What is colonic irrigation?
Colon irrigation, also called colon hydrotherapy or simply a colonic, cleanses the bowel by repeatedly flushing it with water. You will also see it described as bowel irrigation or intestinal cleansing. The names differ, but the method is the same.
What is the colon?
The colon is the final part of the human digestive system. In an adult it is about 1.5 metres long and 6 cm in diameter. Its main jobs are to remove waste, retain moisture and absorb electrolytes and minerals. The intestinal flora also contains bacteria that produce nutrients such as vitamin K and B vitamins.
How does colonic irrigation work, and what makes it effective?
We use purpose built equipment, which makes the treatment effective, painless, safe and discreet.
During a 45 minute session, up to 60 litres of water pass through the colon and are treated in three ways: mechanically, chemically and biologically.
The session includes an abdominal massage, pressure point stimulation and a few breathing exercises.
Throughout the treatment your therapist stays with you, explains what is happening and helps you relax.
What is the goal of colonic irrigation?
Waste that builds up in the colon, such as compacted fecal matter, fecal stones, dead cells, mucus and parasites, can cause discomfort.
These wastes are toxic. When they are reabsorbed into the bloodstream they can leave you feeling unwell, tired and weak.
Build up also reduces the ability of the intestine to absorb the minerals and vitamins produced by good bacteria.
Deposits on the intestinal wall weaken muscle contraction, which slows the passage of food and can lead to constipation and other digestive complaints.
How can I tell if there are toxic substances in my colon?
Common signs include malaise, lowered immunity, a runny nose, headaches, back pain, constipation, fatigue, bad breath, body odour, bloating, low mood and sciatic pain.
Is intestinal toxicity a common problem?
Yes. Toxicity is not limited to the intestine. Toxic substances can be present in fatty tissue, joints, arteries, muscles, the liver, the gallbladder, the lungs, the kidneys and the skin. Colonic irrigation helps remove the toxic substances that affect overall health.
Other organs remove toxins too. Why cleanse the colon?
The lungs, skin, kidneys and liver all remove toxins, and a clean, well functioning intestine supports overall health. Colonic irrigation is one of the most direct ways to support that process, and it makes the work easier for the rest of the body.
Why not use an enema or a laxative instead?
An enema or a laxative can be useful at times, but neither replaces a thorough cleansing of the colon.
An enema reaches only the rectum and the lowest part of the colon, roughly 20 to 30 cm, and usually uses 2.5 to 4.5 litres of water.
Laxatives do not cleanse thoroughly, and the body tends to get used to them, so their effect diminishes over time.
Is colonic irrigation painful?
Pain usually comes from tension and resistance, and a trained therapist can carry out the treatment without pain or discomfort. Most people enjoy the session, especially the feeling of lightness afterwards.
If muscle contractions release a larger amount of liquid and waste, it feels similar to passing wind and creates a brief urge to empty the bowel. It passes very quickly and is easy to manage.
Will I feel embarrassed during a colonic?
No. Your dignity is protected throughout. You stay in a private room with your therapist, who is used to the procedure and will help you feel at ease.
Only a small diameter tube is inserted, and your body stays covered. Water flows in through disposable tubing and leaves carrying the waste under gentle pressure. There is no odour and no discomfort.
How will I feel after a colonic?
Most people feel well, often lighter and cleaner. Work and exercise are usually fine afterwards. Some people notice a temporary drop in intestinal muscle tone after the cleanse. It settles quickly and does not cause discomfort.
Do I need a course of treatments to see results?
It depends on your goal. For a cold, a mild fever, a headache or back pain, one or two sessions may be enough. For long standing constipation or a deeper reset, regular sessions alongside diet and exercise are usually more effective.
Is colonic irrigation safe?
Modern equipment makes the treatment safe, and gentler than a traditional enema. The main thing to check is whether any contraindications apply to you.
How does colonic irrigation compare with an enema?
An ordinary water enema reaches only the rectum and the lower colon, while hydrotherapy cleanses the whole colon, which in adults is up to 2 metres long. Colonic irrigation is considerably more thorough. One commonly cited comparison is that a single colonic is equivalent to about 30 enemas.
How far does the water reach during a colonic?
A colonic cleanses the large intestine. The small intestine is not involved; it is cleared with medical laxatives when needed.
Can anyone perform colonic irrigation?
No. Colonic hydrotherapy is a clinical technique and should be carried out by a trained, licensed practitioner who understands the equipment and the contraindications.
Should I see a doctor before a colonic?
It is a good idea, particularly if you have symptoms that need investigating. Your doctor can arrange tests to rule out contraindications.
Colonic irrigation is not suitable if you have severe hemorrhoids, colorectal cancer, diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. Otherwise it is a safe treatment.
Can I catch an infection from the equipment?
No. Our equipment is disinfected between clients and uses disposable tips, in line with the manufacturer's operating procedures.
How long does a colonic take?
The treatment itself takes about 45 minutes. Allow an hour for the visit.
Can I have a colonic during my period?
Yes. Many clients find it a convenient time, because the body is already cleansing, which can make the session more effective.
Will I feel weak or uncomfortable afterwards?
Usually not. After a first session, when a lot of waste is released, you may feel slightly tired or mildly nauseous. A warm compress on the abdomen or a hot drink usually helps, and the feeling passes within 12 to 24 hours.
How should I prepare for a colonic?
Do not eat immediately before your appointment. Wear comfortable clothing and try to arrive relaxed. Your therapist will explain everything before you begin.
Do I need to take probiotics afterwards?
They are helpful but not essential. A properly performed colonic does not wash away your own flora, and probiotics support the balance of gut bacteria.
Some therapists apply a probiotic implant during the session, which is the most direct route. Otherwise a supplement after the course works well.
Can I go back to normal activities after a colonic?
Yes. Most clients return to work, exercise and their usual routine straight away.