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While there is no evidence to show CBD can directly treat erectile dysfunction (ED), it can help with other conditions that may increase a person’s risk of developing it.

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound that comes from the cannabis plant. CBD products are available in many topical forms, such as creams, lotions, and lubricants, that individuals can apply to their penis. However, a person with ED may wish to consult a doctor to develop a treatment plan for the condition and discuss the safety of CBD.

This article discusses the use of CBD in more detail. It looks at the benefits and risks of CBD for ED, as well as other treatments that may relieve erectile problems.

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According to a 2018 study, CBD may help treat symptoms of various conditions, including:

There is no evidence directly supporting the use of CBD to treat ED. However, CBD may provide some relief in people with certain health problems that may be risk factors for ED.

Learn more about CBD oil.

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of cannabinoids to determine whether these can improve symptoms in people with multiple sclerosis. This is a long-term condition that causes vertigo, vision problems, tremors, and fatigue, among other symptoms. There is hope that if cannabinoids can help treat MS symptoms, these patients can avoid common MS medications that lead to ED.

People with MS may develop ED, but this is sometimes a side effect of their medication.

A 2021 study notes that men with anxiety disorders have an increased chance of experiencing ED.

Another study found that CBD may have antidepressant, antipsychotic, and antiepileptic effects. This shows that it may be a potential treatment to reduce symptoms of anxiety, which could benefit those who have anxiety-induced ED.

Some researchers also consider chronic stress, personality disorders, and relationship problems to be risk factors for ED. A 2019 study states that oral CBD may help reduce symptom severity in people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, it may provide greater benefits in combination with psychiatric sessions.

Learn more about other supplements for ED.

CBD may be effective in relieving pain.

The human body contains the endocannabinoid system, which regulates different functions, such as appetite, emotional behavior, pain sensation, and memory.

The body produces neurotransmitters, known as endocannabinoids, which attach to the cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system.

Studies indicate that CBD may affect endocannabinoid receptor activity. This may help reduce inflammation, which may be beneficial for people with chronic pain.

CBD products come in different forms. Some forms, such as topical oils and lubricants, are designed for topical application and claim to improve circulation. There are also gummies, chewing gums, and creams.

Some of the companies that carry CBD products include:

It may be a good idea to check the price, ingredient list, and dose before committing to a purchase.

CBD is also available in three types that contain different amounts of cannabinoids:

Learn more about the best CBD products.

CBD may have other benefits. One study suggests that CBD may help reduce nerve inflammation in rats with diabetes.

A 2019 analysis of the effects of CBD on anxiety and sleep suggests that a dose of 300–600 milligrams (mg) may help reduce cortisol levels. This indicates that CBD may have a sedative effect, as higher doses may benefit individuals with epilepsy, insomnia, or anxiety.

However, the results may not have been accurate. The researchers state that most participants were also getting treated with psychiatric medications, and this may have had an effect on the results.

Research also found that CBD can reduce cravings in those who are withdrawing from tobacco smoking.

Learn more about the benefits of CBD oil.

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that CBD is safe, and most side effects occur when people use it in combination with other drugs. In fact, some countries are marketing CBD as a medicinal product.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mentions the potential side effects that CBD can cause. These include:

  • liver injury
  • fertility problems in males
  • diarrhea
  • irritability

Also, it may be best for people to seek medical advice before buying a CBD product, as not all have gone through the FDA’s approval process.

The FDA claims that it has only approved one cannabis-derived drug product and three synthetic cannabis-related drug products. These are available with a prescription.

Learn more about the effects and side effects of CBD oil.

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) mentions self-care tips, medications, and devices that may help treat ED.

Self-care tips

People with erectile problems may consider doing the following:

  • quitting smoking, if applicable
  • limiting alcohol consumption
  • engaging in regular physical exercise
  • eating more fruits and vegetables

Medications

Doctors may prescribe medications that increase blood flow in the penis during stimulation. These include sildenafil, vardenafil, and tadalafil.

These may not be safe for individuals who have heart problems and are taking nitrates. These drugs can interact with ED treatments and cause a sudden drop in blood pressure.

Learn more about medications for ED.

Vacuum pumps

Vacuum pumps are devices that stimulate blood flow to the penis to cause an erection. Healthcare professionals may recommend using a pump for up to 30 minutes; after that, a person may be more likely to develop skin irritation.

Learn more about ED pumps.

Surgery

Some individuals may undergo surgery where a urologist implants a device that helps them maintain an erection. This takes place in a hospital, and a person may be able to use the device after 4–6 weeks.

In other cases, the procedure may involve artery reconstruction, which may be best for those who are under 30 years old. Doctors repair the arteries to remove the blockages that may be constricting blood circulation to the penis.

Learn more about ED surgery.

There are no studies that confirm the effectiveness and safety of CBD products in the treatment of ED. However, CBD may help relieve symptoms of depression, anxiety, or stress that can increase a person’s likelihood of developing erectile problems.

Companies such as Charlotte’s Web, Joy Organics, and Lazarus Naturals offer different types of CBD products. These may not be safe for everyone, as the FDA does not regulate all CBD products.

Medications, surgery, and home remedies may help individuals with ED achieve and maintain an erection.