Home » Articles » Cleansing enema
People of all genders, ages and social classes are susceptible to problems with the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract; constipation is one of the most common in the modern world. The absence of a bowel movement for three days is a problem that can be solved without great expense and effort with the help of an enema. What it is, how it affects the body and in what sequence it is performed will be discussed below.
A cleansing enema is a procedure performed to rid the intestines of feces, stones and other waste remaining after food processing. It is performed by introducing liquid into the rectum (the most common is pure boiled water, but salt and soda solutions, herbal infusions, and various chemical compositions can be used) using special accessories (a bulb with a plastic tip, a heating pad or an intestinal tube with a funnel).
Operating principle
The mechanism of a cleansing enema is based on the combination of effects produced by a sufficient volume of liquid entering the intestine. Below they will be discussed in more detail:
- Chemical. Occurs when using salt, soda, various oils and herbal decoctions, fruit and vegetable juices and other substances that stimulate bowel movements after introducing appropriate solutions into it
- Mechanical. During the procedure, the volume of intestinal contents increases many times over, which helps soften stool and promptly eliminate it
- Thermal. Typically, the temperature of the water for a cleansing enema is made slightly higher than normal body temperature (the recommended value is about 38 degrees Celsius), this irritates the intestinal walls and increases its contractility, provoking the release of fluid with feces
- Osmotic. Consists of additionally attracting fluid from the body into the intestines and its subsequent elimination through the anus
To administer an enema, use a rubber heating pad with a hose or a special large-volume latex bulb (500-1000 ml) with a tip.
Possible complications and consequences
Manipulation with the help of an Esmarch mug, despite its apparent simplicity and the possibility of doing it independently at home without the help of a medical professional, is still a medical procedure, a third-party intervention in the functioning of the body. This means that it requires certain indications, consultation with a specialist, and a doctor’s prescription. Failure to follow the procedure or the introduction of unnecessary or even harmful substances into the body can lead to very sad consequences:
- leaching of beneficial intestinal microflora (dysbiosis);
- increased blood pressure, cerebral edema with the introduction of excessively hot liquid, which will be quickly absorbed into the circulatory system, increasing the total blood volume;
- the tip can damage an intestinal polyp or hamorroidal node, which will lead to bleeding;
- intoxication of the body caused by the absorption of dissolved toxins from the intestines;
- “lazy bowel syndrome”, as a result of regular enema for bowel movements.
By strictly following the doctor’s recommendations, not using the procedure for more than 7-10 days in a row, and not “experimenting” with the injected solutions, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of complications.
Indications for use
The range of situations in which a cleansing enema may be required is quite wide. Here are the most common:
- Prolonged absence of defecation. The procedure is effective for spastic, atonic and any other constipation (with the exception of intestinal obstruction). With its help you can quickly and painlessly get rid of fecal debris.
- Preparation for examination or surgery. Staging is carried out before X-ray, endoscopic (including capsule) or laparoscopic diagnostic procedures, surgical operations on the digestive/genitourinary systems, pelvic organs
- Intoxication and poisoning. An enema can quickly and effectively rid the body of alcohol, drugs and food toxins.
- Preparing for childbirth. It is known that after the onset of contractions, not all women can control the functioning of the anal sphincter, which can cause involuntary bowel movements during childbirth.
- Before administering a medicinal or nutritional enema. When performing them, the active ingredients must be administered into a clean intestine, this is how maximum effect is achieved.
A cleansing procedure using an enema is an excellent alternative to laxatives of synthetic and natural origin; it does not require financial costs and does not take much time, but it has a number of contraindications that are an obstacle to its implementation. Anyone who wants to perform it outside the hospital should carefully read them.
About the procedure
The gentle and persistent action of the enema frees the intestines from old food breakdown products, healing the microflora.
But is this effect on the already existing bacteria in the intestines so beneficial?
Advantages
Undoubtedly, the secret of the effectiveness and benefits of an enema is that the scale needle will quickly show a lower result. However, you should not abuse this procedure for losing weight. This opinion is shared by many gastroenterologists.
During weight loss, a cleansing enema is performed no more than once a week to achieve a visible result in the transformation.
The accumulated waste and toxins will not have time to harm the body, and will leave your intestines along with the solution.
Flaws
Even this painless procedure has individual contraindications: a history of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, small and large intestines.
When using various impurities for enemas when losing weight, the intestinal microflora is disrupted, which is a direct path to dysbiosis and problems with the skin and nails.
By neglecting the rules of the weight loss procedure, you will encounter serious disruptions in the body’s functioning and get the exact opposite effect - weight gain.
