Different liquids and solutions can be used for enema, depending on the intended purpose and duration. The recommended temperate for an enema is between 36-39C (97-102F). Below that, the chance of cramps increases, above that the hot liquid can cause irritation or burning.

Since the colon absorbs water, repeated tap water enemas can cause cardiovascular overload and electrolyte imbalance. Watch for muscle spasms, sweating and general weakness as they are often the first signs of electrolyte imbalance.

Salt water can cause similar symptoms since water and salt are absorbed into the body, again creating stress and electrolyte imbalance.

One of the mildest enemas is a mixture of milk, water, oil and honey. Warm one quart (1L) of water, 12 oz. (400 ml) of milk in microwave. Add one tablespoon of olive oil and one tablespoon.

Herbal enemas come in a wide variety. Most use regular water as a base and promise benefits like better digestion or more energy. Most of them have little to no effect to healthy people, although caffeine is absorbed through the colon into the body. For people with AIDS, some form of cancer and other illnesses, herbal enemas are a popular alternative treatment and are also sometimes recommended by doctors in addition to normal treatment. The list of side effects is much longer than the other forms of enemas and requires special attention. Many people prove intolerant or allergic to some herbs and internal use can cause extremely strong reactions.

Liquid castile soap is sometimes added to water for additional cleansing. After using a soap enema, follow with a tap or salt water enema to reduce irritation caused by the soap.

Urine enemas can be done in two forms. Indirect where the urine is collected in a bowl and then fed through a enema bag. The other form, often called ‘direct deposit’ is when a man penetrates his partner and urinates directly into her/him.

All forms of acid will lead to diarrhea, stomach crams and create a log of stress on your cardiovascular system.

Alcohol is absorbed through the colon and enters the blood stream fairly quickly when used as an enema.

Hard liquors can very easily upset the delicate balance in your colon and intestines. Diarrhea, stomach cramps and severe stress to the digestive and cardiovascular system are known to be created by this type of enema. No safe way is known for the use of hard liquors although a short duration, low volume (to avoid the liquid entering you deeply) and careful rinsing afterwards with water or milk are known to reduce the side effects.

Wine is not very well suited for an enema because of the high acid content.

Beer has been used by few people, but those that have usually complain about the carbonation more than any side effects of the alcohol.

Sodas with high acid content (Coke or Pepsi) can lead to diarrhea, stomach cramps and can easily upset a weak cardiovascular system.
The carbonation usually leads to farting and makes it very hard to retain a carbonated enema. Also, carbonation will, when retained for a longer time, deteriorate the lining of your colon.
The caffine in soda is absorbed slowly through the colon and rectum so a limited stimulation effect is created by most sodas.

Typically the fluid used in an enema is expelled after 2 - 10 minutes. For first time users, this time may be hard to endure but the body quickly adjusts to the condition and after a few uses most people show no problems.
It is possible to retain fluid longer but the longer fluids are worn, the higher the risks above, especially electrolyte imbalance and stomach cramps become.

One of the most common positions to receive enemas is laying on your side, knees slightly apart. This position is also recommended for after enemas have been administered.
Head down, ass up (also known as knee chest position) is another enema position. It allows for “deep” enemas with increased amounts of fluid.
For self administration, laying on your back with your legs up, knees pulled toward your chest is recommended.

Enema addiction is the term for when people become unable to empty their rectum without enema. This can happen from frequent enema use although some people reported using enemas daily for months without this issue. Often enema addiction can be resolved by reducing the frequency of enemas and a high fibre diet making it easier to empty your colon. In more severe cases, medical attention is required.