Introduction to BlissThera Forest Medicine and Virtual Nature Therapy
Abstract:
The health benefits of exposure to natural environments have been a long-standing human observation, and contemporary scientific research has substantiated these advantages. This includes enhancements in overall well-being, alleviation of subjective symptoms, and tangible improvements in objective health parameters in individuals who engage in activities related to Forest Medicine, such as Shinrin-Yoku, commonly known as "Forest Bathing." It has been determined that the high atmospheric concentration of forest environmental phytochemical aerosols (plant essences, terpenes, etc.) is the primary driver behind the observed clinical improvements. Forest medicine is associated with reduced stress levels, improved mood, enhanced immune function, and lowered blood pressure, ultimately leading to cumulative health benefits. These studies not only demonstrate the clinical efficacy of natural phytochemical inhalation but also substantiate the benefits of Forest Medicine, suggesting the use of phytochemical aerosols as therapeutic agents for addressing a wide range of psychological and physical pathologies.
BlissThera™ Forest Medicine and Virtual Nature Therapy (BlissThera™ Therapy) is an innovative therapeutic approach that utilizes advanced cold-vapor diffusion technology to administer carefully curated combinations of phytochemicals (natural plant essences, terpenes, phytocannabinoids) to patients for inhalation as therapy for specific conditions. This mode of therapy offers several significant advantages over conventional Western medical treatments: an unparalleled safety profile of the botanically derived essences compared to pharmaceuticals, rapid onset of therapeutic effects facilitating effective dose titration, a low incidence of only mild side effects, and a remarkably high rate of responders (over 80% of patients experiencing symptom improvement) observed in clinical practice. Moreover, many patients report a decrease in the need for prescribed pharmaceuticals or even discontinue their use altogether, serving as a tangible indicator of the therapy's effectiveness. Patients who adhere to BlissThera sessions and therapy programs typically experience a gradual improvement in symptoms, with a progressive decrease in symptom intensity, frequency, and duration over time. Furthermore, some conditions demonstrate a potential slowdown or reversal in the progression of underlying chronic pathologies.
Introduction:
BlissThera™ Forest Medicine Therapy is a novel therapeutic modality based on the principles of Forest Medicine. Its functions are facilitated through a microprocessor-controlled multi-cartridge aromatherapy diffusion device, offering versatile applications across a spectrum of healthcare and allied health practices. The hardware technology is specifically engineered to preserve and vitalize phytochemicals via its dual vortex cold diffusion emission technology that creates a vibrant natural forest atmosphere within the patient’s space. The therapy also offers digital therapeutic audio and video 360 degree Virtual Natural experiences, utilizing customized software within VR technologies to immerse patients in virtual forests and scenic natural locations.
The software algorithms governing the precise dispensing of tailored combinations of phytochemicals draw upon a wealth of knowledge derived from an extensive body of evidence-based, peer-reviewed literature. This knowledge base encompasses not only pure/basic science research but also encompasses published clinical studies, as well as insights obtained from in-house clinical practice and research. These multifaceted sources collectively contribute to the continuous refinement of therapy programs, with the ultimate goal of expanding optimal therapeutic responses while minimizing potential side effects.
Homeostatic Systems The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is one of the largest homeostatic systems in the human body, encompassing elements distributed throughout the body with high densities in the central and peripheral nervous systems, and are present in every major organ. This intricate system comprises endocannabinoids, endocannabinoid receptors, and enzymes responsible for inactivating the endocannabinoids. Its primary role lies in functioning as a homeostatic mechanism that oversees a plethora of physiological functions, including but not limited to pain and motor pathways, memory and learning processes, immune system modulation, inflammation regulation, lipid and glucose metabolism, neuroprotective mechanisms, synapse plasticity, neurogenesis, brain remodeling; it affects arousal and reward centers, appetite regulation, sleep patterns, and modulates mood.
Endocannabinoids are endogenous neurotransmitters used by the endocannabinoid system to maintain system homeostasis. Anandamide (AEA) and 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) are the primary endocannabinoids utilized, which interact with endocannabinoid receptors to produce effects. To prevent runaway activation of endocannabinoid receptors, an enzyme system is utilized to break down endocannabinoids: the enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) deactivates AEA, and the monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) enzyme deactivates 2-AG. Functioning as a retrograde inhibitory signaling mechanism, the endocannabinoid is produced "on demand" from postsynaptic cell membrane phospholipids rather than being stored in vesicles. It crosses the synapse to interact with G-protein-coupled endocannabinoid receptors on the presynaptic neuron, inhibiting further neurotransmitter release. Although certain cannabinoids have effects on other receptors (TRPV, TRPA, PPAR, serotonin, GABA), the two primary endocannabinoid receptors, designated CB1R and CB2R, are widely distributed throughout most tissues of the body. CB1R shows a very high density in the central nervous system and is also present in the peripheral nervous system, liver, adipose tissues, reproductive tissues, bone, cardiac, vascular endothelial, and smooth muscle cells. AEA has a high binding affinity for CB1R as a partial agonist for this receptor, demonstrating little activity at CB2R. 2-AG has a lower binding affinity at CB1R than AEA and similarly low affinity for CB2R, but it functions as a strong receptor agonist at both. The CB2R is more prevalent in peripheral tissues, with high densities in the GI tract, on cells of the immune system, spleen, and some areas of the brain. It becomes highly expressed by cells of the CNS in response to inflammation or injury.
Endocannabinoid Retrograde Signaling and Degradation
Endocannabinoid Receptor Modulation and Broad Spectrum Effects on Health
The interaction between phytochemicals and the ECS is both extensive and multifaceted, with new insights emerging from ongoing research. Phytocannabinoids, which share a chemical structure similar to the endocannabinoid ligands naturally produced by the body, are key players in modulating the ECS. They exert their influence by engaging with endocannabinoid receptors, thereby modulating ECS physiology. While terpenes also impact the ECS, their primary effects are often mediated through mechanisms distinct from those of phytocannabinoids. However, when terpenes interact with other plant-based compounds—including flavonoids, terpenoids, alkamides, and additional phytocannabinoids—a synergistic effect unfolds. This synergy not only enhances the therapeutic potential of these compounds but also further modulates ECS activity. Such interactions underscore the complexity and potential of phytochemicals in influencing the ECS, highlighting the expanding scope of research in this area. Through this intricate interplay, phytochemicals offer a broad spectrum of therapeutic effects, making them a focal point for studies aimed at understanding and harnessing their potential to modulate the ECS for health benefits.
In addition to potentiating therapeutic effects of phytocannabinoids, terpenes exert a diverse array of actions through various mechanisms, underscoring their significance in phytotherapy. Extensive research has established that terpenes possess specific therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, antifungal, antiviral, and antibacterial capabilities. Moreover, their benefits extend to anti-inflammatory, antinociceptive (pain-blocking), anticancer activities, as well as influencing memory, mood, and cognitive functions. For instance, Limonene is known for its anxiolytic properties, helping to alleviate anxiety without the use of traditional pharmaceuticals; β-Caryophyllene interacts with CB2 receptors (CB2R), offering a reduction in inflammation and exhibiting antidepressant effects, demonstrating the therapeutic versatility of terpenes in managing both physical and psychological conditions; Myrcene serves as both an analgesic and muscle relaxant, providing relief from pain and muscle tension, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic pain or conditions like fibromyalgia; Pinene stands out for its ability to act as a memory protectant, anti-inflammatory agent, and bronchodilator, showcasing the potential of terpenes in enhancing cognitive health and respiratory function; Humulene is noted for its anticancer properties and ability to act as an appetite suppressant, offering potential benefits in cancer therapy and weight management.
