Enemas are an ancient form of hydrotherapy and have been used for centuries to cleanse the colon mechanically. Enemas and colonic irrigation were once routine procedures in hospitals. There are various types of enemas used for different purposes. Coffee enemas were first popularized by Dr. Max Gerson, author of A Cancer Therapy - Results of 50 Cases. Dr. Gerson pioneered nutritional therapy for cancer and other illnesses with remarkable results. His treatment combined coffee enemas with a specialized diet, juices, and other supplements. The enemas were an essential part of this therapy.