Colon lavage was first recorded in 1500 BC in the ancient Egyptian document Ebers Papyrus which dealt with the practice of medicine.

Hippocrates recorded using enemas for fever therapy. Pare in 1600 AD offered the first distinction between colon hydrotherapy and the popular enema of that age.

We know that throughout history, in many different cultures across the globe, enemas have been given to reduce fevers.  There exists a correlation between a healthy functioning colon and healthy body.

“High colonic enemas administered by a nurse or a trained colon therapist are a form of intestinal detoxification.  When my grandmother was a nurse in a fever hospital, high colonic enemas were one of the standard protocols. They were routinely used before abdominal surgery.”

Carolyn Dean M.D., N.D, Hormone Balance

Since the turn of the century colon hydrotherapy has experienced periods of reaction. The main factors contributing to this ambivalence were due to the practice of colon hydrotherapy by untrained and unskilled practitioners undermining the profession.  The continued use of inferior technology has also raised some issues.

Today both the knowledge and technology have evolved and become innovative to such an extent in the last ten years that there is no reason to still be using older hydrotherapy systems.

The technology and emerging body of knowledge I’ve researched is truly cutting edge. It needs to be brought to the attention of all who practice, administer or are in positions to recommend colon hydrotherapy (such as naturopaths and physicians).

The old fashioned method uses two bottles, and has a higher likelihood of disease and cross infection, such as HPV and hepatitis, often due to the use of non-disposable materials and backflow of water into the tanks.

The new hydrotherapy systems have disposable parts, so the chance of infection is zero. Not only that, they are FDA and Health Canada approved. The old systems aren’t bad, they just aren’t as good as what is now available. Why would you use outdated technology when the option of a superior and significantly safer one exists?

Clients should be asking their colon therapist to disclose and explain what system they are using. They should ensure higher levels of safety via the use of modern equipment and updated knowledge.

It is also important to make certain your healthy intestinal flora and electrolytes are being maintained. Diet should be discussed in detail. When combined with sound nutrition, exercise, and a positive mental and spiritual outlook, colon hydrotherapy can play an important role in achieving and maintaining vibrant health.

Most importantly, remember it’s your body; you have the right to ensure the best quality and highest levels of safety. Don’t settle for a less expensive option or go with someone just because they offer a coupon for the first five sessions. Be sure to choose a practitioner who is well versed in both the newer cutting edge technology and is keeping up with the emerging body of knowledge.

As the importance of this field in the maintenance of one’s health continues to grow and become more apparent, so should our ability to find properly trained and qualified practitioners. That process begins by educating ourselves first.

Carla Roter is Naturally Savvy's Colon Hydrotherapy expert. Carla is a Nurse and Director of The Colon Therapy Health & Education Centre. 

Carla Roter