TO many people, "colon" is a dirty word and the thought of having it "cleansed" is known to cause an involuntary clench of the buttocks.

Colonic hydrotherapy or colonic irrigation all refer to the same therapy - the introduction of warm filtered water in the colon to cleanse the body by removing toxic waste.

Sarah Caselton, who runs new treatment centre Cleansing Colonics in Poole with John Warden, says that that maintaining a healthy digestive tract could be the key to a long life.

"It's a bit like changing the oil in a car. People often find their bodies run more smoothly afterwards - they have less gas and their bowel movements are more regular."

Sarah, a registered colon hydrotherapist, says the combination of a hectic modern lifestyle and diet can put a lot of strain on our digestive system.

As a result the tract becomes clogged inhibiting digestion and resulting in toxins being reabsorbed into the bloodstream.

"It can be a life changing experience for some people," she adds. "It puts people in touch with what's going on in their insides.

"When you see the gunge coming out of your body it can be a real wake-up call.

"People often spend time looking after their bodies but tend to neglect their colon - but taking care of it can help prevent health problems later in life."

It all sounded good in theory, but we needed someone to give it a whirl. Cue intrepid local businesswoman Jackie Phillipson from Wimborne.

"I'd started a new healthy eating regime and I'd read that it can help to eliminate toxins, reduce stress and encourage better eating habits.

"I was a little apprehensive at first but Sarah and John soon put me at me ease.

"I had to fill out a questionnaire about my age, eating habits, weight and I was shown to one of the treatment rooms.

"In the room is a bed and what looks like a toilet cistern next to it with a pencil-sized tube which you insert yourself. Then you ring a bell to let Sarah know you are ready.

"You keep your top clothes on and the lower half is covered by a towel so it's all very discreet.

"Once you relax you don't even know the tube is there - it's very non-invasive. It's a strange sensation. You can feel yourself filling up with water until you automatically let go and all the waste flushes away.

"I felt quite light headed afterwards and a bit lethargic but by the evening I had bags of energy and the next day I felt fantastic.

"They recommend you have three and after the second one I felt even better. My eyes and skin looked brighter and people kept telling me how well I looked.

"By the third session I was very relaxed and became fascinated by what was coming out the other end!

"Sarah and John are very professional - there's no embarrassment and they know about nutrition and exercise too.

"I have lost four pounds in weight and my stomach is flatter. I'm hooked. Everyone should have one!"

For information call 01202 660953 or visit cleansingcolonics.co.uk. Prices start at £65 for the first treatment.