What is a Colonic?
Definition and Overview
A Colonic, also known as a colon cleanse or colon hydrotherapy, is a non-invasive procedure that involves gently flushing the colon with filtered water. This process helps to remove impacted fecal matter and toxins from the colon, promoting optimal digestive health.
How the Procedure Works
During a colonic, a specialized machine gently introduces filtered water into the colon through a small tube. The water softens and dislodges impacted stool, allowing it to be naturally eliminated. The process is typically completed in an hour, with 45 minutes of table time, use of essential oil blends and therapist summary of the session.
Common Misconceptions
There are many misconceptions about colonics. Some people mistakenly believe that it is a harsh or painful procedure. However, when performed by a qualified practitioner, a colonic is a gentle and comfortable experience.
Who Needs a Colonic?
Health Enthusiasts Seeking Wellness
Many people seek colonics as part of their overall wellness routine. It can help to improve digestion, boost energy levels, and enhance overall well-being.
Individuals with Digestive Issues
People with digestive issues such as constipation, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may find relief through colonics. By removing impacted waste, the procedure can help to improve bowel function and alleviate discomfort.
Detoxification and Maintenance
Colonics can be a valuable tool for detoxification. By removing toxins from the colon, it can help to support the body’s natural detoxification processes.
What are the Benefits of Colonics?
Improved Digestion and Nutrient Absorption
A clean colon can lead to improved digestion and nutrient absorption. When the colon is free of impacted waste, the body can more effectively process food and absorb essential nutrients.
Enhanced Detoxification
The colon plays a crucial role in eliminating waste products and toxins from the body. Colonics can help to support the body’s natural detoxification processes.
Support for Weight Management
By removing impacted waste, colonics can help to reduce bloating and create a sense of lightness and well-being. This can contribute to weight management goals.
Abdominal Massage and Relaxation
Colonics often involve gentle abdominal massage, which can help to relax the muscles and reduce stress.
Boosted Energy Levels
Improved digestion and detoxification can lead to increased energy levels and a sense of vitality.
How to Get Started
Finding a Qualified Practitioner
It’s important to choose a qualified and experienced practitioner to perform colon hydrotherapy. Look for a practitioner who is certified and has a good reputation.
What to Expect During Your First Session
During your first session, your practitioner will explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you may have. You will then lie on a table while the therapist gently inserts a small tube into your rectum. Filtered water will be slowly introduced into the colon, allowing for a gentle and comfortable cleansing process.
Post-Treatment Tips
After your colonic, it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. You may also experience increased bowel movements as your body adjusts.
Conclusion
A colonic can be a valuable tool for improving digestive health, enhancing detoxification, and promoting overall well-being. If you’re considering this treatment, be sure to choose a qualified practitioner and follow their instructions carefully.
By investing in your digestive health, you can experience a significant improvement in your quality of life.
Contraindications for Colon Hydrotherapy
What are the contraindications (conditions) that could prevent me from receiving colon hydrotherapy?
A contraindication is any indication or symptom that makes it inadvisable to use a particular therapy. Please call us at 206-729-6211 if you believe you have a contraindication. We will help clarify your situation and ensure that your next step is a solid one!
The following are contraindications for colon hydrotherapy. If any of these apply to you we are not able to treat you with colon hydrotherapy at the present time, unless you have a written prescription from an MD or ND showing supervision over our services for the contraindication. We have NDs (Naturopathic Doctors) on staff to help.
Contraindications for Colon Hydrotherapy
- Cancer of the colon or GI (gastro intestinal) tract
- Acute abdominal pain (please call us to clarify)
- Recent history of GI or rectal bleeding
- Congestive heart failure
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- History of seizures
- Carcinoma of the rectum
- Abdominal surgery*
- Intestinal perforation
- Abdominal hernia
- Recent colon or rectal surgery
- Diverticulitis
- Recent heart attack
- General debilitation
- Vascular aneurism
- Renal insufficiency
- Epilepsy or psychoses
- Severe hemorrhoids
- Cirrhosis
- Fissures or fistula
- Pregnancy
- Ulcerative colitis
- Acute Crohn’s disease
- Rectal or abdominal tumors
* Please call us to inquire about your situation as this does not apply to all surgeries: 206-729-6211.
If you have any of these contraindications you may still be eligible to receive colon hydrotherapy once they have subsided or been eliminated. In support, or as alternatives, massage and/or Decongestive Lymphatic therapy can be extremely helpful when supervised by a Naturopathic Doctor.
As well, Registered Dietitian consultations can provide you insight and a reasonable plan to address many of your digestive or reproductive challenges. If you are ever in question please call us at 206-729-6211
*Notice of Clarity: Massage (LMT) and Registered Nutritionist (RN) credentials do not include colonics in their scope of training, certification or practice.
Colonic and Colon Hydrotherapy Frequently Asked Questions
Tell me about Colonics with regards to scopes of practice
Per the policy of the WA State Department of Health we are required to notify you that Colon Hydrotherapy is not included in the training or scope of practice for nutritionists, Registered Dieticians (RD) or licensed massage practitioners (LMT). This is a statement of clarity to ensure that you understand that the credentials for some of our practitioners that are nutritionists and massage practitioners do not infer any government oversight for the colon hydrotherapists.
