Colon Hydrotherapy

Colon hydrotherapy, is a safe, effective method of removing waste from the large intestine, without the use of drugs. By introducing filtered and temperature regulated water into the colon, the waste is softened and loosened, resulting in evacuation through natural peristalsis.  This process is repeated  during a session, within the comfort of our client.

Brief History of Colon Hydrotherapy

Colon therapy is an ancient practice to facilitate healing. Enemas were recorded as early as 1500 B.C. in the “Ebers of Papyrus”, an ancient Egyptian medical document. Hippocrates, Galen, and Pare also promoted the use of enema therapy. In earlier times, hollow reeds were used to permit the introduction and flow of water from lakes or rivers into the rectum for cleansing.  Check out our BLOG for more information at:  http://www.colonwhisperer.com/2012/01/22/history-of-colon-hydrotherapy/1059/

Bernard Jensen, D.C. says, “In times past, knowledge of the bowel was more wide-spread 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.”

Bowel cleansing was at one time a common procedure. Before the departure of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, a physician instructed them in the appropriate use of enemas in case of fever or illness. Our grandparents and great grandparents grew up with the use of bowel cleansing as a widely accepted procedure for reversing the onset of illness.

Colon hydrotherapy was extremely popular and widely used in the United States between 1880 and 1930. With the technological advances made during the WWII era and the promotion of “better living through chemistry”, it fell out of favor. The American Medical Association and orthodox medical community suppressed information and use of colon hydrotherapy, as well as many alternative therapies, to promote their own interests and drug therapies. Emphasis was placed on curative practices and preventative methodologies were relatively abandoned.

With the development of sophisticated colonic irrigation systems and disposable equipment, interest and desire to return to more natural methods of personal health management is gaining momentum. Colon hydrotherapy is once again considered a viable and helpful practice for detoxifying the body. Our Founder is a Board Certified Doctor of Natural Medicine, certified by the National Board of Colon Hydrotherapy (NBCT) and has been awarded Instructor (highest) Level certification by the International Association of Colon Therapists (I-ACT).

The Good News: You may not think you need Colon Hydrotherapy, if you have enough bulk in your diet, if you exercise regularly, and if you avoid the chemical toxins contained in alcohol, tobacco, polluted air and processed foods.

The Bad News: In today’s environment, it is almost impossible to lead an uncontaminated life. Toxins and pollutants are all around us. For example; second hand smoke and car fumes, pesticides used on the foods we eat, toxins in our cleaning products and the antibiotics that cured our last sickness – all of these invisible invaders interrupt the natural processes of our body. EVERYONE benefits from colon cleansing and detoxification through colonic irrigation treatments.

Excess Toxic Waste: Many medical and naturopathic authorities believe that excess toxins in the body can be responsible for many current ailments, such as, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and an astounding number of gastrointestinal complaints. Excess toxic waste can be a source of many diseases. Toxins can enter your bloodstream and get deposited in your body cells, tissue, joints, muscles, arteries, liver, and other organs. As a result, your whole body’s performance can be negatively affected.

Colon Hydrotherapy is referred to as colon irrigation, colonics and colon therapy. Regardless of the name, they all refer to the use of filtered water for internal cleansing of the colon (large intestine), with the use of one-time use disposable speculum and a waste line.

First time to Colonics? Watch this video clip below for a brief overview of our process.

Gravity Fed and Open System Overview

The Woods Gravity Method

• The Woods Gravity Method, the original method of Colon Hydrotherapy, uses gravity instead of machines and electricity.  It is a manual therapy that allows for dialogue between the client and therapist to provide an interactive experience.  Feedback from most clients reflects a preference for this gentle procedure, as it is easier and more relaxing than they anticipate.  We encourage you to do your own comparison.
• Like all colonic sessions, you will first disrobe from the waist down and put on a full-length gown.
• A 5-gallon tank of 98-degree water sits 3 feet above the treatment table and is refilled several times during the session.
• The water enters and exits your body to gently bathe the colon as the therapist performs and teaches you abdominal massage techniques you can use at home.
• The Gravity Method is a “closed system,” which means your elimination exits through a closed tube.  There is a clear segment of the waste tube for optional viewing and discussion of what is released.
• A speculum is lubricated and gently inserted into the rectum.
• It is made of stainless steel and it is sterilized via a three step process:

1st:  It is scrubbed and rinsed with antibacterial soap, a firm-bristled brush and hot water.
2nd:  It is soaked in medical-grade disinfectant.
3rd:  It is placed in a sealed sterilization bag and run through a medical-grade autoclave for heat and steam sterilization for 45 minutes.
Surgical tubing (made of firm rubber material) delivers water into the body and water/waste out of the body directly into the plumbing. This tubing is changed after each client.

