Colonic irrigation is based on the same principle as an enema in that it flushes the bowel using water. The difference comes in the amount, temperature and pressure used in a colonic irrigation. Another term for the procedure is: Colonic Hydrotherapy.

The procedure involves the insertion of a tube through the rectum and used to introduce water, either alone or with other enzymes, coffee, progiotics or herbs. The procedure lasts for about an hour.

A high colonic consists of the water going in through a tube into the colon and removed, along with unwanted debris through a different tube which is called an obturator.

This process is an old one that has existed since ancient times and used in Egypt, India, Greece and China. In modern years, it has been used to improve general health along with other health conditions

Colonic irrigations are known to improve a person’s physical health, but what some people don’t know is that in the process, they also improve mental health, the immune system and any problem that is created by having toxins in the body.

This is accomplished because having toxins in the body affects the immune system as well as other parts of the body. By keeping the waste and bacteria products out of the body, it eliminates diseases that exist inside and outside the gastrointestinal tract.

Evidence from many different studies has indicated that the warm water that is used during a colonoscopy helped to reduce the occurrence of colonic spasms. Other studies are doing research using the irrigation of the lower part of the colon for people who have fecal incontinence and also to see the results of colonic irrigation for people who have had connections between surgeries between the intestines and the side of their body. Currently there are studies being performed to see if colonic irrigation also improves the symptoms of diverticular disease.

Although there are some limited scientific studies that show evidence about the safely or effectiveness of colonic irrigation, it is thought that the procedure can be effective in dealing with addictions, arthritis, back pain, asthma, bad breath, allergies, bowel cleansing, bloating, chronic fatigue syndrome, cancer, bowel cleansing, lupus, shingles, skin problems, blood pressure and influenza as well as many other conditions.

Health Concerns & Precautions

There are certain conditions for which performing colonic irrigation are not suggested. The procedure should be avoided by those suffering from ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease, hemorrhoids of all types, or colon or rectal tumors. Also, if you have had recent bowel surgery, or suffer from heart or kidney disease, you should not use the procedure.

It is important to be certain the equipment used is sterile and the person performing the procedure is experienced. Also, keep in mind it is a procedure for therapeutic value not for serious diseases.

Keep in mind that colonic irrigation has been marked as helping lots of different conditions. There are many accounts that verify treating with colonic irrigation may be effective, however, the exact information about effectiveness and safety have not been thoroughly studied. Since there are some risks involved in this procedure, it may not be safe for some individuals and therefore they should seek a different method.