The training and education for Tummy Temple colon hydrotherapists is extensive to ensure a solid undertanding of anatomy, physiology & the use and maintenance of the colon hydrotherapy equipment. This is to ensure your safety and to support the efficacy of the sessions.
The Tummy Temple has a Naturopathic Medical Director on staff for oversight and supervision of the colon hydrotherapy department. This ND is responsible for ensuring that we are using FDA regulated supplies and equipment maintained according to manufacturer guidelines. As well they ensure that every practitioner has the necessary and appropriate training to be providing colonics safely. All protocols for sessions provided is reviewed and approved by the Medical Director.
Colon hydrotherapy as it is provided by non-medically licensed practititioners is only for flushing the contents of the colon.
Only Naturopathic Doctors may diagnose and treat medical conditions. NDs may refer for colonics as part of a plan and all sessions performed in these situations are under the supervision of the referring doctor.
Are colonics habit-forming?
No, colonics are not habit forming. This is a common question.
The confusion lies in the fact that many laxatives, due to their overstimulating, or over-irritating, the intestines create a dependency.
The reason colon hydrotherapy is not habit forming is that the pressures used to gently flush the colon with water are lower than what the body normally uses to move material along.
It has been estimated that the body generally produces between 3 and 3.5 pounds per square inch of pressure to move material along the colon.
If the pressure used in a colonic exceeded the body’s normal pressure used to move material along it could weaken the muscles of the colon thus creating a dependency. However this is NOT the case.
Per the FDA the pressure used during a session may not exceed 2.25 pounds per square inch. The pressures used are generally between 0.25 and 1.25 pounds per square inch. If, during a fill the body decides to release a lot of material the pressure can spike. However, the equipment we use has a protective mechanism built into it to divert water directly into the sewage system if the pressure ever gets to 2 pounds per square inch. Thus, the internal pressure never exceeds the FDA requirement.
Are there any additional benefits I might expect from a colonic?
Yes, there are several. Working with a skilled hydrotherapist a colonic can be a truly enlightening educational process. You will learn to expand your awareness of your body’s functioning by including signals from your abdomen, your skin, your face and even from that most taboo of natural products, your eliminations.
You will find that you can spot the beginnings of developing conditions through clues from these body regions and functions before they become serious. You can deal with them sooner and more easily than you otherwise might if you waited until they produce effects seen elsewhere in the body.
Also, the solar plexus is the emotional center of the body and the transverse colon passes right through it. If an emotional event is left uncompleted it often results in physical tension being stored in the solar plexus which affects all organs of the area, including the colon.
This ongoing tightening of the colon muscle results in diminished movement of fecal material through the colon, which can be experienced as constipation.
Not only do colonics help to clear material from the colon, they can assist you in creating a fully holistic view of your body’s functioning, leading to a better quality of life.
But the colon isn't the only organ of elimination, what makes the colonic so important?
While the lungs, skin, kidneys and liver also serve to eliminate toxins, people have experienced throughout history that when they ensure that the colon is cleansed and healed, the well-being of the whole body is greatly enhanced.
Colonic hydrotherapy has been found to be the most effective process available to accomplish this work quickly and easily.
Can I work directly after having a colon hydrotherapy?
Certainly. You can work just as you would after a regular bowel movement.
How do I Prepare for a Colonoscopy?
Intestinal Exam Preparation
The important thing to remember about the intestinal exam preparation is that having an empty bowel makes for a comfortable and successful experience.
It is recommended to do a series of three colon hydrotherapy sessions.
If you are not having complete eliminations by the second session we suggest you do a series of colonics until you achieve a very productive session. Only then should you rebook your colonoscopy and plan your preparation accordingly……your colon will thank you!
Use the following schedule to prepare your bowel for examination:
Colon Hydrotherapy Session 1 is 7 days prior to exam.
Colon Hydrotherapy Session 2 is 3 days prior to exam.
Colon Hydrotherapy Session 3 is the afternoon/evening prior to the exam.
Diet should be as follows:
Hydrate with water every day for the entire week prior to the exam by drinking half your bodyweight in ounces (e.g. a 200lb person would drink 100 ounces daily). Eat a fruit, steamed vegetable, and/or liquid diet 4 days prior to the exam. Foods that leave residue in the body such as meat, cheese, and refined carbohydrates (bread, crackers, pasta, etc) should be eliminated at this time.
Post Exam:
Schedule an abdominal massage with the Tummy Temple Massage Team to address tensions from the examination. Often people will experience cramping or discomfort in the bowel area after these exams from the increased activity. The massage team is well equipped to assist in resolving these tensions.
**NOTE
There is no way to know before the colonoscopy if your colon has been adequately cleansed. Only when the doctor, or therapist, scopes the colon internally can that be determined. There is no scoping being done at the Tummy Temple; only colon cleansing. This is the also the case with all other forms of intestinal exam preparations, there is no guarantee that it will work or way of knowing that it has worked until the scoping is initiated.
With that said, therapists should be able to let you know if you had a very productive session by tracking the volume of water used and material released through the tube. This is not a diagnosis, only an observation. It is impossible for the therapist to determine whether or not the colonoscopy will be successful. You will have to use your best judgment and follow the above recommended guidelines to put yourself in the best position possible. We highly recommend this approach as it is the healthiest known way to cleanse the colon prior to a colonoscopy and is now being used in hospitals (note: Danbury Connecticut Hospital has made it the top choice for preparation.).
