What is colonic irrigation?

What is colonic irrigation?  Colonic irrigation, also known as colon hydrotherapy, hydrotherapy of the colon, or simply colonic, is the process of cleansing the colon by passing several gallons of water through it with the use of special equipment. It is similar to an enema but treats the whole colon, not just the lower bowel. This has the effect of flushing out impacted faecal matter, toxins, mucous, and even parasites, that often build up over the passage of time. A colonic should only be undertaken by a qualified practitioner.  What happens during a colonic?  During colonic irrigation, a small speculum is passed into the bowel through the rectum. This is attached to a tube, which leads to a tank or machine that pumps temperature-controlled filtered water into the colon at a controlled rate. This process, although sometimes uncomfortable, is not painful. It triggers peristaltic action and the body will begin to expel the water along with faecal matter back through the tube. The faecal matter is flushed out via a transparent pipe or viewing tube so that what is eliminated may be monitored. At Aqua-Tox we use a state-of-the-art closed system which is odourless and modesty is preserved at all times. During the treatment, the therapist will gently massage the clients abdomen to help dislodge any impacted faecal matter. In addition to massage, sometimes acupressure or lymphatic drainage techniques may be used to loosen deposits and stimulate the bowel.  What are the main benefits of colonic irrigation?  One of the benefits of colonic irrigation is increased hydration. During the procedure, water is gently infused into the colon, which helps to hydrate the body by absorbing water into the bloodstream. This can be particularly beneficial for clients who may be experiencing dehydration or have difficulty maintaining optimal hydration levels.  Another benefit of colonic irrigation is the removal of stagnation. Over time, waste materials and toxins can accumulate in the colon, leading to a stagnant environment. Colonic hydrotherapy helps to flush out these accumulated waste products, promoting a cleaner and healthier colon and alleviating symptoms such as bloating and constipation. By eliminating waste buildup and toxins, the colon’s capacity to absorb essential nutrients from the digested food is also enhanced. This can lead to improved overall nutrition absorption and may benefit individuals who struggle with nutrient deficiencies or malabsorption issues.  Colonic irrigation can also contribute to increased bowel motility. The gentle infusion of water into the colon stimulates the muscles in the intestinal walls, encouraging peristalsis, which is the wave-like contractions that propel stools through the digestive tract. This can help to restore normal peristaltic action to a sluggish bowel, reducing the need for more hydrotherapy treatments over time.   Colon hydrotherapy is also known to have a general well-being effect. The cleansing and detoxifying nature of this procedure can help clients to feel rejuvenated and revitalised. It may contribute to a sense of lightness, improved energy levels, and a general feeling of well-being. However, it’s important to remember that individual experiences will vary.   How many colonic treatments are recommended?   Normally, several treatments will be required to achieve desired results regarding the elimination of impacted matter, and restoration of bowel regularity. Initially, only gas and recent faecal matter may be expelled. Impacted faecal matter can cause an imbalance of the natural organisms that normally populate the bowel, causing what is known as dysbiosis. Decomposing matter can cause a toxic condition and may lead to many health problems, as constipation causes backed-up pollution of the body cells.  How hygienic are colonics?   Hygiene is vital to the colonic process. The tubes, pads, and of course the speculums that we use are all disposable. The treatment room and linked bathroom are thoroughly sanitised between each treatment to maintain optimum hygiene.   Will I need to leave my modesty at the door?  No, you will not. When choosing a colonic with a trained professional in a clinical environment you can expect professional care where your modesty and comfort are maintained throughout the treatment. The colon hydrotherapist will leave the room as you undress and get yourself comfortable to begin the treatment. You will be asked to cover yourself before the therapist enters the room and you will remain covered & warm for the duration of the treatment. Toilet and washing facilities will often be in a side room directly linked to the treatment room. At Aqua-Tox we have a private bathroom exclusively for the use of colonic clients inside the treatment room.   What are the contraindications for colonic irrigation?  While colonic irrigation can offer many benefits, there are certain contraindications to consider. Individuals with specific medical conditions may not be able to be treated or may be required to consult further with a doctor prior to treatment. Some contraindications of colon hydrotherapy include:  Severe cardiac disease  High blood pressure not controlled by a doctor  Low blood pressure causing the person to pass out habitually and severe anaemia  Aneurysm (a cardiovascular disease characterized by a sac-like widening of an artery resulting from weakening of the artery wall)  GI haemorrhage or perforation  Severe haemorrhoids  Cirrhosis of the liver  Carcinoma of the colon  Active fistulas and fissures  Pregnancy  Abdominal hernia  Recent colorectal surgery  Renal insufficiency (serious kidney problems)  Diverticulitis  Ulcerative colitis  Crohn’s disease    How to find a colon hydrotherapist?  A colonic should be carried out by an experienced professional. The International Register of Integrative Colon Hydrotherapists and Trainers (RICTAT) is a respected body within the industry and provide a directory of registered professionals. At Aqua-Tox our Colon Hydrotherapist Natalie has been a RICTAT board member for several years and is continually developing her professional practice. Natalie has been offering colonic irrigation in Hertfordshire for over 7 years, supporting thousands of clients to improve their digestive system and feel better.   How to book a colonic at Aqua-Tox?  To book a colonic at Aqua-Tox use our online booking system, contact form or give us a call. Following a booking we will send you a medical questionnaire which must be completed ahead of your treatment to ensure that the treatment is safe and suitable for you. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact us.   Find out more about Colonics at Aqua-Tox > Book a colonic online > Contact us >  