Libbe Open System

There are several types of OPEN SYSTEMS on the market today.  We offer the Libbe system, which is clean, efficient and easy to use. Modesty is maintained at all times to ensure a relaxing, professional experience.

Client is soothed with relaxing music, soy candles and peaceful surrounding in a room filled with ocean decorated items.

Celebrities Claim Colon Hydrotherapy Cleansing Has MANY Benefits!

Celebrities are publicly endorsing the benefits of colon cleansing.  Many have attested this cleansing practice has helped them remove harmful toxins from their body.  In turn, this has helped many have higher energy, improved well being, and less bloating.  These are some of the celebrities who have testified to the extraordinary benefits of colon hydro- therapy cleansing treatments being superior! Here is a short list of some of the celebrities whose claims can easily be found on the web and in health magazines.

Erin Heatherstone, Oprah Winfrey, Gwyneth Paltrow, Britney Spears, Leonardo DiCaprio, Madonna, Kate Upton, John Cusack, etc.

There are numerous resorts and spas where colon hydrotherapy cleansing programs are available. Certain celebrities wanted to be paid to mention their name or location so we choose to recommend others who aren’t after the dollar, those who care more about promoting true health and wellness in people’s best interest.

WHAT EXACTLY IS “COLON HYDROTHERAPY”?

Colon Hydrotherapy is a gentle washing of the large intestine, by removing fecal material from the colon walls and diluting the bacteria and toxic concentrations. The therapeutic effects are: improved muscle tone, which facilitates peristaltic action (wave-like motion through intestine) and enhances the absorption of nutrients, while minimizing the absorption of toxic waste material.

The Process
The client lies on a table and starts the session with an abdominal massage what we call a warm up to your colonic. We than start off with the colonic that can last between 30-50 minutes depending on what is being eliminated from your colon, as the water is flowing out through an illuminated viewing tube (yes you are able to see what is being eliminated from your colon) the abdominal area is receiving a massage.

Benefits of Colonics ~ Cleanse the Colon:  Breaks down toxic excrement so it can no longer harm your body or inhibit assimilation and elimination. Toxins built up over a long period are gently removed in a series of treatments. Your colon can begin to co-operate again as it was intended. In this sense, a colonic is a rejuvenation treatment.

Exercise the Colon Muscles: The build-up of toxins weakens the colon and impairs its functioning. The gentle filling and emptying of the colon improves peristalsis (muscular contraction) by which the colon naturally moves material. Having colonics is like taking your colon to the gym.

Reshape the Colon: When problem conditions exist in the colon, they tend to alter its shape because the colon is a muscle and it will enlarge to the build up of toxins not being released. That in turn causes more problems. The gentle action of the water, coupled with massage techniques of the colon therapist, help to eliminate bulging pockets of fecal and narrowed, spastic constrictions finally enabling the colon to resume its natural state.

Stimulated Reflex Points in the Colon: The colon is connected to every system and organ in the body by reflex points. The colonic stimulates these points thereby affecting the corresponding body parts in a beneficial way. Thus creating overall well-being and health in the body.

Hydration of the Whole Body: Water is absorbed into the body through the colon which increases the volume of blood. The circulation of the blood is increased, resulting in a greater bathing of the cells. This dilutes the toxins and flushes them out; relieving toxemia and uremia; and increasing elimination both through the kidneys, and the skin as well as the bowels. All this generally assists the cardiovascular and circulatory systems to be more efficient.

Pre-Post Colonic Treatment

 It is recommended that 24-48 hours prior to your colon hydrotherapy session you consume organic fruits, vegetables and grains. Drinking 6-8 glasses of water a day will also assist in the cleansing process.

On the day of your treatment eat lightly, such as vegetables, fruits and juices, and also limit your water intake. If possible try to refrain from consuming food within 2 hours of your treatment. At the end of your session you may feel relaxed due to the movements of the colon muscles. It is not uncommon to wait 2-3 days before your first bowel movement after treatment. During this time you may have heightened sensitivities to what you ingest. Consume plenty of water and abstain from consuming gas producing foods. It is extremely important that you also begin taking a probiotic supplement to re-establish good bacteria in the gut.

Today, we are exposed to more stress, chemicals, drugs and food additives than ever before in our history. The removal of these toxins from our body is essential for optimal health. Poor diet, inadequate water intake, lack of exercise and stress can all cause fecal matter to become impacted on the colon walls. This fecal matter can contain putrefied food, indigestible chemicals, bacteria, viruses, yeast and parasites.

The toxins in the fecal matter are absorbed by the colon wall and re-circulate through the blood stream; this process is called ‘autointoxication’. As these toxins circulate the body, the lymphatic, circulatory systems, liver, lungs and kidneys become overburdened and when these systems are unable to cope with this toxic overload your body becomes at risk for serious health problems.

