Claimed Benefits Of Colonotherapy Are Not Scientifically Proven

However, the basic principles of colonotherapy as a treatment method lie on a shaky ground.

Several scientific groups have reviewed the published reports on colon cleansing and found no clear evidences that technique can improve the physiological condition of the body. Quite contrary, there are multiple reports which point to the negative side effects of the method and potential of causing serious health problems. It seems that the clever natural design of the colon itself is sufficient for the cleansing of body wastes. This makes the therapy a subject of much debate.

Potential dangers of colonotherapy

Despite the apparent benefits provided by colonotherapy, many doctors do not recommend this method due to the risks associated with this technique. The major justification behind this is that colon is a natural pump that normally cleans the body of the waste materials. Hence, forced elimination of the wastes from colon by artificial method is not really necessary. Moreover, there are various reports that suggest that colon irrigation brings many unwanted problems with it. Some of these problems are listed below:

• The major risk of this technique is perforation of the intestinal wall and it is always advised to run the procedure under the guidance of experienced medical practitioners.

• Dehydration may also be associated with the treatment. During colonotherapy, the normal balance potassium, sodium and water in the body is hampered. This can cause dehydration, weakness, uncontrollable muscle twitching and some other side effects.

• Colon cleansing not only removes the accumulated wastes but also disturbs the normal microflora of the large intestine responsible for maintaining normal digestion.

• The other problems encountered by the patients are colon spasm, kidney and heart problems and allergic reactions on the cleansing fluid.

Cost considerations and popularity

The cost of colonotherapy varies significantly. Usually it is not cheap. Cleansing regimen is different and varies from patient to patient depending on their age, sex and physical condition. The cost behind the treatment procedures also varies according to the treatment type, number of sessions, consultants and specific region where treatment takes place.

The technique became quite popular in USA and Europe in the middle of last century.Soon, however, the reports about potential dangers started to emerge. And although many celebrities like Princess Diana of England, John Lennon and Hollywood actors Mae West and Jennifer Aniston experienced the benefits of this technique,

Get proper medical advice before going for colonotherapy

Since there is little scientific evidence on the utility of colonotherapy, this technique nowadays is generally not recommended by the physicians. But the method is still useful in some cases. Colon irrigation is done prior to colon operations. It is given as an additional therapy for colon cancer patients. Anyone willing to go for the treatment is strongly recommended to see a doctor first. Most certainly, the procedure should be performed by experienced personnel who can advise on the required number of session and appropriate method of colonotherapy.