If your final colonic is very productive you should have minimal cramping upon taking colonoscopy preparation formulas from your doctor.
Click the links below for additional useful information and the most current research in support of using colon hydrotherapy to improve the outcomes of colonoscopy exams:
https://www.i-act.org/Resources/Danbury%20Hospital.pdf
Do colon hydrotherapy treatments hurt?
They rarely do. Most people actually enjoy the colonic and are especially pleased with the unaccustomed sensation of feeling lighter, clean and clear afterward. Usually, painful experiences are the result of resistance and tension.
A professional colon hydrotherapist is skilled at putting you at your ease and minimizing discomfort.
Sometimes during a colonic, the colon muscles will contract suddenly expelling considerable amounts of liquid and waste into the rectum. This may feel like cramping or gas, and may create a feeling of urgency to empty the rectum. Such episodes, if they do occur, are brief and easily tolerated.
Do I need to take acidophilus after a colon cleansing because intestinal flora has been washed out of the colon?
Acidophilus mainly resides in the small intestine. As a colon hydrotherapy session only flushes your large intestine (colon) then this is not really an issue. However, colon hydrotherapy does wash out both beneficial and non-beneficial bacteria from the colon.
We always encourage a blend of oral probiotics that include probiotics that flourish in the large intestine, as well.
Your therapist can offer guidance on effective probiotic brands as well as products you may use to perform probiotic rectal implants at home.
At any point in time we carry around 3-4 pounds of bacteria in our intestines. Most people are out of balance with their bacteria and aren’t doing much to change that. In the “olden” days we would have been getting beneficial bacteria from fermented foods, raw milk, and foods picked fresh from the garden without being heavily washed or radiated.
These days it is rare to meet an individual who is getting bacteria into their system this way. So, we highly recommend to all of our clients…and you..to take Acidophilus, Bulgaricus and Bifidum orally on a daily basis whether or not you’re getting a colon hydrotherapy session.
Does having a menstrual period at the time of a colon hydrotherapy session have any effect on the treatment?
No, in fact it’s usually a good time to receive a treatment, since your body is already cleansing. Your flow will not interfere with the success of the treatment. We use absorbent pads underneath you during the colon hydrotherapy session in case your period begins during the session or starts to flow beyond the tampon.
How can I ensure a successful colon hydrotherapy session?
Most importantly, the best way to ensure that you have a successful session is to do your best to be well hydrated, chew your food and breathe from your gut.
Secondly, depending on digestive systems operations, you may want to incorporate some fiber, and/or Diju in your system, or another supplement. Talking with your colon hydrotherapist about what’s going on with you prior to your sessions can be quite helpful.
How can I tell if I have toxic material in my colon?
This condition is prevalent in all civilized societies, and particularly in the USA. Common signs include: headaches, backaches, constipation, fatigue, bad breath, body odor, irritability, confusion, skin problems, abdominal gas, bloating, diarrhea, sciatic pain, and so forth. As you can see, intestinal toxicity is a part of many peoples everyday experience.
How can I tell if I would personally benefit from a colonic?
Does your colon now exhibit the signs of a well functioning colon? If not, one or more sessions with a knowledgeable colon hydrotherapist may bring you great dividends.
Here’s two articles providing some reasons to get a colonic:
How does colon hydrotherapy compare to an enema?
An enema only reaches the rectum and lower part of the colon (8-12 inches), whereas with colon hydrotherapy the entire length of the colon (the large intestinal tract approximately 5 to 7 feet in length) is reached.
Enemas generally use higher pressure and often send the colon into spasm, thus the minimal fills and the extreme discomfort. Colon hydrotherapy, utilizing lower pressures and adeptly controlled temperatures, is many more times effective.
According to learned centenarian Dr. Norman Walker, One colon irrigation is equivalent to 30 enemas.
How far does the rectal speculum get inserted?
The rectal speculum is usually inserted 2.5 to 3 inches into the rectum.
How long does a colonic take?
Probably 90% of all colonics take about 1 hour. It could also be shorter or longer than that, based upon the judgment of the hydrotherapist and you. For your first visit you may have to come 20 minutes early to fill out your Health History Intake form on one of our computers. Of you may fill it out online before coming in.
On a first colonic you should expect to spend an hour and a half at the Temple if you fill out paperwork there.
How many colonics in a short amount of time is safe?
We generally recommend no more than 3 per week for limited time to support an extensive cleanse. For some people more than that may be necessary and you may book an appointment with a Naturopathic Doctor at the Tummy Temple to facilitate a more extensive cleanse.
In summation, some people have greatly benefited doing a series of colonics in a row, one day after another, maybe during a detox, while some may only be physically and emotionally comfortable with one every few days, one a week, etc. Everyone is different and unique, and this certainly applies to the gut. It is important to take it slowly at first to assess how your body is responding.
How much of the intestines are cleansed during a colon hydrotherapy treatment?
During a treatment it is possible for a professional colon therapist to cleanse the full length of the colon (large intestine 5-7 feet). The small intestine is not cleansed or flushed during a colon hydrotherapy treatment. The small intestine may be cleansed with the help of an oral (herb-based) intestinal cleanser.
How to Prepare for Colon Hydrotherapy?
7-10 days prior:
Please Note: These are guidelines to help you get the most out of your session, not requirements.
