Colonics: Similar to Colonoscopy?

Those undergoing a colonoscopy are already familiar with colon cleansing. That’s because a colonoscopy requires the ingestion of large amounts of fluid to clean out the area before a camera inspects it for potential cancerous polyps. With a colonic (sometimes referred to as colonic irrigation), a large amount of water and potentially such substances as coffee or herbs are flushed into the colon via a tube inserted into the rectum. The goal is an eventual purge, which proponents claim will help with weight loss, increasing energy and eliminating the toxins that produce allergies, arthritis and asthma while boosting the immune system.

There are two main methods of colon cleansing: using over-the-counter products or visiting a practitioner who will administer the procedure.

Some over-the-counter products are self-administered and taken by mouth. These include laxatives, herbal teas, enzymes and magnesium. There are also home enema kits. All are found on the shelves of drugstores, supermarkets and chain discount stores.

When you visit a colonics professional, you will receive a high colonic irrigation using a machine that will administer the water directly into the rectum. A colonic hygienist or hydrotherapist usually performs the procedure.

The patient lies on a table while a low-pressure pump or gravity reservoir flushes up to 16 gallons of water into the colon via a small tube inserted into the rectum. Several different pressures and temperatures may be used, and practitioners may combine the water with coffee, enzymes, herbs or probiotics, which are supplements containing beneficial bacteria.

While the water is in the colon, the therapist may massage the abdomen to stimulate flow. You will then release the water and any waste in a nearby toilet. The process may be repeated after that.  Most treatments last about an hour and cost about $80 to $100 per session.