Colon Hydrotherapy is not in any way intended as a ‘cure’ or ‘medical’ treatment. It should not be seen as an alternative to seeing your GP if you have any health concerns. Neither is it intended to infer or imply symptoms of IBS or other bowel conditions will be solved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Colonic irrigation, also known as colon hydrotherapy, is a procedure that gently introduces warm, filtered water into the large intestine through the rectum. A qualified therapist uses specialist equipment to introduce and release the water in controlled cycles. It is carried out in a private treatment room at our Hertford clinic.

The two terms refer to the same procedure. Colonic irrigation and colon hydrotherapy are used interchangeably. Both describe the same process carried out by a trained practitioner.

No. A colonic and an enema are different. An enema introduces a small amount of water into the lower part of the bowel only and is usually a one-off flush. A colonic, or colon hydrotherapy, works through the full length of the large intestine using a continuous flow of water in controlled cycles over a session. The two are not the same.

You will lie comfortably on a treatment couch. A small, sterile speculum is gently inserted into the rectum and connected to the hydrotherapy machine. Warm, filtered water is introduced into the colon at a controlled rate, and water is then released through the same tube into a closed drainage system. The process is repeated in cycles. Everything is contained and hygienic throughout.

A session at Aqua-Tox takes approximately 45 to 60 minutes from start to finish, including time to talk through the process and aftercare. We recommend allowing a little extra time around your appointment, particularly for your first visit.

Yes. A full health consultation is completed before every treatment so we can discuss your individual circumstances. If you have any health concerns, you should speak to your GP.

Comfortable, loosely fitted clothing is ideal. There is nothing you need to bring. Everything required for the treatment is provided at the clinic.

Your colon hydrotherapy treatment will be carried out by Natalie, our qualified practitioner with over 10 years experience, RICTAT board member and trainer at our Hertford clinic.

In the 24 hours before your appointment, we suggest eating lightly, drinking plenty of water, and not eating for 2 hours before your session. Afterwards, continue to drink plenty of water and eat light, easily digestible meals. Natalie will talk you through aftercare at your appointment.

It is not suitable for everyone, including during pregnancy or for those with certain medical conditions. This is why a full health consultation is completed before any treatment. If you are unsure whether it is right for you, please speak to your GP.

We are based at Foxholes Farm, London Road, Hertford. You can book by phone or through our online booking. Please get in touch if you have any questions before arranging your appointment.
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