Limonene Beta-caryophyllene Myrcene Alpha-pinene
These examples highlight the broad therapeutic potential of terpenes, illustrating their role in modulating various physiological and psychological processes. The wide-ranging effects of terpenes, from mental health support to anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions, position them as a valuable component in natural health strategies, offering alternatives or complements to conventional treatments.
Precision Modulation of ECS Physiology with the BlissThera System
The BlissThera system distinguishes itself by its ability to deliver precisely calibrated combinations of plant essences, incorporating rare phytochemicals like "minor" (present only in low concentrations) phytocannabinoids and terpenes, in combinations and doses sufficient to harness the advantages of phytochemical synergy, in which there is a potentiation of effects produced when plant essences are used together. This introduces a groundbreaking approach to precisely targeting the modulation of ECS pathways and clinical responses.
Phytochemical Synergy- The beneficial effects produced by administering complementary phytochemicals together are potentiated
Development of the BlissThera programming for specific symptoms, conditions or objectives is based on basic science research refined through clinical experience utilizing the system. The ability to directly control the composition of botanical essences and relative doses administered combined with the very rapid onset of effects using inhaled administration, allows rapid determination of the subjective effects produced, with therapy programming determined by the conditions present and responses of patients receiving the therapy for their specific condition. Programs take into account the severity of symptoms experienced, administering progressively more potent combinations of botanical essences at higher doses commensurate with the symptom intensity.
The majority of patients typically experience symptom improvement immediately after a therapy session, with enhancements often peaking within the first hour post-therapy. The duration of improvement following a single session can range from as short as an hour to as long as three weeks, though most patients report significant symptom relief lasting between 8 to 36 hours.
In the clinical use of the BlissThera system, there have been no reported adverse events or serious adverse events. While side effects are not uncommon, they are usually mild and temporary, consisting primarily of mild euphoria or sedation. These effects typically resolve within 5 to 10 minutes of onset.
Cumulative Improvement in Symptoms with Regular BlissThera Therapy
Patients undergoing BlissThera therapy according to the prescribed schedule typically report a gradual improvement in the intensity, frequency, and duration of their symptoms over time. Following a therapy session, symptom relief may range from modest to profound, with symptoms gradually reemerging at lower levels as time progresses without continued therapy. Adherence to the therapy plan, including timely administration of subsequent sessions before symptoms revert to baseline, is crucial for achieving sustained benefits.
Initially, patients are scheduled for weekly sessions until noticeable improvement in symptoms is observed. Subsequently, the interval between sessions is extended, typically to every two weeks for maintenance therapy. These intervals are progressively lengthened until patients determine the optimal duration required between sessions to effectively manage their symptoms. This individualized titration approach ensures the optimal scheduling of maintenance therapy for each patient.
Example of Patient Response to Weekly BlissThera™ Therapy Sessions
Clinical Case Reports
The following clinical cases are of individual patients treated with the BlissThera Forest Medicine system selected from the thousands of BlissThera sessions administered. Cases presented represent results typical of patients with the diagnoses listed receiving BlissThera therapy. More than 80% of patients treated with the developed forest medicine algorithms appreciate symptom improvement with therapy. The duration of effects range from several hours to 3 weeks after the first session; most patients experience an 8-36 hour interval of improvement. Continued regular therapy sessions demonstrated a cumulative improvement in symptoms for most patients, with symptoms remaining controlled for longer periods of time between sessions and recurring at lower levels of frequency, intensity and duration. The duration of significant symptom improvement between sessions varied between individuals, ranging from several days to more than 8 weeks. Essences administered by the BlissThera Forest Medicine system consisted of natural, organically derived terpenes, botanical extracts and phytocannabinoids. All essences have excellent safety profiles, no significant interaction with prescribed or over the counter medications, and negligible toxicity. The blend of forest essences administered is controlled by microprocessor algorithms specific for identified symptoms and conditions, the composition of which was initially determined based on published basic science and clinical studies. Algorithms were further refined during research and development through clinical practice, to obtain optimal symptom improvement with minimal side effects, by studying patient responses to forest medicine administered for their specific symptoms, diagnosed conditions, and/or therapy objectives. Written informed consent was obtained from all patients prior to initiating therapy. As we are evaluating relative improvement in symptoms, patients were instructed to continue all scheduled medications as currently prescribed during the therapy process. No adverse events or serious adverse events were observed. Reported side effects were relatively uncommon and short lived, consisting of mild sedation or euphoria. All patients denied any impairment following therapy.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
VA is a middle aged white female with mild PTSD resulting from being a full time caregiver for her 10 year old son, who suffers from severe autism and epilepsy, causing what she terms “autistic burnout.” Her symptoms consist of low level anxiety and depression, insomnia, and rare panic attacks. She uses medical cannabis to manage the symptoms. She presented for her initial therapy session having an acute exacerbation of anxiety symptoms almost to panic attack intensity for several days duration despite her usual treatment. VA was administered a BlissThera therapy session with algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for PTSD. She experienced a complete resolution of anxiety after completion of the therapy cycle and said she felt “an uplifting shift in consciousness; I really like it!” She underwent a series of four weekly therapy sessions with complete resolution of anxiety after each session and appreciated low levels of anxiety between sessions. She currently uses regular maintenance therapy sessions every 4-6 weeks which maintains satisfactory control of her symptoms.
FE is a late 40 year old white male veteran with PTSD. He is being treated with a daily SSRI and hydroxyzine as needed, usually once or twice per day. His symptoms consist of anxiety, depression, infrequent panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, trigger events and insomnia. His anxiety sometimes interferes with his work as a church pastor. He had only mild anxiety symptoms before his first BlissThera session which administered forest medicine therapy specific for PTSD. His anxiety and depression symptoms completely resolved after therapy, and the patient remarked that he was not “looking at his watch” compulsively which he always does as a coping mechanism, experiencing 24 hours of complete anxiety relief. His second session resulted in complete relief of anxiety symptoms lasting for 4 days, and he did not require any hydroxyzine over that time. He was able to preside over Sunday services for a particularly large audience without using the additional medications he would typically require in such situations. FE continues BlissThera forest medicine sessions every 7-14 days to maintain control of symptoms.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Chronic Pain
SJ is a middle aged white male veteran with severe PTSD and chronic pain. Symptoms include intrusive thoughts, anger issues, anxiety, depression, panic attacks several time per week, insomnia,
and nightmares. He did not respond to a single treatment technique, and his therapy was advanced to multimodal, consisting of psychotherapy, relaxation techniques, and prescribed medications, including benzodiazepines, SSRIs, antipsychotics, and hypnotics. The patient experienced inadequate control of his symptoms despite aggressive psychological and pharmaceutical management, resulting in significant disability. SJ underwent a series of BlissThera therapy sessions, with algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for PTSD over the course of seven months. The sessions were scheduled according to the patient’s symptom intensity. Initially sessions were performed once or twice per week with the frequency of therapy being extended as symptoms abated. Improvement in symptoms occurred within minutes of treatment, maximal effects were appreciated within several hours. Repeated treatments resulted in a cumulative improvement in symptoms, demonstrated by an absence or negligible return of symptoms between sessions. His typical anxiety and depression symptoms essentially resolved with continued therapy. The incidence of panic attacks, even when he was presented with typically triggering events, once a several times a week occurrence, became rare (one in several months). SJ reports his mood is much improved and has infrequent anger episodes, sleeping has markedly improved and nightmares occur much less frequently. He experienced a profound reduction in all his PTSD and pain symptoms, a reduction in required doses of or elimination of most prescribed medications, down from 23 prescribed drugs, including benzodiazepines, SSRIs, opioids (for chronic pain), mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, to requiring only the SSRI Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) and Nuedexta (dextromethorphan and quinidine sulfate) with the addition of BlissThera Forest Medicine to maintain the excellent control of symptoms. He uses no diazepam (previously requiring 50 mg/d), rarely requires opioids for chronic pain, and uses much less alcohol. SJ has been able to return to work after a decade of disability and his personal relationships have become closer. He continues BlissThera sessions on a 4-6 week schedule to maintain his outstanding symptom control.
MM is a 46 year old white male with PTSD, traumatic brain injury resulting in migraine headaches several times per month and occasional vertigo, myofascial pain, low spine pain, and neuropathic facial pain. Subsequently, he developed cerebral infarctions (small strokes) during a COVID infection resulting in partial blindness of both eyes, body numbness and a stabbing pain in the extremities, poor vision and extreme sensitivity to light. He treats his symptoms with medical cannabis, gabapentin, NSAIDs and acetaminophen. MM presented for his first therapy session with high levels of anxiety and very high levels of nerve pain. He received BlissThera Forest Medicine algorithms for his specific conditions and symptoms. The patient experienced complete resolution of his anxiety and an 80% improvement in pain after the first session. He began using suggested elixirs including specific terpenes, CBD and CBG as an adjuvant to therapy. MM is legally blind making transportation to appointments difficult, but he was able to complete a series of four sessions. He had complete resolution of the low level of symptoms he was experiencing following his last session, and continues to experience adequate symptom control using the suggested elixir therapy adding BlissThera for exacerbations in symptoms.
PTSD, Chronic Migraine Headaches, and Chronic Pain
JA is a 42 year old white female with PTSD, severe chronic migraine headaches, myofascial and joint pain. Her PTSD symptoms consist of anxiety, depression, rare panic attacks, severe insomnia, and trigger events. Her chronic pain symptoms include the lumbar and cervical spine, myofascial and occasional joint pain. She had been through years of migraine therapy using prophylactic medication rotations (“all of them”) and various abortive drugs. Her current migraine therapy consists of monthly Amovig injections, periodic Botox injections, NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and she is prescribed Xanax for anxiety and her chronic insomnia. She typically suffers 3-4 migraines a week, lasting several hours to an entire day, which can interfere with her consultation business. JA has tried “almost everything” over the years to manage her symptoms with little success, and has learned to live with her conditions at the level of symptom control provided by pharmaceuticals. She requires Xanax every night to sleep, and must take an additional dose “as soon as I wake up” to address her typically intense morning anxiety, and prevent it from progressing. AJ considered BlissThera Forest Medicine therapy for her conditions as she wanted to see if a natural therapy would be of any benefit in improving the quality of her life. She received a BlissThera therapy session, with algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for PTSD, migraine headache and myofascial pain. She reported an immediate resolution of her high level of anxiety as well as complete relaxation of her tight muscles and minor joint pain. After her sixth approximately weekly session, she was appreciating a cumulative improvement in symptoms reporting no migraine headaches in the interim, an improvement so profound she decided to skip monthly Amovig injection to evaluate how well BlissThera worked on its own. She is sleeping better, and was even able to occasionally skip her usually required evening Xanax dose. She experiences lower daily levels of anxiety and depression with a reduction in her use of prescribed Xanax by 50%. At follow-up for her tenth session, she had discontinued her Amovig injections (last dose 6 weeks previous) and experienced no migraine headaches. Her PTSD symptoms fell to vanishing levels and she required no Xanax for insomnia or anxiety, and reports markedly reduced chronic pain symptoms. She continued BlissTherapy sessions every 2-4 weeks to maintain her symptom control, and reduced/eliminated use of prescribed medications. She reports more energy and states she feels an improvement in her overall health; she began workouts with a personal trainer and has become a fitness enthusiast going to the gym several times per week. As her fitness and overall health has improved, her symptoms have markedly improved, and her requirements for regular maintenance therapy have decreased; she uses the therapy on a as needed basis.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
MR is a sixty year old white male former smoker with mild COPD symptoms that has not required prescribed medications. He developed more severe symptoms after a coronavirus infection and subsequent vaccination, sometimes referred to as “long COVID.” He noted only a little additional wheezing, markedly decreased exercise tolerance, complained of becoming short of breath with mild activity, and the sensation of not “being able to take a deep breath.” His prescribed Albuterol MDI was of little benefit except to reduce wheezing. MR underwent a series of 16 weekly BlissThera therapy sessions, with algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for COPD. He appreciated an almost complete resolution in symptoms within minutes of completing the first session. Duration of symptom improvement was initially about 8 hours. Continuing weekly therapy sessions, he appreciated longer intervals of symptom improvement with symptoms being completely controlled by weekly therapy. MR continued to improve and now requires BlissThera therapy for COPD on an as needed basis, utilizing a single therapy session every 6-8 weeks to maintain his good symptom control.
FM is a 62 year old white female who developed breathing issues after a COVID infection, despite being vaccinated and boosted. She developed breathing complaints consistent with a “long COVID” syndrome, consisting of expiratory wheezing, shortness of breath occurring with mild exertion, decreased exercise tolerance, and the feeling she is unable to breathe deeply. She is prescribed no medication for the condition. FM was administered BlissThera Forest Medicine specific algorithms for COPD. She experienced an immediate resolution in her breathing symptoms as demonstrated by walking “around the whole office building” without any symptoms. She reports several days to a week of excellent symptom control after a session. Her work and family obligations make scheduling regular maintenance sessions difficult for the patient, and she uses BlissThera on an as needed basis.
HR is a 62 year old white male with COPD treated with inhaled steroids and an albuterol aerosol (updraft) for home use as needed. He is prescribed an oral course of steroids several times a year for acute exacerbations of symptoms. He developed an exacerbation of his symptoms following vaccination and subsequent infection for COVID-19. He complains of decreased exercise tolerance, shortness of breath with even mild exertion, poor exercise tolerance, increased wheezing requiring frequent albuterol aerosol treatments, and experiences the sensation of not being able to “breathe deeply.” HR was administered BlissThera therapy specific for COPD. Within minutes of completing the therapy session, he reports that he was now able to breathe full tidal volumes and only has “a few wheezes.” The effects were “at least as good” as using an albuterol updraft, and he reports the effects lasted “almost a full day” compared to the 4-6 hour improvement he sees using prescribed therapy. HR continues BlissThera therapy, but on only a monthly basis due to his distance from the clinic. Sessions provide immediate relief of his symptoms, but has not appreciated the significant cumulative improvement in symptoms most patients experience with sessions administered on a more frequent and structured schedule.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Chronic Pain
HC is a middle aged white female with chronic low spine pain, osteoarthritis of the knees and hips, anxiety, fatigue and COPD. She is prescribed NSAIDs and opioids for pain symptoms, a SSRI for anxiety, inhaled corticosteroids daily, and an albuterol metered dose inhaler to be used PRN as a rescue medication for acute breathing difficulty. She responded to this typically prescribed therapy with a very modest improvement in pain and anxiety, her COPD symptoms require the rescue inhaler several times per day. HC underwent a series of weekly BlissThera therapy sessions, with algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for her specific conditions. Improvement in symptoms occurred within minutes of treatment, initially lasting for 12-24 hours. Continued regular sessions resulted in a cumulative improvement in symptoms, demonstrated by an absence or negligible return of symptoms between sessions, as well as a 30% reduction in opioid use and a markedly decreased requirement for rescue inhaler use. She reports her COPD symptoms as most responsive, allowing a decreased use of inhaled corticosteroids to once every week or two, and requires her rescue inhaler only once or twice a week instead of several times per day, usually at the end of her weekly therapy cycle. HC continues weekly BlissThera therapy sessions to maintain good symptom improvement.
Sciatica
CJ is an older white male patient with a very long history of chronic sciatica affecting his left leg. He failed usual medical therapy due to side effects and was using medical cannabis to manage his symptoms with only partial relief. CJ underwent a series of weekly BlissThera therapy sessions, with algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for sciatica. A modest improvement in symptoms occurred within minutes of treatment, initially lasting for 6-8 hours. Repeated treatments resulted in a cumulative improvement in symptoms, demonstrated by an increase in the degree and duration of symptom improvement. After eight therapy sessions his sciatica had completely resolved, not returning before the next scheduled therapy session, and the patient elected continued weekly therapy sessions. CJ missed 6 consecutive sessions due to influenza and out of town commitments. On return to the clinic, he had complained of a recurrence of sciatica, slowly returning after the second or third scheduled session was missed, to full intensity at his presentation for therapy. Algorithms for sciatica were reinstated with a marked improvement in symptoms after the first session, and complete resolution after the second, lasting the week-long interval between sessions. He continues weekly BlissThera sessions to maintain control of symptoms.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
RS is a mid twenty year old white female with autism spectrum disorder. She experiences anxiety and depression throughout most days, has severe social anxiety when interacting with people outside of her family, and is sensitive to environmental stimuli such as bright light or loud sounds keeping most interior lights off at home. RS reports medications prescribed in the past as ineffective and had unpleasant side effects; she uses only lorazepam (Ativan) as needed for anxiety, usually several times per day. RS underwent a series of weekly BlissThera therapy sessions, with algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for ASD. She experienced an immediate improvement in anxiety with the first session. Following the completion of three therapy sessions, she reports improvement in sociability and less anxiety when interacting with people in public, effects initially lasting for 6-8 hours. With continued weekly sessions, she experienced a more profound reduction in symptoms and a cumulative improvement in symptoms, demonstrated by an increase in the degree and duration of symptom improvement. She rarely requires lorazepam to treat anxiety symptoms, tolerates environmental stimuli much better, has much less social anxiety resulting in improved sociability, and appreciates a much improved quality of life. After completing her most recent session, she opened the window drapes saying it was “too dark in here”; she is usually highly sensitive to light stimuli, and was observed to be watching a music video and singing in the therapy room, something she “would never do in public.” RS reported she felt “really good” with no anxiety or other symptoms of autism. She says BlissThera “is the only thing that has really helped with my autism,” and continues therapy sessions every one to two weeks to maintain her excellent symptom control and improved quality of life.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Epilepsy
CA is a mid forty year old female with severe ASD symptoms, and catamenial epilepsy (seizures occurring during the menstrual cycle) with petit mal (absence) seizures occurring several to many times per day around menses. Her autism symptoms consist of a high sensitivity to environmental stimuli with loud background noise or sudden loud sounds and bright lighting exacerbating symptoms. CA experiences severe social anxiety and usually has to be accompanied by a trusted person in public to accomplish tasks. She has been extensively evaluated over her lifetime, undergoing myriad psychological testing, diagnostic radiology and neurology procedures, medication trials, and was at one point considering a surgically implanted DBS (deep brain electrical stimulation) device for seizure control. The extensive diagnostic workups revealed little information useful to direct therapy. She has undergone trials for most epilepsy medications as well as off label use for other drugs without any great improvement in the incidence or duration of seizures. She uses CBD tinctures regularly with a modest improvement in mood symptoms and modestly decreased seizure frequency. She is prescribed a benzodiazepine for PRN use to treat anxiety for ASD symptoms, and undergoes frequent modification of antiseizure medications (undergoing Lamictal dose titration at first visit) as her neurologists search for an effective combination, which often results in more frequent seizures or intolerable side effects. Prior to the first BlissThera session, the patient avoided eye contact with the clinician, was poorly communicative answering questions with “yes or no” replies, and carried a weighted plush companion for emotional support which commanded most of her attention. CA had just started her menstrual cycle and had experienced a seizure that morning. She received BlissThera therapy administered algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for ASD and epilepsy. By the completion of the 30 minute session, CA was making eye contact with the clinician, had stopped focusing on her support plush, was participating in more thoughtful and detailed conversation, and appeared less sensitive to environmental stimulation. She reported almost complete resolution of anxiety, and subjectively rated her ASD symptom intensity as greater 50% better. She was scheduled for her second session the following day and reported only a single seizure episode of a 10 second duration, improved anxiety/ASD symptoms and no side effects. Typically she would experience several seizures per day of several minutes duration. CA volunteered that she slept well and “feels really good today.” ASD, anxiety and epilepsy therapy was administered. ASD symptom intensity decreased to less than 50% of pretherapy levels. She reports that her mood was much improved and she felt more confidence in “interacting with people.” With continued BlissThera therapy, she experienced more profound effects and a longer duration of symptom improvement between sessions. CA continues regular BlissThera therapy sessions, CBD tinctures, and her prescribed epilepsy medications. Although her seizure disorder has not fully resolved, the frequency and duration of seizures has decreased markedly with the addition of BlissThera therapy, and her ASD symptoms are much better; her use of benzodiazepines for anxiety has decreased by more than 75%. She has been able to attend public music events with her friends for the first time, attend a business expo in a crowded and noisy hotel without difficulty, and enjoys a better quality of life. She continues therapy on a biweekly schedule to maintain good control of the ASD symptoms, and to help decrease the frequency and duration of seizures.
Parkinson’s Disease
LL is a 74 year old white male with a three year history of Parkinson’s disease, being treated with levodopa, CBD and CBG elixirs with a generally good response. His symptoms include some memory issues and a mild tremor and was looking for a natural adjuvant to manage his symptoms. He was referred to the BlissThera clinic by another patient. LL received BlissThera therapy administered algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for Parkinson’s disease. He did not see an immediate improvement in symptoms; however, at follow-up for his second session, he reported that his symptoms improved in the hour after therapy and had good symptom control “until today,” two weeks after the first session. He appreciated immediate improvement after the second session with complete resolution of his mild tremor and anxiety symptoms. His third session was three weeks later and he reports no Parkinson’s disease symptoms in the interim. LL continues his current medications and uses BlissTherapy on an as needed basis for symptom exacerbations.
