The History of Colonics

Ancient Beginnings and Historical Use

Colon hydrotherapy and its benefits have been known and practiced for hundreds of years, dating back to ancient times with records as early as 1500 B.C. in the Eber Papyrus. Influential figures like Hippocrates, Pare, and Galen advanced the use of enema therapy, demonstrating its early medical relevance.

In earlier times people implemented enema treatments in a river by using a hollow reed to induce water to flow into the rectum.

Traditional Practices in America

In America, the use of enemas during the times of early settlers was common, particularly for combating illness and maintaining health. Notably, enemas were recommended for the Lewis and Clark expedition as a preventive measure against disease.

Our grandparents and great-grandparents grew up with the use of enemas as a widely accepted procedure for reversing the onset of illness.

The 20th Century and Modern Advancements

By the early 1900s, colon hydrotherapy was significantly popularized by John H. Kellogg, M.D. in Battle Creek, Michigan, who treated tens of thousands of patients with this method, avoiding surgery in nearly all cases.

In 1917 he reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association that in all but 20 cases — he used no surgery for the treatment of gastrointestinal disease in his patients.

“In times past, knowledge of the bowel was more widespread 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.” Bernard Jensen, D.C.

Decline and Resurgence of Colon Hydrotherapy

The popularity of colon hydrotherapy reached its apex in the 1920’s, 30’s and 40’s. At that time, colon irrigation machines were commonly seen and regularly used as a standard practice in hospitals and Doctor’s offices.

In the ensuing 50 to 60 years the public’s use of, and access to, this valuable health treatment greatly decreased. The public’s present lack of knowledge of colon care, together with the widely held belief by orthodox medicine that such treatments are no longer useful, may be the single most important factor in the current ill-health of our population.

In the 21st century there has been a resurgence of interest in alternative medicine and personal health care responsibility. Once again people are discovering the many health benefits of maintaining a strong and biologically sound colon.

This return to using colon hydrotherapy has been bolstered by the development of sophisticated colon hydrotherapy techniques, which make these therapies both safe and convenient. It is hoped the grass roots movement towards personal health responsibility, using alternative health therapies to restore and maintain superior health, will be joined by traditional health care practitioners.

Looking Forward: The Future of Colon Hydrotherapy

As interest in personal health care and alternative therapies continues to grow, colon hydrotherapy remains a relevant and beneficial practice. It is recommended for individuals experiencing colon-related health issues to consult with an experienced Colon Hydrotherapist.