Updates from Shoshana Church

Dyspareunia is the medical term for pain during intercourse.  There are a variety of potential causes of dyspareunia including infection, inflammation, menopause, endometriosis, pelvic floor muscle spasm, and scar tissue from surgery or childbirth. 

The pain can be either sharp or dull, and can be felt in the vagina, vulva, pelvis, or lower back. In some cases, the pain can be so severe that it prevents intercourse altogether.  

It really depends on the suspected cause.   Treatments may vary depending on the underlying cause, but can include lubricants, topical treatments, vaginal dilators, pelvic floor physical therapy, and sometimes surgery.  If it is injury from childbirth, the approach may be pelvic floor therapy.  If it is endometriosis, surgery to remove the implants and/or supplements might be tried.  

For this discussion, the cause of dyspareunia is due to menopause which causes the decline of estrogen and progesterone resulting in changes in the vaginal walls.  This hormonal change causes vaginal dryness that during intercourse, can feel like shards of glass cutting the vaginal walls.  If that happens, it causes tiny tears in the vaginal wall from the friction, which results in scarring and further pain. Many people experience discomfort or pain during sex after menopause due to vaginal dryness, loss of normal secretions and lubrication, decreased elasticity, and narrowing of the vagina. Menopausal vaginal changes are generally more severe if intercourse (or other activities that involve vaginal penetration) is infrequent. Although hot flashes and most menopausal symptoms improve with time, vaginal dryness and resulting painful sex generally worsen with time, if not treated. 

HRT (hormone replacement therapy) is a common method for addressing post menopause dyspareunia but some women are not candidates for synthetic HRT.  Another option is bio-identical hormones that are plant based hormones compounded at a compounding pharmacy.

     

Now, there may be a new treatment option on the horizon - cannabis suppositories.  In the case of painful intercourse due to menopause, suppositories act not only as medicine but also as a lubricant.

A small study published in 2016 found that 2 out of 3 women who used a cannabis suppository for dyspareunia reported reduced pain during intercourse. Another small study published in 2018 found similar results with 8 out of 9 women reporting reduced pain after using a cannabis suppository. While these studies are very preliminary and more research is needed to confirm these findings, they do provide some promising evidence that cannabis suppositories may be an effective treatment option for dyspareunia.

Cannabis suppositories are small capsules that are inserted into the vagina where they dissolve and release their active ingredients. The active ingredients in cannabis are cannabinoids like THC and CBD. These cannabinoids interact with our body's endocannabinoid system which is involved in regulating a variety of functions including pain perception, inflammation, and muscle spasm. This interaction between cannabinoids and our endocannabinoid system is what gives cannabis its therapeutic properties.

The only rather annoying consequence of using suppositories vaginally is there may be a discharge of some of the ingredients used to make the suppository.  The ones I make are made with cocoa butter and shea butter so that can leak out once it melts.  Otherwise, As with any treatment option, there are potential risks and side effects associated with using cannabis suppositories. The most commonly reported side effects are local reactions like irritation or burning at the site of application. These side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own within a few days. 

Some resources report that because cannabis suppositories are absorbed through the vaginal tissue into the bloodstream, there is a risk of them affecting other parts of the body like the brain. This means that people who use cannabis suppositories may experience psychoactive effects like euphoria or anxiety. However, these effects are typically mild and temporary. For me personally, my suppositories are calculated at 65 mg and I have never felt psychoactive effects from this dosage and method of use.  Overall, cannabis suppositories appear to be safe and well-tolerated with minimal side effects.

The suppository is inserted into the vagina at bedtime.  In our area, Southern Illinois, there are no dispensaries that carry suppositories.  You can’t buy them online because they can’t be shipped across state lines, so you have to make your own.  I have my medical cannabis card so I am allowed to grow my own cannabis.  I use about 28 gms of “shake” to make suppositories in a base of cocoa butter and shea butter.  The dose of these is calculated at 65 mg.  Again, I have never gotten high using this dose vaginally.  You can use them every night or as needed.  They do make a great lubricant which will help with the vaginal dryness. Dosing can vary with 20 mg to 1 gram.

Dyspareunia is a common condition that can cause significant pain during intercourse. While there are a variety of potential treatments available, none of them are perfect. Cannabis suppositories may offer a new treatment option with minimal side effects and promising preliminary evidence for efficacy. However, more research is needed before we can say for sure whether or not they work for treating dyspareunia.  I can personally say that they have been a game changer for me!!

