No, saliva is not good for lubrication during sexual activity because it dries quickly, doesn't reduce friction effectively, and carries bacteria or viruses, potentially causing infections or irritation by disrupting the vaginal microbiome, making dedicated lubricants much safer and more effective.
Spit is not lube. Let me explain why. First, spit is composed of 98% water. That means it evaporates almost instantly which leaves you drier and more vulnerable to friction.
Ultimately, even if the mere consistency of saliva is kept in mind, it isn't actually a good lube. It is more watery than slippery and dries pretty quickly. Secondly, there is no slickness in saliva, which increases the risk of wear and tear down there, due to friction.
"There is evidence that saliva has testosterone in it," said Rutgers University anthropologist Helen Fisher, and testosterone increases sex drive. "And there is evidence that men like sloppier kisses with more open mouth.
Oxytocin – The Bonding Hormone
When you kiss, your brain releases oxytocin [4], which can make you feel calm, happy, and safe. It also lowers stress and anxiety, which is why kissing often feels so comforting, especially during tough times.
"There's evidence that saliva has testosterone in it, and there's also evidence that men like sloppier kisses with more open mouth," Fisher said. "That suggests to me that they are unconsciously trying to transfer testosterone to trigger the sex drive in women."
Medical experts say using saliva as a lubricant during sexual intercourse increases the risk of the human immunodeficiency virus, hepatitis, and herpes infection. They also noted that sexually transmitted infections like candidiasis, chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhoea can also be transmitted through the practice.
What can you use instead of lube?
Anorectal cells innately produce some mucus that can be thought of as having an element of lubrication, at the distal junction of the anus, two differing cell types meet and form a seam. At this location, there are glands that secrete mucus.
7 Foods That Naturally Enhance Lubrication
Arousal. When a female feels sexually aroused, the Bartholin glands produce more fluid. This fluid helps lubricate the vagina during sexual activity, decreasing the risk of painful friction and injuries. Some people notice that their vagina becomes lubricated during sex even if they do not feel aroused.
Vitamin E: An antioxidant that boosts vaginal lubrication. Sources include nuts, seeds, vegetables, fruits, and plant-based oils. Fish Oil: Omega-3 fatty acids increase lubrication and promote blood flow and circulation. Linseed (Flaxseed): Contains lignans that enhance natural lubrication.
Not Meant for Oral Use: Vaseline is not formulated to be ingested. While a small amount likely won't harm you, regular or accidental swallowing isn't ideal. May Trap Bacteria: Its waxy coating can trap plaque, food particles, or bacteria if applied directly to teeth.
Absolutely. High-quality lubricants made with natural ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin-free formulas are safe for everyday use. The key is to avoid harsh chemicals, dyes, or parabens.
Small and unintentional ingestion of a personal lubricant is unlikely to cause anything beyond mild stomach upset. However, it important to note that each product differs in its ingredients, and the amount swallowed dictates what, if any, symptoms occur.
The trio of turn-ons included: feeling desired, unexpected sexual opportunities, and the intimacy of the couple's communication.
French kisses can be more stimulating than kisses without the tongue since the lips, tongue, and other parts of the mouth are powerful erogenous zones that contribute to sexual arousal.
Nape of the Neck: Place soft kisses along the nape, moving slowly from the hairline downward. Lightly graze the area with your teeth or fingertips. Side of the Neck: Kiss and lick the sides of the neck, alternating with gentle sucking. Pay attention to your partner's reactions to find the most sensitive spots.
But it does provide some rough guidelines as to how soon may be too soon to make long-term commitments and how long may be too long to stick with a relationship. Each of the three numbers—three, six, and nine—stands for the month that a different common stage of a relationship tends to end.
Sensing the hubbub, the adrenal glands unleash adrenaline. Cue a pounding heart, heavy breathing, or sweaty palms. (If you two become a couple, kissing could eventually trigger an opposite effect—peace instead of passion.)
Calendula and chamomile can help ease vaginal irritation. Moreover, marshmallow root helps increase lubrication. For your convenience, these herbs are available in capsule or tincture form. However, before using these herbs, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider.