What Doctors Don't Tell YouSome people champion self-administered coffee enemas as a way to detoxify the liver. One reader discontinued the treatment because it seemed to backfire on her – she would feel almost hung over afterward – and she’s wondering if this “downtime” is normal. Has anyone experienced a side effect like this? Is it advisable for her to resume the coffee enemas? Several of you said that though this reaction isn’t typical, it’s not too unusual either. A very congested liver may cause this feeling, especially the first few times – the enema is doing its job, which is to release toxins. Take this time to drink plenty of water and rest. One reader reported experiencing a high afterwards, then tiredness and a low – the same feeling as after a cup of coffee. It’s probably best to see a dietary therapist to be sure you are taking the appropriate vitamins and minerals before introducing coffee enemas into your regimen. Several people suggested switching to an organic chamomile or dandelion tea enema. Infuse two bags of either for 10 minutes, or if you’re using flowers, infuse them for 10 minutes and sieve well. One reader (who has been using coffee enemas for 24 years without ill effect) says that the reason someone may feel unwell afterward – instead of refreshed and clean – is a general intolerance of caffeine. She advocates the following method: Boil three dessert-spoons of medium ground organic coffee (medium or light roast) in one litre of distilled or reverse osmosis water for 3 minutes, uncovered, then turn down the heat very low, cover the pot and simmer for 12-15 minutes. Strain, add water to make up for evaporation (bringing back total volume to one litre), then use at body temperature, lying on your right side in the foetal position. Let the enema in slowly and hold it in for 12 minutes or so before releasing.
Jim Strohecker
Daniel Redwood DC