CBD has been making the rounds lately as one of the hottest products in the market, and it’s easy to understand why. A huge number of people are vouching for CBD’s beneficial effects to your health and overall well-being, including how CBD can increase testosterone, a male hormone.
While CBD has been shown to alleviate stress and anxiety, relieve pain, and reduce depression, among its multitude of health benefits, there is much to learn as to how CBD can increase testosterone levels. But first, we must have a brief background of what CBD is in the first place.
What is CBD?
CBD is the common term for cannabidiol, a compound that is present in the cannabis plant, particularly in the hemp plant. It has recently gained widespread recognition due to the rise in the number of states that have legalized cannabis and were introduced to the benefits of various cannabis products such as CBD.
As opposed to THC, the main component in marijuana which is what cannabis is generally associated with, CBD does not have any psychoactive effects. CBD users do not experience the same “high” that THC brings.
The most common form of CBD is CBD oil, which can be used topically or ingested. With how ubiquitous the product is now, people have become creative with CBD use as well. Some people mix CBD in various food recipes or in beverages. In fact, there are now CBD cafes which allow customers to purchase and enjoy CBD products.
What is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone that is produced by humans and is mainly produced in men’s sex organs. The hormone plays a significant role in a man’s physical and sexual development.
Even after puberty, testosterone levels still affect men’s everyday lives. Testosterone regulates various bodily functions such as sperm production, bone mass, sex drive, strength and muscle size, and red blood cell production. In fact, testosterone levels in the body may even affect one’s overall sense of well-being.
Although testosterone levels generally do decrease as men age, it’s possible to develop imbalances in testosterone levels which could cause adverse effects.
What are the Causes and Symptoms of Low Testosterone?
Testosterone production can unexpectedly drop even in young men as a result of factors such as stress, injury, especially injuries near the testes or the interruption of blood flow to the testes, chemotherapy, medication, alcohol abuse, kidney failure, as well as other acute or chronic illnesses.
Unusually low testosterone levels can have multiple effects on a man’s physical and mental well-being. Low testosterone may result in a low sex drive, fatigue, a reduction in lean muscle mass, and erectile dysfunction. It can also affect men mentally as it may contribute to symptoms of depression.
If low testosterone levels aren’t attended to, some long-term effects may develop, such as loss of hair in the body, loss of muscle bulk and strength, and increase in body fat.
What is the Connection Between CBD and Testosterone?
There is still a dearth of proof as to whether CBD directly increases testosterone, but it can affect your testosterone levels indirectly in various ways.
CBD is generally known for its relaxing effects, and it has been shown that stress and low testosterone levels are linked. Put two and two together and CBD use may reduce stress levels and therefore alleviate the problems caused by low testosterone. By incorporating some CBD into your life, you will be able to not just address low testosterone levels due to stress, but also give yourself an overall better outlook and healthy life.
One of the most impactful effects of low testosterone is a lower sex drive, which can be pretty troublesome especially for older men in relationships. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system which results in a more positive mood. Plus, it should go without saying that the more relaxed you are, the more energy you have and the more likely that you’ll be in the mood for action in the bedroom.
Another way CBD can increase your testosterone levels is through CBD’s mood enhancing effects which can put you in a better disposition to exercise. Mood plays a huge part in exercise as a good mood will naturally encourage you to push yourself. Through productive exercise, you can increase testosterone levels in your body.
Should I Use CBD for My Testosterone Levels?
If you’re suffering from low testosterone, there are a variety of natural remedies to boost testosterone levels and using CBD is just one among many. In the end, whether you’d want to incorporate CBD is up to your preference. Nevertheless, whether you’re suffering from low testosterone or not, trying out CBD may bring significant positive changes in your life. Talk to a certified cannabis coach or medical marijuana doctor before trying any new supplement or lifestyle change, including CBD oil.