High on Love : Enhancing Pleasure with Cannabis

Young Couple Smoking Together

This Valentine’s Day, love is in the air—and so is weed! Whether you and your lovebird are looking to deepen your connection or simply elevate the moment, cannabis might be the secret ingredient to an unforgettable night. THC and intimacy have been intertwined for centuries, with many people turning to the plant to heighten pleasure and melt away inhibitions. But does cannabis actually enhance your sex life, or is it just an age-old myth? At Starbird, we’re all about elevating your experiences—whatever they may be. Since this is a personal topic, let’s skip the awkward dispensary chat and guide you though how and why cannabis can make sex even more enchanting.

How Does Cannabis Influence Sex?

There’s many products that are rumored to increase libido and sexual pleasure- from red wine to oysters- but cannabis might be the most unexpected (and effective) addition to the list.

When you break it down, cannabis is a natural enhancer to the entire sexual experience. It helps relax the muscles, destresses the mind and body and heightens sensitivity, which creates the perfect conditions for pleasure. 

  Cannabis interacts with the endocannabinoid system via CB1 and CB2 receptors. These receptors are found in the amygdala and hypothalamus, the areas of the brain associated with sensations of pleasure and reward. THC interacts with the CB1 receptor, effectively boosting dopamine levels and intensifying arousal. CBD is more subtle, influencing serotonin receptors for reduced stress. 

For many people, especially those with female anatomy, sex can sometimes come with discomfort or even pain. Fortunately, cannabinoids can help by promoting muscle relaxation and easing tension, allowing the body to loosen up naturally. This can create a more comfortable, pleasurable experience, helping to replace discomfort with relaxation and enjoyment.

Cannabis is a vasodilatory, meaning it naturally increases blood flow. The increase in circulation of blood enhances arousal during sex, and can also boost lubrication in erogenous zones. This effect also makes the body more sensitive to stimulation, with heightened sensations leading to deeper physical pleasure. The effects will definitely vary between strains, potency and method of consumption. With amplified touch, a calmer mind, and improved circulation, cannabis could be the ultimate companion for a more electrifying, intimate, and blissful experience.

A visual representation of how cannabis affects the brain during sex

Is There a Right Way to Use Cannabis for Sex ?

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to using cannabis for intimacy, as everyone is unique. It’s very important to consider both your own preferences and your partner’s comfort to create a pleasurable and balanced experience. If you enjoy the energizing, euphoric effects of a sativa but your partner finds it overwhelming, choosing a more mellow strain can help ensure you’re both relaxed, in sync, and fully present in the moment.

As mentioned before, the method of consumption also plays a big role in shaping the experience. Smoking and vaping provide quick, in-the-moment effects, making them great for spontaneous intimacy—but let’s be real, dry mouth and bong breath aren’t exactly seductive. If you do choose to smoke, make it a little more romantic with our new rose-essence Ménage à Trois preroll pack, designed to set the mood just right.

Edibles offer a slower onset, allowing the warm, buzzy sensations to build gradually for a deep, full-body experience. If you’re looking for an extra spark, try Performance Hummies by Treeworks, designed to enhance energy and keep the night flowing effortlessly. For a balanced and blissful effect, Love Drops by 1906 blend 2.5mg of THC and CBD, promoting relaxation without overwhelming the senses. And if you’re in the mood to turn up the heat, Smashin’ Passion by Betty’s Eddies infuses passionfruit and herbal aphrodisiacs to naturally heighten desire. 

Tinctures are another excellent option, offering a gentle yet effective way to enhance pleasure with precise dosing. Just a dropper full under the tongue can set the mood without overwhelming the senses. Jungle Drops by Treeworks take this experience even further by harnessing a unique synthesis of cannabinoids, working together to promote arousal and overall body harmony—perfect for creating a more sensual and immersive experience.

To the surprise of many, there is indeed THC infused lube! Unlike traditional lubricants, those infused with THC or CBD can provide a warm, tingling sensation while also easing discomfort and reducing tension. Many users report deeper pleasure and increased arousal, making cannabis lube a natural way to elevate the experience. Just remember—these products take time to absorb, so apply in advance for the best results!

The key to an enjoyable and connected experience with cannabis is taking it slow. Intimacy can already bring heightened emotions, and overconsumption might lead to feeling too foggy or detached. A gentle nudge is often enough to enhance pleasure, deepen connection, and keep you grounded in the moment. Save the dabs and infused prerolls for the afterglow!

Strain selection can shape the entire experience. Sativa-dominant strains tend to be more energizing, making them a great choice for adventurous or more physically active intimacy. These strains can enhance creativity and stamina, making everything feel more engaging and playful. Indica-dominant strains, on the other hand, promote deep relaxation, heightened body awareness, and a more sensual, slow-burning experience—ideal for cuddling, massage, and deep connection. Hybrids offer a balance, allowing for both relaxation and stimulation, depending on the specific strain. Choosing the right strain depends on the mood and type of intimacy you’re looking to create. Perfect Pair by Fresh Connection is a fabulous staff pick. With a name like this, it’s already on theme! This hybrid-sativa balances euphoria with a touch of tranquility, making it great for keeping the energy high while enhancing connection. If you're looking for the perfect strain to set the mood, our Salem dispensary has plenty of options to explore.

Ultimately, the best way to use cannabis for sex is the way that feels right for you and your partner. Experiment, start slow, and focus on being comfortable and content rather than aiming for a particular mind blowing result.

The old propaganda got one thing right !

Can Cannabis Improve Connection with your Partner?

Cannabis and intimacy go hand in hand—not just for enhancing physical pleasure but for deepening emotional connections, too. When you and your partner share a little green, it’s not just about the high; it’s about letting go of stress, feeling more present, and tuning into each other on a whole new level. Whether it’s giggling over an inside joke, getting lost in deep conversation, or simply melting into each other’s arms, cannabis has a way of making moments together feel more effortless and electric.

It’s also a game-changer when it comes to performance anxiety. Nothing kills the mood faster than overthinking, but cannabis helps quiet that nagging inner voice that makes you self-conscious. It’s like flipping a switch from "Am I doing this right?" to "Wow, this feels amazing." As sex therapist Holly Robinson puts it:

“If ego and insecurities are hindering your sex life, using cannabis can result in more intimate, vulnerable, and enjoyable sex, as it can help suppress intrusive thoughts.” – Holly Robinson, via Forbes

And it’s not just a feeling—there’s actual science behind it. A study by Sun & Eisenberg (2017) found that:

“It also has been found to be independently associated with increased sexual frequency, with daily and weekly users having significantly higher sexual frequency compared to never-users.”

In other words, cannabis might just be the ultimate aphrodisiac. It helps you relax, dials up the sensations, and even gets you in the mood more often. Science doesn’t lie - stoners are statistically getting lucky more often than those who don’t partake. As chill as we are, we’re just as hot! So whether you're looking to spice things up or just enjoy the moment without distractions, a little cannabis from Starbird might be the perfect way to elevate your intimate experience.

At the heart of intimacy is connection—the ability to be present, vulnerable, and fully engaged with your partner. Cannabis has a way of softening distractions, easing insecurities, and enhancing both the physical and emotional aspects of pleasure. Whether it’s the playful giggles, the deep conversations, or the heightened sensations that make every touch feel sensational, cannabis can turn ordinary moments into unforgettable experiences.

So this Valentine’s Day, or any night you want to turn up the heat, visit us at Starbird for some green to set the mood. Light up, unwind, and let yourself fully embrace the moment—because when you feel good, love flows effortlessly.

Fly high!