The Lydian Center for Innovative Medicine :: Cambridge, Massachusetts :: Services

What is Colon Hydrotherapy or Colonic Irrigation?

Colon Hydrotherapy or Colonic Irrigation is the irrigation of the colon with water without the use of drugs or chemicals. It is a complimentary treatment for removing waste from the large bowel without applying toxic agents of any kind. This procedure introduces warm, filtered water to the colon, through the rectum, by means of a disposable, one-time use, speculum. During the session, which last for approximately 45 – 50 minutes, the Colon Hydrotherapist and client work as a team to achieve optimal cleansing results; the client will practice focused breathing while the Hydrotherapist assists through abdominal massage.

Visit www.colonlove.com for additional Colon Hydrotherapy FAQs.

A Short Historical Perspective

Usage of the enema bag to address gastrointestinal problems is documented in the writings of Ancient Egyptians, Sumerians, Chinese, Hindus, Greeks and Romans. The practice of colon cleansing was a part of these ancient cultures. The Ancient Egyptian practice, documented in the Ebers Papyrus (1500 B.C.), noted that the Egyptians purged themselves for three consecutive days of each month using enemas to maintain health. It was their belief that man's diseases stemmed from their foods. The Egyptian enema proceedings imitated the ibis bird, similar to the stork, which used its beak, filled with seawater, to insert into its anus for evacuation. The Egyptians developed a tube made of reed, bone, or metal and attached a bag made of ox's bladder, cat skin, or silk cloth to imitate the Ibis practice. One would insert the tube into the rectum and empty the seawater into the bowel for cleansing. For further information refer to EBERS PAPYRUS: Translated By Cyril P. Byran

During the 17th century, the enema evolved into an enema apparatus to simplify its administration, however there was no consistency to propel its use. In the late 1930's W. Kerr Russell, MD, BS, and James W. Wiltsie, MD, wrote books discussing chronic bowel problems and treatment via the colonic irrigation apparatus. During the 1940's colon hydrotherapy equipment continually evolved. In the 60s and 70s colon hydrotherapy use slowed as laxatives became the favored approach to colon cleansing. However, during the 80s, and to date, colonic irrigation systems were perfected with temperature and pressure controlled valves, along with the use of disposable speculum packs, registered and approved by the FDA. As a result, Colon Hydrotherapy is widely used today by many individuals suffering from gastrointestinal problems like constipation, gas and bloating. In addition, Colon Hydrotherapy is very instrumental with Colonoscopy Preparation.

Benefits of Colon Hydrotherapy

Colon Hydrotherapy is used to relieve clients from gastrointestinal problems and related symptoms. Clients having received colonics reported relief from chronic constipation, gas, bloating, back pain, fatigue, irritability, headaches, and brain fog, to name a few.

Connie J. Allred, founding President of the American Colon Therapy Association (ACTA), currently known as the International Association for Colon Hydrotherapy (I-ACT), says, “Colon therapy releases toxins, cleanses the blood, stimulates the immune system, and aids in restoring the pH balance in the body.” Colon therapy can help relieve a wide range of symptoms related to colon dysfunction, including, but not limited to:

Allergies/Sinus
Backache
Bad Breath
Bloating
Chronic Fatigue
Coated Tongue
Concentration
Constipation
Diarrhea
Gas
Headache
Indigestion
Irritability
Memory
Skin Irritations

Many medical professionals are prescribing Colon Hydrotherapy to their patients. Medical support of its use relating to additional medical conditions is documented in the Townsend Letter for Doctors & Patients, August/September 2000 (#205/206) (view article as: pdf | html)

Joya's Unique Approach to Colon Hydrotherapy

Constipation, excessive gas, and bloating are common problems. Many people are frustrated with their experience of trapped gas, bloated bellies, and consistent use of laxatives, but have a difficult time admitting this - even to themselves. However, colon discomfort affects their lives, physically as well as emotionally. The physical stress of colon irritation can easily translate to irritability in the emotional sphere.

Regular bowel movements can help people lead normal and enjoyable lives. Joya has a passion for helping people to reach their potential in every way. Her expertise is in helping people to retrain their bowels and to achieve optimal colon health.

Joya's sessions are results-oriented. At the initial consultation, she and the client discuss projected colon health goals. During the colonic session she guides the client to become an active participant in the healing process. The following routes are part of Joya's road map for success:

Aromatherapy--Therapeutic essential oils are available to help facilitate relaxation and a balanced atmosphere for healing.
Focused Breathing--Your breath is healing. Concentrated breath can release stored gas, toxins, emotions, illness, and much more from the muscle tissues.
Gentle Touch--Touch is very healing. Touch is used to facilitate communication with the colon through abdominal massage.
Hot Rocks--Movement of gas from within the body and the release of toxic waste may cause the body to crave heat. Hot Rocks can satisfy this craving and provide additional support with toxic waste removal.
Mnemonic Tones--Low, vibrating tones can potentially enhance the client's ability to recall and expel memories affecting the digestive system.
Affirmation--Clients are taught to handle emotions with gentle, encouraging, loving thoughts. When the brain sends powerful, attractive, rejuvenating thoughts, one can expect to achieve optimal colon results. Visit www.colonlove.com for detailed information.