If time allows, we recommend our Cleanse Prep kits to help soften your stool and encourage movement for a more productive session. The dry skin brush is for supporting skin exfoliation and lymphatic system support as skin is the largest organ of elimination.
Purchase online:
Seattle area delivery: 6 business days
Out of WA state delivery: 2 weeks
Cleanse Prep Kit (WITH a dry skin brush)
Cleanse Prep Kit (WITHOUT a dry skin brush)
Purchase at the Tummy Temple:
Monday – Saturday 10:00am – 5:30pm.
Please call and prepay over the phone to ensure stock is available. Your products will be placed in our “product pickup basket” near our checkout desk for your convenience.
Avoid using the Cleanse Prep kit if you have diarrhea, your stool is pencil thin, if you are pregnant or nursing.
Nutritional Recommendations:
Regardless of getting colonics these helpful suggestions can improve bowel movements and support more productive releases. In the days leading up to your colonic, keep these simple tips front of mind:
- Chew your food till it is liquid,
- Drink half your body weight in ounces (e.g. 160lb person drinks 10 eight ounce glasses of water). For every cup of coffee or alcohol you drink, add another 8 oz. glass of water,
- Avoid pasta, pizza, cereals and gluten,
- ncrease vegetable and fruits,
- Choose chicken and fish over beef and pork (remember to chew till liquid).
Feel free to smile, put a little massage oil (or olive oil) on your belly and massage it gently every night before bed for 5 minutes to release tension!
2 hours prior to session:
Refrain from eating to avoid a full stomach. If you are hungry or your blood sugar is low then please eat a snack before coming in for your session.
Avoid caffeine.
1 hour prior to session:
Refrain from drinking to avoid a full bladder on the table. You will be a lot more comfortable.
FIRST TIME OR NERVOUS? Our clients have experienced improved results from their colonic by receiving a massage prior to their session. We have massage therapists that will help relax your body, nervous system, and belly. Schedule online or call us for more information.
15 minutes prior to session:
- Start relaxing and letting go of the stress of the day. Try to arrive early so that you may sit down for 5-15 minutes prior to the session in the comfortable waiting area to listen to the water fountain and calm your nervous system. Know that you are coming in for a wonderful therapeutic experience and life is about to get better.
Upon Arrival to the Tummy Temple:
- Please do not wear perfumes/colognes, strong oils, scented lotions or smoke before coming in to the Tummy Temple.
- As you enter, take note of our Tummy Temple Rituals (at the top of the stairs). Take a moment to inhale/exhale slowly and completly at least three times to relax your nervous system. Ring the shrine bell. Spritz your face and body with our relaxing essential oil blend. Enter the Tummy Temple with ease.
Clothing Suggestions:
- As you will be disrobing from the waist down, please wear something comfortable from the waste up.
- Long dresses ARE NOT recommended as they will need to be hiked up above the waist which may be uncomfortable and will lead to wrinkling.
- On rare occasions there may be significant leakage during a session. This is usually due to a poor seal between the rectum and the rectal speculum, most often attributed to weak or atrophied muscles. As this is something we cannot predict, we do have tan colored T-shirts that may be purchased for $5 if for any reason your shirt is soiled during the session.
How will I know when the colon is empty?
It will probably never be completely empty as it’s an organ in continuous use. As more of the old impacted material is released you will actually feel the water enter higher regions of the colon without any sense of obstruction. The objective should not be an empty colon, but rather a well functioning colon.
How would you describe a colon hydrotherapy session?
For your first time coming into the Tummy Temple you will likely come about 20 minutes early to fill out our online Health History Intake form unless you filled it out online first. This form gives us detailed information about your health history and current condition. Be sure to read our Terms of Use and Cancellation Policy to understand the basic guidelines for using our services.
You will then go into one of our therapy rooms for a brief consultation with a therapist to go over your Intake form and answer any initial questions you might have.
Once done, the therapist will leave the room so that you may undress from the waist down. You will knock on the door to let the therapist know that you will be ready shortly. You will then proceed to lay down, on your back, on the very comfortable colonic table and pull the cover sheet over yourself. Directly underneath you will be a disposable absorbent pad, in case there is any leakage during the session (this is generally a very small amount of water, if any). The therapist will then knock on the door to be sure you are ready and then enter the room.
The therapist will then pull out the package of disposable and sterile tubes and speculum and attach them to the colon hydrotherapy equipment Click here to view the tubes and equipment. You will roll over on your side, under the sheet, with your rectum facing in the direction of the therapist. The therapist will then lubricate the speculum and you will either insert the speculum into your rectum or the therapist will assist you in a self-insertion. The speculum will be inserted about 2.5 to 3 inches into your rectum. The speculum has the diameter of a healthy bowel movement and the rectum usually receives the speculum easily with gentle pressure.
Initially you will remain on your side as the therapist starts running body temperature water into the end of your colon. No attempt will be made to fill your colon at this point. This short period is used to ensure a good fit for the speculum and to relax you and your colon.
Within a couple of minutes, unless you prefer to be on your side, you will roll back onto your back with your knees bent. The speculum will be secured by a strap that will rest under your body to prevent slippage.
