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Whats the deal with coffee enemas?
  • Health

What’s the Deal With Coffee Enemas?

Katie WellsAug 22, 2019Updated: Mar 10, 2020
Dr Scott Sorries Medical Advisor Wellness Mama
Medically reviewed by Dr. Scott Soerries, MD
Reading Time: 6 min

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Wellness Mama » Blog » Health » What’s the Deal With Coffee Enemas?
Table of Contents[Hide][Show]
  • How This Interesting Practice Came to Be
  • What Is a Coffee Enema?
  • Proven Benefits of Coffee Enemas+−
    • Liver Detox
    • Improve Gallbladder Function
    • Parasite Cleanse
    • Candida Cleanse
    • Toxic Mold
    • Cancer?
    • Better Gut Health
    • Lessen Die-Off Reactions
    • Clearer Skin
  • Enema Concerns & Risks+−
    • Rectal Burn
    • Proctocolitis
    • Electrolyte Imbalance
  • Who Should Not Use Coffee Enemas?
  • Frequency
  • How to Do a Coffee Enema+−
    • Where To Get Coffee Enema Supplies

I’ve covered the topic of drinking coffee, and if it’s healthy or not, in this post, but there’s actually another way to benefit from everyone’s favorite morning beverage. Coffee enemas may sound scary and unsanitary, but there is some evidence that they are beneficial for many health issues. Here I cover what’s up with coffee enemas, the potential risks, and how we can benefit from consuming coffee… from the other end!

How This Interesting Practice Came to Be

Enemas have been around for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians detailed the protocol on ancient sheets of papyrus. (Imagine your job description being “nery phuyt”… or anus shepherd!) Hippocrates, known as the father of modern medicine, also strongly encouraged them. There are even mentions of enemas on the Dead Sea scrolls as a way to purify the body and soul.

Using coffee became a more widely popular practice starting in World War I. They were reportedly used for pain reduction during the war when meds were scarce. The Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy even considered them as standard health care treatment until 1972.

Most recently, proponents of alternative medicine (from Goop to holistic psychologists) are turning their attention back to coffee enemas as a means of detoxification.

What Is a Coffee Enema?

Yes, it really is what it sounds like!

Coffee flows into the colon via the rectum and is then expelled in a bowel movement a few minutes later. The caffeine and antioxidants in the coffee have a highly effective, yet very safe, detoxing effect on the body that is hard to replicate with other methods.

Proven Benefits of Coffee Enemas

Sounds crazy, but coffee applied to your… ahem… underside can do all this:

Liver Detox

The number one reason people use this type of enema is for detoxifying the liver. Herbs like milk thistle are helpful at clearing toxins from the liver. However, these released toxins can be reabsorbed in the colon if the gut microbiome is impaired in any way.

When a coffee enema is used, a special pathway of veins carries waste straight from the colon to the liver to be processed. The liver is then triggered to release bile to flush the toxins out and back into the colon. The water from the enema softens the stool, and provides a clear pathway for the toxins to exit. This process lessens the toxic load the liver deals with and frees it to cleanse the blood and eliminate toxins in other body systems. Since toxicity plays a huge role in so many issues with the body, this process can be a powerful healing tool.

Improve Gallbladder Function

As mentioned above, liver function is closely tied to the gallbladder. When bile isn’t flowing properly, biliary ducts can become inflamed and blocked, leading to gallbladder attacks and, eventually, removal of the tiny organ. Toxins also recirculate through the body as they continue to build up in the bile, instead of being eliminated. Coffee enemas stimulate the liver to release more bile. Not only does this flush toxins from the body, but it may release gallstones and keeps the bile from stagnating.

Parasite Cleanse

Most of us have little hitchhikers stowed away in our gut and don’t even realize it. Little pockets in the colon, called diverticuli, are the perfect hiding places for these parasites.

Coffee enemas help to flush out impacted fecal matter and debris, rooting out parasites from their hiding spots. Coffee, not just flushing with liquid in general, may weaken and harm the parasites.

Candida Cleanse

Candida occurs naturally in the body. However stress, diets high in sugar, or antibiotics can cause it to grow out of control. Enemas work to restore balance to the digestive tract by eliminating harmful organisms, like excess candida. This clears the way for healthy probiotics in the gut to do their job. (However, it won’t be enough to restore gut balance if a problematic diet and lifestyle are unchanged.)

Toxic Mold

Mold spores in the air, and the microscopic mycotoxins they produce, can devastate the body’s health. Mycotoxins, from toxic mold, have been linked to certain cancers, organ failure, and other serious issues.

A major issue with mold toxicity is that the mycotoxins continue to accumulate in the bile. The toxins are constantly reabsorbed into the body, instead of eliminated. This stimulates bile flow, get it through the colon and out of the body to help flush these toxins. It’s helpful for those with debilitating illness due to mold, or anyone who’s had minimal exposure.