Symptoms of autointoxication include:

• difficult weight loss
• foul body/breath odor
• headaches
• allergies
• arthritis
• chronic fatigue
• frequent colds
• asthma
• acne
• bloating
• indigestion
• irritability
• nervousness
• depression
• constipation
• lack of mental focus
• poor vision

GOT TOXINS?

When your colon is unable to remove waste and bacteria from your body efficiently, it can cause illness and poor health. These are five reasons why colonics in conjunction with an internal colon cleanse should be done, at least seasonally.

Every day, you ingest foods that have dangerous chemicals on them which will disrupt your immune system. Your immune system helps keep your body free from illness and helps you heal. When it becomes compromised, you will become more prone to illness.

When your colon is unable to effectively pass toxins out of the body, they stay there and can slow down your healing process. They will get reabsorbed into your body and cause you to get sick (autointoxication may occur).

Drinking alcohol or taking over the counter medications or drinking a lot of coffee can put a lot of stress on your colon.

Most people do not get enough fiber in their daily diet. Instead, most people eat diets that consist of a lot of fat and sugar. With junk like this entering our bodies, it stops them from being able to function properly. This causes the build up in your colon. Most people have between five and ten pounds of this build up just sitting in their colon and causing many health problems.

The harm that an impacted colon can cause you will not happen overnight. Instead, it is a long and drawn out process, so it is too late for many people when the really severe problems begin to happen. Your body will not be able to heal itself until you go through regular series of warm, purified water inserted into the rectum in conjunction with an internal colon cleanse. Consult your Holistic Practitioner regarding the number of treatments your body needs.

A regular cleansing of the colon will help your digestive system remain in top shape. Along with a healthy diet, taking minerals and herbs geared for your specific body, you will keep your immune and digestive systems working at top efficiency.

What is Colon Hydrotherapy?

Intestinal Flora  ~ Many people have asked how to use intestinal flora and why.

The intestinal tract is much more than an eliminatory channel with twists and turns. It is an organ of discrimination and assimilation of nutrients crucial to the quality of life and regeneration of worn out tissues, especially those subtle tissues that determine our vitality and old age. Ayurveda teaches that the nutrients absorbed in the lower intestine are used to rebuild not just skin and bones but also the nerve sheaths, brain, reproductive fluids, and the essence of the our being, something called ojas in Sanskrit. It is untranslatable because the concept of ojas does not exist in modern medicine. However, it is this precious substance that imparts luster, effulgence, to that mystical emanation we call magnetism or perhaps the aura.

So, the intestinal tract is much more than a sewer line, it is a vital organ upon which we depend for nutrition of the finer type. One might even believe that what is assimilated in the stomach provides for our immediate needs, sugars, whereas the further down the gastrointestinal tract food travels, the more subtle the mechanism of assimilation and regeneration. Ergo, whether our bones are brittle or strong and our nerve sheaths are adequately insulated depends as much on diet and exercise as assimilation.

Our intestinal tract is populated by all sorts of bacteria. These are roughly categorized as friendly and putrefactive. For proper intestinal function, we need about 85% friendly bacteria and 15% putrefactive bacteria. In most people, these ratios are reversed. While putrefactive bacteria is necessary, an excessive amount means that nutrients are decomposing within the body and producing a noxious gas that is the cause not only of gastric and eliminatory distress but also embarrassing and unhealthy odor. Ayurvedic medicine describes the colon as the place of accumulation of vata, or air energies. These are the cause of pain, nervousness, and premature aging. Someone with excess vata cannot relax or rejuvenate worn tissues. So poor colon function is more than an “irregularity,” it is a serious medical and emotional problem. I added “emotional” because nervousness, not to mention insomnia, is draining and can lead to the “crazies” or what I call, “rats in the head”.

Types of Intestinal Flora
Most people are familiar with acidophilus, but there are many different kinds of flora that are natural to the lower intestine. Ex-factory, many products have lots of live bacteria, but there is always the question of how active the bacteria is months after it has been put into a bottle or box. My rule of thumb is not to have much brand loyalty where flora is concerned. Buy a small container, use it quickly, and then try something different the next time. This said, there are obviously some brands that are more conscientiously put together than others. Of these, I have always had extraordinary reports on one of the less familiar ones, Topfer, a product from Germany that comes in a powder that has to be mixed up like a milkshake. It comes as Eugalan and Lactopriv, the latter being for people with dairy intolerance. One box lasts about ten days. For some people, the change is dramatic in the first day or two. For example, AIDS patients with diarrhea have been able to stop the fluid loss in as little as one day with Eugalan and cream of buckwheat breakfast cereal (made by Pocono.) Normally, people should expect that it takes closer to ten days to several months to repopulate the large intestine with proper flora. In the meantime, chlorinated water can wipe out a major effort in very short order – ask about our awesome Alkaline water available for purchase. Diarrhea, of course, also tends to put people back at square one. Turmeric is one of the major culinary herbs that helps to establish intestinal flora.  Add it to your food as much as possible and as always, ask about the products available to best assist your system at your next visit. We have found the high quality of PRL’s turmeric is superior to none.

