Colon hydrotherapy is a cleansing method using enemas or other equipment (such as colonics) to introduce water into the colon. The Northern Michigan Holistic Health Alliance, an organization that promotes ethical practices and professionalism within the holistic health care field, explains that colonics help eliminate waste that has accumulated in the colon and promote proper function of the large intestine. The procedure is simple, although it is a good idea to know what to expect before trying colon hydrotherapy for the first time.
Preparation
Unlike medical procedures such as colonoscopy, there is no need to fast and purge the intestines with harsh laxatives before a colonic irrigation. However, it is always a good idea to eat lighter or skip the meal just prior to an appointment to avoid stomach upset during the procedure. The irrigation process itself may cause cramping or even nausea, depending on the amount of waste built up in the colon. Some therapists may also prefer clients or patients to take a gentle herbal laxative the night before the colonic to encourage elimination. Always check with the specialist performing the procedure for special instructions.
Colon Irrigation
Although colon irrigation can be performed at home, for the inexperienced, it is best to visit a certified colon therapist or medical doctor who has been trained in colon hydrotherapy. The entire procedure takes anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. The patient lies on his side while a lubricated wide catheter is inserted into the rectum. The entire bowel is then slowly filled with warm water. Once the patient feels "full," the flow of water is stopped and a valve released, which allows the intestine to empty. As water and waste is released, the colon therapist may massage the abdomen to help break up waste that has built up on the walls of the colon. Once the flow has stopped, the entire process is repeated again, multiple times, until the water expelled runs clear.
Followup
Colon hydrotherapy is used to treat constipation, help cleanse and detoxify the digestive system, strengthen the immune system and prevent a wide variety of chronic health problems. Proper digestion and regular elimination are essential to overall health and well-being. Individuals may benefit from annual, semi-annual or even monthly colonics, depending on their normal bowel function and level of health. To keep the bowel functioning properly, colon therapists from the Colon Therapists Network recommend combining herbal supplement colon cleansers with drinking lots of water and regular colonics to ensure optimal health. Once a patient is comfortable with the process of colon cleansing, regular colonics can also be performed at home with proper equipment.