Parkinson’s Disease and Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS/RSD)
UC is a sixty year old patient who has an 8 year history of Parkinson’s disease (PD) and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) of both lower extremities. Her PD was treated with Aricept (donepezil) but discontinued this and two alternative medications prescribed due to side effects. She underwent interventional pain management with a series of lumbar sympathetic blocks, which was partially effective in controlling her CRPS pain, and she had a marginal improvement most of the time after the addition of pregabalin and opioids to therapy. She required additional interventional procedures only in the fall, as low temperatures are a trigger exacerbating the CRPS pain. UC was interested in natural alternatives and began using medical cannabis after failing to have a satisfactory response to the usual prescribed medications, adding additional CBD when legalized in 2018, and CBG when it was commercially available shortly thereafter. The cannabinoid therapy was beneficial in adequately controlling her PD symptoms used with prescribed drugs, and UC experienced little progression in her PD symptoms over time. Although doing fairly well, she still had mild PD symptoms and suffered exacerbation of CRPS every autumn, sometimes requiring multiple interventional procedures to achieve adequate analgesia. As she is interested in alternative therapies, she decided to try BlissThera to see if it would be of any benefit. UC received BlissThera therapy administered algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for CRPS and Parkinson’s disease. After a series of 15 sessions administered every one to six weeks to accommodate the patient's schedule, her CRPS pain and subtle PD symptoms were essentially resolved. On a subsequent follow up visit with the neurologist who has been managing her Parkinson’s disease since her diagnosis, he stated “I don’t think you have Parkinson’s anymore.” UC continues BlissThera sessions on a 2-6 week schedule depending on her availability for therapy and intensity of symptoms, and finds maintence therapy monthly effective.
Alzheimer’s Disease
HJ is an 84 year old white male with a long history of dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, osteoarthritis of the knees, hips and lumbar spine pain severe enough to require a walker for ambulation. He and his wife had exhausted traditional medical therapies for dementia, as well as many alternative approaches, without a significant improvement in his condition. They contacted the BlissThera clinic to see what the therapy may offer. The patient was advised to continue his use of a CBD elixir and did a series of eighteen BlissThera Forest Medicine therapy sessions, scheduled every 7-14 days, administering forest essences specific for Alzheimer’s disease and osteoarthritis, his dementia had markedly improved and he no longer required the use of a walker. His wife remarked “he’s remembering things I forgot- thank you for giving me my husband back!” The patient had previously functioned as an elder in his church, and for the first time in many years was able to travel to the annual retreat and participate in church business. He continued to use BlissThera Forest Medicine therapy on a 2-4 week maintenance schedule which maintained excellent control of his dementia and pain symptoms, until he suffered a fall and multiple bone fractures which required nursing home care, and his dementia symptoms have slowly returned without BlissThera therapy.
Arthritis and Weight Loss
AK is a mid fifty year old white female with arthritis pain and a desire to lose weight. She uses over the counter NSAIDs, acetaminophen and prescribed opioids to control her symptoms. AK used BlissThera Therapy every one to two weeks and received BlissThera Therapy administered algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for osteoarthritis and metabolism support. After completing a series of nine sessions, she had cumulative effects with her pain decreasing to the point she is using 50% fewer opioid doses than previously. She also reports her appetite has decreased to where she “doesn't eat as much at meals'' and “snacks a lot less.” Although she had lost only several pounds, she dropped two dress sizes, and is much more physically active with improvement in her pain symptoms. AK continues BlissThera sessions every two weeks to maintain analgesia and appetite control.
Attention Deficit Disorder and Executive Function Improvement
NB is a 59 year old white male with attention deficit disorder. He refused prescribed stimulants wanting to avoid side effects and possible dependency issues, preferring to use medical cannabis to treat the symptoms. His occupation requires a high level of mental acuity and the use of CBD tinctures provides a fair degree of control of the ADD symptoms without impairment. NB added BlissThera Forest Medicine to his usual therapy seeking more mental focus. He underwent weekly sessions receiving BlissThera therapy administered algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for ADD. He noted an immediate improvement in ADD symptoms, with effects lasting several weeks after completing a series of eight weekly sessions. NB added a BlissThera therapy specific for improving executive function skills to the ADD therapy after seeing great results to initial therapy, and finds them very effective in improving the quality and productivity of his work. He continues to regularly use BlissThera for ADD symptom control, for executive function optimization, and for occasional pain symptoms on an as needed basis.
Executive Function Improvement
AN is a 20 year old white male with no complaints, seeking to improve his academic performance. He is a new father and works full time to support his family in addition to pursuing a chemistry degree. His very full schedule results in him feeling fatigued frequently, interfering with his ability to perform scholastically at the high achievement standards he sets for himself. AN received BlissThera therapy specific for improving both fatigue and executive function skills. He reported an immediate improvement in focus, motivation and confidence, as well as an increase in energy after the first session. He feels that the therapy significantly improved his performance at both work and school with low fatigue levels and improved mental focus allowing him to complete a complex laboratory project without difficulty that week, and his academic performance has improved. AN continues to use BlissThera therapy on an as needed basis, usually during semester finals, or to complete assigned research projects by deadline.
Executive Function Improvement, ADD Therapy and Headache- Tension Relief
NB is a 59 year old white male who regularly uses BlissThera therapy for management of ADD symptoms and executive function improvement, presented to the clinic with an acute tension headache, requesting Forest Medicine therapy. He received BlissThera therapy administered algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for tension headache. After a 10 minute therapy session, his headache completely resolved. He continues to use BlissThera for executive function optimization, ADD management, and occasional pain symptoms on an as needed basis.
Executive Function Improvement, Sports Performance Enhancement/Recovery, and Resolution of Insomnia Medication Dependency
KM a 53 year old male suffering from chronic insomnia for more than 20 years. He was prescribed Ambien PRN but was concerned with side effects of the medication. With the addition of trazodone, he was able to taper and discontinue Ambien. Although effective, trazodone had the side effect of excessive morning “grogginess” when used at effective doses, which he endured for ten years and despite multiple attempts to taper his dose, he was unable to stop the medication. The patient’s profession requires a high level of attention and focus, and he sought BlissThera Forest Medicine therapy sessions to improve his mental acuity and workout recovery for his weight training. KM received BlissThera therapy algorithms for enhancing executive function, and sports performance enhancement. Weekly BlissThera sessions resulted in markedly improved focus, and feels he is more productive in business. He is experiencing more enjoyable and vigorous workouts with faster recovery times. After eight sessions, he reports that he “forgot to take '' his usual trazodone dose and had not actually used any in several weeks. His insomnia essentially resolved and he experienced no adverse effects with his inadvertent discontinuation of the medication. He now requires no hypnotic medications, and the insomnia has not recurred with maintenance therapy sessions every 4-8 weeks.