Cancer?

Cancer occurs when the body is under too much oxidative stress and toxic load. Coffee enemas are a requirement in the Gerson cancer therapy. This therapy began in the 1920s with Dr. Max Gerson seeking a cure for his migraines. Over the years, followers of Gerson have adapted his therapy to a three-pronged approach to help with cancer: a vegetarian diet, ingestion of supplements, and enemas. The antioxidants in coffee enemas support healthy cellular function, and eliminate toxins which put stress on the body.

Cancer is a complex thing and must be addressed at multiple levels though, not just with coffee enemas. Cancer Research UK warns that more research is needed before substantiating claims that Gerson cancer therapy is effective. All cancer therapies should be guided by a doctor’s advice.

Better Gut Health

Dr. Natasha Campbell McBride also recommends coffee enemas as part of the gut-healing GAPS protocol. The process flushes out bacteria, parasites, and fungus that impede gut healing. It also speeds up the detox and healing process needed for whole body wellness.

Lessen Die-Off Reactions

When the body releases toxins, it can overwhelm the system and we experience unpleasant die-off reactions. These can range from emotional issues (like irritability) to physical ones (like headaches and nausea). A coffee enema helps to quickly eliminate the released toxins from the body, to reduce or erase the die-off reactions, as part of a comprehensive cleansing protocol.

Clearer Skin

Our livers process hormones and waste in the body. When the liver becomes overburdened from all of the toxins in our diet and environment, the body tries to eliminate through a different route.

The skin is the largest organ of the body, and it picks up the slack for an overtaxed liver. Hives, psoriasis, eczema, rashes and itchy skin can all be caused by toxin excretion through the skin. A coffee enema clears the way for the liver to function properly, eliminating many skin issues.

Enema Concerns & Risks

Having looked at the benefits, we should also weigh the risks. According to a 2013 pharmacokinetic study, there are potentially negative side effects to consider when administering a coffee enema.

Forewarned is forearmed… possible situations to avoid are rectal burn, proctocolitis, and electrolyte imbalance.

Rectal Burn

To prevent rectal burn, coffee should be at room temperature before it is administered. Test the coffee like you would formula to see if it’s too hot.

Proctocolitis

The Mayo Clinic defines proctocolitis as the inflammation of the rectum’s lining. There was one case, in Korea, in which a coffee enema resulted in proctocolitis. The patient recovered through the use of antibiotics, intravenous fluids, and bowel rest.

Electrolyte Imbalance

Sadly, there have been two documented deaths associated with daily coffee enemas. These were the result of severe electrolyte imbalance. Because coffee enemas help remove toxic metals, they can also strip some nutrient minerals from your body. To stay safe, consult with a health practitioner before you begin the regimen. You may also want to check out this recipe for a natural electrolyte sports drink.

Who Should Not Use Coffee Enemas?

Even though coffee enemas are gentle and beneficial, there are a few groups who advised against them. Pregnant moms and children younger than five can use other enemas, like salt water, but are advised against coffee enemas. Breastfeeding moms may want to exercise caution here, too.

Those with severe bowel dysfunction, like Crohn’s disease, should take special precautions with coffee enemas. Similarly, those with hypertension, ulcerative colitis, renal/heart/respiratory failure, and those who are currently undergoing chemotherapy should exercise caution and consult with a health practitioner before beginning a regime of coffee enemas. As always, consult with your doctor to determine if coffee enemas should be an option for you.

Frequency

This depends on the issue being addressed. Almost everyone can benefit from a coffee enema once in a while. For those with acute toxicity, like cancer patients, or those experiencing gallbladder attacks, coffee enemas can be done four times a day. This helps to quickly eliminate the toxins that may be causing the issue.

For those on a detox protocol, once a day is usually sufficient. Many people continue coffee enemas long term, transitioning to once a week or as needed for maintenance. It’s best to do an enema after a bowel movement and not right after eating. A full stomach and colon aren’t just uncomfortable, but impede the process.

Ask your doctor for specific advice (or use mine!) if you are wondering whether enemas are right for you and how often to use them.

How to Do a Coffee Enema

Two sources I found helpful in learning how to do this type of enema are:

  • The Ultimate Liver Detox – Coffee Enemas
  • GAPS FAQ

I’ve tried this process several times, often in conjunction with a water fast, and noticed some of the benefits listed above. Specifically, it has helped me with digestion and clearer skin.

Where To Get Coffee Enema Supplies

Many sources recommend using organic, lightly roasted coffee beans to do a coffee enema. Not dark or medium roast like the kind you would drink. And a stainless steel enema bucket helps avoid the toxins in plastic. Here’s where to get them:

  • Stainless steel enema bucket kit
  • Coffee for enemas

Could you benefit from a coffee enema? Is it something you’re willing to try or have already done? Let me know about your experience!

