To understand the use of a colonic, it is important to understand the purpose of the colon.  The colon is the lower part of the large intestine that extracts water and nutrients from waste before it is eliminated from the body.  There are many conditions and processes related to the colon.

So now you know what the colon is, what exactly is a colonic and why would you need one?

A colonic is a flush of water into the rectum to cleanse and flush the colon.  To do this, a colon therapist will insert a speculum and plastic hose into the anus.  Through this hose, warm filtered water will be slowly released.  The water will cause the muscles of the colon to contract and push feces out through the hose.  The feces are accumulated in a closed waste system to be disposed of.

During the treatment, the therapist may lightly massage the abdominal area to help move the process along.  After the session, you will be able to sit properly on the toilet to remove any extra water or feces.  The whole procedure typically takes from 45 minutes to an hour.

Unfortunately, there are some side effects; one of the biggest may be embarrassment, as this is an awkward procedure.  During the procedure, you may have discomfort in the abdomen, while the water is flushing through your colon.  After the procedure, you may experience nausea and fatigue, as this is somewhat stressful on the body.  As a warning, if you are pregnant, you should not have this procedure.  Further, if you have colon diseases such as Crohn’s, diverticulitis or ulcers, you should also not have this procedure done.

You can have a colonic performed by a trained doctor or nurse; however, as this may be considered an alternative medical treatment, you may want to see a colon specialist.  In particular, there are hydro therapists that specialize in performing this procedure.

In preparation for the procedure, the day before it is recommended that you eat light, usually fruits and vegetables are best.  On the day of your colonic you need to continue to eat light or not at all.  You cannot eat food or drink water one to two hours before your colonic.

The purpose of a colonic is to remove accumulated waste from the colon, prevent constipation and to improve overall health.  It is thought that feces can accumulate in the colon and harden creating more problems, such as constipation.  Further, it is believed that a build-up in the colon can prevent the body from being able to get the nutrients it needs.

However, there are many disputes within the medical profession as to whether colonics are useful or necessary.  The colon can be cleansed and constipation can be prevented in a more natural way, such as increasing fiber in your diet and eliminating excess sugar.