CBD for hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are among the most common diseases of the rectum, affecting over half of all adults at some point in their lives. Symptoms such as anal itching, burning, bleeding, or pain when sitting can significantly impair quality of life. While conventional therapies—such as those using cortisone preparations or surgical procedures—are effective in many cases, they often reach their limits in cases of sensitive mucous membranes or chronic conditions. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound from the hemp plant, offers a modern, well-tolerated, and locally effective alternative. In the form of rectal suppositories—CANNEFF® SUP—CBD is combined with hyaluronic acid. CANNEFF® SUP has anti-inflammatory, itch-relieving, and mucosa-protective effects—without the side effects of cortisone-containing products. This article examines the causes, symptoms, and standard therapies for hemorrhoids and explains how CBD can be used specifically to combat irritation in the anal area. The focus is on the application, the advantages over classic preparations, and the possible uses of CANNEFF® SUP for acute symptoms, maintenance therapy, and mucosal care after surgical procedures.
Philip Schmiedhofer, MSc

Autor

Philip Schmiedhofer, MSc

Inhaltsverzeichnis

What are hemorrhoids and how do they manifest?

Hemorrhoids are well-vascularized, sponge-like vascular cushions in the anal canal that are present in every person.

What causes and risk factors promote hemorrhoids?

The development of hemorrhoidal diseases is multifactorial.

Conventional treatment of hemorrhoids – and its limitations

The treatment of hemorrhoidal diseases is based on the degree of complaints and the severity of the hemorrhoids, which are classified into four stages.

CBD for Hemorrhoids: How Cannabidiol Works in the Anal Area

Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive active ingredient from the hemp plant, is gaining increasing importance in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, including in the area of anal and rectal health.

The benefits of CBD suppositories for hemorrhoids

CBD suppositories are a modern, locally effective, and well-tolerated treatment option for hemorrhoids, especially for internal hemorrhoids and inflammatory irritative conditions in the lower rectum.

CBD or cortisone for hemorrhoids – which is better tolerated?

Cortisone preparations (glucocorticoids) are an important part of the standard treatment for acute or inflamed hemorrhoids.

CANNEFF® Suppositories with CBD and Hyaluronic Acid for Hemorrhoids?

CANNEFF® SUP rectal suppositories are specifically designed for use with irritated, inflamed, and sensitive mucous membranes in the anal and rectal area.

Does CBD help with itching, burning, and hemorrhoid pain?

Itching, burning, and pain in the anal area are the most common and unpleasant symptoms of hemorrhoidal disease.

When is CBD useful for hemorrhoids – and when is it not?

CBD is a sensible and well-tolerated option for hemorrhoids, especially when inflammatory complaints, mucosal irritations, or itching are the main issues.

What are hemorrhoids and how do they manifest?

Hemorrhoids are well-vascularized, spongy vascular cushions in the anal canal that are present in every person. They serve the fine closure of the anus and help to control the retention of stool. Only when these vascular cushions enlarge, become inflamed, or protrude outward is it medically referred to as hemorrhoidal disease, which is colloquially often simply called "hemorrhoids."

Hemorrhoid treatment with CBD

Anatomy and classification

A distinction is made between:

  • Internal hemorrhoids
    They are located above the so-called linea dentata, that is, in the inner anal canal. Since they lie in a less sensitive mucous membrane area, they are initially painless.

  • External hemorrhoids
    They develop below the dentate line in a highly sensitive skin area. They can be very painful, especially with thromboses or irritations.

Even though the topic is associated with shame for many affected individuals, hemorrhoids are widespread. Over half of all adults over 30 suffer from them at some point in life. If untreated, they can lead to chronic complaints, mucous membrane irritation, or inflammatory changes, which is why early diagnosis and targeted treatment are recommended.

Symptom

Description

Itching afterward

Often the first sign – caused by irritation, moisture, or mild inflammation

Burning in the anal area

Especially after bowel movements or prolonged sitting

Bright red blood in the stool

Bleeding during bowel movements – typically visible on toilet paper

Foreign body sensation

Pressure or "lump" sensation in the anal area

Moisture or mucus discharge

Due to impaired sealing of the anal canal

Pain when sitting

Especially with external hemorrhoids or thromboses

What causes and risk factors promote hemorrhoids?