When you are ready the therapist will then close the release valve on the equipment to create pressure in the system. This pressure is what allows the therapist to start gently filling your colon. The pressure used for filling the colon will generally run from 0.25 to 1.25 psi (pounds per square inch). This is very gentle (often much more gentle that an enema you would give yourself at home). The FDA requires that the pressure never exceed 2 psi as a safety margin. The equipment we use has a safety mechanism that automatically diverts water out of the system at the point it reaches 2 psi to ensure your safety and the health of your colon.
The therapist will continue with the fill until you let them know that you are ready to release or until they notice the pressure gauge increasing to a point where they decide it would be good to have you release.
When you release through the speculum, the water and material from your colon will pass through the large tube and then into the equipment. Within the equipment there is a view tube that is well lit from behind to make it possible to visually examine what is coming out of you. There is a lot of information to be gathered here and it is an important part of the therapy. From there the material then passes out of the equipment and directly into the sewage system.
The water is kept running at all times to help break up material and to keep your colon relaxed.
The therapist will then continue to do more fills and releases depending on the amount of time left and how you are feeling.
Every therapist at the Tummy Temple has received professional palpation training to use their hands on your abdomen to help release tension in your colon, belly and surrounding organs. This is a profound addition to the therapy as it makes a tremendous difference in helping you receive the maximum benefits from colon hydrotherapy.
Following your last release the speculum will be removed and, along with the tubes, disposed of immediately. The therapist will leave the room for you to use the toilet, if need be, and redress.
After you leave the room and pay for the session the therapist then returns to the room to clean up and disinfect the system.
If colonics are so good, why haven't I heard about them before?
In a way, the answer to that is a commentary on our present day lifestyle. Historically, artifacts and records show that people have regularly purified their bodies, including cleansing the colon.
Around the turn of the 20th century, the present-day colonic machine was developed, providing a significantly improved method of accomplishing colon cleansing. Up to the late 1920’s many doctors had colonic machines in their offices, and machines were found in hospitals as well.
Articles dealing with colon health frequently appeared in prestigious medical and scientific journals until the early 1930’s. At that time modern man began a 50-year love affair with drugs and surgery. These seemed to offer relatively instant relief for body ailments, resulting in purification and prevention techniques becoming less attractive.
Recently, however, there has been a resurgence of interest in using natural approaches for healing the body, and colonics have rapidly been regaining the respectability they have already earned.
Is body work involved in colon hydrotherapy? What can I expect?
As a client, you can always expect the therapist to ask to touch you before they attempt to do so. The typical body work that occurs in a session is the palpitation, or use of hands, on your belly, using pressure points in your neck, lower back, shoulders, hands and feet, and maybe even a hand on your upper chest to help guide your breathing into your belly.
Of course, all this is optional, and can vary due to your particular comfort level, so make sure to communicate clearly with your colon hydrotherapist in order to have the most successful session possible.
Is colon hydrotherapy safe?
Yes. Colon hydrotherapy is one of the most gentle body therapies and thus extremely safe. Safety is a relevant term, though, that is dependent upon the equipment used and the therapists handling the equipment.
The Tummy Temple uses only top of the line equipment, the Aquanet EC-2000, with built in safety mechanism that exceed the FDA standards. The Aquanet EC-2000 is also a closed system, vs. an open system, and thus uses special rectal speculums designed to ensure the health and safety of the colon. The speculum and tubes used are prepackaged and will only be used once, then disposed.
Our staff of colon hydrotherapists are professionally trained, certified and tested on the equipment to ensure they know how to handle the equipment accordingly. However, for some, colon hydrotherapy is not advised. See our more detailed list of contraindications (conditions that might make it so that you are unable to receive treatment). An interesting fact is that with new colon therapy equipment treatments are much safer than the common enema!
Being an essentially natural process, there is virtually no danger with a colonic. Our intent is to provide a safe and healthy service so that you do not have to worry. Cleaning off the necessary equipment is done as a normal procedure and fresh clean linen is used for each colonic, as well. There is no need for sterilization of any equipment as all equipment that would normally be sterilized is now disposable.
Is intestinal toxicity is a common condition?
Yes it is, but toxicity is not limited to just the colon. Toxic material is found throughout the body, particularly in fat tissue, joints, arteries, muscles, liver, etc. Colonics effectively eliminate large quantifies of toxic wastes, affecting the condition of the entire body.
Is it embarassing to have a colonic?
No, you will fully maintain your personal dignity. You will be in a private room with only your hydrotherapist who fully appreciates the sensitivity of the colonic procedure and will help you feel at ease.
Your emotions will be acknowledged and honored. After the gentle insertion of a small tube into the rectum, you are completely covered. Rubber tubing carries clean water into your colon.
Waste is eliminated, as well, through a tube via a sterilized, closed and pressurized system. The mess and odor sometimes present during an enema simply does not exist with a colonic.
Is there a special kind of water used for colonic hydrotherapy?
We use triple filtered water which passes through sediment filter, carbon filter and UV light which provides further sterilization and activation of the water. This kind of water is capable of absorbing and flushing more toxins out of the colon because of its drawing effect on solid particles, chemicals and other matter.
Tap water is not used because it already has numerous chemicals and inorganic substances present.
Is there any possibility of bacterial or viral contamination from prior use of the colon hydrotherapy machine?
No. Our colon hydrotherapy machines utilize pre-sterilized, disposable hoses and speculums. These disposables are used only once during a single therapy session. The equipment is cleansed between clients. Properly administered, there is absolutely no danger of contamination.
