Colon cleansing, colonic irrigation or colonic hydrotherapy is a procedure designed to remove waste and toxins in the bowel according to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS)

It may remove impacted feces, parasites or worms or dead tissue, it is considered an alternative or complimentary medical procedure and is therefore unlikely to be covered by standard medical insurance.  In the UK it is not offered by the NHS. 

 While there is little to no scientific or medical research to support the use of colonic cleansing, and some physicians warn against the imbalance of natural bacterial levels with frequent use of colon cleansing products or the addition of herbal, chemical or natural additives to the cleanse; some believe it may be useful in the treatment of bloating, flatulence, diarrhea, constipation relief, irritable bowel syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis, fatigue, allergies and back pain . 

Natural Treatment for Colon Cleansing

In natural healing and alternative medicine, the digestive system is central to health and well being.  While enemas, colonics, colonic irrigation and hydrotherapies all effective ways to cleanse the colon, there are other methods available to detox the system and eliminate excess toxins in the body. 

Diet

Adding probiotics (found in yogurt, garlic, onions, bananas and now probiotics are added to other foods) and fiber to the diet will keep the digestive system and colon in good working condition and will aid in the elimination of toxins and wastes.
Eating foods rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, such as salmon, sardines and walnuts will also aid in colon cleansing. 

Fasting

For some the best detox is a regimented fasting period.  It is important that you consult a physician before beginning a fast to ensure that there are no medical complications for you and to advise on juices and beverages to use during the fast.  The belief is that the liver and other organs can restore themselves during the fast and the body will naturally clear out any remaining toxins.     

Exercise

Keeping a good regime of physical activity in your daily routine will also aid in the digestive system and will keep the colon free from excess wastes. 

Teas, Soups, Powders and Supplements

In natural treatment there are a wide range of herbal options for colonic health, they can be added to the diet as tea or soup or they can be taken as powder or supplements. 

Flax seeds are thought to stimulate the peristaltic movement of the bowels and increase intestinal volume which contributes to colonic cleansing.  Aloe leaf in teas or supplements is thought to be a good laxative.  Ginger can stimulate the colon and reduce bloating.  Garlic eliminates toxins and parasites from the body.  Fennel can eliminate mucus from the colon. 

Psyllium Husks

The FDA, in 1998, approved the use of the health claim that 7 grams of soluble fiber from Psyllium husks in combination with a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risks of heart disease by lowering cholesterol. Many of the best colon cleansers use these husks. Psyllium absorbs excess water in the digestive system and stimulates the bowels to work.