Clyster

Clyster (Gr., from kluzō, 'I wash out'), called also enema, a medicine administered in the liquid form by the rectum, or lower end of the intestine. It is used either for the purpose of procuring evacuation of the bowels, or of conveying stimulants (brandy, wine, &c.), other medicines, or nourishing substances into the system. A nourishing clyster, in order to be effective, must be specially prepared or digested by means of pepsin, pancreatin, or some such agent; for the rectum, though it has the power of absorbing food already digested, is not capable of performing the functions of digestion. A nourishing or medicinal clyster must be administered in as small bulk as possible; no more than a wine-glassful should be introduced at one time, or it will probably be rejected. For the purpose of procuring evacuation, on the other hand, as large a quantity should be introduced as possible; simple warm or cold water may be employed, or in special cases, various cathartics may be used in addition, such as colocynth, aloes, castor-oil, or turpentine made into an emulsion with yolk of egg; and sometimes carminatives, to expel air. The introduction of a teaspoonful of glycerine is often very effectual in procuring an action of the bowels when other methods fail. Medicinal clysters should only be used under medical superintendence. An injecting syringe, with a flexible tube and a double-action valve, is usually employed for the administration of remedies in this way.