Suppositories can become a fast-acting mode of delivery. However, they are probably the least popular way of consuming CBD oil.
CBD suppositories only became popular due to the booming cannabis industry. Since legalization, more clinical and anecdotal evidence regarding cannabidiol (CBD) benefits and its multiple administration forms started appearing. However, CBD suppositories are not surprisingly the least popular.
People are now beginning to appreciate that CBD oil suppositories can provide an alternative delivery system that is highly efficient. They can either be inserted anally or vaginally.
There is a wide variety of CBD suppositories, and some are rarely safe for rectal and vaginal use. Others are limited to anal insertion only. In this discussion, we focus on products designed to be inserted rectally.
Keep in mind that some suppositories contain THC, one of the controlled substances that are illegal in many areas. They come by various names, such as “cannabis” suppositories, marijuana suppositories, weed suppositories, or THC instead of CBD suppositories. If you cannot tolerate THC or THC is illegal in your location, stick to CBD products.
Both THC and CBD suppositories are available in many stores, but we will be overviewing products derived from hemp in this article. Remember that THC is not legal in all states. THC is illegal on a federal level, but some states allow the recreational use of marijuana.
When using CBD suppositories, be sure to follow instructions carefully. Also, read the product label to determine if the suppository is designed for rectal use, vaginal use only.
What are CBD Suppositories?
CBD suppositories are pill-sized products that contain CBD oil. They are designed to melt at body temperature after insertion into the vagina or the rectum. As soon as the product dissolves in the intestine’s mucosa layer, the CBD oil melts and releases the active ingredients, absorbed and transported into the bloodstream. The release of the therapeutic ingredients provides pain relief and other benefits.
CBD suppositories are available for rectal and vaginal use, but our focus will be on specific products for anal use. Remember that not all rectal suppositories are advised for vaginal usage. The vaginal suppositories are explicitly designed for safe vaginal use.
Benefits of Cannabis Suppositories
CBD suppositories possess specific benefits that other CBD oil products cannot provide. Whatever your reasons for cannabidiol use, there are instances when you can rely more on suppositories than any other method of CBD consumption.
For instance, CBD oil for oral use has a lower bioavailability because it has to pass through the digestive system. The fatty tissues in the stomach and the intestines absorb some of the CBD. Hence, a significant percentage of the cannabinoid will not be used because it will not reach the bloodstream.
Suppositories deliver a high percentage of the CBD directly to the bloodstream through the rectum’s mucosal linings. Therefore, most of the product’s components are fully utilized to relieve pain and other ailments.
Many patients who have neurodegenerative issues have trouble swallowing solid matter. CBD suppositories help these patients by delivering the active compounds through the rectum.
In terms of medical benefits, cannabis suppositories are beneficial for pain relief, especially for reproductive ailments and pelvic pain. The reproductive system hosts innumerable cannabinoid receptors, making the pelvic region susceptible to cannabinoids.
For those struggling with painful sex due to tight pelvic floor muscles, painful periods, or sciatica, cannabis suppositories can increase blood flow in the area and alleviate severe pain.
Most people use CBD for pain, while others use CBD against anxiety. CBD suppositories are beneficial in relieving pain in the reproductive and pelvic regions.
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A Brief History of Suppositories
Suppositories are not a new health trend. They go back thousands of years as archeologists have found molds of suppositories in 12th-century apothecaries. Also, people have been using cannabis for healing since around 5,000 years ago.
Suppository comes from suppositorum, meaning “something placed beneath.” The word was first used in the 1700s in academic literature to substitute for the term enema.
In ancient Egyptian documentation, they used suppositories to ease gastrointestinal problems. Some experts also suggest that the old Babylonian medical specialists prescribed suppositories to treat hemorrhoids.
Some sources assert that suppositories were independently invented by the indigenous people of North America even before Columbus sailed to the continent. They softened a piece of the dogwood tree, compressed it, and inserted it into the anus to treat hemorrhoids.
In the past, people encased herbs in honey or soap, allowed them to harden, and used them as suppositories. They eventually replaced honey and soap with cocoa butter and other plant oils.
Talking about suppositories and their application is still considered taboo in many cultures but quite popular in France among other countries. In the U.K., people avoid such a method of administering medication. In the U.S., suppositories are a little more widespread, but patients avoid discussing them with other people.
Who Benefits from Cannabis Suppositories
Some individuals with particular medical conditions benefit from using CBD oil suppositories over oral consumption. CBD suppositories are commonly used by:
- Patients with neurological conditions such as ALS, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease who have difficulty swallowing
- Patients who undergo chemotherapy and suffer from nausea and vomiting.
- Patients who are restricted from ingesting solid food before an operation or surgery
- Patients with compromised lungs who cannot tolerate inhalable CBD products and who do not want to take CBD capsules or pills
- Patients who want a faster delivery method for high concentration
Product Selection Method
If you are well-acquainted with CBD, you already know that CBD products are not made equally. You have to choose CBD brands from companies that show transparency and are dedicated to providing customers with safe and quality CBD suppositories.