Contraindications for use
Medicine does not classify a cleansing enema as a dangerous event, but performing it can, under certain conditions, cause harm. Contraindications to the procedure are:
- Bleeding from the anus. Its causes may be ailments of other organs of the gastrointestinal tract (besides the intestines)
- Inflammatory processes in the colon. Water (especially with salt or lemon juice) greatly irritates the mucous membranes, which can aggravate inflammation
- Ulcers, perforations or erosions on the intestinal wall. Their mechanical, thermal or chemical irritation during the enema can provoke bleeding or more severe consequences
- Hemorrhoids, intestinal prolapse and fissures in the anus. These phenomena are a clear contraindication for the cleansing procedure due to the high risk of injuring these pathologies and aggravating their development
- Postoperative days. The first 2-3 weeks after surgery on the pelvic or abdominal organs, enemas are contraindicated. The procedure can prevent wound healing and cause sutures to come apart
- Neoplasms in the intestines. Wall seals, polyps and malignant tumors are contraindications for cleansing the intestines in this way
- Thromboembolism of mesenteric vessels. This pathology, in the absence of adequate timely treatment, leads to tissue death and is accompanied by severe pain; administering an enema can accelerate the development of necrotic reactions and aggravate pain
Recipes
An enema when losing weight at home should be carried out only using boiled and filtered water. Under no circumstances should you pour it from the tap. Such water contains large amounts of chlorine, heavy metals and other impurities. Colon cleansing can be carried out with various solutions. To prepare them, use coffee, soda, salt, lemon juice, and infusions of medicinal herbs. The main condition is that the temperature of the liquid should be 37-38 degrees. Too hot water injures the mucous membranes, cold water causes pain.
With salt
Home salt rinses are an inexpensive and easy alternative to brand-name medications. It is effective for constipation and weight loss. The main advantage of saline solution is that it is absorbed more slowly by the intestinal walls. Due to this, the feces soften longer, so their subsequent removal occurs without much discomfort. In addition to regular table salt, you can use Morshyn laxative, English or Karlovy Vary laxative.
To enhance the effect of the solution, it is allowed to add sunflower oil or vinegar to it. Ingredients for the classic recipe:
- salt – 2 tsp;
- water – 1 l.
These proportions are suitable for those who suffer from chronic constipation. If the process of defecation does not cause difficulties, then take 1 dessert spoon of salt per 1.5 liters of clean liquid. Method for preparing the solution, regardless of the proportions:
- Pour 100 ml of liquid from the entire portion of water and heat it in a saucepan on the stove.
- After boiling, remove from heat, add salt and stir until it is completely dissolved.
- Pour in the remaining liquid, making sure that the solution is warm - at room temperature.
On herbs
The basis of such solutions are medicinal herbs. Decoctions of them not only cleanse the intestines, but also have therapeutic and healing effects. Herbal solutions have a milder effect. Some exhibit bactericidal properties. To cleanse the digestive tract at home, the following are recommended:
- mint;
- lemon balm;
- motherwort;
- dandelion;
- elder;
- rhubarb;
- senna;
- sage;
- celandine;
- St. John's wort;
- calendula;
- chamomile.
You can use either one of the herbs or a mixture of several at once. The combination of sage and chamomile in equal quantities is considered universal. Plantain, dill seeds, birch leaves, and oregano are also suitable for intestinal lavage. The proportions do not depend on the type of raw material chosen. Required ingredients:
- crushed dry plants - 2 tbsp. l.;
- water – 0.5 l.
For better absorption after administering the herbal infusion, it is recommended to lie down for as long as possible. You can go to the toilet only if you have a very strong urge to defecate. Due to such a long exposure, the healing substances of the plants will have time to be absorbed in the intestines. Method for preparing the decoction:
- Place dry raw materials in a glass container.
- Brew 0.5 liters of boiling water and leave to steep for half an hour.
- Next, strain and use boiled water to bring the volume of the solution to 1.5-2 liters, depending on the volume of the selected Esmarch mug.
With glycerin
This substance is an organic compound that belongs to the class of polyhydric alcohols. Glycerin is used as a laxative for topical use. Its effect is due to its irritating effect on the rectal mucosa. Glycerin enemas are effective for severe constipation, since the substance enhances gastrointestinal motility. Ingredients for preparing glycerin solution:
- pharmaceutical glycerin – 2 tbsp. l.;
- sea salt – 2 tbsp. l.;
- boiled water – 1.5 l.
It is worth noting that glycerin should not be used too often as it disrupts the pH of the lower intestine. Enemas with it are recommended to be used as a last resort. Method for preparing the solution:
- Heat 100 ml of the entire portion of water.
- Dissolve salt in it so that no crystals remain in the solution.
- Add pharmaceutical glycerin and mix.
Honey
Honey contains vitamins B, C, H, inorganic and organic acids, and immunostimulating phytoncides. Losing weight with an enema based on a honey solution additionally ensures that the body is saturated with nutrients. This is an excellent prevention of the development of dysbiosis. Under no circumstances should honey rinsing be performed on those who are allergic to honey. Ingredients for preparing the solution:
- boiled water – 2 l;
- honey - 1 tbsp. l.
In addition to constipation, honey cleansing can be used for short-term fasting. In order for honey to retain all its beneficial properties, you need to add it only to warm water. Boiling water destroys the substances in this product. Instructions for preparing honey solution:
- Take warm boiled water.
- Add honey to it and mix thoroughly.
- Heat the solution to a temperature of 38 degrees.