The development of hemorrhoidal disease is multifactorial. Although hemorrhoids themselves are a natural part of the rectum, certain lifestyle and health conditions can lead to excessive strain and enlargement of the vascular cushions. This subsequently causes discomfort. Mechanical pressure, reduced blood flow, and irritants promote this process.

Risk factor

Mechanism

Chronic constipation

Straining during bowel movements increases pressure in the anal area

Prolonged sitting on the toilet

Stagnates the blood in the hemorrhoidal cushions and promotes vascular dilation

Lack of exercise

Poor bowel motility, venous congestion in the pelvic area

Low-fiber diet

Leads to hard stool and increased straining pressure

Overweight

Strains the pelvic floor and venous system

Pregnancy and childbirth

Hormonal changes and increased pressure on the pelvic floor

Frequent lifting of heavy loads

Increased intra-abdominal pressure strains the vascular cushions

Age

With increasing age, connective tissue loses elasticity

Genetic predisposition

Weak connective tissue can occur more frequently in families

Not all causes can be avoided, but through preventive measures such as a high-fiber diet, adequate fluid intake, exercise, and conscious toilet habits, the risk can be significantly reduced. When pressure on the anal mucosa is reduced, hemorrhoidal disease can often be prevented or at least significantly alleviated.

Conventional treatment of hemorrhoids – and its limitations

The treatment of hemorrhoidal disease depends on the severity of symptoms and the degree of hemorrhoids, which are divided into four stages. In the early stages I and II, conservative measures usually take precedence, while in advanced cases (stages III–IV), surgical interventions may also be necessary. The goal of any treatment is to relieve symptoms such as itching, burning, bleeding, and pressure sensation, to relieve the vascular cushions, and to prevent relapses.

Hemorrhoid stages

Therapy type

Example remedies / procedures

Purpose of application

Ointments and creams

Cortisone, zinc, lidocaine, witch hazel

Anti-inflammatory, pain relief, itch control

Suppositories & Suppositories

Mesalazine, cortisone, local anesthetics

Treatment of internal hemorrhoids and mucous membrane irritations

Sclerotherapy (hardening)

Injection of sclerosing substances

Shrinking of internal hemorrhoids (especially stage I–II)

Rubber band ligation

Tying off hemorrhoids

Ligation of blood supply (stage II–III)

Surgical procedures (hemorrhoidectomy)

Laser, stapler, open surgery

Removal or repositioning of advanced hemorrhoids

Despite numerous methods, many affected individuals report incomplete or only short-term relief as well as side effects or recurrences. Standard treatments reach their limits especially with recurring, painful, or inflamed hemorrhoids.

  • Possible side effects of topical preparations include that cortisone can thin the mucous membrane or promote infections with long-term use.
  • Insufficient effect on sensitive mucous membranes. Many products cause additional irritation instead of soothing.
  • High relapse rate after procedures. Hemorrhoids often recur, especially after ligations or surgeries.
  • There is no causal therapy. Most methods only treat the symptoms, not the inflammation, irritation, or mucous membrane damage sustainably.
  • Burden from repeated treatments. For many patients, repeated medical procedures are psychologically and physically stressful.

Against this background, interest is growing in gentle, locally acting, and well-tolerated alternatives such as CBD (cannabidiol). Especially rectal CBD suppositories with hyaluronic acid like CANNEFF® SUP are gaining importance because they have anti-inflammatory, soothing, and mucous membrane-regenerating effects – all without cortisone or systemic burden.

CBD for Hemorrhoids: How Cannabidiol Works in the Anal Area

Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound from the hemp plant, is gaining increasing importance in the treatment of inflammatory diseases, including in the area of anal and rectal health. Especially for inflamed or irritated hemorrhoids, CBD can be a valuable addition to conventional therapy. It acts locally as an anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and anti-itch agent and supports the regeneration of the mucous membrane without the side effects of cortisone preparations. CBD exerts its effect through the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which plays a central role in regulating inflammation, pain perception, immune processes, and tissue healing. Since receptors of this system are also located in the anal region and rectal tissue, CBD can act specifically there.

