle Kim, DACM, L.Ac, a doctor of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine and founder and formulator at JBK Wellness Labs previously told Well+Good.
While neither ingesting nor topically applying CBD-infused products will get you high, they will still have a desirable effect. Until recently, facial products have been championing the cannabidiol market with their CBD-heavy ingredient lists. But with the emergence of CBD-infused suppositories, massage oils, and soothing intimate gels, sexual products are getting special treatment, too.
What is CBD lube?
CBD lube is exactly what it sounds like. It’s a store-bought lubricant containing CBD as one of its star ingredients.
ICYDK: Lubricant is a slippery substance used during sex to enhance sexual function and pleasure, explains Heather Jeffcoat, doctor of physical therapy who specializes in sexual dysfunction and incontinence, and author of Sex Without Pain: A Self-Treatment Guide to the Sex Life You Deserve. “It can also help reduce pain, if present,” she says. The sensation of skin meeting skin or skin meeting silicone—or any other sex toy material for that matter—can feel akin to a rug burn if there isn’t any, well, wet! Need proof? Think about your thighs on a warm summer day. Lubricant keeps body parts and pleasure products from sticking to one another, and replaces friction with pleasure, says Dr. Jeffcoat, supported by a 2011 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine Vol. 8.
Kiana Reeves, a somatic sex expert and the chief education officer with Foria, adds, “It can be a great addition to intimate moments for anyone experiencing painful vaginal intercourse due to a lack of natural vaginal lubrication—whether it stems from an arousal disorder, hormonal changes during midlife, changes in libido, or side effects of medical treatment.” And it’s a must for any kind of anal play, as the anal canal is never self-lubricating, Reeves adds.
Does CBD work for arousal?
“CBD lubricant is a lubricant that is designed to deliver all the benefits associated with CBD, alongside the benefits of lube, right to the body’s erogenous zones,” says Reeves. More specifically, CBD works to arouse the genital and anal erogenous zones. When applied to the delicate genital and anal tissues, “the CBD in the lubricant interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, enhancing the body’s natural arousal processes and supporting blood flow to the genitals which can lessen discomfort during sex and enhance libido,” she explains.
“It may lead to better, stronger, and faster orgasms.” — Tammy Nelson, PhD, board-certified sexologist
Head to your favorite online intimacy shops and you’re likely to see CBD lubes with oil, silicone, water, and hybrid bases. Keep perusing and you might even come across CBD-infused arousal oils and sex serums—like this Foria breast oil and this epiphany clit arousal serum—which are often lumped under the lube umbrella. Which CBD lube or other sexual product you choose is going to vary widely based on the type of sex you’re having, and the specific sensation and overall user-sexperience you are after, says Dr. Jeffcoat.
What are the benefits of using CBD lube?
The primary benefit of using CBD lube is that it dials up pleasure while knocking back pain.
Lather your bits with the CBD-infused lubricant and the CBD will start to chat up your endocannabinoid system, which is essentially the cockpit of bodily functions, explains Reeves. From there, it works to bring blood flow to your genitals, which jump-starts the natural arousal process and enhances libido as well as sensation. Indeed, many people report that using CBD lube increases sensitivity for some, adds Tammy Nelson, PhD, a board-certified sexologist and the author of Getting the Sex You Want. “In turn, it may lead to better, stronger, and faster orgasms,” she says, supported by a 2022 study published in Sexual Reproduction and Health Matters Vol. 29. Who knew you could have such a positive impact on your sexual wellness with CBD?
CBD lube is especially beneficial for people who might experience pain during sex, according to Dr. Jeffcoat, which can be caused by several factors, including vaginismus, vaginitis, PCOS, or vaginal tearing from birth. “CBD has anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties, so some folks will notice that adding CBD-infused lubricant provides relief of some of their pain symptoms during sex,” she says.
CBD can help reduce tension in the pelvic floor, says Cyo Nystrom, CEO and co-founder of Quim, which means CBD-infused lube can decrease pain caused by having overactive pelvic floor muscles. Oh, and because CBD lube is, well, lube, it can also help reduce the likelihood of irritation caused by excess friction, adds Nelson. Three cheers to that!
How long does it take CBD lube to kick in?
“Most people will begin to feel the effects of the CBD within five to 30 minutes after application,” says Reeves. Each person and their CBD experience is different, she says, so if you don’t immediately feel its effects after application, wait it out rather than loading up on more and more—at least, the first time. Why? Because there is such a thing as “too much of a good thing” as far as CBD lube is concerned, according to Nystrom. “If you use too much or the CBD lube is too potent, you run the risk of dulling sensation,” Nystrom says. Duly noted.