Sports Performance Improvement, Workout Recovery, and Injury Therapy
MS is a 28 year old white male mixed martial arts fighter. He initially presented for treatment of cervical spine and myofascial pain from aggressive workouts and sparring. He received BlissThera algorithms for muscle spasms and cervical spine pain, reporting complete resolution of his symptoms which lasted for 48 hours. His pain returned before the second session, but to lower levels which again fully resolved after therapy. He also noticed that his recovery time from workouts was shorter. MS is working on transitioning from amateur to professional in jiu jitsu and MMA competitions, and was looking to improve his fight performance. An excellent state of health, mental focus, situational awareness, endurance, strength and confidence are critically important to combat sports athletes. The patient has an issue during sparring in that he “pulls his punches a bit” since it is just training, and he does not want to injure his partner. He was informed by his coach that this is spoiling over into his fight performance, and he needs to treat sparring as a fight; however, MS is having a difficult time with strong empathy in his character, still pulling his punches to not injure his partner. A regular weekly therapy schedule was started utilizing BlissThera algorithms specific for workout recovery, and combat sports performance enhancement to improve situational awareness, endurance, and to increase aggression. After three sessions, he noted a tremendous improvement in spatial awareness, to the point his opponents had a hard time landing effective blows, feeling he was breathing better leading to improved endurance, feeling he “had more in my tank” towards the end of a bout than his opponents. MS felt very confident, and had no issues hitting sparring partners with full force, explaining “before the session, I would feel guilty really landing a good punch. After, if you get hit by me, it’s your fault for not getting out of the way.” His training, recovery times and fight performance all improved substantially. Although becoming a new father has delayed starting his professional MMA career, he continues BlissThera sessions prior to training to improve performance, workout recovery times, and as needed when pain symptoms occur.
RT is a 28 year old white male who practices jiu jitsu. He suffered an anterior cruciate ligament tear of his right knee which was successfully repaired but left him with a low level of chronic knee pain. His aggressive workouts often lead to acute joint pain and muscle spasms. The patient is very sensitive to side effects and prefers to avoid pharmaceuticals, other than an occasional ibuprofen, to treat his symptoms. RT presented for BlissThera therapy to treat mild shoulder and knee pain after sparring at the gym and also requested therapy for fatigue, as he had a deadline project to complete and was “low on energy.” He received BlissThera Forest Medicine algorithms to specifically address his symptoms and experienced complete resolution of his pain and a 60% improvement in fatigue after a single session. RT was able to complete his work on time and noted that his recovery time on a workout two days later was shorter than normal. RT continues to use BlissThera therapy on a as needed basis.
Lumbar Spine Pain
HC is a middle aged white female patient with multiple issues including: severe lumbar spine pain secondary to facet syndrome (arthritis of joints in the spine), osteoarthritis of the hips and knees, COPD, chronic fatigue and an anxiety disorder. She is prescribed an inhaled steroid with an albuterol metered dose inhaler for acute exacerbations of her COPD. Her chronic pain complaints are treated with medical cannabis, opioids, NSAIDs, and an SSRI for anxiety. HC has learned to live with her limited improvement in pain using current therapy; her COPD requires daily inhaled steroids and she uses her rescue inhaler several times per day. HC had reached maximum improvement possible with prescribed medications and was looking for an improvement in her quality of life. CH underwent weekly BlissThera therapy sessions using algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for COPD, lumbar spine pain and osteoarthritis. She reports immediate resolution of her anxiety and COPD symptoms with therapy administration, and an improvement in lumbar spine and arthritis symptoms after the first session. After a series of ten weekly therapy sessions, she reports a cumulative improvement in symptoms, with markedly improved COPD resulting in her not needing to use the rescue inhaler between sessions. Her pain levels have dropped to the point she uses 20%-30% fewer opioid doses than previously required, and uses her inhaled steroids only once or twice per week. HC continues BlissThera Forest Medicine therapy on an every one to two week schedule to maintain good control of symptoms.
Lumbar Spine Pain, Myofascial Pain and Sciatica
YR is a middle aged white male with multiple chronic pain issues, including lumbar spine pain after surgical fusion, myofascial pain, and osteoarthritis of the shoulder.. He is managed on NSAIDs, antiepileptics, a SSRI, and opioids with a relatively modest (20%) improvement in symptoms. YR wanted to try alternative medications as an adjuvant to prescribed medications and presented to the BlissThera clinic for therapy. He was administered BlissThera therapy using algorithms dispensing forest essences specific for lumbar spine pain, myofascial and osteoarthritis. He noted an immediate improvement in all symptoms. YR reported 8-12 hours of good symptom control at his followup appointment. The patient lives distant from the clinic and he is unable to use BlissThera therapy as often as recommended for optimal for symptom control, only able to attend sessions every 4-8 weeks. After completing his seventh session he was experiencing the same 8-12 hours of very good analgesia with a decrease in the frequency and severity of severe symptoms, and presented that day for therapy having no pain symptoms at all. YR continues to use BlissTheray once per month, scheduled to coincide with his travel to monthly physician appointments. Although only appreciating 12-24 hours of complete pain relief, he experiences a cumulative improvement in symptoms with monthly sessions, resulting in significantly decreased overall pain levels and improved his quality of life.
Peripheral Neuropathy, Lumbar Spine Pain, Anxiety and Memory Support
WR is a middle aged white female with lumbar spine pain, peripheral neuropathy, anxiety and complaints of her memory being “not as good as it used to be.” She started regular BlissThera sessions and was administered forest medicine essences for her specific diagnoses and for memory improvement. She had an immediate improvement in pain and anxiety symptoms following her first session, and by the completion of four sessions administered on a weekly to biweekly basis, her low spine pain and neuropathy symptoms remained at very low intensity (NRS 1-2/10) between timely sessions. Her memory complaints were brought up at session five, and algorithms for memory support were added to her usual therapy. By her twelfth session, she reported much improved memory and cognition with lasting results between therapy sessions. She continues BlissThera Forest medicine therapy every two to six weeks when her symptoms begin to return to maintain very good control of her pain symptoms and memory improvement. She is thrilled that BlissThera has improved her quality of life with the reduction of pain, and is particularly happy with her memory improvement; she is much less anxious and worried that “I was getting dementia.”
Headache- Occipital Neuralgia
WP is a 60 year old white female who presented to the BlissThera clinic for treatment of an acute headache of two days duration which had not responded to higher dose ibuprofen; symptoms were consistent with an occipital neuralgia etiology. Her pain level was high enough to cause a “bad mood” and interfere with her planned activities. She received two cycles of BlissThera Forest medicine therapy specific for occipital neuralgia and mood improvement. WP reported “I don’t have any pain and feel fabulous!” with complete resolution of her headache before completion of the last round of therapy, a much improved mood, and experienced no side effects. WP uses BlissThera on an as needed basis.
Headache- Occipital Neuralgia and Migraine
BS is a 45 year old black female with a 15 year history of chronic headaches. She has frequent headache symptoms caused by occipital neuralgia which often serve as a trigger for migraine headaches, occurring several times in a month and notes they have become worse since the onset of menopause. BS also has some baseline anxiety and depression symptoms, and experiences occasional hot flashes. She uses ibuprofen and Tylenol PM to manage her symptoms. Before her first session, she was experiencing an occipital migraine headache, anxiety and depression symptoms all of moderate intensity. BS received BlissThera administered Forest Medicine using algorithms specific for occipital neuralgia and menopause support. She reports complete resolution of her pain and depression and a greater than 60% decrease in anxiety. She experienced a significant improvement in symptoms with no migraines and fewer occipital neuralgia headaches of shorter intensity and duration in the two week interval between the first and second sessions, an improved mood and less frequent hot flashes. She is currently using BlissThera therapy on a 6-8 week maintenance schedule, which has been very effective at almost eliminating migraines, markedly reducing her occipital neuralgia symptoms; she reports less anxiety and depression resulting in a better mood, and experiences fewer hot flashes.