Frankincense is a resin that is derived from trees of the genus Boswellia. The tree produces a gum-like resin which can be collected and used for a variety of purposes. Frankincense has been used in religious ceremonies for centuries and is still used today in some cultures. 

Frankincense is a popular ingredient in many perfumes and cosmetics. It has a unique, warm, woody aroma that is often used in combination with other fragrances. Frankincense is also used in some food and drink recipes.

There are many different types of frankincense, each with its own unique scent and flavor. The most common type of frankincense is Boswellia carteri, which is harvested from trees in Somalia. Other popular types include Boswellia sacra (from Oman) and Boswellia seratta (from India).

Frankincense has been essential to many cultures since ancient times, and it is no surprise that the three wise men gave this precious gift to Jesus.  It is part of the "Holy Anointing Oil" referenced in the Bible.  It was more valuable than gold in the days of Jesus' birth.  

Frankincense essential oils have numerous health benefits.  It has been said it is "Used to treat every conceivable ill known to man". particularly around calming and healing emotional wounds, which made it beneficial for Jesus's emotional and physical wellbeing as he began his ministry. In addition, the essential oil of frankincense has been used throughout history to restore hormone balance in the body, improve concentration and spirituality, reduce stress levels, and boost immunity and help skin conditions.

Frankincense oil is said to have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and astringent properties. It is also used to treat colds, coughs, digestive disorders, and wounds

There are many different types of frankincense, each with its own unique scent and flavor. The most common type of frankincense is Boswellia carteri, which is harvested from trees in Somalia. Other popular types include Boswellia sacra (from Oman) and Boswellia seratta (from India).

The primary terpenes in Frankincense are alpha-pinene, limonene and myrcene.  You can find these same terpenes in cannabis medicine chemovars such as Jack Herer, Blue Dream, Kush varieties (pinene), OG chemovars, Sour Diesel (limoniene) and Grape Ape, Granddaddy Purple or any purple varieties (myrcene).  

There is no risk for using Frankincense for whatever ails you and any of the cannabis plant medicine options as well.  

As usual, make sure your essential oil is from a reputable company that cares about how it is grown, harvested and distilled.   And if you need help with oils or cannabis and CBD, I would love to be in that role for you!  

Merry Christmas and let's break the stigma!

The pine is an evergreen tree that has needles instead of leaves. The scientific name for the pine tree is Pinus. There are between 105-120 species of pine. According to Encyclopedia Britannica, most pine trees are native to the Northern Hemisphere. Here are some more notable pine tree facts. 

The Pinus sylvestris tree, also known as Scotch pine, is a tall coniferous evergreen tree that grows to the height of 131 feet and has characteristic orange-red bark and stiff blue-green needles. Pine essential oil is steam distilled from the needles of the tree and has been researched by Hippocrates, the father of western medicine. Pine’s aroma is reminiscent of the Japanese tradition of forest bathing and provides a refreshing breathing experience and encourages a moment of joy. When blended with other essential oils such as Peppermint, Lavender, and Eucalyptus, there are numerous benefits.

Most everyone is familiar with this beautiful evergreen tree.   Maybe you have a Christmas tree that is a pine, or perhaps you have enjoyed the smell of a pine forest.  

Pine trees have long been prized for their wood, which is strong and durable. Pine wood is often used in construction because it is so sturdy. In addition, pine resin has many uses; it can be used as glue, Varnish, or even chewing gum. And let’s not forget about the most popular use for pine trees: Christmas trees! 

As a family, we have made it a tradition to  buy live evergreen trees for Christmas.  These trees have the rootball intact and we plant them after Christmas.  We have about 40 years of trees in our yard (granted some did die) but it is so satisfying to contribute to the environment by planting a Christmas tree.  There is a pine tree that was in our home around 1988 that is well over 125' tall now.  

The history of the pine tree is deeply intertwined with human history. For centuries, people have used pine trees for everything from building material to food to medicine. Pine needles can be used to make a soft and sturdy fabric, while pinecones can be used as fuel or natural kindling. Pine nuts are a nutritious snack, (one of the main ingredients for pesto) and pine resin has long been used in medicinal ointments and salves. In short, there are very few things that this tree cannot do!

