Colon cleansing,originally known as a cure for constipation has been known now for several thousands of years, and its history of use is also as much old. Colon cleanse is also known as colonic hydrotherapy, colon irrigation and commonly used term, entero-lavage.

Conventional medical opinion puts little value in the procedure, the general consensus among doctors being that an enema using purified water as a treatment for an impacted bowel being its only valid use. Practitioners and many of their patients would strongly disagree.

People who believe in colon cleanse claim that improves the overall health of its subjects. It is caused due to autointoxication or buildup of waste in large intestine, leading to several illnesses, believed to be caused by large amounts of fungi and bacteria in the colon.

Other claimed benefits of this procedure include relief from bowel complaints, flatulence, chronic fatigue syndrome, Candida, arthritis and many skin problems. Proponents of this procedure go on to claim that the probability of contracting bowel cancer is mitigated by this procedure. Due to the several claimed benefits, they prescribe regular sessions to prevent diseases and not just use it as a treatment.

Only a few States in America have laws governing the practice and therefore it is not very well regulated. A list of registered members is being maintained by the Guild of Colon Hydrotherapists and the International Association of Colon Hydrotheraphy. To be ensured by the prospective patients about clean equipment and facilities and experienced practitioners is vital. It is of great risk when training is poor and hygiene is substandard.

During a colon cleanse, a speculum is passed into the rectum. Through this, up to a gallon of water at body temperature is passed. The used water and waste passes back out the tube, where the practitioner is able to examine it. In an effort to help remove waste, the practitioner may massage the patient's abdomen. While sometimes causing discomfort, there is no pain involved in this treatment.

The treatment is quite often, also combined with few other therapies such as acupuncture or reflexology. Some practitioners may add few extra ingredients to the purified water they use, like minerals, salts and even coffee, which they claim to have added health benefits.