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Throughout history people have been using enemas as a tool to cleanse the colon, as a central tool of preventive medicine. The Bible, the ancient Egyptian document, Papyrus, the Hindus, Greeks, Romans, Chinese and Sumerians have all used this bodily cleansing tool to make their lives and their health better. In the 17th century, enemas were considered essential to well-being throughout the Western world.
There is currently an epidemic of digestive illness in our country. One-third to one-half of all adults have digestive illness - over 62 million people. According to a May 1994 study, 69 percent of the people studied reported having at least one gastrointestinal problem within the previous three months. Except for the common cold, digestive problems are the most common reason people seek medical advice.
Dr. Bernard Jensen, D.C., warned that when toxins are being assimilated or created in the body faster than they can be gotten rid of, or when one or more of the eliminative systems are under active, trouble lies ahead. Toxic accumulations in the body create the necessary preconditions for disease to develop. People have reported healing in relation to the following conditions after using enemas, supplementation and dietary changes:
- Asthma
- Chronic Fatigue
- Joint & Muscle Pain
- Candida
- PMS
- Fibromyalgia
- Acne
- Bloating & Gas (Flatulence)
- Colitis
- Sinusitis
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Constipation & Impaction
- Depression
- Depressed Immune Function
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- Allergies
- Headaches
- Back Problems
A key concept for to understand in taking charge of health is that whenever there is inflammation or imbalance in one area of the body, it can show up wherever if the person has weakness in other areas of the body.
An example might be, a woman falls and hurts her hip. Months later, after recovering fully, she got a cold. Her head was all stuffed up and her hip ached for the first time in weeks. This is a powerful principle to understand in relation to the colon.
Most people don't feel that their colon is toxic. Yet, colon cancer is the second leading cancer killer in the United States. This disease catches up with people. They may have had years of back aches, or headaches, or moodiness. These signs are often the bodies best attempt to tell you that your colon is in need of care.
Over time, toxic waste can accumulate in the colon and liver, and then circulate throughout the body via the bloodstream. A clean and healthy colon and liver, then, are essential for the health of all the organs and tissues of the body.
There are two types of enemas - the retention enema and the cleansing enema. The primary action of the retention enema, which is held in the body for about fifteen minutes, is to help rid the liver of impurities and to treat certain conditions. The cleansing enema, which is retained for only a few minutes, is used to flush out the colon.
When using any enema, keep in mind that they should never be used if there is rectal bleeding. In such a case, contact your health care provider immediately.
If the person experiences tension or spasms in the bowel while using an enema, try using warmer water - 99°F to 102°F is a good temperature range - to help relax the bowel. If the bowel is weak or flaccid, try using colder water - 75°F to 80°F - to help strengthen it.
After using any enema, be sure to wash and sterilize the tip of the enema bag.
CLEANSING ENEMAS (Giving An Enema To A Patient)
A cleansing enema is the technique of introducing fluid into the rectum to remove feces and flatus (gas) from the colon and rectum.
- To aid illumination during x-rays.
- Before surgery.
- Before testing.
- During bowel retraining programs.
- To relieve constipation and impaction.
- To instill drugs.
The fluids often used for enemas are:
- Soap solution (SSE).
- Salt solution (saline).
- Tap water (TWE).
- Phosphosoda.
- Herbal mixtures.
These solutions create a feeling of urgency in the person's bowel. Solutions are expelled a short time after they are given. "Urgency" is a term used to describe the need to empty the bowel. When enemas are given in preparation for a diagnostic procedure, such as an X-ray or to instill drugs, the fluid is retained as long as possible.
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
Some general considerations to keep in mind are:
- If the person is to get up following the enema and use the bathroom, make sure the bathroom is easily available and not in use by someone else.
- When possible, it is best to be given an enema before a bath or before breakfast.
- Do not give an enema within an hour following a meal.
- The person has checked with a health care provider before having an enema.
BODY POSITIONS
The most commonly used position to receive an enema is in the left Sims' position.
- The person's knees are flexed and separated.
- An orthopedic (fracture) bedpan is more comfortable than a regular bedpan. It may have to be padded when a person is very thin.
This position is helpful for administering cleansing enemas. The best position to assume when receiving the enema is "head down and rear up". After the liquid has been inserted, roll onto the back, and finally roll over and lie on the left side. As the person is doing this, massage the colon to help loosen any fecal matter. Start on the right side and gradually move the fingers up toward the bottom of the rib cage, then across the abdomen and down the left side.
This position is helpful for self-administration of an enema. The buttocks may be raised either by lifting using feet and supporting with shoulders, or using pillows under buttocks. This will allow the enema solution to fill more of the colon during the enema and may help with retention of the fluid.
