People who use marijuana may have more sex because they put less pressure on themselves when they are high.

There is some controversy over whether marijuana actually increases sexual appetite. Some believe the herb puts them deeper in the moment and allows the overall sexual experience to become more enjoyable, while others are of the opinion that this perceived enhancement is nothing more than a stoned illusion.

A 2018 CNN piece on the subject from licensed couples therapist Ian Kerner indicates that it’s more likely that pot plays a positive roll in the bedroom.

Although scientific minds are still unsure how marijuana might boost libido, some sex professionals believe the answer is as simple as marijuana giving a person the ability to calm down and get out of their heads.

“People who use marijuana may have more sex because they put less pressure on themselves when they are high, so they don’t have the same performance anxiety as those who are sober,” Amanda Pasciucco, a Connecticut sex therapist, told the news source. “A small amount of marijuana may also help increase your ability to communicate your preferences to your partner.”

Others believe there is a more biological reason behind weed’s ability to put people in the mood for love – and it begins with the body’s endocannabinoid system. Because these receptors control pleasure, pain, and relaxation, it makes sense that cannabis would open the door to increased sexual desire, says Peter Barsoom, founder of a cannabis company called 1906. “This effect can make sex feel even more enjoyable.”

Weed as a sex enhancement is not a new concept.

“Cannabis has been used as an aphrodisiac in many cultures for centuries. In India, it was used as far back as the seventh century,” Barsoom explained. “Its use for sexual health was documented in Chinese texts, amongst Germanic tribes and by many African cultures.”

But this sexual enrichment does not come from getting completely wrecked on high-powered strains. In fact, most experts recommend that couples experiment with low doses of cannabis in order to get the most of the belly grinding experience. But these same professionals caution the use of cannabis edibles for first time users “because you can overshoot…and have an uncomfortable experience,” explains sexologist Nick Karras, author of The Passionate High: A Guide to Using Cannabis For Better Sex and Creativity.

Marijuana is legal in only a handful a states for recreational use. And even in those states with medical marijuana laws on the books, most couple’s therapists are not permitted to recommend the herb for therapeutic purposes. This means that most couples interested in exploring the wondrous world of pot and sex can be forced to break the law. Don’t worry — it’ll be worth it.