Should I see my doctor before my first colon hydrotherapy treatment?
If you have a concern about your health or the appropriateness of colon hydrotherapy you should consult a doctor. If you are diagnosed with diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, severe hemorrhoids, rectal or intestinal tumors, you would not be a candidate for colon hydrotherapy treatments without doctor oversight.
See our complete list of contraindications above (conditions that might make it so that you are unable to receive treatment).
Professionally administered colon hydrotherapy is safe and, if you are free of the above sited conditions, a medical examination prior to therapy should not be necessary.
Some people say that colonics wash out intestinal flora and valuable nutrients. Is this so?
Flushing out putrefied material in the large intestine prepares the environment for well balanced intestinal flora. Good bacteria can only breed in a clean environment which has been washed free of putrefaction and accompanying harmful bacteria. This is why the intestines of a new born baby immediately begin to grow good intestinal flora.
Each time you clean out the putrefying rubbish and make a better environment for the good flora, they start to multiply immediately in their natural media. It also stands to reason that valuable nutrients can better be absorbed in a clean environment than in a filthy one.
We highly recommend additional flora (bacteria) support through rectal probiotic implants after each colonic. Daily oral support of probiotics is a must for most everyone whether or not they are getting colon hydrotherapy.
Suppose I have been suffering from constipation for a long time, will colonics help?
Constipation can be successfully treated with natural, harmless techniques, including the use of colonics. Constipation is one of what may be termed “civilized man’s diseases”.
There are three factors involved in having a well functioning colon: diet exercise and attitude. All three must be in balance for the colon to function well.
Often, however, because the colon has been sluggish for so long, it has become severely weakened due to being constantly bathed in toxic waste, stretched from holding excessive amount of stools, and frequently, constricted by chronic tension in the colon.
The process of colonic hydrotherapy is excellent for cleansing and healing the colon sufficiently so that changes in diet, exercise, and attitude are then able to produce their effects. Many people find that the relief provided by colonics stimulates the motivation and enthusiasm to institute positive changes in their lifestyle.
What are probiotics?
Residential bacteria form colonies in your gastrointestinal tract, mouth, and vaginal tract. Transient bacteria are travelers that are just passing through.
Friendly bacteria, including Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifido-bacterium bifidum, are your body’s first line of defense against the potentially harmful microorganisms that you inhale or ingest. Probiotics are another term for these friendly bacteria that live and work in your gastrointestinal tract every day of your life. Think of them as the “home guard”, a mighty bacterial army that defends your body against dangerous invaders.
Having sufficient numbers of these friendly bacteria in residence can help prevent a wide range of health problems.
Not all bacteria flourishes throughout the intestines. For example Acidophilus loves the small intestine. Bifidum loves the large intestine. The Tummy Temple sells rectal probiotics implants (for home or office visits) to allow you to directly put beneficial bacteria into your colon following a colon hydrotherapy session, or more preferably before bedtime.
HLC IntensiveHere are just a few of the noted benefits of taking probiotics:
- Reducing Inflammation (the Pharmax brand listed below has been proven, above most, to be significantly effective in this area)
- Increasing immune function and lowering infections
- Replenishing beneficial gut bacteria following use of antibiotics, alcohol, coffee, etc.
- Improving mineral absorption
- Increasing energy (it has been found that 20% of our energy comes from probiotics creating short chain fatty acids)
- Decreasing or eliminating some forms of IBS
- Manufacturing B vitamins
- Producing lactase
- Supporting healthy acid/alkaline (pH) balance
- Improving digestive tract function
We have sold many different probiotics over the years and have great things to say about a variety of manufacturers. Without a doubt, however, there is on manufacturer that sells probiotics that we have seen produce the best clinical results of all, Pharmax. As we consider probiotics to be critical on the fundamental level of wellness, we only sell the best value for your money. To read more about their Intensive Probiotics, or purchase Pharmax HLC Intensive Probiotic Capsules.
What are the characteristics of a healthy well-functioning colon?
Healthy babies, animals and adults not subjected to the “refinement” of civilization (i.e. aboriginal peoples) have bowel movements shortly after each meal is eaten. So, assuming there is sufficient fiber and water available to the colon, one characteristic is a bowel movement shortly after a meal is eaten.
Once the urge to eliminate is honored by a trip to the toilet the elimination should be easy and take no more than a few seconds. The stool will be long, large in diameter, light brown in color, without offensive odor and should float or sink down slowly. When the toilet is flushed, the stool immediately begins breaking apart by the action of water movement. As incredible as this may sound it is true and commonly experienced in cultures where people live more naturally.
What are the contraindications (conditions that could prevent me from receiving colon hydrotherapy)?
Please read our Contraindications section directly above this frequently asked questions section.
What can I expect to feel after the colonic?
Most likely, you’ll feel great. Probably you’ll feel lighter and enjoy a sense of well-being. Not infrequently, someone having their first colonic will remark that it was one of the most wonderful experiences of their life.
As soon as the colonic is finished you can carry on with daily routine. For some, the colonic may trigger several subsequent bowel movements for the next few hours, but there won’t be any uncontrollable urgency or discomfort. It’s also possible you may feel lightheaded or chilled for a few moments following a colonic. If a detoxifying reaction is triggered, any combination of symptoms may exhibit themselves, such as: headaches, back aches, emotional discharging, nausea, or low energy.