“You can gradually increase the amount of CBD-infused lube or intimate CBD oil you use over time once you have a sense of how it works with your body,” she says. At that point, you can re-apply as needed.
Note: Some of the actual lubricant that is part of the CBD lube will likely absorb into your body while you wait for the effects to kick in. If this happens, and you want a little extra moisture, you can add some non-CBD lube. Here, Dr. Jeffcoat recommends combining like products. Meaning “oil-based CBD-lube should be combined with other oil-based lubes, not water-based ones,” she says.
Are there any side effects of using CBD-infused lubricants?
CBD lube generally has minimal side effects and is considered safe, so long as it’s used as directed. There are a few side effects, though, to keep in mind.
First, there’s no regulation just yet on most CBD products—including CBD lube— so you have to be a wise label reader to know exactly what you’re purchasing and what effect it might have on you. “CBD products vary greatly depending on the CBD source as well as the modality,” says Nystrom. She encourages individuals to do a bit of research before committing to any specific products. This includes reading online reviews, opting for reputable brands (See: our list of best CBD lubes ahead), and seeking out products with third-party testing.
Another important thing to keep in mind is the lubricant base. Many CBD lubes are oil-based, so they aren’t safe to use with condoms, says Dr. Jeffcoat. The oil can cause latex to tear, which, ya know, kind of defeats the purpose of a condom. (So, plan to skip the coconut oil as lube if you’re planning to use a latex condom.) Meanwhile, silicone lubes are great for anal penetration but not compatible with silicone toys.
One more shopping tip: be sure that the lube you buy doesn’t contain any ingredients that might harm your genitals. “Seek out coconut oil, aloe vera, omega-3 fatty acids, and premium ingredients like medical-grade silicone and organic botanicals,” suggests Reeves, emphasizing the use of natural lube alternatives. But do your best to avoid anything with added fragrance, a flavor, a “warming” or “cooling” effect, glycerin, parabens, petroleum jelly, and anything with ingredients you already know you’re allergic to, adds Dr. Jeffcoat.
Finally, it’s important to remember that “even though CBD lubricant can be helpful for some folks that experience pain, it isn’t always enough—especially if there is underlying pelvic floor dysfunction,” says Dr. Jeffcoat. So, if you’re experiencing any kind of discomfort or pain during sex, she suggests talking to a gynecologist, sexual medicine specialist, or pelvic floor therapist as a first step. See which CBD lubes made the top of our list—and why—ahead.
The Best CBD Lubes
This serum that eases discomfort...
Type: Water Size: 1.35 fl oz CBD Potency: 200mg
Why we love it: Go Love CBD is the most potent water-based CBD lube on the market.
What it’s good for: Any sex involving barriers.You will love Go Love CBD more than you thought you could love a bottle of slippery stuff. Thanks to the high-potency CBD, you’ll really get the anti-inflammatory, blood-boosting goodness that the ingredient boasts. The best part is that the consistency and color are similar to that of vaginal lubrication and ejaculate. The familiar look and feel can be deeply arousing. Plus, it’s water-based, which means it can be used with condoms, dental dams, and finger cots, too.
Pros:
Latex-safe
Fragrance-free
Mirrors the texture of bodily fluids
Cons:
Needs to be reapplied
This option that's a fit for longer sessions...
Type: Oil Size: 1 fl oz CBD Potency: 30mg
Why we love it: A high-quality product, Awaken Arousal Oil noticeably increases pleasure and reduces pain.
What it’s good for: Lengthier sex sessions involving vaginal play.
As far as CBD lube goes, Foria’s Awaken Arousal Oil with CBD is considered the OG. It’s made with broad-spectrum CBD, kava extract, and botanical and aromatic oils. Together, these ingredients “increase pleasure and arousal for solo or partnered sex,” says Reeves. Um, sign me up.
“This is also a good option for people who experience pain during intercourse, such as those with endometriosis, vaginismus, and more,” says Reeves. “Really, it can be life-changing for those experiencing these conditions”The product itself is meant to be used as a sort of “pre-lube.” You apply three to five pumps ahead of sexual play on the outside of your genitals. Then, give the product a minute to absorb into your bits. Just note that it shouldn’t be mixed with latex condoms.