This position is used for children receiving an enema. Do not give an enema to a child under 2 years of age. Be very careful inserting the tip into the anus and do not force it. Forcing may cause damage to the colon.
ENEMA SUPPLIES
Enema bags or colema boards: These are the perfect tools for cleansing the colon at home. The enema bag is cheaper, holds much less water (thus less water gets into the colon), and is not done over the toilet. Enema bags usually hole up to 2 quarts of fluid, which is plenty in most cases. Some people are not able to take 2 quarts of fluid into the colon. This is not a worry. The enema bag can be hooked up to a water source for continual flow. With an enema bag, supplements like olive oil, aloe vera, MSM, probiotics, coffee, etc, can easily be used.
INSERTING THE TUBE AND ADMINISTERING THE ENEMA
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE RECEIVER:
Find a good, comfortable position. Make sure the receiver is relaxed. Be sure that clean up is easy if a problem occurs. Make sure the person administering the enema has good access to the receiver's anus.
Lubricate the receiver's anus. Vitamin E oil, aloe vera, Super Salve, or K-Y Jelly should be used. Do not use petroleum jelly (Vaseline) for lubrication. It is recommended that lubricant is applied inside the receiver's anus and rectum. This will help when the nozzle tip is inserted and will allow the anus to relax and be able to receive the tip.
As the nozzle is inserted, the receiver needs to relax as it passes the sphincter. The receiver may want to take a couple of deep breaths as it passes and bear down as the tube nozzle is inserted. It should be inserted 2 to 4 inches into the anus.
The receiver should relax as the person administering the enema turns on the solution flow. The person administering the enema should slow the flow if any the receiver experiences any cramping. Be sure to relax and reassure the receiver if they become panicky. The person administrating the flow should stop and massage the receiver's stomach area if cramping occurs.
If the receiver needs to evacuate, the person administering the enema should stop the flow of fluid. The receiver should relax and the desire will pass as the colon relaxes.
The receiver may feel their stomach expanding. Let it. Try to hold the enema for a few minutes or longer, as needed.
When the time comes to evacuate, the receiver (with the tube still in place) goes to the toilet. They should wait until they are in position to evacuate before the tube is removed.
After evacuation, the receiver should take a deep breath and feel their lightness.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE GIVER:
When giving an enema, there is a great deal of responsibility involved. The enema procedure may be very embarrassing for the receiver. All due care and consideration should be applied with this procedure. The giver should respect the receiver's wishes in everything that transpires during the procedure.
Assemble the equipment required:
- Disposable gloves.
- Enema equipment consisting of enema bag or container, tubing with rectal nozzle. The tip of the nozzle should be sufficiently small as to be comfortable, but large enough to allow fluid to flow at a sufficient flow rate. There should be a clamp for the hose and a lubricant for the tip and the receiver's anus/rectum.
- Bedpan and cover, if toilet isn't close by.
- Bed protector.
- Toilet paper.
- Bath blanket to keep receiver warm.
- Prepared enema solution at the correct temperature.
- Towel, soap and basin for cleanup, if a shower is not readily available.
Connect tubing to solution container.
Adjust clamp on tubing and snap shut. Make sure the clamp is well closed before adding fluid to the enema bag or container.
Fill the container with enema solution (water, or other solution to be used for enema therapy). The temperature should be between 99°F to 105°F. Use a thermometer to check the temperature. The solution should be filled to the full line 2 quarts (1.7 liters) for an enema bag, 1000 ml for an enema container for adults, 500 ml for children.
Add any soap or other ingredients as recommended in the recipes used for enema therapy.
Using the tip of the tubing, mix the solution (mix gently so that no suds form) or rotate the bag to mix. Do not shake.
Run a small amount of solution through the tube to eliminate air and warm the tube. Clamp the tubing.
Place a chair at the foot of the bed and cover with the bed protector. Place the bedpan on it if using a bedpan.
If possible, elevate the bed to a comfortable working height. Be sure opposite side rail is up and secure for safety (hospital or nursing home adjustable bed).
Cover the receiver with a bath blanket and fanfold the linen to the foot of the bed.
Wash hands and put on gloves.
Place bed protector or towels under buttocks.
Help the receiver into a position that is comfortable for them (hands and knees or left side and flexed knees).
Place the container of solution on the chair so tubing will reach the receiver.
Adjust bath blanket to expose anal area.
Expose anus by raising upper buttock (if on left side).
Lubricate the rectal tip with a non-petroleum lubricant like vitamin E, aloe vera, Super Salve, or K-Y Jelly. Do not use petroleum jelly (Vaseline).
