Free Shipping
Icon
romantic couple on the beach

Sativa vs. Indica for Arousal: What Cannabis is Best for Sex?

Table of Contents

In more ways than one, cannabis is a seriously sexy plant. It relaxes the mind, deepens connections, and turns up arousal, sensation, and pleasure. But when it comes to finding the right strain, is it as simple as choosing sativa or indica for arousal?

Spoiler: not quite. The real magic lies in the plant's phytochemical profile, the unique blend of cannabinoids and terpenes in each strain. These compounds do more than just elevate mood. From greater desire and intimacy to heightened sensations and even more exhilarating orgasms, cannabis holds a lot of promise for the bedroom.

Let's explore the research into cannabis for arousal and uncover a few easy ways to introduce this plant into your own sexual endeavors. 

How Does Cannabis Affect Arousal? 

couple intimacy

First things first, what exactly is arousal?

Arousal, in the context of sexuality, refers to the physical and emotional elements that prepare the body and mind for sexual activity or that happen in response to sexual sensation. Arousal is part mental anticipation and part physical response.

And, as it turns out, cannabis is often a highly arousing plant. This notion is not rooted purely in anecdotal evidence, however—there is already a surprising amount of research into the ways cannabis influences arousal, desire, and our overall sexual experience. 

Here are a few of the more interesting discoveries: 

Increased Desire and Arousal

Multiple studies report that both men and women experience heightened sexual desire, increased arousal, and greater sexual satisfaction after enjoying cannabis. Over 70 percent of participants in a 2019 study reported increased sexual satisfaction.

Enhanced Sensory Experience

Perhaps related to the way cannabis changes how we experience music, visuals, and flavors, it's also frequently associated with heightened sensitivity and intensified feelings. The same 2019 survey found that just over 65% of respondents reported experiencing more powerful orgasms, and more than 73% said their sensitivity to touch had increased.

Relaxation and Reduced Anxiety 

Arousal is inherently a total mind and body experience, and cannabis has a way of working through many of these physical and mental channels to amplify them. Just look at its relaxing, stress-relieving, and calming effects. These can all help you leave daily worries at the door, making it easier to get in the mood and free your inhibitions.

Better Orgasms

Cannabis has been linked to more powerful orgasms. There are reports across genders, but many studies have found that this effect is much more widely reported for women. In the words of one study, "Women perceived that cannabis use increased their sexual functioning and satisfaction, particularly increased desire and orgasm intensity."

Just keep in mind that everyone experiences cannabis differently. As with most cannabis-related research, the findings are complex, often depending on dose, frequency, gender, and individual variability.

What's Better for Arousal: Sativa vs. Indica?

cannabis flower plant

We've established that cannabis in general can help you out in your quest for greater intimacy, but is an indica or sativa strain more effective for this purpose? Well, while the cannabis world may still largely revolve around the segregation of indica versus sativa, the reality is that there is very little basis for this continued division. These terms no longer reflect distinct species, nor can they reliably predict how a strain will make you feel. 

In truth, nearly all modern cannabis strains are hybrids, the result of decades of crossbreeding. As the researcher behind a 2022 study put it, "[r]educing cannabis to two categories does little to capture [its] incredible versatility and potential."

But that doesn’t mean all strains feel the same. If you are seeking specific strains to make you horny, you'll need to broaden your understanding of what leads to this plant's diverse effects in the first place.

What truly shapes the cannabis experience is each cultivar's unique phytochemical profile, particularly its terpenes (aromatic compounds also found in lavender, citrus, pepper, etc.) and cannabinoids (like THC, CBD, CBN). These compounds interact in what’s known as the entourage effect, producing a wide range of potential experiences, from relaxing to energizing and even arousing. 

Even if the sativa/indica divide is scientifically outdated, the nuanced combinations of terpenes and cannabinoids across variants do create distinct experiences that are very real and very worth exploring

That’s why you’ll still see terms like "indica-forward" or "sativa-dominant" used today. While not scientifically rigid, they serve as a helpful shorthand to describe the general vibe a strain might offer, based on its terpene content, cannabinoid profile, and sometimes its genetic lineage.

Think of it like tasting notes in wine or coffee. They aren’t definitive, but they help set expectations and guide your experience, especially when paired with lab-tested data and your own personal preferences.

3 Best Cannabis Strains for Sex

To find what type of cannabis, or more specifically, what strain, turns you on isn't an exact science. Instead, it's a journey of self-discovery. We all respond differently to cannabinoids and terpenes due to our body's unique physiology, so dialing into the optimal sensual experience is going to take time to figure out. 

To kick off your sexy process of investigation, here are three of our favorite strains that many have found to be highly arousing:

Northern Lights

A classic indica strain originating from the West Coast, Northern Lights brings a happy, relaxing, and mellow energy into the room. Its top terpenes include terpinolene, caryophyllene, and myrcene for a sweetly complex profile.

