- A high colonic is also known as colon hydrotherapy or colon irrigation. It is a way to clean the color or large intestines with water. It is similar to an enema, but more water is used and more of the colon is involved. The procedure is a method of alternative medicine and needs to be performed by a professional colon therapist. A high colonic is one way to promote better health. During the high colonic, many toxins, debris and harmful substances are removed from the body. High colonics are a safe way to internally clean the colon.
- High colonics clean the intestines by using warm water to flush out fecal matter, debris and other toxins. The procedure is done in a holistic health clinic or office. The session begins when a person disrobes, puts on a gown, and lies on a table on his side. To begin a high colonic, the colon therapist inserts a small, disposable speculum into the rectum. A tube is attached to the speculum, and the other end is attached to the irrigation machine. When turned on, the machine pumps water through the tube and into the intestines. During a high colonic session, up to 20 gallons of water can be used to clean the colon. In some cases, the colon cleaning process is repeated--this explains why so many gallons of water are used. To make the patient more comfortable, the colon therapist can change the water pressure and temperature. Once the water is moving through the colon, it deep-cleans the colon and loosens up the wastes. The water and the wastes are then expelled through a second tube. Cheryl Ashby, a certified colon therapist (CCT), writes in her article, "What Happens During and After a Typical Colon Hydrotherapy Session?" that with a closed irrigation system, the "waste is discretely transported into the drain line without offensive order and without compromising the dignity of the individual."
- High colonics are a painless way to clean out the colon. It is also safe when done properly by a trained and experienced colon therapist. While tears to the rectum can occur, such side effects are rare. Many holistic healers think that a clean color is good for overall health. If the toxins are not removed from the colon in a timely manner, the body reabsorbs harmful substances. While many colon therapists use just water for the cleaning, others add baking soda, enzymes, beneficial bacteria, herbal teas and even coffee to the water. Each of these additives has their own benefits. The cost of high colonics ranges from $60 to $100 per session. Most sessions last an hour.