Though uncomfortable, these are all positive and temporary reactions signifying the body is releasing that which is no longer necessary. Relax, drink lots of water and be kind to yourself.
What is colon hydrotherapy?
Notice of Clarity – Massage (LMP) and Nutrition (CN) licenses are not related to any WA state government regulated oversight of Colon Hydrotherapy.
Also known as a “colonic”, “colon lavage”, “colon irrigation”, and “high colonic”, colon hydrotherapy is a safe, effective method for cleansing the colon of waste material, hydrating and supporting the release of physical, energetic and emotional tension by repeated, gentle flushing of the colon with water. It is literally a water massage of tummy and colon from the inside out.
What is the colon?
The colon, or large intestine, is the end portion of the human digestive tract (food carrying passageway extending from the mouth to the anus). The intestines are long, hollow tubes that run from your stomach to your anal opening.
There are two intestines: the small intestine and the large intestine. The small intestine is about 25 feet long. It is about as big around as your middle finger. The small intestine empties into the large intestine, also called the colon, which is about 5 to 7 feet long. The colon is about two inches in diameter and connects your small intestine to your anus.
The large intestine (colon), is shaped like a large question mark and starts out near your right hip, moves up to your ribs on the right side, goes across to the left side by your ribs, then down to the left hip where it makes an S-curve down to the anus. The last portion of the colon is called the rectum. At the bottom of the rectum are the sphincter muscles.
There are internal and external anal sphincter muscles. These muscles prevent the rectum from emptying when you do not want it to. The anal canal is one to two inches long. It is surrounded by the anal sphincter muscles which squeeze the anal canal closed to make sure that stool does not leak out accidentally. When you are ready to move your bowels, you relax these sphincter muscles and release the stool out.
The small intestine absorbs the nutrition from your food. The large intestine recycles water and electrolytes back into your body and stores the waste-products of digestion until your body is ready to empty them out. There are bacteria living in the colon which digest fibers to produce energy for us and synthesize valuable nutrients such as vitamins “K” and portions of the vitamin “B” complex.
What is the gut brain connection? Why do I get tummy aches when I'm stressed?
Facts about the gut acting like the brain
“The brain is not the only place in the body that’s full of neurotransmitters, a hundred million neurotransmitters line the length of the gut, approximately the same number that is found in the brain…the brain in the bowel has got to work right or no one will have the luxury to think at all.” – Dr. Gershon (Book: The Second Brain, 1998)
“The gut has opiate receptors that behave like the brains opiate receptors. This is why many opiate type drugs cause constipation. Both brains can be addicted to opiates.” – Micheal Loes, M.D author of The Healing Response, 2002
What is the purpose of having a colonic?
Well, waste material, especially that which has remained in the colon for some time (i.e. impacted feces, dead cellular tissue, accumulated mucous, parasites, worms, etc.), poses several problems.
First this material is quite toxic (poisonous). These poisons can reenter from the colon and circulate in the blood stream making us feel ill, tired or weak.
Second, impacted materials impair the colon’s ability to assimilate minerals and bacteria produced vitamins. Buildup of material on the colon wall can inhibit muscular action causing sluggish bowel movements, constipation, and the result of these disorders.
Third, water is recycled through the colon and thus hydration is temporarily improved. And finally, tension is released through the hydro-massage that occurs through the fills and releases of water into/from the colon.
What is this "gut flora" I hear people talking about?
GUT FLORA: Bacteria in the gut fulfills a host of useful functions for humans, including digestion of unutilized energy substrates; stimulating cell growth; repressing the growth of harmful microorganisms; training the immune system to respond only to pathogens; and defending against some diseases.
Research suggests that the relationship between gut flora and humans is not merely commensal (a non-harmful coexistence), but rather is a mutualistic, symbiotic relationship.
Though people can survive with no gut flora, the microorganisms perform a host of useful functions, such as fermenting unused energy substrates, training the immune system, preventing growth of harmful species, regulating the development of the gut, producing vitamins for the host (such as biotin and vitamin K), and producing hormones to direct the host to store fats.
However, in certain conditions, some species are thought to be capable of causing disease by causing infection or increasing cancer risk for the host.
What makes a colonic so special?
In an hour session approximately 15 gallons of water is used to gently flush the colon. Through appropriate use of hands-on tummy work, pressure points, etc., the colon hydrotherapist is able to work loose and eliminate far more toxic waste than any other short-term technique.
What will colon hydrotherapy cure?
Colon hydrotherapy is not a cure, it is a tool for improving health. We have worked with thousands of clients and are only in business because colon hydrotherapy delivers tangible positive results. Many of our clients attribute colon hydrotherapy as the tool that helped them heal from cancer or recover from cancer treatments, overcome chronic constipation or simply keep vibrant and healthy.
The list is long and varied. These are not claims that we make, rather testimonials we have proudly gathered over the years.
What will colonics do to the colon?
Specifically, a colonic is used to accomplish the following:
- Cleanse the Colon: Toxic material is broken down so it can no longer harm your body or inhibit assimilation and elimination. Even debris built up over a long period is gently, but surely removed in the process of a series of treatments. Once impacted material is removed, your colon can begin again to cooperate as it was intended to. In this very real sense a colonic is a rejuvenation treatment.
