Colon therapy
Colon therapy, also known as colonic irrigation, is a procedure aimed at cleansing the colon by washing it out with water. Typically involving the insertion of a flexible tube into the rectum, the treatment allows for the slow infusion of water to dislodge and remove impacted fecal material. Proponents believe that various factors, including diet, hydration, and stress, can lead to a buildup of waste in the colon, potentially resulting in health issues. The process is said to improve nutrient absorption by providing a cleaner internal surface of the colon.
Historically, colon therapy gained popularity in the late 19th century but saw a decline in the mid-20th century due to emerging medical research questioning its efficacy. Despite a resurgence of interest towards the end of the century, many medical professionals caution against the procedure, arguing that it may disrupt the balance of beneficial gut bacteria and that the colon does not "toxify" the body. Side effects can vary, with some individuals reporting a sense of rejuvenation, while others may experience discomfort or flu-like symptoms post-treatment. As of the 2020s, many practitioners now advise against colon irrigation due to the associated risks.
Subject Terms
Colon therapy
Also known as: Colonic irrigation, colon hydrotherapy
Anatomy or system affected: Abdomen, anus, gastrointestinal system, intestines
Definition: Irrigation of the colon, or large intestine, with water in order to detoxify it
Indications and Procedures
Colon therapy involves washing out the entire approximately five-foot length of the colon with pure water to dislodge any impacted fecal material. Some practitioners believe that the colon may not function properly because of poor dietary habits, insufficient fluid intake, and physical or emotional stress or illness. Such malfunction can lead to a buildup of hardened, impacted fecal material, which may stagnate and decay in the colon. Bacterial decomposition of the material may create toxins that are absorbed into the bloodstream. This could cause other body organs to overwork themselves as they attempt to detoxify the waste materials and could lead to a variety of illnesses, from colds to cardiovascular disease.
During this procedure, a flexible tube is inserted into the rectum and water is slowly pumped into the intestine. The pressure is regulated in order to avoid injury. Alternation of warm and cool water leads to contraction and relaxation of the intestinal walls, which helps to remove impacted pieces of dry feces from the walls. Feces, gas, mucus, and bacteria exit through the same tube. A cleaner internal surface of the colon provides more surface area for the absorption of nutrients and water. Approximately twenty gallons of water are used in the procedure, which lasts about one hour.
Uses and Complications
Irrigation of the entire colon came into prominence during the late nineteenth century in Russia. In the United States, John Harvey Kellogg espoused colonic irrigation along with other health and fitness regimes at his sanatorium in Battle Creek, Michigan, in the early twentieth century. The procedure fell into obscurity during the late 1940s, when medical research indicated no benefit to the procedure. Renewed interest in colonics in the late twentieth century led to the establishment of the International Association for Colon Hydrotherapy, which provides training and certification for practitioners. While colon therapy regained enthusiastic followers, mainstream physicians point out that waste products in the colon cannot “toxify” the body. They also believe that colonics may interfere with the natural balance of helpful bacteria that keep the intestines functioning normally. However, by the 2020s, many practitioners recommended against colon irrigation, noting that the potential risks far outweighed the benefits.
After a procedure, some patients report feeling energized and lighter, while others report nausea, headaches, or flu-like symptoms. These symptoms generally subside within a few hours. Other side effects may include diarrhea and a loss of necessary intestinal bacteria.
Bibliography
Collings, Jillie. Principles of Colonic Irrigation: The Only Introduction You’ll Ever Need. Thorsons, 1996.
Goldberg, Burton, John Anderson, and Larry Trivieri, eds. Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide. 2nd ed. Celestial Arts, 2002.
Jonas, Wayne, ed. Mosby’s Dictionary of Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Mosby/Elsevier, 2005.
Picco, Michael. F. "Colon Cleansing: Is It Helpful or Harmful?" Mayo Clinic, 24 May 2022, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/colon-cleansing/faq-20058435. Accessed 15 July 2023.
"Why You Should Avoid Colon Cleansing." Cleveland Health Clinic, 13 Feb. 2023, health.clevelandclinic.org/colon-cleansing-is-it-safe. Accessed 15 July 2023.