New Delhi: Colon hydrotherapy or colonic irrigation has taken India’s wellness scene by storm. Said to detoxify the body by purifying, detoxifying, aiding weight loss, and ensuring healthy skin, it has emerged as a so-called therapy service at spas, naturopathy centers, and luxury wellness resorts. However, while the idea of detoxifying the body is in vogue among Indians with a health-conscious lifestyle, doctors are cautioning people to use caution. Colon hydrotherapy entails inserting a pipe into the rectum to flow massive quantities of water into the colon, which is afterward flushed out to supposedly purify the intestines. While it may sound harmless cleansing method, the medical aspect of this trend must be unravelled before it can be taken as a health treatment.
Dr. Aravind Badiger, Technical Director, BDR Pharmaceuticals, explained why this trend is becoming famous among Indians.
Why Colon Hydrotherapy Appeals to Urban India
Growing digestive issues like bloating, gas, and unpredictable bowel habits are driving Indians into quick fixes.
A growing number of wellness influencers and social media marketing have fuelled the idea that colonic cleansing is a necessary reboot for health. Most people experience instant relief and lightness after the procedure, which also drives demand. But the science disagrees.
- The Colon Cleans Itself: The human body is very efficient at detox. The colon, kidneys, and liver all work together in the natural removal of waste. There is no scientific basis for which colon flushing increases this process naturally. Over-involvement can deplete good gut bacteria that support digestion and immunity.
- Potential Risks and Complications: Side effects of colon hydrotherapy include dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, bowel perforation, or infections, especially if improperly or too frequently performed. Prolonged treatments may impair the normal ability of the colon to contract, resulting in chronic constipation or addiction.
- Not Recommended for Everyone: People with a history of gastrointestinal issues like hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, or inflammatory bowel disorders like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis are at higher risk for complications. Elderly individuals and pregnant women should also avoid it unless recommended by a doctor.
- The dependence on psychological factors: Individuals might have a psychological need for colonic surgeries in certain situations so that they can feel “healthy” rather than taking longer-term, more effective treatments such as medication or diet changes.
- A More Secure Route to Digestive Health: To encourage regular bowel movement, boost your intake of fibre found naturally in foods including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drink plenty of water during the day to make digestion easier and soften the feces.
- Regular exercise to boost the natural digestion of the body: Walk, exercise gently, or do yoga daily to naturally stimulate your digestive system. To maintain your gut microbiota balance, have probiotics in your diet through curd or fermented foods. Always consult medical advice from an expert if you experience chronic stomach issues, rather than