Intestinal ills

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

26365

Title

Intestinal ills

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Dr. Alcinous B. Jamison argues that chronic constipation, indigestion, and systemic ailments stem primarily from proctitis (rectal inflammation) caused by early-life diaper irritation. He advocates for internal cleansing via enemas and dietary changes to eliminate auto-intoxication, presenting a radical, hygienic approach to restoring bodily health and vitality.

Summary up to 500 words

In "Intestinal Ills," Dr. Alcinous B. Jamison presents a radical medical thesis asserting that the root of nearly all chronic human ailments lies in the lower bowel, specifically proctitis, or inflammation of the anus and rectum. Jamison argues that this condition, often originating from diaper use in infancy, leads to chronic constipation, diarrhea, and the absorption of poisonous bacterial byproducts into the bloodstream. He describes the neglected human body as a "pest-house" of absorbed poison, resulting in anemia, emaciation, and various reflex functional derangements. The text details the physics of digestion and the interdependence of bowel organs, emphasizing the dangers of "costiveness," a state Jamison defines as self-poisoning. He criticizes conventional medical treatments that ignore the rectum in favor of liver-focused remedies or laxatives, viewing such practices as merely desecrating an already inflamed canal. Jamison contends that the etiology of intestinal inflammation often dates from the time a diaper is placed on a newborn, causing excoriations that lead to chronic inflammation of the mucous membrane. Jamison proposes a comprehensive cure involving the elimination of waste through physiological irrigation (enemas), proper diet, and the removal of inflamed tissue. He advocates for internal cleanliness as the key to preventing ninety percent of human diseases. The book serves as both a medical treatise and a persuasive appeal to laymen to take charge of their internal hygiene. Jamison explains that the body's tissues are composed largely of water, making them susceptible to decomposition if waste is retained. He urges readers to adopt the habit of stooling frequently, similar to birds and animals, to prevent the intestinal canal from becoming a reservoir for foul matter. By eliminating waste material and maintaining internal cleanliness through methods like the J.B.L. Cascade bath, individuals can achieve a state of normal health, vigor, and beauty, avoiding the progressive stages of auto-intoxication that lead to systemic disease.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

Download URL

https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/26365.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg26365.epub

Download EPUB

Downloaded at

2026-07-04 17:11 UTC

Categories

• Diseases
• Gastroenterology