Lubricate the receiver's anus and rectum well. A gloved finger works well for this purpose. A way to do this is to apply a liberal amount of lubricant to the gloved finger and to the outside of the receiver's anus. Next, press the tip of the finger into the center of the receiver's anus, using just enough constant, yet gentle, pressure as it requires for a second that will allow the anus to receive the finger. Apply the lubricant liberally, working it in and out carefully a few times. The person may or may not react positively to the anal stimulation, so don't overdo it. If receiver has problems with this step, proceed to next step and lubricate the nozzle tip well before inserting it into the anus.
The lubricated nozzle tip should be applied to the anus with about the same amount of gentle pressure it took for your finger. The receiver should breathe deeply and bear down as the tube is inserted, to relax the anal sphincter. The nozzle should slide right in without too much problem. It should be inserted 2 to 4 inches into the anus.
Never force the tube. If tube cannot be inserted easily, discontinue. There may be a tumor or blockage (such as a mass of feces blocking the bowel - this is known as an impaction).
Open the clamp and raise the container 12 inches (1 foot) above the level of the anus so that the fluid flows in slowly.
The enema should hang about 1 foot to 18 inches above the anus. Hanging the bag higher will produce more pressure and flow, lower will produce less pressure and flow. Dropping the bag below the anus can result in a back-flow during the procedure and can be messy.
Open the clamp slowly. Don't try to give the entire enema at once. Sometimes it can take up to 15 minutes to administer.
If the receiver has a full colon (hasn't recently defecated) they may not be able to receive as much as usual. If necessary, they can evacuate and receive another enema, enabling them to receive more solution.
Ask the receiver to take deep breaths to relax the abdomen throughout the procedure.
While filling the receiver's colon, watch carefully for signs of cramping. If this occurs, the flow should be slowed down or stopped until the receiver can relax.
Remember to respect all of the receiver's wishes.
Massaging the receiver's stomach may encourage further cleansing.
Clamp the tubing before the container is completely empty.
The receiver may or may not want to remove the tubing and nozzle before evacuation. If the receiver wants the tube removed, tell the receiver to hold breath while upper buttock is raised (if on left side) and tube is removed. This should be done if evacuation will be on a bedpan. If the receiver plans on using the toilet, they may want to wait until on the toilet to remove the tube and nozzle.
When the tubing is removed, wrap the tubing and nozzle in paper toweling and put it aside for later cleaning or throw it away in a disposable container if it is a one time use, disposable enema kit.
When the receiver wants to evacuate, follow the agreed upon plan (toilet or bed pan). If the person has to arise to move to the toilet, the bag will need to be carried, but do not raise it so high as to increase the pressure.
Place the receiver on the bedpan or assist to the toilet.
If the receiver is on an adjustable bed and is using a bed pan, using a paper towel, so your gloved hand does not contaminate the control or crank of the bed, raise the head of the bed to a comfortable height. Raise side rail for safety, if bed is left in the higher horizontal position.
Place toilet tissue and signal cord or buzzer/bell within easy reach of the receiver. Stay nearby, but allow the receiver their privacy during evacuation. Caution the receiver not to flush the toilet until inspection is made of the contents, if necessary.
Discard disposable materials as bio-hazardous waste.
Remove gloves and discard as bio-hazardous waste. Wash hands.
Return to bedside or toilet when receiver is finished with evacuation. Wash hands and apply clean gloves.
Remove bedpan, if used. Place the bedpan on a bed protector on a chair and cover with paper toweling or lid.
If receiver is on toilet, hand them toilet paper or damp paper toweling to wipe themselves with or cleanse the anal area for them if they are unable to do so for themselves.
Remove the bed protector and discard properly.
Remove gloves and discard properly. Wash hands.
Give the receiver soap, water and towel to wash and dry hands.
Replace top bedding and remove bath blanket.
Put on clean gloves and take bedpan, if needed, to toilet and dispose of contents using a paper towel. Flush toilet.
Remove gloves and discard properly.
Wash hands.
Air the room and leave it tidy and orderly.
Clean and replace the equipment used as directed below.
CLEANUP AFTER AN ENEMA
Cleanup should be relatively easy. Here are a few tips that will help in the cleanup.
A 10% bleach solution (9 cups of water with 1 cup of bleach) is good to use sanitize the enema bag or container. Rinse the hardware before and after using the bleach solution.
Some people like to sanitize their equipment with boiling water.
Hang the bag to dry. This will retard the growth of mold.
Don't use someone else's enema bag or container. Don't use the enema bag or container for any other purpose. The enema bag or container is a very personal item (like the toothbrush), for that person's use only.