Aboriginal Australians were some of the first people to use Pine essential oil for healing. They would steam the needles of certain species of pine and inhale the fumes to clear congestion and ease breathing difficulties. Similarly, Native Americans used Pine oil in sacred ceremonies and rituals meant to purify both the mind and body. Today, Pine essential oil is still used for its cleansing properties—but it also has aromatherapeutic benefits that can help reduce stress and promote feelings of wellbeing. When diffused or inhaled, Pine oil can help combat negative emotions like anxiety and fear while boost energy levels and mental focus.

Pine oil is high in vitamins A and C. In fact, it has three times more vitamin C than oranges! According to an article by Medical News Today, “Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that plays important roles in human health. It is an antioxidant, meaning it helps protect cells from damage. Vitamin C also helps the body absorb iron from plant-based foods.” This makes pine oil perfect for alleviating  symptoms like congestion, runny nose, and itchy eyes caused by histamines that are released when exposed to allergens or viruses or bacteria. Pine EO can help to boost the immune system, fight infections, reduce inflammation, and even improve circulation.

Pine essential oil is steam distilled from the needles of the tree and has been researched by Hippocrates, the father of western medicine. Pine’s aroma is reminiscent of the Japanese tradition of forest bathing and provides a refreshing breathing experience and encourages a moment of joy. When blended with other essential oils such as Peppermint, Lavender, and Eucalyptus, there are numerous benefits.

When used in aromatherapy, it can help clear sinuses and lungs, making it a popular natural remedy for colds and flus. Additionally, according to an article published in NCBI, “Inhalation of (pine) needle oil exhibited antiviral activity against herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) in mice." So if you’re looking for a way to fight off a cold without resorting to over-the-counter medication, consider trying pine essential oil next time you’re under the weather. 

If you want to try Pine essential oil, I highly recommend you choose wisely.  Many companies that sell essential oils don't take growing, harvesting and distilling seriously and as a result we suffer from inferior products just to save a buck.  If you have any questions at all about good quality essential oils, please reach out and I will help you!

The next time you're out for a walk in the woods or enjoying a Christmas tree, take a moment to appreciate all that this versatile tree has to offer! From its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions to its potent medicinal properties, there is much more to the humble pine tree than meets the eye.

Suppositories. Just the word conjures up all sorts of images, none of them pleasant. But what exactly are they? And how do they work? If you're curious about suppositories and want to know more about them, read on. This blog post will tell you everything you need to know about this not-so-popular method of medication deliver

Suppositories are basically little packages of medication that are designed to be inserted into the rectum or vagina. Once inserted, the suppository melts and releases the medication into the body. Suppositories can be made from a variety of materials, including gelatin, latex, and vegetable oils, cacao butter or shea butter or coconut oil. 

When a suppository is inserted into the rectum or vagina, it melts due to the heat of the body. This allows the medication to be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the walls of the rectum or vagina. 

One of the major benefits of using suppositories is that they bypass the digestive system. This means that medications that would normally be broken down by stomach acids can still be effective when delivered via a suppository. In addition, because they're absorbed directly into the bloodstream, suppositories can often take effect more quickly than other methods of medication delivery such as pills or liquids taken orally. 

PROS: 

-They are easy to use and can be self-administered 

-They provide relief from conditions like constipation quickly 

-They bypass the digestive system so they can be used for conditions like nausea 

-They are relatively inexpensive 

-They can be stored at room temperature 

As usual there is a downside to all meds either side effects or in the case of suppositories:

CONS:

-They can be messy 

-They can be uncomfortable to insert 

-They may cause irritation or itching 

-They may cause an increase in flatulence 

Suppositories are a type of medication that is inserted into the body through the rectum or vagina. Suppositories are used to treat a wide variety of conditions because they allow medication to bypass the digestive system and go straight to where it is needed in the body. 

We've all heard of cannabis-infused brownies and gummies, but what about cannabis suppositories? If you're not quite sure what a cannabis suppository is or how it works, you're not alone. I am going to give you the lowdown on everything you need to know about this unique method of consuming cannabis.

A cannabis suppository is a little package of cannabis medicine that is inserted into the rectum or vagina. Because they are used vaginally or rectally they bypass the digestive system and first pass metabolism making it impossible to feel the psychoactive effects of THC.  You can actually use very high doses of THC in this method.