Related: Extract Labs CBD Review
When you are shopping for CBD suppositories or any other CBD product, you have to take note of the following requirements:
CBD Brand Reputation
We choose CBD brands from transparent companies with a solid reputation. They have to be dedicated to providing safe and top-quality products.
Natural and Non-GMO
CBD products should be derived from all-natural and non-GMO U.S-grown hemp. The CBD must undergo a safe extraction method and produce the least amount of processing.
All other ingredients should be natural and non-GMO. It means that the source of the ingredients should not be genetically engineered.
Independent Third-Party Lab Results
Manufacturers of CBD products must openly show third-party lab test results to customers to prove that the cannabinoid levels in the product match the product label.
CBD suppositories must be tested to determine whether they contain pesticides, moulds, or heavy metals.
Active and Inactive Ingredients
We take a look at every active and inactive ingredient in the product to ensure that you get the best quality CBD products on the market. As much as possible, we recommend products made from all-natural ingredients as possible. The active ingredient is the specific component in the product that causes the desired physiological effect when consumed.
Potency
Users have different needs, desires, and purposes for CBD products. Some brands offer one or two brand potencies, while others offer more.
We constantly look for products that have a wide range of potencies to satisfy the needs, desires, and purposes of as many customers as possible. However, the brands of CBD suppositories in our recommended list contain 50 mg of CBD for every suppository.
Price Variation
We prefer to promote products that include a wide price range to cater to each individual’s budget. Prices will vary depending on the potency, serving size, volume, and added ingredients. We strive to provide you with the required information to make a well-informed decision to suit your particular needs and budget range.
Extraction Method
We seek to recommend products made using extraction methods that are safe and clean. There are primarily three methods used to extract CBD, and we will discuss each one below.
The first is solvent extraction using propane, ethanol, butane, or isopropyl alcohol to extract the cannabinoid from the plant. This extraction method is cheap and quick, but it risks leaving harmful solvent residue behind.
The second is the olive oil method, a clean and cost-effective extraction technique. The plant material is soaked in olive oil or any other carrier oil and heated to a specific temperature for a certain period. Soon enough, the carrier oil gets infused with the cannabinoids from the plant. However, the main issue with olive oil is that it can go rancid quickly and must be stored appropriately to maintain freshness. Many manufacturers use coconut oil as a carrier oil or any other option with a longer shelf life.
The best extraction method so far is the CO2 method. Carbon dioxide is cooled to the point that it reaches a liquid state. The hemp is mixed with the liquid, and both are subjected to high pressure to achieve infusion. It is an expensive method that requires proper equipment and facilities, but it produces an extract that is safe, potent, chlorophyll-free, and solvent-free.
With all these in mind, here are CBD School’s top 4 CBD suppository recommendations:
How many CBD suppositories should I use?
If you are a beginner, always discuss the optimum dosage with a qualified medical professional knowledgeable in CBD suppository usage. In addition, make sure to follow the proper dosage and instructions provided on the product page of the suppository.
Some CBD suppositories have around 20-25 mg CBD content. However, the products mentioned above each contain 50 mg of CBD. This amount may be too much for those just starting their CBD journey. Hence, it is best to cut the product in half to prevent lethargy or other adverse effects.
The most suitable dosage for each person varies depending on many factors. It is wise to start with a smaller amount and monitor how your body reacts. Always start with the minimal amount of CBD that produces the expected effect. If the dose is too small, it will not provide you with any benefit and will only be wasted. An amount that is too high might have adverse effects. Remember that CBD is a biphasic compound, and its effects can diminish or change when it surpasses a specific dose.
How to use CBD suppositories?
CBD suppositories that have a firm consistency are most efficient. Store them in a freezer or refrigerator to maintain their firmness and shape.
To insert a rectal CBD suppository, you should lie down sideways and pull your knees up towards your chest. Then, you need to insert the suppository, pointed end first, into the rectum using your index finger. Insert 2.5cm to 4cm of the suppository to reach past the inner anal sphincter. Make sure to wash your hands after inserting the product.
Clench the muscles of your buttocks together as you flex the inner muscles of the anus by approximately 3-4 seconds to prevent the suppository from slipping out of the anal cavity.
It is essential to lie down sideways for at least 2-3 minutes. Remember that the associated liquid from the suppository may leak mildly from your rectum for at least a few hours. Therefore, the best time to use a cannabis suppository is during your bedtime or nap time because you have plenty of time to lay down and take your time. Besides, you can use CBD oil for sleep.
Vaginal CBD Suppositories
The products recommended in this article are for vaginal and rectal use. However, not all suppositories are deemed safe for vaginal use. If you want to use CBD suppositories to treat menstrual cramps, make sure you use vaginal suppositories.
Always read the instructions placed on the packaging to avoid inserting the wrong suppository. Some CBD suppositories are designed for RECTAL use ONLY. There are compounds in rectal suppositories that may not be pleasant for vaginal use. Hence, be sure to read every instruction on the packaging to determine if it is safe for vaginal insertion.