Clean any linens and towels in the same fashion as would be done for a baby. Bleach is good for sanitation.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR SELF-ADMINISTRATION
Choose the appropriate enema solution needed for the appropriate health therapy.
MoonDragon's Health Therapy: Enema Recipes & Instructions
Before filling your enema bag, make sure that the hose clamp is securely closed tight so that the contents of the bag does not leak out. Place the hose clamp on a section of tubing that is within your reach when the bag is hung and you are lying down.
Find a comfortable place to lie on your back (not the only position, but the most common) where you hang the bag at least 18 inches above your body. Many people like the bathroom floor padded by towels so that if they happen to leak a bit of water or solution, it is easy to clean up and they can be close to the toilet.
Set things up so that you are comfortable and make sure the phone is off the hook and the bolt is on the door so you won't be interrupted. You are to relax and let the water soothe and clean your colon during the procedure. Take your time. This is important.
Lubricate the rectal tip with a non-petroleum lubricant like vitamin E oil, aloe vera, Super Salve, or K-Y Jelly. Some people use the douche-tip instead of the enema tip and have better results. You have to find which works best for you.
Gently insert the tip into your rectum 3 to 4 inches. It should slide without any discomfort. Do not force anything into your anus/rectum. If you have pain or difficulty with insertion. Discontinue procedure.
Lie on your back on a towel on the floor or on any other flat surface. Open the tubing clamp. Let as much liquid into your colon as you feel comfortable with. Stop if you are feeling cramping. Allow the colon to adjust to the solution before adding more. Continue to deep breathe and relax. The slower you add the water, the easier it will be to hold it in, to add more and to cleanse higher into the colon. Continue this process until the bag is empty.
At this point, massage your colon from left side to across the abdomen at about the level of the belly button, across to the right side and down to the lower right corner of the abdomen, descending colon to transverse colon to ascending colon, in small circular motions (to move fluid further into the colon). Another method is to lift your buttocks off the ground with your legs or in a full shoulder stand (not recommended if you haven't tried this before) to further move the liquid into your colon. You can then massage in the opposite direction from the lower right, across, and down the left side to help promote elimination.
Try repeating the above massage 2 or more times.
Try to retain the enema for about 15 minutes or longer. Evacuate whenever you need to.
COLEMA BOARDS
Colema Boards are more expensive (but cheaper than colon hydrotherapy sessions at $60 per session), hold 4-5 gallons of water and are done over the toilet.
The bucket is filled with room temperature, reverse osmosis water. It must set one to two feet above your body. At this point, enema solution ingredients can be added to the water (1/4 cup of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of Epsom salts, 1 cup of garlic water, blended and strained garlic cloves, 1 to 2 cups of coffee, or 1 cup of Bentonite clay), depending upon the type of enema therapy desired.
A suction in the hose will need to be initiated before the solution will flow down. To do this, fill the plastic hose up with water and let some of it out. This will create suction. Clamp the tube and put one end in the bucket.
One end of the colema board lies over the toilet bowel and the other end lies on a chair. An old kitchen colander (strainer) can be placed in the toilet to catch any hardened mucus or fecal matter. It can be amazing at what comes out of the colon.
Next, lubricate the plastic tubing which goes into the rectum. Towels on the board help for comfort. Lie down and insert the tube into the rectum. Do not try to hold too much water in the beginning. If pressure is felt, then simply let go and the water will come pouring out into the toilet. The more practice gotten using home colonics, the more the person will know exactly how much they can hold.
Some people will feel more comfortable doing home colonics while other people are going to feel much more at ease having a trained professional assisting them to clean their colon. Note: Always check with your health care provider before doing an enema.
RELATED LINKS
INSTRUCTIONS FOR VARIOUS TYPES OF HEALTH THERAPY ENEMAS
Barium Enema
Castille Bar Soap Enema
Castille Liquid Soap Enema
Catnip Tea Enema
Coffee Retention Enema
Colon Cleansing Enema
Commercially Prepared Enema
Epsom Salts Cleansing Enema
L. Bifidus Retention Enema
Lemon Juice Cleansing Enema
Mild Milk Enema
Milk & Honey Enema
Mineral Oil Enema
Olive Oil & Aloe Vera Enema
Phosphosoda Enema
Salt Water (Saline) Enema
Slippery Elm Enema
Soap Solution Enema
Commercially Prepared Enema
Note: Always check with your health care provider before doing an enema.
RELATED HEALTH LINKS
HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
This is only a small sample of educational materials and products available through Amazon.com. Use the search box provided below to search for a particular item.
COLON CLEANSING THERAPY
ENEMA SUPPLIES
HERBS, OILS, & SUPPLIES
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
Click Here To Visit Herbal Remedies Product Page
