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Your gut plays a vital role in your overall health, affecting digestion, immunity, energy levels, and even mood. The gut-brain axis – a communication system connecting your gut and brain – relays signals through the vagus nerve. This connection allows gut bacteria to produce chemicals like serotonin, which helps regulate emotions.

A well-functioning gut supports digestion, enhances nutrient absorption, strengthens immunity, and contributes to mental clarity. Colon hydrotherapy, sometimes referred to as colonic irrigation, is a gentle cleansing treatment that aims to remove waste from the colon.
While this procedure is not a cure for medical conditions, many clients report feeling lighter, refreshed, and more comfortable afterwards.
What is colon hydrotherapy?
Colon hydrotherapy is a non-invasive procedure that gently introduces warm, filtered water into the colon to help flush out waste and residues. Unlike some detox methods that rely on dietary restrictions or supplements, colon hydrotherapy works by directly cleansing the colon to assist with regularity and digestive comfort.
The treatment is performed by trained professionals in a controlled and hygienic environment.
Why gut health matters
Your gut is often called the “second brain” due to its significant role in overall health. A balanced gut microbiome supports:
- Efficient digestion: Helping the body absorb nutrients effectively and maintain energy levels.
- Stronger immunity: Around 70% of immune cells reside in the gut, making it essential for immune defence.
- Mental well-being: The gut produces serotonin, the “happiness hormone”, which influences mood, mental clarity, and emotional balance.
- Regular detoxification: The body naturally removes toxins via the liver and kidneys, but a well-functioning digestive system ensures efficient waste elimination.
On the other hand, poor gut health may contribute to fatigue, bloating, constipation, skin issues, and digestive discomfort. Colon hydrotherapy is sometimes used as a complementary approach to support digestion and encourage regularity.

Potential benefits of colon hydrotherapy
While individual experiences vary, some of the reported benefits of colon hydrotherapy include:
- Digestive comfort: May help ease bloating and promote regular bowel movements.
- Temporary lightness and energy boost: Many clients report feeling refreshed after treatment.
- Clearer skin: Some individuals notice improvements in skin clarity as a result of better digestion.
- Relief from occasional constipation: Can assist with occasional irregularity by helping to hydrate and cleanse the colon.
- Support for a healthy lifestyle: May complement dietary and wellness goals by encouraging mindful eating and hydration.

Please note: Colon hydrotherapy is not a weight-loss treatment but can be a useful complement to a healthy lifestyle by promoting digestive regularity.
Who may benefit from colon hydrotherapy?
Colon hydrotherapy is often chosen by people who experience:
- Occasional digestive discomfort, such as bloating or sluggish digestion
- A desire to support gut health alongside a healthy diet
- Preparation for wellness programmes, such as balanced eating plans
However, the procedure is not suitable for everyone. It is generally not recommended for individuals with conditions such as:
🚫 Irritable bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis
🚫 Severe haemorrhoids or rectal conditions
🚫 Recent abdominal surgery
🚫 Heart or kidney disease
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, it is always best to consult your doctor before undergoing colon hydrotherapy.
What to expect during your session
- The procedure: A small sterile tube (speculum) is gently inserted into the rectum, allowing warm, filtered water to flow into the colon. The gentle flow of water helps loosen waste, which is then naturally eliminated.
- Comfort and hygiene: The procedure is conducted in a private setting by a trained professional. The process is designed to be hygienic and discreet, with no exposure to odour or mess.
- Duration: The treatment typically lasts about 45 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes for consultation and preparation.
Most people feel relaxed and refreshed afterwards, although some may experience temporary mild bloating or light-headedness, which usually resolves quickly.
Aftercare: How to maintain gut health
To support your digestive health following colon hydrotherapy, consider:
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to aid digestion.
- Fibre-rich foods: Include whole grains, leafy greens, and legumes to promote bowel regularity.
- Probiotics: Consider probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt or kefir to help maintain gut balance.
- Avoiding heavy or processed foods: Stick to light, nutrient-rich meals for the next 24 hours.



Frequently asked questions
Is it embarrassing to have a colonic?
Not at all. Colon hydrotherapy is conducted in a private room by a trained professional who ensures your dignity and comfort. The procedure is hygienic and discreet, with a closed system that eliminates mess or odour.
What can I expect afterwards?
Most people feel lighter and refreshed, while others may experience several bowel movements within a few hours. A mild healing reaction (such as temporary light-headedness) can sometimes occur, but this usually passes quickly.
Is the procedure painful?
Colon hydrotherapy is not typically painful. Some clients may experience a brief sensation of cramping or fullness as water enters the colon, but this is generally well tolerated. Your therapist will guide you through the process to ensure comfort.
How long does a session take?
A typical colon hydrotherapy session lasts approximately 45 minutes, with additional time for consultation and preparation.
Conclusion
Colon hydrotherapy is a gentle cleansing treatment that may support digestion, hydration, and overall well-being when used as part of a balanced lifestyle. While not a medical treatment for digestive conditions, many people find it beneficial for gut health maintenance.
If you are looking to support your digestive health and feel refreshed, book a consultation at Aesthetica White Lies to learn more about colon hydrotherapy.
Schedule an appointment at Aesthetica Skin Centre
Website: www.theskincentre.co.za
Phone: +27 78 148 5540
Email: info@theskincentre.co.za
Benoni branch: 32 O’Reilly Merry St, Northmead, Benoni, 1501, Ekurhuleni
Pretoria branch: 107 George Storrar St, Groenkloof, 0027, Pretoria
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