Looking back, you can’t help but cringe at what our predecessors used as an alternative to lubes. And although they began the journey to sexual satisfaction, not all made it to the end.
The Greeks—who happened to be huge sex enthusiasts, used olive oil to anoint their genitalia to get the avalanche of sexual juices flowing. The Edo people of Japan weren’t far behind when it came to sex albeit threading a different path. They turned to the sea for a solution and derived a gelatinous substance called carrageenan from seaweed.
And if you think that was weird, a paste-like replacement called tororo-jiru might change that. Made from grated yams, this lube doesn’t exist anymore and is now a popular soup in Japan. As centuries went on, more appropriate solutions sprung up, some of which retained properties from the past.
Some lube and condoms which lay idle in drawers and nightstands—until called upon—across the globe contain carrageenan.
A widely less commercialized option would be saliva. Something that had and is still the default source of lubrication. A form of lube many have used one too many times.
Yemi, a close friend, shares his a story of a time he wished he had some lube.
He was in his second or third year in university and at the time, he had found himself in a situationship with a nymphomaniac at that time. All Yemi and Ada did was just have sex like rabbits on viagra.
Ada’s roommate had gone home for the weekend and while she was away, her and Yemi had burned through condoms as quickly as he could put them on.
The first round crossfaded into the second and then the third. Somewhere along the line, her insides started offering some resistance. It became painful for everyone and due to the lack of lube, the third condom ripped.
After seeking her consent, Yemi hurled all the saliva his parched throat could generate and smeared it all over her genitals but it wasn’t enough.
Arched in the doggy position, she handed him a bottle of water as an unlikely and unheard-of alternative. After he had smuggled some gulps to wet his throat, Yemi doused what was left of the water on her lady part but it didn’t quite do the trick. Their sex up until the eve of Sunday was stuttered. They agreed it was time to go get some lube at the pharmacy.
It was during that weekend Yemi realized that; after over 20 orgasms in the span of three days, at some point, sperm stops coming out and all that’s left is just air…nothing but air. Like a ball being deflated.
With the different sexual proclivities roaming wildly and freely in the world now the lube industry has done well to evolve with it. How it has done that, you’d soon find out.
What is Lube and Why is it Necessary?
I’ve heard people naively express their distaste for lube without ever trying or having a tangible and coherent reason—something not entirely out of place among our species.
The personal lubricant was created to wring out the best possible pleasure out of sex and prevent vaginal dryness. I’m speaking from experience when I say, no matter how horny and eager both parties are to have sex, neither of them can account for vaginal dryness. When that happens, trust that thirst will get defenestrated—hence the need for it.
What Types are There?
When selecting the lube that’s right for you, you’ll want to consider the different types available – Water, Silicone, Oil and Hybrid.
Water-Based Lubes
Made from H2O, A water-based lube has the advantage of being able to be used for practically any activity you can imagine – even activities that involve silicone toys. The popularity of this type of lube is based on three reasons: You can be rest assured it wouldn’t stain your garments, it is easy on the skin, and it is easily removed with water. Good options would be Lube Life Water-Based Lubricant and Shibari Personal Lubricant.
Silicone-Based Lubes
Perhaps you’ve found your perfect match if you’re looking for something that doesn’t need reapplying as often. A silicone-based lube usually lasts longer, is thicker, and silkier. If you’re one who loves shower sex then hurdle up because this type of lube would not stop the party from going and going and going. You can keep going till mama calls. Uberlube and Replens Lubricant are sufficient to keep the party going.
Oil-Based Lubes
In contrast, oil-based lubes are thicker, but do not last as long as the others. Massage time just got better as oil-based lubes can also be sexy and fun despite their usual job. One notable con would be being wary of stains using it. All-Natural Intimate Moisturizer, Lubricant from Coco Bliss is an excellent choice.
Hybrid Lubes
These lubricants are a mixture of silicone and water-based formulas; they last longer than water-based lubes but are not as thick. Jo Hybrid 4 Oz Lubricant is a solid option.