With lemon
For weight loss, lemon is used in a variety of forms. There are many options for lemon diets. The effectiveness of this citrus is due to its ability to break down fats in the intestines. An enema with lemon solution improves nutrition through the intestinal walls and normalizes the internal environment of the lower digestive tract. Such procedures are especially effective for putrefactive dyspepsia, which develops due to impaired protein absorption. Ingredients required to prepare the solution:
- lemon juice – 50 ml;
- water with a temperature of 36-39 degrees – 1 liter.
Lemon is not recommended for people with gastritis and high stomach acidity. Honey can also be added to the juice of this citrus. The combination of such products has an even stronger weight loss effect. For 500 ml of water take 1 tbsp. l. honey Instructions for preparing a solution based only on lemon:
- Heat water to the specified temperature.
- Squeeze lemon juice into it and mix well.
Coffee shop
Coffee is especially popular for weight loss. It is used not only for anti-cellulite wraps. Coffee rinsing effectively rids the intestines of waste, toxins, and bile. In addition, it helps improve liver function. Only natural ground coffee exhibits such properties. Soluble or with impurities is not suitable for washing the intestines. Components for preparing the solution:
- ground coffee – 2 tbsp. l.;
- water – 1 l.
It is better for hypertensive patients to avoid coffee rinsing. The reason is a high concentration of caffeine, which has a stimulating effect on the nervous system. For hypertensive patients, this is dangerous due to the development of overexcitation and hypertensive crisis. Instructions for preparing the solution:
- Take a small saucepan and pour half of the filtered water into it.
- Add coffee and boil the mixture.
- Simmer the solution for 15 minutes so that the coffee better reveals its beneficial qualities.
- Pour in the remaining liquid, making sure that the temperature of the liquid is close to body temperature.
What you will need
The hospital has everything necessary to install a cleansing enema; junior medical staff will independently carry out the preparatory measures and carry out the procedure; the patient needs to concentrate and follow the nurse’s commands. If you decide to hold this event yourself, you should carefully prepare for it. You will need:
- Esmarch mug (rubber heating pad) or a special pear. Needed for prompt introduction of fluid into the intestine
- Oilcloth. Can be used medical, disposable or regular kitchen
- A sheet or old bedspread. Used as bedding on oilcloth
- Vaseline or neutral oil. Used to lubricate the tip
- A container with 1.5-2 liters of clean boiled water. Ideally, it will be bottled or distilled
- Thermometer. With its help, it is easy to determine the appropriate temperature of the liquid and adjust it if necessary
Colon cleansing diet
There are many ways to cleanse the intestines. But in order to avoid having to resort to colon hydrotherapy and other difficult medical procedures in the future, you should pay attention to a diet to cleanse the intestines. This diet, among other things, promotes weight loss, which improves well-being by getting rid of toxic masses.
One day diet
The one-day diet is the most popular, because... quick results are visible. It consists of juice, bread tea, fruits and vegetables. It is better to spend it on a day off.
Bread tea should be prepared in the evening. To do this, take 200 g of black bread and chop it finely. Pour 1 liter of boiling water and leave until morning. After 12 hours, strain. The infusion is ready for use.
You need to eat and drink strictly at the right time. In between meals, you can drink plain water.
10-day rice diet
Rice is an excellent sorbent that removes harmful substances from the body. For the diet, you need to use brown, not white rice. It needs to be soaked overnight, then rinsed and cooked. There is no need to add salt when cooking.
The essence of the diet is that every 2 hours you need to eat 100 g of boiled rice with foods that you can alternate at your discretion:
- Boiled chicken breast, fish, shrimp, squid;
- 100 g per serving of cheese, kefir, milk;
- One pear, one banana, 2 kiwis, 2 tbsp. l. nuts
You can drink as much as you like - herbal tea, still mineral water.
This option is not suitable for patients with diabetes, gastritis and stomach ulcers.
Apple diet
Another option for effective colon cleansing is apple breakfasts.
In the morning, on an empty stomach, you should eat 2-3 apples, grated with the peel. The next meal should be in 3 hours.
In the first month, this must be done daily. In the second month, it is enough to eat one grated apple every other day. But if you want, you don’t have to reduce the norm. The diet should consist of natural products. The menu should be balanced.
Such a diet will allow you to reduce weight by 4–7 kg, improve the functioning of all internal organs and improve your appearance. You can repeat such courses 2–3 times a year.
Technique
During a cleansing enema, experts recommend performing manipulations in the following sequence:
- The heating pad is filled with water and hung on a tripod 1-1.5 meters high
- Air is released from the system, liquid leakage is prevented using a clamp (new models are equipped with taps)
- An oilcloth and a sheet are laid on a hard surface (couch or bench)
- The patient lies on his left side, bending the right leg (or both) at the knee and tucking it towards the stomach
- A tip lubricated with oil or Vaseline is inserted into the anus to a depth of 3-4 centimeters.
- The clamp is removed from the tube (the tap is opened) and the entire contents of Esmarch’s mug (1-2 liters) are poured into the rectum
- After the heating pad is empty, the tip is removed and the patient turns over on his back. He needs to retain the liquid for 15-30 minutes
If there is severe slagging, the enema procedure is repeated many times.