Suppositories can be made with either THC or CBD, and they are typically made with a base of coconut oil or cacao butter. Some people prefer to make their own suppositories at home, while others prefer to purchase them from a dispensary. If you do purchase them from a dispensary, be sure to ask your budtender for advice on which type would be best for your needs.  The problem is they are hard to find.  I searched the local dispensaries and they are not available but if you live in Colorado, you have a number of choices available.  

I made the ones you see in the photo.  I added Patchouli essential oil due to it's ability to help with inflammation, infection and antiseptic qualities.  These have about 65mg of THC (roughly).  I have used them and have had no adverse reactions and haven't felt anything from them either.  

Cannabis suppositories are an ideal choice for those who want fast relief from pain, inflammation, cramps, or other symptoms without having to worry about the psychoactive effects of THC. They can also be a good option for those who have trouble consuming cannabis orally due to nausea or vomiting.  

If you use the suppository rectally, avoid inserting it high into the rectum.  If it is kept in the bottom 2 inches of the rectum, you will never feel the psychoactive effects of the THC.

Dr Mikail Kogan and MD who is a medical marijuana expert says this about suppositories, “Although there are very few studies on the use of cannabis suppositories, I find that they are one of the most effective routes of delivery for back, pelvic, vaginal and rectal pain.”

I had my own personal experience using the suppository the first time.  I had gone to Refit and was super sore after a hard workout.  My hips and knees hurt really bad!!! I would say my pain was at an 8/10.  I used the suppository at bedtime.  I woke up about 2 hours later and thought it was a fluke!!!  My pain was almost entirely gone!!  I rated it a 2/10!!  

I have been listening to http://cannabishealthradio.com/ and have heard numerous testimonies of how using high dose THC via suppository will address many kinds of cancers and other health issues.  You should check it out!  

If you're looking for an alternative way to consume cannabis that offers fast relief from pain, inflammation, cramps, or other symptoms without the psychoactive effects of THC, then cannabis suppositories might be right for you!  Have any questions? Feel free to reach out to me at my email schurchpac@gmail.com or my website www.cannabisremedy.org —I'll be more than happy to answer any questions you may have!

It’s the time of year when we start thinking about what we’re thankful for. But did you know that gratitude and thankfulness can actually have a positive impact on your health? Check out these three ways being grateful can improve your physical and mental wellbeing.

1. Boosts immunity. Studies have shown that people who express gratitude on a regular basis have stronger immune systems. One study even found that people who kept a daily gratitude journal were less likely to get sick! So, if you’re looking to avoid getting sick this winter, make sure to show some extra appreciation for all the good in your life.

2. Reduces stress and anxiety. We all experience stress and anxiety from time to time, but did you know that being grateful can help reduce these feelings? One study found that people who practice gratitude had lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and focus on what you’re thankful for—it might just help relieve some of that stress.

3. Improves sleep quality. Getting enough rest is important for maintaining our physical and mental health, but it can be hard to get a good night’s sleep sometimes. Luckily, gratitude can help with that too! One study found that people who wrote down what they were grateful for before bed slept better than those who didn’t. So, if you’re struggling to get some shut-eye, try expressing some gratitude—it just might help you drift off to dreamland more easily

Jesus encourages us to be thankful even when we are going through trials.  We aren't guaranteed a life without problems but He has provided a way for us even in the midst of those problems.  We can't see the end of the road but He can.  When we are thankful to Him even in the middle of troubles, He is with us.  

In 1Thessalonians 5:18 he says, "give thanks in everything; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.  

Colossians 3:15 And let the peace of Christ, to which you were also called in on body, rule your hearts.  And be thankful.

When we are thankful and express our gratitude, it helps to improve our mental well-being. Praying regularly can be helpful for those who struggle with depression or anxiety because they know that Jesus cares about them enough that their thoughts haven't been completely lost forever. 

One study looked at patients suffering from chronic illness such as cancer which often leads people into feelings of losing hope.  After just eight weeks where these individuals were given opportunities throughout each day via Thankful Devotionals – A Prayer Guide For The Healing Power Of Thanksgiving - there were benefits that included less stress confessing problems and illnesses even if no solutions were offered. 

That's the power of prayer and of being full of gratitude and thankfulness to Jesus.  

So this Thanksgiving, as you share a hearty meal with your family and friends, call out what you are thankful for and then continue that practice every day from then on even during the trials of life.  

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FRIENDS!!!!

Love, Shoshana

Help break the stigma!!!