Colonic Hydrotherapy

The Colon

The colon, (sometimes referred to as the large intestine or bowel) is situated in the abdomen and forms the latter part of the digestive system. It carries out a number of important functions, including the completion of the digestive process, the absorption of water-soluble nutrients and the synthesis of certain vitamins. The colon is a major part of the excretory system and is responsible for the elimination of toxins and faecal waste. Normal healthy colon function is achieved with the help of billions of friendly bacteria which inhabit the colon and make up 70% of the dry weight of our faecal waste. However, the delicate balance of this internal ecosystem can very easily be disturbed by a number of factors. These include stress, pollution, poor food and drink choices, certain prescribed and non-prescribed drugs, smoking and exposure to toxic substances.

Facts The healthy transit time for food to pass through the body is less than 24 hours. However, here in the UK it is more likely to now be 60 hours for men and 70 hours for women. In fact, the UK is the most constipated nation in the world. There are in the region of 20,000 new cases of bowel cancer in the UK every year. It is also said that one in three people consulting their GP have a bowel problem. The repercussions of a toxic bowel can be seen in some of our other body systems - see list below. These and other health issues can be alleviated when the bowel is cleansed by COLONIC HYDROTHERAPY. Colonic hydrotherapy is one of the oldest forms of natural healing and is said to date back as far as 1500 B.C. It is an extremely safe and effective way to cleanse the colon.

What are the benefits of colonic hydrotherapy?

Firstly, it cleanses the colon of impacted faecal waste as well as toxins, gas and mucous. This is extremely beneficial for optimum colon health. Secondly, it exercises the muscles of the colon and helps to reshape the colon wall. It also stimulates the reflex points in the colon.  Other benefits are:-

• Reduces bloating.
• Alleviates constipation, diarrhea, diverticulosis and IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).
• Strengthens the immune system.
• Improves the absorption of nutrients and with aftercare advice and probiotics, the natural ecosystem of the gut flora can be rebalanced for optimum digestion.
• Improves the complexion with acne, hormonal blemishes and other  skincare problems.  May also reduce dark circles under the eyes.
• Can help with weight management by stimulating the metabolism and reducing the toxic overload of the liver and kidneys (less water retention for instance).
• Improves sleep patterns, mental clarity and overall wellbeing and energy levels.

What will happen to me?

You will be asked to complete a detailed questionnaire either by downloading it from this page and bringing it along with you, or on arrival at the clinic.  Our qualified, registered Colonic Hydrotherapist, Jan, will then give you a consultation to ascertain more background and to make sure that the treatment is suitable for you, followed by an explanation of the treatment. You will be asked to remove some of your clothing behind a screen and will put on a disposable gown and pants, so that dignity is maintained at all times. The treatment involves the gentle introduction of warm, filtered water into your colon via the rectum, using a small speculum, which is connected to our Dotolo Toxygen machine. The water is then emptied from the colon, bringing with it the impacted waste matter. This process is repeated several times throughout the treatment, with gentle abdominal massage taking place and sometimes with the use of an infrared massager. The waste matter goes directly into the drains via a fully enclosed system so there is no odour.

Is colonic hydrotherapy safe?

The speculum and treatment kit are completely sterile and fully disposable.  They are NEVER re-used.  The Dotolo machine has a three filter system that removes 99.9% of all bacteria and viruses from the water, as well as removing particles and chlorine.  It also has in-built safety features for temperature and pressure control, together with an efficient cleaning system.  You will not find the process painful, and there is no danger of colon damage. You are in control at all times and the therapist will stop at any time throughout the treatment upon your request.  The Treatment Room is completely private and is connected to a toilet facility.

What do I need to do before colonic hydrotherapy?

Before your Colonic Hydrotherapy treatment, make sure that you have had a light meal and something to drink within the previous two hours.

What happens after colonic hydrotherapy?

Once you are dressed you will be given some filtered water to drink and feed-back will be given regarding the observations that the therapist has made. Dietary and life-style recommendation will be given along with her assessment.  You will also be given an aftercare sheet, which will recommend that you abstain from alcohol, spicy and heavy foods for 24 hours as well as other recommendations.

How many colonic hydrotherapy treatments will I need?

Each person is an individual and therefore your treatment plan will be drawn up taking into account the state of your bowel health, the amount of compaction and how you responded to the treatment given.  Usually, someone who would like to maintain a healthy bowel will have around four treatments per year.

What health problems are improved by colonic hydrotherapy?

Constipation / diarrhoea / intestinal toxemia / fever therapy / Irritable Bowel Syndrome / spastic colon / bloating / colitis /gastritis / ulcers  /diverticulosis / mild to moderate haemorrhoids / flatulence / food allergies / halitosis / eczema / psoriasis / headaches / fatigue / gout / ME / mood swings / candidiasis and many more.

How long will the colonic hydrotherapy take?

The first session will take between 1½ and 2 hours due to the consultation prior to treatment.  All follow-on treatments usually take between 1¼ and 1½ hours.

There will also be an additional cost for a course of Probiotics to put back the 'Good Bacteria', which everyone needs to do after colonic treatments. Other supplements or herbal medicine may be suggested, depending upon the individual requirements of the client. These costs can vary from £10 - £35.

Are there any health problems that should not be treated?

Yes there are several conditions that are contra-indicated?:

• Cancer of the rectum or bowel
• Recent abdominal surgery / GI haemorrhage or perforation
• Bowel infection
• Severe haemorrhoids or haemorrhoidectomy
• Kidney disease (including low renal function and dialysis)
• Liver disease (including cirrhosis) and severe gall stones
• Abdominal hernia
• Uncontrolled high or low blood pressure
• Cardio-vascular disease / aneurism / congestive heart failure
• Severe anaemia
• Fissures and fistulas
• Crohns disease / ulcerative colitis / diverticulitis (active diverticulosis)
• Pregnancy

If you are unsure, please contact us for a chat.

Jan Cassells BSc (Hons), MNIMH Cert C.H., MI-ACT

Jan trained as a Medical Herbalist at the University of Lincoln and was awarded her degree in 2006.  Throughout her practice she has continued her professional development by attending courses in Nutritional Therapy, Stress Management and Naturopathy.  She went on to study Colonic Hydrotherapy at the Alternative Angels British School of Colon Hydrotherapy, as she felt that this would enhance the treatment and advice that she was already giving to her patients.  She became a fully qualified Colon Hydrotherapist in 2008 and is a  member of the International Association of Colonic Hydrotherapists. For more information please visit...

www.i-act.org

 Download Health Questionnaire here.

Jan is also working at Classic Health & Beauty in Brigg, so you can book your Colonic Hydrotherapy treatment at either Ashby or Brigg from February 2010. Classic Health & Beauty - 01652 655677