Many people can’t help but chuckle the first time they encounter the term “cannabis suppository.” However, don’t be mistaken: This method of utilizing the active elements in cannabis is no laughing matter. The benefits are persuading an increasing number of Europe’s medical patients to transition from more conventional consumption methods.
Approximately five years ago, many Europeans managed their ailments using cannabis, both through smoking and vaporizing the plant. Yet, largely due to Rick Simpson, a Canadian who conquered his cancer using cannabis oil while residing in Eastern Europe from 2009 to 2013, more individuals began to discover the remarkable properties of extracts. There was one significant issue: consuming extracts with extremely high THC content—up to 90 percent in some cases—was overwhelming for numerous patients, particularly those lacking prior experience with cannabis.
The advantages of suppositories, paired with the simplicity of making them at home, have made them quite popular.
“Around six years ago, after meeting Rick Simpson, I started producing extracts and distributing them to many unwell individuals. Illegally, of course,” shared a producer from the Czech Republic who preferred to be called Martin T. “Yet, many of them couldn’t handle the psychoactive effects of THC.”
This prompted some patients and their caregivers to seek alternative methods of medicating. “I experimented with infusing cocoa butter—with a dash of shea butter and coconut oil—with the extract and created rectal suppositories,” Martin recounted. “Patients immediately loved them, particularly those with digestive and urinary issues.”
Rectal suppositories are considered promising for at least two reasons. First, they take effect rapidly. Suppositories have systemic actions once they penetrate the rectal mucosa, dispersing therapeutic compounds swiftly through nearby organs and into the bloodstream. Second, it’s an effective means of reducing the “head-high” psychoactive effects of THC.
The perks of suppositories—combined with how easy it is to create them at home—have gained them notable popularity, especially in Central Europe.
Despite the emergence of vaginal suppositories in the U.S., the suppositories Martin produces are solely for rectal use. “A vagina has a very delicate and unique environment, requiring a specialized gel carrier, which is quite difficult to obtain,” he clarified. About ninety percent of his patients utilize only suppositories, he noted, and the outcomes have been excellent.
Suppositories for Prostate Cancer:
One standout case is that of Nathan Novák, a 67-year-old who experiences prostate issues. In 2013, doctors discovered indications of cancer, registering a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level exceeding 10. They arranged for him to begin chemotherapy three months later.
Immediately following the diagnosis, Novák began using 1-gram suppositories, each containing one-tenth of a gram of cannabis extract with over 70 percent THC and around five percent CBD. “I didn’t feel any high, which was a significant contrast to oral intake when one gram could keep me couch-locked for half a day,” he shared.
I felt quite relaxed and slept much better. The best part was, when I visited the hospital after three months, there was no necessity for chemotherapy or any other treatment. Much to my doctor’s astonishment, my PSA had returned to zero.
