What is the difference between

an enema and a colonic?

The basic principle behind enemas and colonics is the same: both are methods used to flush waste from the colon via water introduced into the rectum. Both can be highly effective in stimulating the colon to eliminate putrefactive waste from the body. However, there are notable differences between the two.

During an enema, a quantity of water, usually between a quarter litre to one litre, is taken into the body, where it travels approximately 6 to 8 inches up the colon, is held briefly, and almost immediately expelled. Although this procedure is of a relatively short duration, retaining such a volume of water can be uncomfortable. Also, self-administering requires that the person doing the enema be mindful of all aspects of the procedure as it is carried out, which may make it difficult to feel relaxed.

Colonics tend to be more soothing and thorough, and less inconvenient. The mechanics of colonics involve a large container filled with filtered water which flows into a tube. This tube is attached to a disposable hard plastic instrument called a proctoscope. Once the proctoscope is gently inserted into the rectum, a second tube is attached which carries waste matter and water out of the body and directly into the septic system. Water entering the body travels
through the colon and exits into the waste tube in a continuous flow. In this way, water is able to travel the entire length of the colon (approximately 5 to 5 1/2 feet), reaching all the way to the cecum, the farthermost region of the colon where waste matter and parasites typically settle. A membranous flap called the ileocecal valve separates the colon from the small intestine, preventing water from flowing beyond the colon. There is no mess and no odour as the water and waste are completely contained.

This procedure holds several advantages over a simple enema. Because water flows continuously in and out of the body, a much greater quantity of water, between 10 and 50 litres, is flushed through the colon. This allows water to completely permeate the folds of the colon and to saturate the impacted waste throughout the entire length of the colon. Also, water filling the space within the colon exerts a slight pressure against the muscle tissue of the colon wall, stimulating muscle action which provides exercise for the colon, helping to tone and reshape a weakened colon. Another advantage is that the Colon Therapist is responsible for administering the colonic, allowing the person receiving the treatment to remain relaxed and comfortable without concern for the mechanical aspects of the procedure.