Pleasure is your right when it comes to intimate moments. However, it's not an easy ride every time. That is when you need the perfect personal lubricant. Some people stick to prescribed lubes in the market, while others rely on everyday household items like aloe vera. The question "Can you use aloe vera as lube?" has become popular these days. Why? A lot of couples want organic alternatives to packed products. Although aloe vera gel may appear to be a natural alternative to vaginal dryness, the truth is not quite as simple as you would imagine. This article will give you a reality check. We will also see what medical professionals have to say about using aloe vera as lube.
Why People Try Aloe Vera as a Lubricant
Aloe vera as a lubricant seems like an option due to its moisturizing and healing properties. Medical News Today reports that aloe vera is water-based and, therefore, theoretically compatible with condoms. Hence, most individuals prefer using aloe vera because it's plant-based without artificial chemicals.
Healthline also indicates that the consistency and moisturizing nature of aloe vera would make it appear like the perfect natural substitute. The pH of the gel is around 4.5, which aligns with the normal vaginal pH (3.8-4.5). So, at first glance, it seems promising to use this gel. This compatibility in terms of pH has many people thinking that aloe vera may be an effective organic lubricant.
A study released in the International Journal of Research and Review determined that pure aloe vera extract would decrease vaginal discharge. It is also another reason why people view it as advantageous for intimate well-being.
Nonetheless, the couple's interest in aloe vera gel as lube signifies the issues they face with commercial lubricants. Some lubricants include glycerin, propylene glycol, and preservatives, which may irritate the vaginal canal. However, one needs to understand the issues and risks associated with aloe vera gel.
Risks of Using Aloe Vera Gel During Sex
Although aloe vera has a natural profile, applying aloe vera as lube can be risky. The main issue is the disparity between products packaged as "100% pure aloe vera" and commercial aloe vera gels. Most commercial aloe vera products come with additives, preservatives, alcohol, and fragrances. These may cause extreme irritation when applied to sensitive genital tissues.
Plus, it can not be practical as a lubricant. As research also suggests that aloe vera quickly dries out during sexual intercourse and needs constant reapplication.
Dalili Medical cautions that aloe vera gel as lube should only be applied externally on the vulva area, never inside the vagina. Why? It may interfere with the natural vaginal flora and lead to infection. The same antimicrobial activity that makes aloe vera useful for healing wounds can contribute to killing off beneficial bacteria in your vagina.
The other serious concern is conception attempts. One medical video by IVF expert Dr Supriya Puranik describes how aloe vera is sperm-friendly in its pure form but can change vaginal pH. It can pose a risk of infection with its antimicrobial action. When couples are attempting conception, this pH imbalance may compromise the optimal environment for conception.
Expert Opinions from Doctors
Medical practitioners have conflicting but conservative views about using aloe vera as a personal lubricant. Dermatologist Dr Madhuri Agarwal strongly recommends against applying aloe vera on the genital regions. According to Elle India, she says, "Aloe Vera application as an intimate area wash is not advisable ideally, especially if you are using it in a concentrated form."
Dr Yuvraj Jadeja (gynaecologist and infertility specialist) cautions that consumers should not use aloe vera-based intimate products. He simply states that any commercial or perfumed product containing aloe vera has chemicals. His golden rule is to opt for "natural but well-researched, time-tested and above all, evidence-based medicated products.”
On the other hand, UK vulval dermatologist Dr Elizabeth Venner notes that many women with genital skin conditions experience less irritation with aloe-based lubricants. She, along with other global practitioners such as Paula Chaplin (specialist nurse) and Dr David Edwards, MBBS, MSc DRCOG (sex dysfunction specialist), only recommends aloe-based lubricants that are certified organic.
The statements of health experts need more scientific evidence. There is a need for more research in this area to form a concrete conclusion. However, we have at least found out that some people may face performance issues and possible health consequences.
CBD Lube - Safer Aloe-Based Alternatives
CBD-infused lubricants are a research-supported alternative which brings together plant-derived benefits with intimate wellness studies. Instead of household aloe vera gel as lube, you can use CBD lubricants for higher pleasure and safety.
The Journal of Sexual Medicine and Frontiers in Pharmacology have published studies indicating that CBD is able to enhance blood flow to genital areas. It can decrease inflammation and relax muscles, which is good for sexual pleasure. Dr June Chin, a quoted integrative medicine physician at Hempbuti, describes how "CBD can promote relaxation, reduce inflammation, and increase blood flow to sensitive areas".
Healthline explains that CBD can potentially decrease anxiety and enhance natural lubrication. According to Alex Capano, medical director for Ananda Hemp and a professor for Thomas Jefferson University's Lambert Centre for Medicinal Cannabis study, "There are so many cannabinoid receptors in reproductive organs and sexual tissue. CBD increases blood flow to tissues, which increases sensitivity and promotes the body's natural lubrication."
Conclusion
Medical professionals always advise using clean products for intimate use over household alternatives. The genital area needs special attention, and products intended for regular skincare can't match the requirements of genital tissue during sex.
Trust scientifically-developed intimate wellness products for safer sex. Discover the Goddess Naturals line of CBD-infused lubricants. These are specifically designed for your pleasure and protection. Our products merge the healing potential of CBD with lab-tested ingredients for intimate use. Check out the product range from Goddess Naturals to learn how quality intimate products can revolutionize your sexual experience.