Pros:
Pleasant scent
High-quality CBD and organic botanicals
Great for vaginal penetration
Cons:
Not safe for latex
This lube that doesn't stain...
Type: Water Size: 1 fl oz CBD Potency: 30mg
Why we love it: Kush Queen is safe but effective for people of all genders.
What it’s good for: Sex with any genital combo! Plus, penis play of all types.
This Kush Queen Water-Based Lube deserves a crown because it’ll make your junk feel like royalty. Created specifically with all genders and genitals in mind, this option isn’t just for vulva-owners, as many CBD lubes are. Penis owners, might we suggest adding a squirt to your solo sessions?This water-based lube doesn’t contain any oil, so it’s compatible with latex and non-staining. Plus, it’s paraben free, petrochemical free, and suitable for anyone who is looking for a gentle lube. One reviewer said, “I have extremely sensitive skin and this causes no irritation at all. I am very happy with it.”
Pros:
Can be used with latex condoms
Paraben-free
Non-staining
Cons:
Some reviewers say it dries quickly
This smooth serum made with organic aloe vera...
Type: Aloe vera Size: 1 fl oz CBD Potency: 100mg
Why We Love It: This aloe-vera based CBD lube doubles as a vaginal moisturizer, making it ideal for anyone navigating vaginal dryness.
What It’s Good For: Partnered or solo vaginal play.
Quim Smooth Operator is packed with all kinds of good stuff. In addition to the CBD, it also contains moisturizing vitamin E and inflammation-fighting aloe vera. This CBD lube is so damn moisturizing, in fact, it can be used as a daytime vaginal moisturizer for postmenopausal people, for example. Tip: The bottles are on the tiny side and you’ll go through eight to 10 pumps of the stuff per use. So, if you’re planning to have a week-long sex bender, order two.
Pros:
Latex-safe
Water-soluble
Organic and vegan
Cons:
Small sized bottle
This oil made from plant-based ingredients...
Type: Oil Size: 1 fl oz CBD Potency: 200mg
Why we love it: This spray-on CBD lube is safe to ingest.
What it’s good for: Cunnilingus and other types of vaginal play.
While most lubes come in pump form, Taco Toto Oil comes in a spray bottle so you can spray it directly on your erogenous zones. (FYI: It’s designed for the vulva, but can be used on all genitalia). You can always spray it in your hands first if you’d like, of course. All the ingredients are organic and it’s safe to ingest, which means it’s a great addition to cunnilingus. The oil can also double as a body massage oil, but it is oil-based, so avoid using it with any latex condoms.
Pros:
Organic
Plant-based ingredients
Safe to ingest
Cons:
Not safe for latex
This oil that smells so good...
Type: Oil Size: 2 fl oz CBD Potency: 250mg
Why we love it: This plant-based CBD lube smells as good as it makes you feel (very).
What it’s good for: Vaginal play for those prone to pH imbalance and infection.
If bad scents give you the ick faster than long toe nails give it to me, look no further than the Ananda Touch Bliss Intimate Oil. It’s made with all-natural, plant-based ingredients including peppermint and black pepper essential oils, and organic cacao seed butter, which gives it an incredibly soothing aroma.
This little bottle has 250mg of CBD and can be used on all body parts and types. Though, it is pH balanced to keep it from messing with the delicate microbiome of the vagina, which means its extra good on vaginas. Like several other oil-based products on this list, it’s safe to use with sex toys but not latex. And thanks to the cacao seed butter base, it absorbs into your skin lickity split, leaving slimy residue behind. Easy clean-up? Nothing better.
Pros:
Plant-derived essential oils
Non-GMO
pH balanced
Smells amazing
Cons:
Not safe for latex
This oil that you can ingest...
Type: Oil Size: 1.7 fl oz CBD Potency: 1700mg
Why we love it: Each bottle contains an impressively potent 1700mg of CBD.
What it’s good for: Really feeling the effects of CBD.
If you’ve got a Rainy Day fund stashed away, run (don’t walk!) towards this luxurious option. Every bottle will cost you a Benjamin, but each bottle contains an impressive 1,700 mg of CBD, making it the most potent option on the list. Plus, you’ll only need one to three pumps per use to really feel your vulva tingle.
This coconut oil-based lube is vegan and non-GMO. And while it is not compatible with latex condoms, it is totally safe to ingest and it’s actually recommended that you do so! So, if you’re feeling frisky, go ahead and pump some into your mouth, and then some more on your bits.
