Erectile dysfunction is a touchy subject that many men find difficult to discuss. It’s embarrassing, it can be frustrating, and at worst, it may make you feel less of a man. But the fact is that if you suffer from erectile dysfunction, it doesn’t have to be the end of the world. There are plenty of things you can do to overcome this issue.

Having tried all manner of things in the past, from Viagra to penile injections, you may be wondering what alternative treatments you could use. With how much popularity CBD has gained in recent years, you probably consider using it to manage sexual dysfunction. After all, research has shown that CBD can possibly help with a long list of both physical and mental health conditions.

But does this include erectile dysfunction? Well, let’s take a look at the causes and symptoms of ED, how exactly CBD works, and how you can use it to improve sexual performance.

Causes of Erectile Dysfunction

Just like with most other health conditions, there isn’t one cause of erectile dysfunction. To begin with, temporary erectile dysfunction does not necessarily have to be a reason for concern. For instance, it can be attributed to temporal blood pressure changes, psychological factors (such as performance anxiety), or simply exhaustion.

However, if your subpar sexual performance is an ongoing issue, it may be caused by a long list of underlying health conditions and risk factors, such as:

1. Heart disease – this is one of the most common causes of erectile dysfunction; penile function relies on proper blood circulation and a healthy heart, which can be severely compromised in individuals with cardiovascular conditions. High blood pressure and increased LDL (bad cholesterol) levels are also reasons for concern.
2. Tobacco and alcohol use – nicotine is known to be a strong risk factor in ED, as it disrupts one’s natural blood circulation, constrains the blood vessels, and inhibits the production of testosterone. Alcohol, being a strong depressant, has a similar effect.
3. Diabetes – the risk of suffering from erectile dysfunction is over twice as high in men with type 2 diabetes. The condition involves high blood sugar levels (which can damage the nerves), as well as arterial stiffness and inflammation, all of which lead to reduced sexual performance.
4. Low testosterone – although it is not the most common cause, low testosterone levels can also lead to erectile dysfunction. The hormone plays a pivotal role in supporting sexual function (as well as many other body processes), so its deficiency naturally affects one’s ability to get and maintain erections.
5. Depression and anxiety – these psychological conditions are often linked to erectile dysfunction. Depression is known to lead to low libido, while anxiety and stress can cause sexual performance issues by lowering the levels of testosterone and nitric oxide (the substance that dilates the blood vessels).
6. Performance anxiety – this comes down to being nervous about one’s ability to perform sexually, stemming from prior bad experiences or from feeling additional pressure to perform well, for instance, if you’re in a new relationship. Possibly, this cause can be worked out with your partner or through therapy.

Symptoms of ED

Erectile dysfunction is a condition that can be characterized by the inability to maintain an erection during sex. There are four main symptoms associated with erectile function:

1. Difficulty achieving an erection – being unable to achieve an erection regardless of sexual stimulation.
2. Difficulty maintaining an erection – failing to maintain an erection throughout the entire sexual intercourse. Sometimes accompanied by premature ejaculation.
3. Reduced sexual arousal – a decrease in sex drive, which can impact the general quality of sex life.
4. Ejaculatory problems – difficulty achieving orgasm or only being able to ejaculate a small amount of semen.

Can CBD Help With Erectile Dysfunction?

In view of the causes and symptoms above, it is clear that erectile dysfunction is a multifaceted condition, and not all of the causes can be addressed by CBD products. However, the science behind CBD’s mechanism of action reveals that it can be helpful for alleviating some of the underlying conditions of erectile dysfunction.

The main benefit you may want to look after when considering CBD is its potential to help with anxiety. That is, CBD shows the potential to reduce anxiety by affecting the the way endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulates body processes linked to anxiety, such as heart rate, blood pressure, sleep, and appetite.

Besides, CBD may improve blood circulation and vascular health thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. That said, however, it is important to mention that CBD may also interact with certain blood pressure medications, so this needs to be taken into consideration.

Lastly, studies have shown that CBD can boost libido. CBD does not stimulate your body to produce more testosterone; instead, it improves stimulates the receptors that regulate sexual response, and thus, may be helpful in addressing low libido.

CBD For Erectile Dysfunction FAQ

What Are the Downsides of Taking CBD?

CBD is normally safe to use, however, there are a few potential risks. Light side effects include diarrhea, fatigue, and changes in appetite. These can be common when you first start using CBD oil. If these effects occur, it is best to stop using the product for a day or two until your body gets used to it.

More severe side effects include liver damage, which is the primary concern when talking about CBD. It is important to note that these effects are mostly related to taking extremely large doses of CBD, and not those considered “normal” or therapeutic.

CBD may also interact with some medications, especially those that have a grapefruit warning on them. If you’re on any kind of medication, it is best to talk to a healthcare professional before using CBD products.

Can You Naturally Cure Erectile Dysfunction?

Although it should not be treated lightly, erectile dysfunction is a treatable condition. It is often linked to other health conditions, so treating them will also have a positive impact on your sexual performance. Typically, it is done through a combination of medications, sex therapy, and lifestyle changes.

Treating erectile dysfunction naturally often involves lifestyle changes designed to improve penile blood circulation and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, including:

• Quitting smoking and drinking alcohol;
• Exercising regularly;
• Maintaining a healthy diet;
• Losing weight;
• Reducing stress levels.

CBD shows great in alleviating some of the symptoms and underlying conditions associated with erectile dysfunction. However, it should not be considered a cure for ED or as an alternative to medication prescribed by your healthcare practitioner. If you’re considering using CBD products to help improve your sexual function, make sure to consult with a medical professional first.