- It Exercises and strengthens the Colon Muscles: The build up of toxic debris weakens the colon and impairs its functioning. The gentle filling and emptying of the colon improves peristaltic (muscular contraction) activity by which the colon naturally moves material. Pressures used are under the pressure that a healthy colon would naturally use. Thus, colon hydrotherapy will ASSIST the colon to eliminate rather than TAKE OVER the responsibility of elimination.
- It Reshapes the Colon: When problem conditions exist in the colon they tend to alter its shape which in turn causes more problems. The gentle action of the water, coupled with the massage techniques of the colon hydrotherapist helps to eliminate bulging pockets of waste and narrowed, spastic constrictions finally enabling the colon to resume its natural state.
- It Stimulates Reflex Points: Every system and organ of the body is connected to the colon by reflex points. Colonics stimulate these points thereby affecting the corresponding body parts in a beneficial way.
Why is it necessary to have a "good peristaltic wave"?
Peristalsis moves food through the digestive tract. Smooth muscles within your gastrointestinal tract contract in sequence creating the peristaltic wave that forces the food along your tract. The smooth muscles squeezing prevent food from coming back to where it started, starting a sequence of events that cause the body to process the food for all its needs and then to be rid of the rest.
Facts about peristalsis
- Serotonin is linked with the initiation of peristalsis. The most serotonin is produced in the gut, and is the source of the biggest production in the body. Some antidepressants, such as Prozac cause gastrointestinal problems such as nausea, diarrhea and constipation in roughly 25 percent of people taking the drug. This is due to the drugs preventing the gut to use the serotonin (it is now being primarily produced in the brain), thus robbing the digestive system of the nuerotransmitter, causing digestive problems. (From: Patient Heal Thyself, page 34)
- that being said, sometimes in SMALL doses (high doses causes the opposite effect), Prozac is used to treat chronic constipation. (from: Patient Heal Thyself, page 35)
Why not use enemas, suppositories or laxatives instead?
Well, every thing has its proper place, but those things really aren’t substitutes for colonics. Enemas are useful for emptying the rectum (the lowest 8 to 12 inches of the colon). Usually, one or two pints of water are used to do that.
Suppositories are intended to accomplish the same task. Laxatives, particularly herbal laxatives, are formulated for various purposes, such as: to undo the effects of temporary constipation, to build up the tone of the colon muscle, etc. But the Rolls Royce of colon cleansing without question is colonic hydrotherapy.
Will a colonic clear up my skin?
Your skin actually breathes and is an important organ of elimination of waste material. Sometimes, if the colon, liver or kidneys are functioning poorly, the skin will be required to make up the difference. Surface eruptions on the skin of various sorts may occur due to toxins being released.
Cleansing and healing the colon diminishes the burden placed upon the skin as well as the other organs of elimination: lungs, liver and kidneys. As elimination is accomplished through its proper channels, the skin will very often clear up.
Will a colonic make me constipated or give me diarrhea?
The most frequent post-colonic experience is to have a slight delay in bowel movements and then a resumption of a somewhat larger, easier to move stool. Sometimes if the colon is weak and sluggish, there may be no bowel movement for several days following a colonic.
However this is not due to the colonic, but rather to the weakness of the colon, and should be interpreted as an indication that the colon requires strengthening and healing.
Very infrequently diarrhea or loose bowels may be experienced. This could be due to the extra water introduced into the colon or to the stirring up of toxic waste. If this should occur, it is usually of very short duration.
However, since severe diarrhea dehydrates the body, it must be carefully monitored.
Will I experience any intestinal discomfort or fatigue after the cleansing?
Usually not, but since the cleansing will stir up a lot of old debris and toxins, you might experience some minor nausea or fatigue. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to rest and apply a warm heating pad to the abdomen. If you wish, a mild vegetable broth or peppermint tea is usually soothing at this time. Any discomfort will usually pass within 24 hours.
Will it be okay to eat after a colonic?
We suggest that you eat at your normal meal time, and consume a moderate amount of whatever seems gentle and nourishing to you. Just as it doesn’t make sense to have you car cleaned and then immediately drive it through mud, eating a meal known to cause trouble in your abdomen directly after a colonic isn’t an intelligent choice.
Salads, vegetable soups or broth, fruit, or juices and other whole, organic plant foods are the best choice.
Will one colonic completely empty the colon?
Almost never. Firstly, many of us have a considerable amount of impacted feces in our colon; a hardened, rubbery or wallpaper like material. Substantial work must be done to remove it. Secondly, there is a subtle learning process involved in receiving colonics.
As you become more aware of what is going on in your abdomen, and as your body learns how to allow the cleansing experience, you are better able to enter into that process, and therefore more material is released. One colonic will remove some of the stagnant waste in the colon. The second and subsequent colonics will remove more. How many you may wish to have will depend upon your personal objectives.
With all this talk of bacteria, I wonder what effect colonic hydrotherapy has on our immune systems?
The removal of stagnant waste material and hardened, impacted toxic residue could rejuvenate the immune tissue that resides in the intestines. Recent European studies speculate that 80% of immune tissue resides in the intestines. This is much higher than previously thought and makes it logical to believe that this type of therapy could influence such immune deficiency diseases as M.S., cancer and AIDS.
Colon Hydrotherapy is not a cure-all, but an important adjunctive therapy in the overall health care of the client.