Some Benefits of Colon Hydrotherapy

Colon hydrotherapy also functions as an important diagnostic tool for the physician in extracting useful information digestive and clinical disorders:

A. It is an excellent screening device for colo-rectal cancer.

B. Useful in diagnostic procedures for evaluation of the colon.

C. May prove valuable in the preparation for bowel surgery, providing a more optimal surgical field potentially decreasing the risk of post-operative complications due to the presence of bacteria at the sutureline.

D. Offers the location and relief of fecal impactions,. amount and color of mucous and the presence of increased amounts of gas.

E. Provides detection or parasites.

F. Useful for detoxification of drug addicts and alcoholics.

The entire colon could be cleaned and examined for blood every six months or as directed by the physician or health care professional for early detection of colo-rectal cancer. Benefits from colon hydrotherapy extend to all diagnostic procedures for evaluating the colon including barium enema, sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy, facilitating a more accurate study. Patient discomfort resulting from residual barium following the enema could be avoided utilizing colon hydrotherapy. In addition, this technique would eliminate the problem of residual opaque material on subsequent upper Gi series, which would result in additional radiation exposure to the patient. Patients undergoing general anesthesia would benefit from colon hydrotherapy as it would dramatically reduce the problems associated with bowel functions following surgery.

Colon may prove valuable in the preparation bowel surgery, providing a
more optimal field potentially decreasing the risk of post-operative
complications due to the presence of bacteria at the suture line. This
procedure may be applied to all patients undergoing general or spinal
anesthesia, as it would minimize the incidence of defecation in the surgical
suite, while saving valuable surgical time.

Colon hydrotherapy would also be extremely useful to alcohol and drug detoxification centers as an aid in the internal cleansing process, enhancing the elimination of toxins from the colon and circulatory system.

Colon Hydrotherapy Contraindications

The contraindications of colon hydrotherapy include diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis, Chrone’s’ disease (in the acute inflammatory stages), severe hemorrhoids, or a tumor in the rectum or a tumor in the large intestine.  See our other page for more info: http://www.colonwhisperer.com/services/colon-hydrotherapy/contraindications/

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, colon hydrotherapy is the safe, gentle infusion of purified warm water into the colon under conditions that offer safety, using no chemicals or drugs. It is the natural solution to conditions which interfere with the normal functions of the colon.

Why is colon hydrotherapy such a valuable treatment modality? A healthy colon is essential to a healthy body. Conventional diets of today comprised of refined, processed foods, high in saturated fats and low in natural fiber, contribute to the magnitude of the constipation problem. The elimination of undigested food and other waste products are as important as the proper digestion and assimilation of food stuffs. Waste material allowed to remain too long in the digestive system results in fermentation and putrefaction of these substances and proliferation of bacteria and their toxins.

Laxatives offer only temporary relief and do not address the REAL cause of the problem.

Colon hydrotherapy effectively removes stagnant fecal material from colon walls, preventing the build up of these bacterial toxins in the ports and lymphatic system, resulting in reduced load on the liver. In addition, the treatment removes mucous, gas, parasites, and cellular debris, facilitating peristaltic action and better absorption of nutrients.

This natural cleansing process effectively resolves the symptom directly and
indirectly related to dysfunction of the large intestine.

Bacteria are involved in the production of several vitamins which are absorbed by the large intestine and stored in the liver (vitamins K and some of the B vitamins). In addition to vitamins, the colon absorbs larger amounts of water. Unfortunately toxins of bacterial metabolism also enter the circulatory system. These toxins, (Indol, Skatol, Phenol, etc.) are treated by the liver and excreted by the kidneys. Colon bacteria ferments starches releasing hydrogen and methane gasses which are absorbed and excreted through the lungs. Thus, halitosis may be a symptom of a stagnant fermenting colon. Intestinal toxemia may further result in conditions such as headaches, allergies, instability, malnutrition and can potentially lead to an overall lowering of an individual’s immunological defense mechanism.

Intestinal stasis can enhance the systemic absorption of bacteria and their toxins. The prolonged retention of food residues, bile, etc. results in increased numbers of parastalic bacteria present in the colon. Some of the colon’s normal flora may become pathogenic under stagnant or putrefactive conditions. For example, streptococcus and staphylococcus, which are a part of the normal flora of the large intestine under above conditions, could enter the systemic circulation and be a potential source of disease.

It is my own personal and professional opinion that colon hydrotherapy is one of the most valuable treatment modalities offered. It may be a valuable solution by itself or in conjunction with an integrated metabolic program for a myriad of  health problems.

By   Donald J. Mantell, M.D.