INDIANAPOLIS -- A colon-cleansing technique used for health and cosmetic purposes is gaining popularity in central Indiana, RTV6's Stacia Matthews reported.

During colon hydrotherapy, warm, filtered water is circulated through a person's colon, coaxing the body to get rid of built-up waste.

The therapy can be especially helpful for people with bowel trouble. Central Indiana Chris Phillips, a breast cancer survivor, used the therapy after chemotherapy caused much of her body -- including her bowels -- to shut down.

Her body rejected traditional medicine to ease the nausea caused by the bowel problems. So she went to Natural Rejuvenation of Indianapolis for colon hydrotherapy.

"I came in, had one colonic, and amazingly my bowels were working. I could eat and not vomit and I had no nausea," Phillips said.

Terri Hawkins, a colon hydrotherapist at Natural Rejuvenation, said the method can have other health benefits because it helps rid the body of toxins. She says it can help relieve headaches, fatigue, constipation and high blood pressure.

The therapy also can be used for people with bloating, digestive problems and irritable bowel syndrome.

Additionally, the therapy can have cosmetic benefits by clearing up bloating and acne.

The therapy has been around for centuries, but it is getting renewed attention, Matthews said.