Where There Is No Doctor 2011 15
ENEMAS, LAXATIVES, AND PURGES:
WHEN TO USE THEM AND WHEN NOT TO
Many people give enemas and take laxatives far
too often. The ‘urge to purge’ is worldwide.
Enemas and purges are very popular home
cures. And they are often very harmful. Many
people believe fever and diarrhea can be ‘washed
out’ by giving an enema (running water into the gut
through the anus) or by using a purge, or strong
laxative. Unfortunately, such efforts to clean or
purge the sick body often cause more injury to the
already damaged gut.
Rarely do enemas or laxatives do any good at all.
Often they are dangerous—especially strong laxatives.
CASES IN WHICH IT IS DANGEROUS TO USE ENEMAS OR LAXATIVES
Never use an enema or laxative if a person has a severe stomach-ache or any
other sign of appendicitis or ‘acute abdomen’ (see p. 93), even if he passes days
without a bowel movement.
Never give an enema or laxative to a person with a bullet wound or other injury
to the gut.
Never give a strong laxative to a weak or sick person. It will weaken him more.
Never give an enema or purge to a baby less than 2 years old.
Never give a laxative or purge to a child with high fever, vomiting, diarrhea or
signs of dehydration (see p. 151). It can increase dehydration and kill the child.
Do not make a habit of using laxatives often (see Constipation, p. 126).
THE CORRECT USES OF ENEMAS
1. Simple enemas can help relieve constipation (dry, hard, difficult stools).
Use warm water only.
2. When a person with severe vomiting is dehydrated, you can try replacing water
by giving an enema of Rehydration Drink very slowly (see p. 152).