30th Jul 2012

History of Colon Cleansing

colon-cleansing-244x300.jpgIntroduction

Colon cleansing has been practiced since ancient times. In fact, the Greeks were great advocates of this type of treatment in order to get rid of any toxicity in the colon, i.e., the large intestine.

Colon cleansing is also known as colonic irrigation and there are many different natural substances used to clean out a person’s colon such as teas, enzymes, laxatives, powders, antiparasite capsules, and enemas – all of which are taken through the rectum.

However, there are effective colon cleanse supplements that can be taken orally as well. Either method forces the colon to expel any unhealthy contents that have built up in it.

The first colonic machine was around 100 years ago and today there are colonic hygienists, also known as colon therapists, who perform colonic irrigations on their patients in order to keep their colons healthy. The procedure is very much like an enema, but colon cleansing involves a lot more water and does not have the odor or discomfort associated with enemas.

Who Should Use It?

The theory behind colon cleansing is to prevent toxins from building up in the large intestine. These toxins are formed by undigested meat and other foods that cause a build up of mucus in the colon that produces toxins that are believed to poison the body.

There are people who believe these same toxins can cause many symptoms and anyone who suffers from the following could benefit from colon cleansing:

  • fatigue
  • headache
  • weight gain
  • low energy

 

What Are the Benefits of Colon Cleansing?

Many rectal suppositories are administered in order for patients to rapidly feel the effects of any drugs they need to take. As such, colon cleansing administered in this manner could help the body remain healthier by getting to the bloodstream and flushing out toxins that much quicker.

It could be that colon cleansing also has a beneficial effect on the nervous system because reflexes in the bowel do affect a person’s whole nervous system. Enemas relieve constipation, so it follows that colon cleansing should have the same effect.

Below are more benefits a person can feel after having a colonic cleansing treatment:

  • improved mental outlook
  • improved the immune system
  • weight loss
  • reduced the risk of colon cancer

 

Are There Any Drawbacks to Colon Cleansing?

There are certain concerns over colon cleansing and these include the following:

  • People may experience incontinence
  • Ostomy care, i.e. surgical connection between the intestine and the outside of the body
  • People may experience spasms during colonoscopy
  • Drug withdrawal
  • Before and during bowel surgeries

 

How It Works

Patients lie on a table and a machine – often some sort of gravity-driven pump – literally flushes around 20 gallons of water via a tube that’s inserted into the rectum.

At this point, the water is in the colon and the therapist then massages the patient’s abdomen before flushing the water and waste out via another tube. The whole process can last up to one hour and may be repeated during this time to ensure the colon has been thoroughly cleansed.

The therapist may include various enzymes, herbs, probiotics, or other substances to flush out the colon.

Testimonials

Author Name: J. Speirs

I was very apprehensive going for my first colonic but had read a lot about the procedure and decided to give it a go. I had a brilliant therapist who put me at ease and explained everything as we went along. I found the procedure much more comfortable and dignified than I had expected and the way I felt afterwards was just amazing. I also lost 3lbs – a bonus! I have booked to go back again and would recommend it to anyone who has never tried it.

Summary: Will definitely go again

Izzy Smith , Age 38

The reason for having the colonics is that I have IBS, mostly constipation and bloating. After having the colonics I don’t feel bloating anymore and I haven’t been constipated, as it’s helped my bowels move easier and more regular and I am now going twice per day. I even feel this treatment has helped in other areas, as I now have less PMT symptoms and more energy – I feel like the bionic woman. I definitely feel better due to the treatment and have recommended this to loads of people.

Debbie Hill, Age 25

Colonics are the best thing ever. It’s not embarrassing and actually quite relaxing. I feel cleansed with all the rubbish out. It’s like walking on air afterwards. Go and get it done!

Conclusion

Although the jury is still out on whether or not colon cleansing is as beneficial as first believed, many people have found this form of therapy to be very beneficial to their overall health. They have stated they feel more energized after a therapy session of colonic irrigation.

Studies carried out have shown how enemas work rapidly when medicines need to be administered to patients and therefore working on the same principal that if a drug can enter the bloodstream quickly via the rectum then so too can harmful toxins be flushed out. But the general consensus of opinion is that more research needs to be carried out to really know if this type of treatment is as beneficial as many people believe.