Experience this strain in a perfectly predictable form with our Northern Lights Live Rosin Gummies. Every piece is infused with 25 milligrams of hemp-derived Delta-9 THC and Northern Lights live rosin for sensual and relaxing, body-focused effects.

Pack of Northern Lights Indica Live Rosin Gummies with Delta-9 THC
5 stars
220
Northern Lights - Delta 9 Live Rosin Gummies
25mg D9/Pc
indica indica
EXPLORE
Pack of Northern Lights Indica Live Rosin Gummies with Delta-9 THC and CBD
5 stars
104
Northern Lights - Delta 9 Live Rosin Gummies + CBD
5mg D9/Pc 5mg CBD/Pc
indica indica
EXPLORE

Amnesia Haze

Bright, citrusy, and sweet, Amnesia Haze is a celebrated sativa-dominant hybrid known for its euphoric energy, creative spark, and lighthearted vibes. Whether you’re chasing inspiration or an intimate connection, this strain sets the perfect mood.

Explore this strain's pleasurable effects with our disposable vape filled with Amnesia Haze live resin. Its unique blend of cannabinoids, including THCA, Delta-8 and HHC, in a 3000-puff format promises long nights of connection that can be curated to any experience level.

5g Disposable with THC-A Liquid Diamonds and Amnesia Haze Live Resin
5 stars
73
Amnesia Haze - 5g THCA Liquid Diamond Live Resin Disposable
sativa sativa
EXPLORE

Sour Diesel

One of the most iconic sativa strains of the ’90s is making its way into the bedroom. With a bold, sour aroma powered by a terpene trio of caryophyllene, terpinolene, and myrcene, this old-school cultivar brings an energetic edge to intimate moments.

Our Sour Diesel Peak Gummies are the perfect option for those seeking intensity. Inside each, you'll get 100 milligrams of hemp-derived Delta-9 plus Sour Diesel live rosin for a powerfully uplifting euphoric experience. Keep in mind, this is a big serving of THC and is best suited to those with a high tolerance. However, we've scored each gummy into four even pieces to tailor your experience. 

Mandarin Sour Diesel - Peak Delta-9 Gummy and packaging
5 stars
171
Mandarin Sour Diesel - Peak Delta 9 Gummy
100mg D9/Pc
sativa sativa
EXPLORE

A Reminder About Cannabis in the Bedroom

Like any intimate experience, whether or not cannabis is involved, consent is always key. Always have a clear, sober conversation about intentions, boundaries, and comfort levels before introducing cannabis into your sex life. 

Start slow, choose a serving that supports presence rather than impairment, and prioritize ongoing communication throughout. When approached with care, cannabis can elevate intimacy in a respectful, connective, and empowering way.

Looking for a More Effective Approach? Aphrodisiac Blends With Cannabinoids

arouse gummies

Whether it’s the beautiful synergy of cannabinoids and terpenes in your favorite strain or a passionate fusion of plant-based aphrodisiacs, the entourage effect has a unique way of amplifying pleasure. Our Arouse Gummies are crafted with this synergy in mind—going beyond the indica and sativa divide to offer a bold, new approach to sensual cannabis experiences.

Each gummy features a thoughtful blend of cannabinoids and time-honored aphrodisiac botanicals, formulated to unlock cannabis’ naturally sexy side. Available in options for both men and women, these gummies provide precise, reliable support for heightened sensitivity, deep relaxation, and enhanced intimacy.

If you’d rather skip the strain-to-strain guessing game, bring our Arouse Gummies along on your next date night—and let the mood take the lead.

arouse him gummies bag
5 stars
11
Him - Arouse Gummies
5mg D9/Pc
Fast-Acting
EXPLORE
arouse her gummy bag with gummy in front
5 stars
21
Her - Arouse Gummies
5mg D9/Pc
Fast-Acting
EXPLORE
two bags of gummies, one pink and one red, with fruit on silk sheets
5 stars
27
Arouse Gummies Duo
Fast-Acting
EXPLORE

Explore Cannabis for Highly Pleasurable Outcomes

You are not the only one curious about how cannabis can enhance your intimate life, and there's no better time to explore. From strain-specific experimentation to targeted formulations like our Arouse Gummies, the potential for deeper connection, heightened sensation, and even more powerful orgasms is possible. 

Ready to turn up the heat? Explore what Hometown Hero has to offer to make your next experience one to remember. Until next time, happy exploring, and mind your mind. 

FDA Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your healthcare professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.

Follow us
Related products
Arouse Gummies Duo
Arouse Gummies Duo
Her - Arouse Gummies
Her - Arouse Gummies
5mg D9/Pc
Him - Arouse Gummies
Him - Arouse Gummies
5mg D9/Pc
Explore collection
Related Posts
5 Must-Try Ingredients to Ignite Passion and Sexual Intimacy
February 5, 2024
5 Must-Try Ingredients to Ignite Passion and Sexual Intimacy
Designed for Intimacy: the Secret Behind Our New Blend
February 5, 2025
Designed for Intimacy: the Secret Behind Our New Blend
Explore all posts