How Cannabis Suppositories Treat Gastrointestinal Problems –

Have you heard of cannabis suppositories and wondered why you would use suppositories? You are not alone – many people are unfamiliar with suppositories. But there are good reasons to use cannabis suppositories for gastrointestinal problems. Let us talk about it.

What are suppositories?

Suppositories are any medication that is inserted into the vagina or rectum. Typically they are used for several reasons:

1. Administer the medication directly to the site of pain or discomfort (eg, menstrual cramps, abdominal pain, constipation, etc.).
2. Medicines are taken up quickly.
3. The person is unable to swallow medication because of problems with nausea and vomiting or an impairment of the esophagus or digestive tract.

What we are discussing in this article is rectal suppositories for gastrointestinal problems.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition affecting approximately 11 percent of the world’s population. It is an inflammatory condition that affects the colon. It is characterized by stomach pain and problems with bowel habits – more or less frequent (diarrhea or constipation) and a different type of bowel movement.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

The cause of inflammatory bowel disease is chronic inflammation of the digestive tract, leading to abdominal pain, severe diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss and malnutrition. The two most common forms of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

While these two diseases share a number of similar characteristics, there are some significant differences;

• Ulcerative colitis only occurs in the colon and only in the innermost lining. In contrast, Crohn’s disease can occur in any part of the gastrointestinal tract and in all layers of the intestinal walls.
• Ulcerative colitis is characterized by persistent inflammation of the large intestine, while in Crohn’s disease healthy parts of the intestine can still settle between the inflamed areas.

Does Cannabis Improve Symptoms Associated With Gastrointestinal Issues?

Researchers have begun to explore the role of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the normal regulation of the gastrointestinal system.

They discovered that cannabinoid receptors are present in the gastrointestinal system, including the colon. The ECS is involved in numerous gastrointestinal functions – digestion rate, gut motility and defecation. IBS and IBD can interfere with some or all of these normal functions.

We know that cannabis helps treat inflammation throughout the body. Research supports its contribution to reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal system and reducing pain.

Even more notable from the research was the overall improvement in patients’ quality of life after using cannabis to treat their symptoms. A 2012 study found an improvement in the quality of life of IBS sufferers on top of positive health markers — improved work ability, social behavior, and less depression. A 2011 study also found that cannabis reduced the need for other medications and possibly even the need for surgery in patients with IBD. In this study, 45 percent of participants achieved clinical remission and 25 percent discontinued corticosteroid therapy.

Is CBD or THC Better?

The research is still in the early stages; However, a 2011 study found that CBD alone was as effective as THC in treating IBS symptoms.

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Why suppositories over other consumption methods?

As we’ve already discussed, two benefits of cannabis suppositories are targeting the source of pain or inflammation and avoiding oral consumption due to nausea or vomiting. But are there other reasons to use cannabis suppositories over other consumption methods?

Yes!

Research suggests that rectal administration is more effective than oral administration. One reason for this could be the bioavailability of suppositories. However, more research is needed to fully understand the bioavailability and absorption of cannabis suppositories. We know that apparently higher doses of THC can be tolerated without getting high and that the effects of the cannabinoids last longer than other methods of consumption.

Why don’t you experience a high from high THC doses when taking it as a suppository? The same study suggests that this effect results from first-pass metabolism, meaning that the majority of cannabinoids are absorbed where they are first introduced into the body and therefore other parts of the body (blood and brain) are not reach in the same concentration.

How to use cannabis suppositories

The process of making cannabis suppositories involves combining cannabis or CBD oils with a carrier oil that hardens at low temperatures, like cocoa butter. The goal for a suppository is a hard, smooth exterior for easy insertion, but with the ability to dissolve quickly at body temperature.

First wash your hands, then lie in a comfortable position with your knees bent and relax your body. Carefully insert the suppository, pointed end first. Remain lying for a few minutes to allow the suppository to dissolve.

Note that you should not have a bowel movement for about an hour after insertion (so it may make sense to go first). It can also leak easily, so choose your underwear wisely and consider taking your dose right before bed.

Don’t forget to store your suppositories in a cool, dark place so they don’t melt.

Final Thoughts on Cannabis Suppositories for Gastrointestinal Issues

Cannabis suppositories aren’t the only way to treat symptoms related to gastrointestinal issues, but they can help relieve pain and inflammation faster by targeting the source.