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Types of Colon Cleanses

Colon cleansing can be categorized under five procedures. While these procedures may vary in efficacy, each should be performed by a professional or according to the manufacturer's directions. As technologies for colon cleansing continue to change, research which of the available colon cleansing products will meet your needs and provide you with the most comfort.

  1. Colon Hydrotherapy (Colonic Irrigation)

    • Colon hydrotherapy is a process that induces a disposable tube into the rectum to flush toxins from the colon. Using warm, filtered water and an FDA-approved tube for proper sanitation, colon hydrotherapy cleanses the large intestine and removes impacted bacteria, toxins and bowel. The procedure should be performed by a licensed and trained professional.

    Enemas

    • A rudimentary device, an enema can be purchased at a pharmacy for in-home use. It is designed to remove material from the lowest 8 to 12 inches of the colon. Inserted into the rectum, the tubal device does not remove compacted materials; however, it can empty the rectum of bowel waste. Alternative enema products are available, including coffee enemas and clay enemas, both of which are administered in the same way.

    Herbal Supplements

    • A potentially effective tool for short-term elimination, herbal colon cleansing supplements work by inducing contractions in the walls of the bowel. Unable to clean waste from the colon (a process known as oxidation), these products are not appropriate for severe constipation or digestive disorders. Follow the manufacturer's directions to reduce risk of infection or digestive complications.

    Laxatives

    • Used for the short-term treatment of constipation, laxatives empty the bowels. Unable to clean compacted bowel and bacteria, laxatives should not be used for chronic constipation. Side effects can include dehydration, frequent bowel movements and loss of muscle around the colon lining. Manufacturers warn against long-term use or misuse of laxatives.

    Oxygen-Based Cleansers

    • Oxygen-based colon cleansers use ozonated magnesium oxides to detoxify the intestinal tract, including impacted materials. Used to regulate digestion and melt mucous and other debris, oxygen-based colon cleansers also employ a tubal system for irrigation. The tube is induced in the rectal cavity to cleanse the entire colon. As of 2009, this method is widely considered the most effective colon cleansing tool on the market.

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