Hemorrhoid Treatment CANNEFF

Through rectal or perianal application – for example in the form of suppositories or creams – CBD reaches the site of complaints directly, without detouring through the liver or digestive system. This reduces the dose burden and increases local effectiveness.

Mechanism of Action

Relevance for hemorrhoids

Anti-inflammatory

Reduction of swelling, redness, and irritation of the vascular cushions

Analgesic (pain-relieving)

Inhibition of pain receptors (e.g., TRPV1) – especially in irritation & thrombosis

Antipruritic (against itching)

Relief of histamine-mediated reactions – soothes irritated mucous membranes

Vascular stabilizing

Can improve local microcirculation and reduce excessive blood congestion

Regenerating

Promotes healing of the sensitive anal mucosa through antioxidant effects

Products that combine CBD with hyaluronic acid, such as CANNEFF® SUP suppositories, have proven particularly effective. They not only support anti-inflammatory effects but also improve the moisture and elasticity of the mucosa. This is especially beneficial for irritated hemorrhoids.

The benefits of CBD suppositories for hemorrhoids

CBD suppositories are a modern, locally effective, and well-tolerated treatment option for hemorrhoids, especially for internal hemorrhoids and inflammatory irritations in the lower rectum. They act directly on the irritated, inflamed mucosa. In combination with hyaluronic acid, as in CANNEFF® SUP, they also support the regeneration and moisturizing of the mucosa.

Hemorrhoids CBD benefits

Advantages of CBD suppositories for hemorrhoids

  • Direct effect at the site of inflammation
  • Without systemic side effects like those of cortisone.
  • Good tolerability, even with sensitive skin and mucous membranes.
  • Relief of typical symptoms such as burning, itching, pressure sensation, and pain.
  • Promotion of mucosal healing thanks to hyaluronic acid.

CBD suppositories are a valuable addition to conventional therapy, especially for recurring or chronic complaints – also for maintenance therapy after acute flare-ups.

CBD or cortisone for hemorrhoids – which is better tolerated?

Cortisone preparations (glucocorticoids) are an important part of the standard treatment for acute or inflamed hemorrhoids. They have a strong anti-inflammatory effect and quickly relieve itching and swelling. However, they are not suitable for long-term use, as frequent or continuous application can lead to undesirable side effects on the mucous membrane. CBD (cannabidiol) offers a milder and well-tolerated alternative. It is especially suitable for sensitive patients, in chronic courses, or for maintenance therapy. In the form of suppositories with additional hyaluronic acid, as in CANNEFF® SUP, CBD acts anti-inflammatory and regenerative.

CANNEFF® Suppositories with CBD and Hyaluronic Acid for Hemorrhoids?

CANNEFF® SUP Rectal Suppositories are specially designed for use on irritated, inflamed, and sensitive mucous membranes in the anal and rectal area. For hemorrhoids, especially when symptoms such as itching at the anus, burning, oozing, or mucous membrane irritation are prominent, they offer a modern, well-tolerated, and locally effective support. The unique combination of cannabidiol (CBD) and hyaluronic acid unfolds a dual effect: CBD acts anti-inflammatory, anti-itching, pain-relieving, and antioxidant. Hyaluronic acid moisturizes the mucous membrane, protects it from mechanical irritation, and supports its natural regeneration. This synergistic effect makes CANNEFF® SUP an ideal option – both in the acute phase and in long-term care for chronic or recurring complaints. CANNEFF® SUP is especially recommended for internal hemorrhoids with signs of inflammation, anal itching, oozing mucous membranes, or postoperative irritation conditions. The patented emulsion matrix ensures effective absorption of the active ingredients in the mucous membrane. Even in phases without acute complaints, it can be used for regeneration and stabilization of the mucous membrane, for example as part of maintenance therapy. The product, available without prescription in Austria, is excellently suited as a steroid-free alternative or complement to classic treatment.

CANNEFF® SUP convinces with its good tolerability, the omission of irritating additives, and the ability to sustainably care for even sensitive mucous membranes without the risks associated with classic cortisone preparations. Thus, it represents an effective, gentle, and safe solution for those affected by hemorrhoids, which can be used sensibly in both acute and chronic courses.

