Colon Hydrotherapy

by Jane Kappy LMT, NTS, Colon Therapist at The Source

Introduction to Your Colon

The colon, or large intestine, is a muscular tube which is approximately 5 feet in length. It extends from the cecum (where the small intestine empties “chyme”) to the rectum. The colon is one of our primary organs of elimination for metabolic waste products. Its inner lining is equipped with sensitive nerves and glands which aid in the final stages of digestion and assimilation, especially of minerals and water. Infrequent bowel movements leave a quantity of waste in the colon which can encrust its walls and block the functions of these nerves and glands, causing a toxic buildup. Muscular contractions of the colon, called peristalsis, propel waste along its length to the rectum where they can leave the body. Buildup of toxic waste on the colon walls inhibits this contraction, further compromising the colon’s action.

Though the colon’s function is relatively simple, it is constantly challenged by poor diet, lack of exercise, and dehydration. Here are some of the problems which can result:

Prolapse
Downward displacement of the transverse colon. In addition to hindering passage of wastes throught the colon, prolapse can seriously affect the organs below, the uterus, bladder and prostate.
Cause: Obesity, underweight, overeating, impaction, constipation
Treatment: Colonics, massage, slant board exercises, improved nutrition

Diverticulosis
Diverticula are pouch-like swellings that develop on the outer wall of the colon. The usual symptom is occasional tenderness on the lower left abdomen. Diverticula become filled with waste and then become inflamed and infected. Symptoms which follow include severe pain, fever, constipation or diarrhea, gas, mucous and blood in the stool. Diverticulosis can be life-threatening if the diverticula abscess and cause peritonitis.
Cause: Increased pressure on the wall of the colon due to constipation.
Treatment: Colonics, change in diet, psyllium hulls, chlorophyll, aloe vera, goldenseal root, capsicum, colon relaxant herbs, increase in dietary fiber.

Colitis
Colitis is characterized by inflammation anywhere in the mucous lining of the intestinal system causing diarrhea and/or constipation and abdominal pain.
Cause: Various, often associated with other conditions.
Treatment: Colonics, change in diet, comfrey, slippery elm, lobelia, psyllium hulls, aloe vera, chlorophyll.

Auto Intoxication
The body is literally poisoned by its own waste. Toxic residue, buildup of putrid waste and mucous, is reabsorbed into the system causing, among other things, bad breath, body odor, putrid gas, digestive problems, acne, prostate problems, liver and gall bladder dysfunction, and chronic illness. Approximately 36 known poisons can exist in the colon as by-products of decayed protein foods. By-products of carbohydrates do not decay or putrefy.
Cause: Poor diet, poor elimination
Treatment: Colonics, change in diet, cleansing herbs

The Purpose of Colon Irrigation

The goal of colon therapy is to assist nature in the achievement of muscular homeostasis of the colon wall by using varying temperatures of water and varying manipulations (massage). By so doing, peristalsis will be strengthened and the individual will experience a profound improvement in the rhythm of elimination. There are two types of muscular dysfunction in the colon: spasticity (or hypertonicity), and atonicity. Spastic areas of the colon are overly contracted; warm water temperatures and slow manipulations are used in order to achieve relaxation in these tissues. Atonic areas are distended and sluggish; cool water and rapid movements are used to stimulate peristalsis.

In order to strengthen peristalsis, proper communication between the muscular structure and the nervous system must be restored. The use of two or more temperatures of water in a treatment, known as the alternating system of colon irrigation, is the most effective method for restoring communication between the nervous system and the colon and thus strengthening the peristaltic wave. This also makes sense in terms of tonicity in the muscular structure; most individuals have both spastic and hypertonic areas in different regions of their colons.

Colonics – How many are enough?

Colitis, diverticulosis and prolapse can be corrected if the client follows a series of colonics and makes appropriate dietary and lifestyle changes. An average bowel takes 12 to 15 colonics to remove the extra corrosive material from the walls of the colon and detoxify in general. More than 15 colonics might be necessary to correct more difficult and long-standing health problems. Long time smokers and clients who take too much salt or liquor will take longer to come to balance.

Plan to begin with at least 3 weekly colonics. From there you can evaluate your condition and progress with your therapist to determine a continued course of action. Most people find that once a full series of colonics (10 to 15) is completed, monthly or seasonal colonics are adequate for maintenance purposes. Periods of indiscriminate eating, travel or high stress may neccesitate a return to weekly treatments for a period of time.

Cooperation with diet will speed the process of detoxification and balance. Plenty of pure water (filtered, steam distilled or reverse osmosis), green juices, fruits and vegetables (especially leafy greens) and fresh yogurt can assist. Refined grains, sugar, meats and dairy products slow down the cleansing process of the colon.

Disclaimer

Colon therapy is not a method for diagnosing or curing dis-ease but a system of health maintenance. Colon therapy treatments (colonics) and these recommendations are intended as suggestions for enhancing well-being and should not take the place of the advice of a qualified health professional. If you are experiencing health problems or you have questions regarding the appropriateness of colonics for your health condition, please consult your health professional.

Jane Kappy, LMT, NTS
(505) 238-8845