This article was medically reviewed by Dr. Scott Soerries, MD, Family Physician and Medical Director of SteadyMD. As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor.

Sources
  1. Bakker, E., N.D. (2018, April 23). Enema solution for candida: How enema can help get rid of your candida. Retrieved from https://www.yeastinfection.org/enema-solution-for-candida-how-enema-can-help-get-rid-of-your-candida/
  2. Ben Greenfield Fitness. (2019, March 12). Kion coffee enema. Retrieved from https://bengreenfieldlife.com/article/digestion-articles/kion-coffee-enema/
  3. Bora, K., M.D., Yoon, J., M.D., Park, S., M.D., Seo, Y., M.D., Kim, Y., M.D., Chun, H., M.D., . . . Ryu, H., M.D. (2010, January). Proctocolitis caused by coffee enemas : American journal of gastroenterology. Retrieved from https://journals.lww.com/ajg/Citation/2010/01000/Proctocolitis_Caused_by_Coffee_Enemas.48.aspx
  4. Cancer Research UK. (2019, April 05). Gerson therapy. Retrieved from https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/cancer-in-general/treatment/complementary-alternative-therapies/individual-therapies/gerson
  5. Davidson, J., M.D. (2016, June 3). Coffee enema: The detox and bile flow superstar. Retrieved from
  6. Environmental Protection Agency. (2018, October 24). Ten things you should know about mold. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/mold/ten-things-you-should-know-about-mold
  7. Gut and Psychology Syndrome. (n.d.). Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved from http://www.gaps.me/faqs.php
  8. Gutsy. (2017, September 18). The ultimate liver detox: Coffee enemas. Retrieved from http://www.mygutsy.com/the-ultimate-liver-detox-coffee-enemas/
  9. Issacs, L. L., M.D. (2013, May 13). Coffee enemas: Helping the body detoxify. Retrieved from https://beatcancer.org/blog/coffee-enemas-helping-the-body-detoxify/
  10. Kim, E. S., Chun, H. J., Keum, B., Seo, Y. S., Jeen, Y. T., Lee, H. S., . . . Ryu, H. S. (2014, July 29). Coffee enema for preparation for small bowel video capsule endoscopy: A pilot study. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4135241/
  11. Pope, S. (2019, May 15). Do coffee enemas harm gut flora? Retrieved from https://www.thehealthyhomeeconomist.com/coffee-enemas-and-gut-flora/
  12. PureLife. (n.d.). Acne? Try a coffee enema! Retrieved from https://www.purelifeenema.com/acne-try-a-coffee-enema/
  13. Teekachunhatean, S., Tosri, N., Rojanasthien, N., Srichairatanakool, S., & Sangdee, C. (2013, March 4). Pharmacokinetics of caffeine following a single administration of coffee enema versus oral coffee consumption in healthy male subjects. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3603218/
  14. The Gerson Institute. (2019, April 10). Coffee enema – 8 things you need to know. Retrieved from https://gerson.org/gerpress/coffee-enema-8-things-you-need-to-know/
Category: HealthReviewer: Dr. Scott Soerries, MD

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About Katie Wells

Katie Wells, CTNC, MCHC, Founder of Wellness Mama and Wellnesse, has a background in research, journalism, and nutrition. As a wife and mom of six, she turned to research and took health into her own hands to find answers to her health problems. WellnessMama.com is the culmination of her thousands of hours of research and all posts are medically reviewed and verified by the Wellness Mama research team. Katie is also the author of the bestselling books The Wellness Mama Cookbook and The Wellness Mama 5-Step Lifestyle Detox.

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Reader Interactions

Discussion (14 Comments)

  1. Annie McLaulin

    January 24, 2023 at 10:31 AM

    That’s a huge about face Wellness Mama. Happy to see the fear mongering about coffee enemas is over.

    Best

    Reply
  2. Leilani

    January 24, 2023 at 10:28 AM

    Can enemas be done for my children? Coffee is fine for them? I have a 7 year old who I want to try this with. Do you have any links for buying kits?

    Reply
    • Jamie Larrison

      January 27, 2023 at 3:58 PM

      Generally coffee enemas are ok for healthy children ages 6 and up, but you can always check with your family’s natural healthcare practitioner first for your individual situation. And links to what to buy have just been added into the article!

      Reply
  3. A.D.

    September 7, 2022 at 11:51 PM

    It is funny how you get tons of warnings about how dangerous the enemas are from 1 case of proctocolitis,in which the patient recovered,and 2 deaths due to electrolytes loss,which can be prevented by drinking electrolyte water after the enema.Nobody is talking how many people die, or end up in the ER,due to over the counter medications and prescription drugs,daily.