Insert the vaginal CBD suppository into the vaginal cavity as deep as possible by using a tampon applicator or a finger. You can place some cushion under your buttocks for at least 5 minutes to help the CBD oil get in contact with the uterine and cervical tissue. Vaginal suppositories work fast, thus providing women with a chance to find relief quickly.
How long does it take for a CBD suppository to work?
It takes up to 30 minutes for CBD suppositories to begin showing any effect. In some instances, it may take only 15 minutes or faster.
The base may melt quickly after skin contact when using a homemade CBD suppository. Learn more about using CBD for skincare.
CBD is the most prominent pain management compound found in hemp. When taken as a suppository, it can quickly get into the bloodstream and affect the central nervous system (i.e., the brain and the spinal cord).
How to make suppositories?
You can make CBD oil suppositories at home. However, exercise extreme care to keep all the ingredients clean. Wash your hands and utensils thoroughly before making CBD suppositories at home.
Follow these instructions to make rectal CBD suppositories at home:
Ingredients:
- CBD Oil
- Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Equipment:
- Ice tray with pop-out cubes (circular)
- Stir stick
- Spoon
Instructions:
- Place the coconut oil in a container and melt it by placing the container over hot water
- Place 1/8 inch of oil into the bottom of the ice tray reservoirs
- Use a dropper to place a measured amount of CBD oil into each reservoir
- Stir gently
- Freeze the mixture for about 1 to 2 hours
- You can store the homemade suppositories in the freezer
- Before using, you can cut the suppositories into smaller sizes if necessary
Keep in mind that homemade suppositories melt rapidly. Hence, use them during bedtime or at a time when you can lie down for an extended period.
CBD Legality
By the end of 2018, the federal government legalized hemp, the cannabis plant from which CBD oil is extracted. As a result, the production of hemp extracts such as CBD isolate and full-spectrum CBD oil were also made legal for production, sale, and use.
The 2018 Farm Bill made hemp and hemp-derived products legal on a federal level. However, the regulation of hemp, CBD, and other hemp derivatives was put into the hands of the state legislature. Every state has its plan on regulating hemp products under the approval of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Some states may not allow certain cannabis products, such as smokable cannabis flowers. However, you can easily buy CBD oil suppositories, CBD tinctures for vaping, and most hemp-derived products.
When you purchase a product not produced in your state, it does not necessarily put you at risk of breaking cannabis possession laws. That responsibility is in the hands of local CBD shops. They should know which products they can or cannot sell to you.
You can find marijuana-derived CBD products from state-licensed dispensaries. Marijuana refers to any cannabis plant that contains more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC.
CBD Safety and Side Effects
Read: Side Effects of Using CBD Oil Products
CBD oil is one of the safest natural herbal remedies you can find. It is non-addictive, non-toxic, and non-intoxicating. It does not cause any mind-altering effects. Studies show that humans can easily tolerate high doses of CBD without any severe side effects.
Some of the mild side effects of CBD include dry mouth, drowsiness, and lethargy. It may also cause diarrhea, but this is usually caused by the contents and quality of the product.
The best practice is to start with a small dose of CBD, around 5 to 10 mg, depending on your body weight and age. After trying this dose for a few days, you can increase the quantity based on how your body reacts to the cannabinoid. Increase your dose gradually until you reach an amount that delivers the desired effects.
Use the minimum amount of CBD to experience the most optimum relief if you plan to treat an ailment. Keep in mind that when you reach a certain amount of CBD, there is no longer any additional benefit to the body. Taking more will only be a waste of cash.
Starting with a small dose also tests your tolerance to CBD and the other ingredients found in the product. For instance, some users may be allergic to specific terpenes or flavonoids.
There is much that we know and what we don’t know about CBD. Therefore, we have to exercise caution when consuming any form of CBD or other cannabinoids. As far as we know, we can easily tolerate CBD without experiencing significant side effects. Nonetheless, we should consume moderate amounts of CBD or risk experiencing any adverse side effects.
Are CBD Suppositories Suitable for You?
When finding the best delivery method for CBD, it’s wise to explore all options. Anal CBD may be the solution for specific individuals.
For example, some older people can no longer swallow their medications in pill form. Other individuals with cancer may be going through chemo and experiencing chronic nausea and vomiting, making it impossible to take prescription medications without vomiting. Some undergo surgery and are not allowed to ingest any solids.
Using suppositories to consume CBD may seem incredibly awkward because of the many sensitive topics and social ideologies about the rectum. However, this method has many benefits that you should consider.
CBD suppositories provide an efficient way to experience the healing properties of CBD. Introducing CBD oil into the anus offers a quick way to absorb the cannabinoid. Some users even turn to CBD enemas to treat a few gastrointestinal disturbances.
Our Quick Guide of 4 Suppositories
Brand | Product Type | Attributes | Pricing | |
 | Endoca Suppositories |
| $$ | 10% off discount CBDSCHOOL10 |
 | Foria Suppositories |
| $ | |
 | CBD Living Suppositories |
| $$ | 20% off discount CBDSCHOOL |
 | Kiskanu Suppositories |
| $$ |