How are CANNEFF® SUP suppositories used for hemorrhoids?

The application is simple and discreet. The suppository is inserted rectally, ideally in the evening before going to bed, when the body is at rest and absorption through the rectal mucosa can occur optimally. Hands should be washed thoroughly beforehand. Disposable gloves can be used if needed. The suppository is carefully removed from the foil and moistened slightly if necessary. Then it is inserted deeply into the anus in a side-lying position with legs slightly bent. Afterwards, a calm lying position should be maintained for about 15 to 30 minutes. The recommended dosage is one suppository per day over a period of several days to weeks, depending on the symptoms and tolerance.

Does CBD help with itching, burning, and hemorrhoid pain?

Anal itching, burning, and pain in the anal area are the most common and unpleasant symptoms of hemorrhoidal disease. Often, oozing, irritation, or a feeling of pressure also occur. The complaints arise from inflammatory reactions, a disturbed mucosal barrier, and mechanical stress on the sensitive anal region. CBD (cannabidiol) is the better alternative to conventional remedies such as cortisone-containing ointments or local anesthetics. It not only provides temporary relief but is also better tolerated and plant-based.

Hemorrhoids CBD Doctor

CANNEFF® SUP has anti-inflammatory, anti-itching, pain-relieving, and antioxidant properties. It works through the body's own endocannabinoid system, which is also active in the anal mucosa. There, it specifically regulates the response to stimuli, inflammation, and pain signals. The rectally applied CBD suppositories enable a targeted effect of the active ingredient at the affected site without burdening the gastrointestinal tract. The combination with hyaluronic acid, as contained in CANNEFF® SUP Rectal Suppositories, is particularly effective. Patients report rapid and significant improvement of the distressing symptoms. This is especially true for chronically irritated or sensitive anal mucosa. Improvement occurs particularly after frequent bowel movements, hard stool consistency, or during periods of increased strain. These include, for example, prolonged sitting. Anal itching and burning will noticeably decrease, pain when sitting or after using the toilet will subside, and the mucosal sensation will also improve significantly.

Unlike cortisone, CANNEFF® SUP does not cause mucous membrane thinning, has no dependency effects, and can also be used long-term – provided there is no contraindication.

When is CBD useful for hemorrhoids – and when is it not?

CBD is a sensible and well-tolerated option for hemorrhoids, especially when inflammatory complaints, mucous membrane irritations, or itching are prominent. Cannabidiol is the locally effective, non-psychoactive active ingredient that targets exactly where conventional preparations often reach their limits, but without the side effects of cortisone-containing products. Especially in the form of rectal suppositories like CANNEFF® SUP with hyaluronic acid, CANNEFF® SUP offers a modern approach to symptomatic relief and mucous membrane care. CBD and hyaluronic acid are generally very well tolerated. In very acute or heavily bleeding cases of hemorrhoids, a doctor must be consulted before you use CANNEFF® SUP as a supplement. CANNEFF® SUP does not replace surgical or invasive measures. This applies especially to advanced stages (III–IV) or complications such as thromboses or massive prolapse complaints. In such cases, we use CANNEFF® SUP after medical approval. CANNEFF® SUP relieves symptoms and accelerates healing after surgical procedures. It also cares for the mucous membrane, relieves pain and itching.

Philip Schmiedhofer, MSc

Philip Schmiedhofer, MSc

Philip is managing director and co-founder of cannhelp GmbH. With studies in medical engineering and molecular biology, specialized in brain science and focusing on cannabinoids, he is recognized as an expert in the use of cannabinoids in medicine. As a medical device consultant, he also leads the sales of cannmedic and offers specialized advice for medical professionals. His expertise includes the development and sales of cannabinoid-based products. In the field of research, he participates in significant basic research at the Centre for Brain Research of the Medical University of Vienna. As co-founder and current managing director of cannmedic GmbH, a pioneer in the trade of CBD medical devices, he has many years of entrepreneurial experience. Furthermore, he maintains an extensive network in the field and advises internationally operating companies in the area of medical cannabinoids.