    Reply
  4. Karla

    September 5, 2020 at 10:15 AM

    Hey Wellness Mama! Always great articles!

    As far as enema equipment, what is your preferred? Do you have a “kit” that you would refer me to?

    Reply
    • Carol S

      June 4, 2022 at 6:15 AM

      Karla and others,
      Yes, always great articles!
      As far as enema equipment I use the 2 quart red rubber enema bag. I have given and gotten many enemas with it for years. Cost little over $10. Got it at local drug store.For my two kids (b5 and b7) I use the rubber enema bulb syringe. It holds 8 oz. Got it at local drug stores.
      Just so others can learn some, I get the coffee enema on the bed. Put towel on the bed. Never a mess. I am given a full enema bag. Feel so good after getting a coffee enema.
      I give mine the bulb enema either on the bed on a towel, on the table and across my lap way.
      Enemas given for fevers, helping recovery from a illness, constipation or I feel an enema is needed.
      Most of the time give a monthly enema. Regardless if needed or not.

      Reply
  5. Helen

    October 13, 2019 at 9:15 AM

    Hello Wellness Mama,

    In your blog, you mentioned that “I’ve tried this process several times, often in conjunction with a water fast…”, can you please tell me in which day(s) of your water fast (day 1, 2, or 3…) that you did the coffee enema? Much appreciated.

    Reply
    • Katie Wells

      October 14, 2019 at 12:31 PM

      In general I prefer to do it the first day, but I’ve experimented with multiple days throughout the fast…

      Reply
      • Roger Clement

        October 22, 2021 at 7:06 PM

        Hi Katie,
        Not sure if my post went through okay (My cat has a habit of walking over my keyboard) so here it is again!
        I have been doing coffee enemas and regular long term fasting for 50 years and never had any detrimental issues with it. People have often wondered and told me ‘Why don’t you have any wrinkles? Your skin is tight and you still have color in your hair. You don’t look any older than a person in his/her fifties. (I am pushing eighty years old now) Any injuries and scar tissue heals up to a fine line on my skin. My secret is adding a teaspoon of Spirulina & one of Chlorella in water or apple juice four times a day no matter whether I am fasting or not. While doing this on a fast I never feel hungry and my energy level is good. Works well for me!
        Regards
        Roger

        Reply
        • SJ Winter

          October 26, 2021 at 7:07 AM

          Thanks for sharing those tips, Roger!

          Reply
        • Isa

          March 23, 2022 at 11:15 AM

          Hi, thanks for sharing your experience. May I ask where did you learn about coffee enemas 50 years ago and did I read right you take spirulina and chlorella 4 times a day?

          Reply
  6. Janet

    September 1, 2019 at 8:18 PM

    I’m hooked on them. I’ve heard about them for a long time learning about alternative cancer therapies for general education, but didn’t actually try it myself until a thermography showed an inflamed liver/gall bladder area. I took milk thistle supplements for a month, but didn’t notice much improvement so I tried the coffee enema and felt a big improvement right away. In years past I tried the “gall bladder flush” drinking the olive oil and lemon/grapefruit juice and I just couldn’t stomach doing that again (and I never noticed that big of a help). There’s a learning curve with the enema and I’m not yet able to hold it past 10 minutes, but I’m working on it. Seems my body likes it about twice a week at this point. I did two days in a row to begin with. The cramping can be bad now and then, but deep breathing and stomach massage has helped me get through those waves and hold it longer each time. I stay hydrated drinking water before and coconut water after to replace electrolytes. I heard the gall bladder gurgle I’ve read about on the first try. I was definitely in need!

    Reply
  7. Joanna

    August 27, 2019 at 4:28 AM

    I always experience abdominal pain after elimination, no matter what kind of enema. However after coffee enemy I feel energised, still the pain is keeping me from doing them often. Any suggestions what to do? I really take care of the right temperatur, enough time, no stress.
    Regards
    Jo

    Reply
  8. Borita

    August 25, 2019 at 9:34 AM

    I followed a modified Gerson protocol when I was diagnosed with breast cancer(DCIN-Stage 0) almost 20 years ago. I had other issues as well-fibromyalgia, candida, Hashimoto’s, parasites, inflammation in my joints. I worked with a naturopathic doctor for 3 years and reversed all my symptoms, including cancer except for the Hashimoto’s. Since then I have continued to follow an organic diet and live a healthy lifestyle with the support of my husband. This last year, my blood tests showed that I am in complete remission from Hashimoto’s even though I had to continue to work with other functional medical practitioners to reverse SIBO and heavy metals and mold exposure. I continue to do coffee enemas as needed to remove inflammation and toxins. They have made such a difference! I am now 68 and enjoy a level of health and wellness that I never thought possible.

    Reply

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