Before we go to find the answer to this issue, let’s get to know the “cannabis plant” first. Cannabis is a flowering plant in the Cannabaceae family (commonly called cannabis). The cannabis plant contains more than 100 important cannabinoids.
Among them, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the key substance that causes psychoactive effects. The amount of THC and the psychoactive effects of cannabis depend on the environment where it is grown, the strain, cultivation methods, and the part of the cannabis plant used. The parts of the cannabis plant with the highest concentration of these substances are the flower clusters and leaves.
Cannabis plants, recognized for their medicinal benefits, have been used in extracts to treat psychiatric and neurological disorders, as well as to alleviate loss of appetite in cancer patients. This is why some countries allow cannabis cultivation for medical use, such as Canada, Israel, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and many other countries that accept cannabis for medical treatment.
However, cannabis still poses health risks if used improperly, which can lead to social harm. This is why many countries have strict control measures. The health risks and social impacts can be summarized as follows:
1. Respiratory system effects from continuous smoking can cause respiratory problems such as chronic cough and bronchitis.
2. Cardiovascular effects: Cannabis use increases heart rate, which is associated with adverse outcomes such as stroke and acute myocardial infarction.
3. Brain development effects, such as attention deficit and short-term memory loss.
4. Mental health disorders: Cannabis use is linked to mental health abnormalities, especially psychiatric disorders involving emotions, thoughts, symptoms, or behaviors. The more cannabis is used, the worse these symptoms become.
After getting a brief understanding of the cannabis plant, it is clear that cannabis can be beneficial if used properly, but misuse can cause serious harm. Many studies support cannabis in relation to sex, although some might imagine that cannabis users just sit around intoxicated, lazy, fatigued, lacking energy, and uninterested in activities, including sex.
But who would believe that cannabis actually stimulates men and women? As we know, cannabis contains THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), which affects the nervous system, creating an intense euphoric feeling and helping balance both brain hemispheres, increasing happiness and concentration. However, cannabis affects the cardiovascular system. For male erection, the smooth muscles in the penis must relax
to allow blood flow into the penis. However, if THC combines with cannabinoids in the male genital area, the erection process can be interrupted. Sometimes cannabis may cause men to feel too relaxed to achieve an erection. This remains a problem in using cannabis related to sex. Although some studies support this, others show opposite results.
Besides the above, many other factors can cause male sexual dysfunction, such as emotional and psychological problems, brain and nervous system impacts affecting sexual performance, certain medications like antihypertensives, antidepressants, and sedatives,
as well as chronic illnesses like heart, liver, lung, kidney diseases, cancer. Additionally, fatigue problems, especially inflammation of blood vessels, vascular stenosis, or arteriosclerosis, and decreased male hormone testosterone levels also contribute.
Now to answer the question, “Does cannabis cause erectile dysfunction?” Based on the research reviewed, cannabis can cause erectile dysfunction, but… it depends on other factors, not just cannabis use alone. Some research also supports cannabis use to enhance sexual performance if used in appropriate amounts.
However, in Thailand, cannabis is not yet approved for general use. If found in possession, it is still illegal. For those who believe in using cannabis to enhance sex, it is recommended to consult a specialist doctor to receive proper and appropriate treatment.
