Overview

The colon, large intestine or bowel is situated in the abdomen and forms the last part of the digestive tract. The colon is approximately 5 feet long and 2 1/2 inches in diameter. An extremely important organ in its own right, it carries out a number of vital functions including the completion of the digestive process involving absorption of water soluble nutrients as well as the synthesis of certain vitamins.

Waste material, especially that which has remained in the colon for some time, (ie impacted faeces, dead cellular tissue, accumulated mucous, parasites, worms, etc.), poses several problems. First this material is quite toxic (poisonous). These poisons can re-enter and circulate in the blood stream making us feel ill, tired or weak. Second, impacted materials impair the colon's ability to assimilate minerals and bacteria- produced vitamins.

Finally, a build up of material on the colon wall can inhibit muscular action causing sluggish bowel movements, constipation, and the result of these disorders. Colonic Irrigation, also known as Colon or Colonic Hydrotherapy, is an internal bath that helps cleanse the colon of poisons, gas, accumulated faecal matter and mucus deposits.

History

The therapy of the colon (large intestine) and its benefits have been known and practised for hundreds of years. Dating back to ancient times, enemas were recorded as early as 1500 BC in an Egyptional medical document called the 'Eber Papyrus'.

Hippocrates, Pare and Galen also advanced the use of enema therapy. In earlier times, people implemented enema treatments in a river by using a hollow reed to induce water to follow into the rectum.

"In times past, knowledge of the bowel was more widespread and people were taught how to care for the bowel. Somehow, bowel wisdom got lost and it became something that no one wanted to talk about anymore."
- Bernard Jenson DC

Benefits

Colonic Irrigation is beneficial for a very wide range of digestive and skin disorders including:-

• Acne
• Allergies
• Asthma
• Bloating
• Candida
• Chronic constipation
• Colitis
• Crohn's disease
• Diarrhoea
• Eczema
• Fatigue
• Flatulence
• Halitosis
• Headaches
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Liver sluggishness
• ME
• Psoriasis and ulcers

Clients who suffer from depression, lethargy or stress often benefit from the therapy also. Colonic hydrotherapy, unlike the use of laxatives, is not habit forming and actually improves the tone of the colon.

Procedure

A visit to a registered colonic therapist will involve the taking of your case history followed by an explanation of the procedure. The colonic itself will take 30-45 minutes during which time approximately 15 gallons of highly filtered water, warmed to the correct temperature, will be gently introduced into the colon via the rectum, at a low gravitational pressure, whilst your therapist uses special massage techniques to stimulate the release of stored matter.

Your modesty is preserved at all times. Herbal and probiotic implants may be used and your practitioner may advise beneficial dietary changes to further enhance your treatment. No fasting or special measures are necessary prior to a first treatment but colon cleansing programmes may be advised between sessions.

Source of information: The Association & Register Of Colon Hydrotherapists