Let’s Talk About Colonics: Benefits of Colon Hydrotherapy for Detox and Gut Health

What is colonic hydrotherapy? 

A gentle, safe internal bath of the colon (or large intestine or bowel) by means of warm, highly filtered water. It is not habit-forming, and it doesn't disturb the electrolyte balance. Colonic Hydrotherapy or Irrigation should not be confused with an enema. Enemas empty only the lower 12 inches, whilst Colonic Irrigation cleanses the entire length of the 5-foot colon. Dr Norman Walker, a noted American physician and naturopath, commented, “One colonic irrigation is equivalent to 30 enemas.

How long does a colonic take? 

Usually around 45 minutes, but it varies depending on the person’s diet and lifestyle. If you are a healthy eater, then it could be as short as 20 minutes, whilst if you have infrequent bowel movements, then it could take up to two hours.

I feel a bit embarrassed to have one - should I? 

Absolutely not! Your modesty is preserved at all times, and you simply pop on an open-back gown. You can chat to the hydrotherapist as it's being done or listen to music - whatever you want! Plus, there is no odour or mess, so there is really nothing to be embarrassed about. 

Won't all the good intestinal flora be washed away, too? 

In fact, just the opposite. A clogged-up colon encourages the formation of harmful bacteria and inhibits the formation of healthy flora, so a colonic promotes the proliferation of friendly flora, which subsequently allows nutrients to be better absorbed. 

Will I lose weight? 

Colonic hydrotherapy rapidly cleans out waste matter, gas, mucous and toxic substances from the colon, but not body fat - you need to eat healthily and exercise for that! However, you can lose pounds of waste, so you will naturally feel lighter and less bloated.

Why not just take a bunch of laxatives? 

Laxatives are habit-forming, weaken the bowel, can be irritating and are not always effective. Colonic hydrotherapy is none of these and works by stimulation, leaving you feeling lighter and brighter. Plus, your skin will turn from grey to pink!

Who can benefit? 

Everyone! The colon is the sewage system and the largest perpetrator of disease in the body, and, like any rubbish bin, it needs to be emptied. If the colon is not kept clean, the decay and putrification are not contained just within the colon but spread rapidly to other organs, causing auto-intoxication or self-poisoning. This self-poisoning can eventually lead to depression, irritability, lack of energy, lack of enthusiasm, bad breath, breathlessness, bloating, spotty, unclear-looking skin, stiff joints, and premature ageing, to mention but a few effects. It's very good for maximising physical efficiency and performance too, and is very beneficial for those on a detox or slimming programme.  

If you're interested in resetting your digestive system, explore our expert-led Gut Health Retreats here, lots of which offer colonic hydrotherapy along with a range of other cutting-edge treatments.