Pros:
Vegan
Essential oils
Safe to ingest
Cons:
Not safe for latex
This option that smells vanilla...
Type: Water Size: 10 fl oz CBD Potency: 250mg
Why we love it: This sprayable lube makes it easy to spritz a little something extra into your sex life.
What it’s good for: Anyone that doesn’t want the lube to be the star of the show.
Ejaculation isn’t the only kind of squirting you’ll get with this spray-on lubricant. While most CBD lubes come in a pump bottle, the Privy Peach CBD-Infused Hydro-Glide comes in a spray bottle. This application takes a little getting used to. Once you get the hang of it, though, it’s pretty easy to non-intrusively add some extra magic to your intimate moments. Plus, you can add this high-potency option into your vaginal or even oral play—yeep, it is totally safe for ingestion. (Actually, it tastes and smells vaguely like a perfume shop).
Pros:
Smells like vanilla
pH balanced formula
Safe with latex
Cons:
Scent may be too strong for some
This oil that's easy to pack for traveling...
Type: Oil Size: 1.21 fl oz CBD Potency: 300mg
Why we love it: This travel-friendly lube is great for vulva-owners on the go.
What it’s good for: Vacation sex and one-night stands.
Designed with vulva-owners in mind, Privy Peach’s CBD oil not only helps you chill out and enjoy what’s going down when you’re getting down, but it also promises to help stimulate your body’s own lubrication while increasing circulation to your vulva. It starts as a semi-solid product, which is dosed out into 10 perfectly-sized, single-use servings. When it comes in contact with the heat from your skin, it melts into a satisfying oil (… while, ya know, things are heating up).
Pros:
Extra-filtered virgin coconut oil
Vegan
Includes 12 single-use pouches
Cons:
Not safe for latex
This pick that doesn't cost a ton of money...
Price: $16 Type: Water Size: 4 fl ozCBD Potency: 60mg
Why we love it: You can bolster your bang without dropping a lot of bucks.
What it’s good for: Beginners and people who enjoy a more-subtle experience.
If you want to try CBD lube without spending a ton of money, this Uncle Bud’s option is a great pick. It’s water-based and is infused with 60mg of CBD and pure hemp seed oil. Yes, that’s less CBD than other picks, but some pleasure-seekers prefer a more subtle experience. Beginners, too, will benefit from the lower potency as there is less risk of being negatively overwhelmed by sensation. Oh, and good news for citrus lovers: The lube also has a light tangerine scent.
Pros:
Safe for latex
Tangerine scented
Vitamins A, D, and E
Great price point
Cons:
Only has 60mg CBD
This lube that's scent-free...
Type: Water Size: 3.4 fl oz CBD Potency: 200mg
Why we love it: This fragrance-free, water-based option doesn’t dry up as quickly as others.
What it’s good for: Long-lasting play.
Formulated with 200 mg of premium CBD, this water-based lubricant from HighOnLove is made in small batches so you can ensure its quality. Plus, this option is safe to use on all types of condoms—yes, even latex ones. Despite the fact that water-based lubes usually dry out more quickly than other lubes, this option also results in pretty darn long-lasting lubrication. Sure, re-lubing is NBD but it’s nice when you (not your lube) are in charge of when you start and stop. Perhaps the best part is that it’s fragrance-free, so you’ll still be able to smell your partner when you use it. It’s also non-staining, which makes clean-up a breeze. Woot!
Pros:
Safe for latex
Vegan and cruelty-free
Fragrance-free
Cons:
Small sized bottle
This tantalizing oil for extended pleasure...
Type: Oil Size: 1 fl oz CBD Potency: 200mg
Why we love it: This is the only CBD lube made specifically for anal play.
What it’s good for: Anal anything!
If you’re having sex of the anal variety—be it anal fingering, butt plug play, pegging, or penis-in-anus intercourse—Taco Qulo is the CBD lube you need. Made specifically with your hiney in mind, this oil-based lubricant contains additional moisturizing oils that support the health of those oh-so-delicate tissues. Because the lubricant is safe to ingest, you can even use it when you’re tossing salad!
The only thing that takes a little getting used to is the spray application bottle. For people used to using loads of lube during anal sex (good job!), the lack of product per pump may be a little annoying. Remember: you can always combine this oil-based lube with another, less expensive option to keep things super slick.
Pros:
Great for anal sex
Safe for silicone toys
Cushiony texture
Cons:
Not latex safe
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