The terrain and environs of a healthy and functional large intestine remind me of a flourishing garden.  In a garden which is suitable for sprouting seeds and growing plants, there exists nourishing, well hydrated soil that includes abundant friendly organisms, as well as aeration and moisture.

Similarly, in a colon which functions by it’s natural design, there exists abundant friendly organisms, as well as aeration and moisture.

Colon cleansing supports the healthy functioning of the lower bowel by providing hydration, clearing out unfriendly, pathogenic, disease-producing bacteria, yeasts and parasites, and thereby promoting the colonization of friendly bacteria, which contribute to a healthy microbiome. Colon cleansing also loosens up old waste material that can be likened to hardened, crusty, lumpy clumps of ground.

In order to maximize the results of various colon cleansing protocol, a few preparatory steps can be helpful.  Just as the gardener tills up the dirt, and adds beneficial organisms in the form of manure and compost,  the person who prepares their colon for cleansing can similarly soften and break apart “clumps” of toxic waste in the bowel getting ready for a purge or rinse.

I support my clients to achieve the best possible results from their colon cleansing experiences, I encourage them to consider the following preparatory guidelines:

Dietary prep is beneficial in maximizing your colon cleansing results. This prep can vary from person to person. Many people prepare for 1-2 weeks, but even just 1-2 days can yield an effective cleanse.  Modify your diet by avoiding refined and complex carbohydrates which convert to sugar in the bloodstream and feeds gas-producing yeasts, parasites and unfriendly bacteria. Avoiding sugars can minimize gas in the bowel. Incorporating gentle cleansing fibers  and various herbal supports while colon cleansing assists the body in “raking” and mopping up old waste material.

Some extra soluble and insoluble fibers for a week or two before colon rinses can help to “scrub” and “fluff” dense waste material in the bowel, preparing for more effective and thorough removal.  Two heaping tablespoons of fresh flaxseed meal mixed into a glass of water, and drunk once or twice per day is a modest prep step.

Whether or not you’re already on a special cleansing diet or detox program, incorporating these preparatory steps to assist in a more thorough purge and/or rinse can be an effective support.

1)  If possible, have a bowel movement the morning of your colema, colonic or home enema to clear the rectum of solid matter.  Better yet, have thorough daily movements for many days before water treatments.

2)  Do your best to include extra fiber to facilitate some ‘scrubbing’ action while colon cleansing. For example, drink flaxseed meal or a couple teaspoons psyllium husks mixed in water daily (drink quickly before the mixture thickens). While doing a series of colonics, colemas or home enemas, don’t take large amounts of cathartic herbs, oxygen-based laxatives, or large doses of magnesium which tend to produce runny bowel movements, and irritate the bowel lining, and interfere with a thorough cleanse.

3) When getting colonics, or doing colemas or home enemas, try to refrain from eating and drinking for 1-2 hours beforehand, so your bladder and stomach will be comfortable during water rinses.