Headache- Migraine
HJ is a middle aged white female with occasional migraine headaches treated with a prescribed CGRP antagonist for acute symptoms. She completed a series of six BlissThera Forest Medicine therapy sessions specific for migraine. The moderate migraine symptoms present on her first appointment diminished 50% after the first therapy session. By the sixth session she was experiencing fewer migraines with shorter durations of a much lower pain intensity and was very satisfied with the results. She continues prescribed medications as needed and will return to the clinic if her migraines again become severe.
Hypoxic Brain Injury, Arthritis
DG is a 69 year old white female patient who presented to her primary care physician complaining of shortness of breath and chest pain. An EKG showed evidence of an acute myocardial infarction, and she was emergently transferred by ambulance to the hospital. In the emergency room she suffered a full cardiac arrest and was successfully resuscitated. She was admitted to the intensive care unit for further treatment, and required mechanical ventilation for seven days. After extubation and being discharged from the ICU, she demonstrated significant speech impairment and had gone from being fully ambulatory, to requiring assistance to move from a wheelchair to bed. Her issues are considered to be from global cerebral hypoxia, which occurred during her acute cardiac arrest and resuscitation. She was referred to the BlissThera clinic by her occupational therapist to see if it would help her generalized arthritis symptoms and improve motility. DG was administered BlissThera Forest Medicine algorithms specific for central nervous system inflammation and osteoarthritis. She realized a modest improvement in her pain symptoms after the first session. She was initially treated with a series of six sessions administered over two weeks, with a marked improvement in communication ability, thought processing, joint range of motion, mood, pain and physical activity abilities. Her occupational and physical therapists remarked at the unexpected and exceptional progress she made. Her speech issue has improved, thought processes are much more clear, and ambulation ability has gone from essentially immobile, to where she is able to confidently use a walker ambulating for 20 minutes at a time. She continues BlissThera therapy every 3-4 weeks to maintain symptom control and optimize her rehabilitation .
Crohn’s Disease
CM is a 47 year old white male with Crohn's disease resulting in abdominal pain and frequent diarrhea. He is treated with probiotics and steroids for acute flares. He has avoided using the new biologic immunosuppressive agents, concerned of the possibly severe side effects and high cost. He was having an acute flare of symptoms, and contacted the BlissThera clinic to see if the natural alternative would be of bennefit. CM received BlissThera Forest Medicine algorithms specific for Chron’s disease and had a complete resolution of his moderate abdominal pain at the completion of the session, and then started using the recommended hemp extract elixir. His flare subsided and he required no further sessions for two months until he experienced another flare. Two weekly sessions resulted in elimination of all symptoms. CM continues to use BlissThera on an as needed basis for Crohn’s disease flares, preferring Forest Medicine to steroids for the very fast and better response, and absence of side effects.
Fatigue (post dialysis), Chronic Pain
ZL is an elderly white female with end stage renal disease requiring hemodialysis three days per week, osteoarthritis of the hips, sciatica, headaches, depression and anxiety. She is considered to have reached maximum medical improvement using prescribed medications, experiencing only a modest improvement in pain, and was seeking alternatives to improve her quality of life. She contacted the BlissThera clinic to inquire about Forest Medicine therapy. ZL was administered BlissThera Forest Medicine algorithms for osteoarthritis, headache and anxiety. She had complete resolution of all of her symptoms, which were of moderate to severe intensity. Initially she was doing therapy sessions on her off dialysis days, when she had recovered from the fatigue commonly experienced by patients post dialysis. The patient requested to try BlissThera after a hemodialysis session to see if it would improve the side effect. Therapy sessions were tried after hemodialysis with Forest medicine administered for her pain complaints, anxiety and fatigue. ZL experienced significant analgesia and a tremendous improvement in the post dialysis fatigue. After a series of six sessions she was appreciating a cumulative improvement with symptoms, with symptom intensity remaining low between sessions. She uses BlissThera therapy every one to four weeks to maintain good symptom control.
Anxiety
WA is a 46 year old white male with severe chronic anxiety symptoms and moderate depression which often interferes with his usual activities. He was looking for natural alternatives to prescribed medications and was referred to the BlissThera clinic by a friend. WA was administered BlissThera Forest Medicine therapy for anxiety and depression. His severe anxiety and moderate depression were completely relieved after completion of the session. Before the second session administered that week, he had only a modest return of anxiety and depression which again resolved with therapy. WA requires maintenance therapy every 2-4 months for control of his symptoms.
Torticollis
GS is a 45 year old white female with torticollis, severe muscle spasm in the neck causing the head to tilt to one side. She had been treated with Botox injections, required every 3-4 months to control the muscle spasms. Her insurance does not cover the medication, and the high cost of injections is a barrier to therapy. GS also has mild COPD and anxiety symptoms for which she is prescribed no medications. She was considering less expensive alternatives, had heard about BlissThera from another patient, and decided to try a session to see if it would be of any benefit. GS was administered BlissThera Forest Medicine therapy algorithms specific for COPD, anxiety and muscle spasms on a weekly schedule. At her presentation for her third session she was experiencing no anxiety or COPD symptoms, and had not had any exacerbation of torticollis. She requires maintenance sessions approximately every four weeks to maintain better control of her symptoms than she experienced with Botox injections at a much lower cost.
Severe Depression
CM is a 40 year old white female with severe debilitating depression. She rarely leaves her home, has issues with frequent suicidal ideation, and had a history several unsuccessful suicide attempts over the years. She has been hospitalized several times over the preceding year for major depressive episodes and significant risk of self harming behavior. She has been prescribed a wide range of pharmaceuticals over the course of her illness with little improvement in symptoms. CM suffered an exacerbation in her symptoms, and again had severe suicidal thoughts. She resides with her family and brought this to their attention, saying that she thought she better go to the hospital. One of her family members contacted the BlissThera clinic, having heard about the therapy from a friend to see if a session could be scheduled before they took CM to the hospital. An emergent session was made available for the patient. CM received BlissThera Forest Medicine therapy algorithms for anxiety, depression, and mood modification. She experienced an immediate improvement in symptoms, with her depression dropping to below what she considers “normal” levels. Her suicidal thoughts disappeared, and she felt no need to seek hospitalization. Due to the severe intensity of her symptoms, she underwent daily BlissThera sessions. On her third session, she reported no suicidal thoughts since her initial therapy, little anxiety and a marked improvement in depression. At her presentation for her seventh session, she had extremely low levels of depression; anxiety had completely resolved. She was able to enjoy an evening out bowling with her family, something she has not done in years. She added a CBD elixir as suggested to her therapy and continues to have excellent control of depression, using BlissThera therapy as needed to maintain adequate symptom control.
