Gentle and natural, colon hydrotherapy introduces purified water into the colon to cleanse it and relieve discomfort. Rather than involving only the rectum, as an enema does, colon hydrotherapy can cleanse and soothe the entire colon. It relieves constipation without subjecting the body to chemical laxatives by flushing away impacted food wastes with sterilized, body-temperature water. Some colon hydrotherapists may enhance the cleansing action of the fluid by gently massaging the patient’s abdomen during the procedure. Some people may opt to use an herbal preparation prior to their colon cleansing session. Colon hydrotherapy, when practiced by a licensed practitioner, is safe, effective, and painless. The therapist may offer to provide relaxing music or even reading material during the procedure.