About this guide
Talking about enemas can feel awkward, but bowel health should be something we can discuss openly. I have worked with clients on digestive health for over 20 years, and this guide brings together my own practical notes with information about home enemas and coffee enemas.
An enema introduces liquid into the rectum. Some people use a plain water enema when they are constipated. A coffee enema uses brewed coffee instead. Coffee enemas have a long history in complementary health practice.
This guide is general information for adults. An enema is not the answer to unexplained or persistent constipation, and it should not become a routine way of making your bowel move.
Read this before considering a home enema
Do not use a coffee enema if you have palpitations, an irregular heartbeat or another heart rhythm problem, kidney disease or reduced kidney function, sensitivity to caffeine, or a coffee allergy. A weaker coffee mixture does not remove these concerns. Caffeine can be absorbed through the bowel.
Do not attempt a home enema if you have rectal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, vomiting, a swollen abdomen with an inability to pass stools or wind, or a suspected bowel blockage. Seek medical advice. Do not attempt one if you are pregnant, have inflammatory bowel disease, have recently had bowel surgery, or have another condition affecting your bowel or rectum.
Stop immediately if you feel pain, burning, faintness, marked dizziness or palpitations. Never force the tip or the liquid into the bowel. Never use hot liquid.
A plain water enema
A plain water enema and a coffee enema are different practices. If constipation is the reason you are considering either one, first think about why it is happening. Your usual bowel pattern, medicines, fluid intake, food, stress and changes in routine can all be relevant.
Use equipment intended for an enema and follow its cleaning instructions. Water and equipment cleanliness matter. The liquid should feel comfortably lukewarm, never hot. Allow it to flow gently, without force, and stop if you feel pain or resistance.
If you repeatedly need enemas to pass a stool, arrange an assessment rather than continuing to rely on this method.
Why do some people use coffee?
People who use coffee enemas often describe a feeling of bowel movement or relief afterwards. Many practitioners also discuss compounds in coffee in relation to glutathione, a substance involved in the body’s normal protective processes.
There is interest in whether coffee enemas affect glutathione production or related enzymes. Research has not established that coffee enemas increase glutathione production in people. Glutathione levels and glutathione S-transferase activity are different measurements. A small human study found no increase in blood glutathione after coffee enemas. The suggested benefits should therefore be understood as practitioner perspectives rather than proven effects.
Choosing the coffee
My preference is certified organic, lightly roasted coffee or organic green coffee from a supplier that can explain how it handles and stores its beans. Look for recent testing relevant to the batch you are buying for mould and mycotoxins.
An organic label does not, on its own, prove that coffee is free of mycotoxins. Nor can a supplier guarantee that every bean is completely free of them. Do not use coffee that smells musty or shows visible mould.
Choose plain coffee without added flavourings or other ingredients.
My approach to coffee strength
Recipes vary widely. I would suggest a much weaker starting mixture for someone who has never used a coffee enema: one tablespoon of coffee per litre of water. My approach is to start low and pay attention to how you feel. I would not begin with four tablespoons.
Over time, someone who has tolerated the practice might consider gradually increasing the mixture to up to four tablespoons per litre. There is no clinically established dose or schedule showing that increasing the strength brings more benefit or makes the practice safe.
Anyone with palpitations, a heart rhythm problem, kidney disease or reduced kidney function, caffeine sensitivity or a coffee allergy should not use a coffee enema at any strength.
Preparing the coffee
Use a clean pan, clean equipment and clean water suitable for drinking. Brew the coffee, then strain it thoroughly so that no grounds enter the enema equipment. Let the liquid cool to a comfortably lukewarm temperature before use. Check its temperature carefully: never use it hot or steaming.
Follow the instructions supplied with your enema kit for assembling and cleaning it. Check that the clamp is closed before filling the bag. Let a little liquid run through the tubing to clear the air, then close the clamp again.
During and after an enema
- Prepare a private space near a toilet, with a towel to lie on and a pillow to support your head and neck. Check that the equipment, tubing and clamp are clean and working.
- Prepare and strain the chosen liquid. For coffee, allow plenty of time for it to cool and check its temperature before filling the bag or bucket.
- Close the clamp before filling the equipment. Once filled, allow liquid to reach the end of the tubing so that trapped air is cleared, then close the clamp again.
- Position the equipment securely so that the liquid flows gently. The higher you hang the bag, the faster the flow can be, so keep the pressure low.
- Get comfortable. I suggest lying on your left side with your knees raised to start. If comfortable, you can then lie on your back. Use a lubricant suitable for both your skin and the equipment. Insert the tip slowly and gently into the rectum, without pushing against resistance.
- Open the clamp and let the liquid flow slowly. If you feel pressure or discomfort, close the clamp and stop the flow. Do not take in more than feels comfortable. If you feel an immediate need to use the toilet, respond to that urge. Do not force yourself to retain the liquid.
- If you remain comfortable, relax and breathe. My earlier notes suggested resting for five to ten minutes, but there is no need to hold the liquid if your body wants to release it.
- Use the toilet when you feel the urge. Clean the equipment according to its instructions and let it dry fully. Take care with enclosed bags, which can retain moisture.
- Notice how you feel in the following minutes and hours. Seek medical help if you develop persistent pain, bleeding, fever or other worrying symptoms.
Keep the bigger picture in mind
Coffee enemas are used by some people in naturopathic practice. If you are constipated, an enema may seem like a quick answer, but it does not explain why the constipation began. Repeated use of enemas, suppositories or laxatives without understanding the cause can delay an important assessment.
Stress and rushing are big factors too. I have seen many people become so used to holding in a wee or a poo that they no longer give themselves time to notice the urge. Make space in your day for a visit to the toilet. Respond to the urge when it comes, rather than relying on an enema to create one.
I offer a comprehensive, individualised programme shaped around your needs and circumstances. We can explore food, lifestyle, supplements and herbs, and I can recommend testing when appropriate. Email lisa@evolvefemalewellness.com to enquire about working together.