Cervical Spine Pain
MC is a 68 year old white female patient with cervical spine pain, thoracic spine pain, thoracic radiculopathy, and myofascial pain. She routinely uses NSAIDs and acetaminophen to treat her usually moderate intensity symptoms, with a moderate improvement. She was seeking better control of her pain and presented to the BlissThera clinic for therapy. MC received BlissThera Forest Medicine therapy algorithms for her specific conditions and had an immediate 50-70% reduction in pain intensity. On return for her second session, she said the analgesia continued to improve the day of therapy to very low levels, and that her pain has returned but to a lower level. After four sessions scheduled weekly, she had a significant cumulative effect with her pain remaining largely absent during the time between sessions. She continues BlissThera therapy on a monthly basis to maintain symptom control.
Fibromyalgia
DY is a 49 year old black female with fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis, occipital neuralgia resulting in headaches, anxiety and depression. She is prescribed pregabalin, a SSRI, NSAIDs, a tricyclic antidepressant, butalbital, and opioids to manage her symptoms. She was seeking an improvement in her quality of life and decided to try BlissThera Forest Medicine therapy. Before her first session, she had an extreme exacerbation of all her pain symptoms as well as very high anxiety and depression levels. DY received BlissThera therapy algorithms for all listed conditions. She experienced complete resolution of the arthritis pain, a 80% drop in headache intensity, and half her anxiety and depression symptoms resolved. She returned for her second session one week later with still markedly improved fibromyalgia, anxiety, depression and headache symptoms, but complained of unmasked osteoarthritis pain. After the second session, which added therapy for osteoarthritis, she experienced a 50%-80% reduction in her already lower level of symptom intensity. DY began using suggested CBD elixirs and has experienced good control of symptoms, returning for therapy sessions on an as needed basis, usually every 4-8 weeks.
Multiple Sclerosis
OL is a middle aged white female with chronic pain complaints who was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis the summer of 2023. Her MS symptoms consist of some numbness of her right foot and lower leg, and short term memory impairment, which was brought her to a neurology consultation resulting in the diagnosis. She uses medical cannabis, including CBD tinctures, and has been prescribed Glatopa, an injected immunotherapeutic, which seemed to help with the physical symptoms but had no effect on improving her memory. She understands the progressively deteriorating course most MS patients experience over time, and wants to employ any therapy with potential to slow the disease progression. OL received BlissThera therapy algorithms specific for MS and to improve memory. Her physical MS symptoms have not progressed since beginning therapy, and she reports that the therapy sessions seemed to “keep things from getting worse” when she experienced several delays in obtaining her prescribed MS injections. After a series of 23 therapy sessions administered every one to two weeks, she reported her memory was markedly improved, no longer “getting lost in conversations and forgetting what I went into the other room to get.” On her presentation for session 24, she stated that her memory continues to slowly improve, noting that she was able to remember stranger’s names and that of their pet when visiting a dog park. Usually she has to “play memory games” to have any chance of retaining such information, and was thrilled that this occurred without making a specific effort. OL also reports an overall improvement in her inflammatory pain and muscle spasms since beginning therapy. She continues prescribed medications and uses BlissThera Forest Medicine therapy on an approximately weekly basis to maintain her low level of physical MS symptoms, and to support memory, which continues to improve.
Peripheral Neuropathy
FL is a middle aged white female with COPD, anxiety, depression, lumbar spine pain, osteoarthritis, and peripheral neuropathy secondary to diabetes mellitus. She is prescribed an inhaled steroid and albuterol inhaler to treat the COPD; NSAIDs, opioids, and gabapentin for pain symptoms; a SSRI for her anxiety. Medications were only marginally effective in controlling her symptoms and the addition of medical cannabis resulted in a slight improvement in all symptoms. FL received BlissThera therapy algorithms for COPD, peripheral neuropathy and osteoarthritis. She noted immediate and complete resolution of her COPD and anxiety symptoms at the first session, with a 40% reduction in pain intensity. With continued weekly therapy, she realized a cumulative improvement in symptoms. She uses inhaled steroids once or twice per week instead of daily, and her need for the rescue inhaler dropped from several times per day to several per week, usually in the day or two before the next scheduled session. FL experiences 18-24 hours of excellent analgesia and anxiolysis after a session, with her pain returning at lower levels than baseline without therapy. She has been able to reduce her opioid dose by 30%. When FL missed three consecutive sessions, she noticed all her symptoms were creeping back to baseline levels and her opioid requirements were higher. She continues weekly BlissThera sessions to maintain excellent levels of symptom control.
ConclusionThe natural botanical essences utilized in BlissThera therapy operate through various physiological mechanisms to alleviate patient symptoms and address underlying pathology by modulating homeostatic processes. The observed cumulative improvement in symptoms, along with their recurrence after a period without BlissThera therapy, prompts consideration of the impact of modern human society, lifestyles, diet, and urban living on the environmental availability of natural forest aerosols. It suggests a potential clinical deficiency of botanical essences crucial for optimal physiological functioning. As these essences attain adequate levels in target tissues, symptoms typically demonstrate improvement, thereby promoting overall well-being and health.In summary, the expanding understanding of phytochemical interactions with the ECS highlights the significance of incorporating diverse plant compounds into therapeutic interventions. BlissThera™ Forest Medicine and Virtual Nature Therapy exemplifies this approach by utilizing advanced technology to deliver tailored combinations of phytochemicals for optimal health outcomes. With its ability to modulate ECS pathways and other molecular targets, BlissThera therapy represents a holistic approach to promoting well-being and supporting the body's innate healing mechanisms.
Addendum
In 2016 the World Health Organization (WHO) released “Urban green spaces and health: A review of evidence” which suggested observed health benefits from exposure to urban “green” infrastructure were linked to: improved relaxation and restoration, improvement in immune system function, anthropogenic noise buffering and the production of natural sounds. Other effects included improved social capital, enhanced physical activity, reduced exposure to air pollution, reduction of the urban heat island effect, increased exposure to sunlight and improved sleep. Many individuals live in population dense cities with little access to the natural forest environment and even urban green spaces,
The use of virtual reality (VR) technology to create a virtual natural environment, VR nature therapy, has been demonstrated to improve symptoms of chronic pain, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and cognitive rehabilitation. Most of these improvements were those which occurred when VR therapy was combined with psychological therapies, the combination usually being more effective than either modality alone. Improvements in immune system functions have not been observed with VR nature, but have been demonstrated with exposure to the diverse biochemistry of the forest, including phytochemical aerosols.
The BlissThera Forest Medicine system incorporates the optional use of VR natural environment content to complement the specific phytochemical essences dispensed to address specific conditions and objectives. It creates an immersive forest experience with not just visual and auditory nature cues, but also a phytochemical environment specific for their issues. The concentrations and variety of plant essences used provides the effects of spending days or weeks in a forest, consisting of a diversity of plant aerosols not present in a single forest location. The system brings the documented health benefits of breathing diverse natural forest aerosols and visual and auditory green space stimuli to any location. The efficiency in providing curated blends of phytochemicals at sufficient doses and combinations to obtain a clinical response with VR nature therapy removing access to actual forests and green spaces as a barrier to effective use of the therapy.
References:
Forest Medicine / “Forest Bathing” References
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Tsunetsugu, Y., Miyazaki, Y., & Park, B. J. (2010). Physiological effects of visual stimulation with forest imagery. International journal of environmental research and public health, 7(3), 828-843.
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https://www.capito.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/03-10-2022%20Digital%20Therapeutics%20Bill.pdf
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