5 Things to Know About Colonic Cleanses

A colonic cleanse, also called colonic irrigation, colonics or colonic hydrotherapy, is a procedure that washes the walls of the lower intestinal tract. This practice is sometimes suggested by certain health care providers or marketed to enhance digestive wellness by manufacturers of colonic cleansing systems. Gastrointestinal oncologist Maged Khalil, MD, with Lehigh Valley Topper Cancer Institute, says this practice should be approached with “caution and a critical mindset.”

“While some alternative health practitioners claim benefits such as detoxification and improved digestion, scientific evidence supporting these claims is insufficient,” Dr. Khalil says. “The body naturally detoxifies itself through the liver and kidneys.”

While the systems have various designs, they usually involve a small nozzle that’s inserted into the rectum and tubing that delivers fluid, such as filtered tap water, into the colon. Consider the following Q&A with Dr. Khalil – and talk with your doctor or clinician – before making a decision about using one.

Q: Does the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulate colonic cleansing systems?

Yes, the FDA regulates colonic cleansing systems, which fall under the category of medical devices. However, no system has been approved by the FDA for "routine" colon cleansing to promote a person’s general well-being.

Q: Is colonic hydrotherapy recommended by gastroenterologists?

Colonic hydrotherapy is generally not recommended by most gastroenterologists due to lack of evidence and potential risks. Instead, they often recommend dietary changes, such as increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support gut health.

Q: Do colonic cleanses have side effects? Are they dangerous to your health?

Yes, colonic cleanses can have side effects, and in some cases, they can pose health risks. These risks can include dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and damage to the intestinal lining. Infections can also occur if equipment is not properly sterilized.

Q: Who should not use colonic hydrotherapy?

Colonic hydrotherapy may impose additional risks to pregnant women and individuals with gastrointestinal disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis or diverticulitis. This practice is also not recommended for immunocompromised individuals or those with heart or kidney problems, hemorrhoids, severe constipation, infections and people who have had recent surgeries.

You won’t find colonics included in current guidelines for colonoscopy preparation or management of irritable bowel syndrome.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, says research on colon cleanses is currently inadequate to support their use. Furthermore, the FDA and Federal Trade Commission have taken action against several companies selling detox/cleansing products because they (1) contained illegal, potentially harmful ingredients; (2) were marketed using false claims that they could treat serious diseases; or (3) in the case of medical devices used for colon cleansing, were marketed for unapproved uses.

And the systems are usually not covered by insurance. For example, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services states that “there are no conditions for which colonic irrigation is medically indicated and no evidence of therapeutic value.”

Still, some providers may suggest colonic hydrotherapy and the debate about their potential health risks and wellness benefits persists.

“The body’s natural digestive processes are sufficient for maintaining gut health. A balanced diet rich in fiber, hydration and regular exercise are often recommended by gastroenterologists,” Dr. Khalil says. “It is essential for anyone considering colonic hydrotherapy to consult with a health care professional to assess their individual health situation and determine whether this procedure is safe for them”