Foot detox: Does it work?

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Jul 13, 2023

Foot detox: Does it work?

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Foot detoxes come in many forms, such as soaks, masks, and scrubs. Proponents claim a foot detox can remove toxins and heavy metals from the body, but there is no scientific evidence to confirm it works.

People claim that it is possible to detox the feet using a range of techniques, including ionic footbaths, foot soaks, and scrubs.

In this article, we look at the science behind a foot detox and detail some of the most popular detox methods.

Advocates claim that a foot detox removes toxins and heavy metals from the body through the feet.

Supporters of this method claim that a foot detox may also benefit a person by:

The manufacturers of the IonCleanse, which is one of the most popular foot detox systems, claim that it uses charged particles called ions to create an ionic field that cleanses and purifies the body. The system ionizes water molecules, separating water (H2O) into H+ and OH- ions.

These ions then attract and neutralize toxins and heavy metals of the opposite charge, supposedly pulling them out through the bottom of the feet.

The theory is that users will feel relaxed and refreshed after using this system. The manufacturers advise people to do a foot detox for 30 to 60 minutes each week.

It is possible that the water in the bath will change color during the detox, which some people believe means that the detox is taking place. However, changes in the color of the water are usually due to sweat and dirt from the feet. They may also occur when people add salts to the bath water or when metals in the bath corrode over time.

Other types of foot detox method, such as foot masks and scrubs, do not rely on ionic charges to work. Instead, they simply remove impurities from the surface of the skin.

Proponents say that a foot detox offers many benefits, but the most credible one is that they provide a relaxing experience. Many people enjoy a warm foot soak, especially if they add extra salts and essential oils to the water. Foot soaks can increase circulation, clean the skin, and relieve aches and pains.

There has been very little scientific research on the effectiveness of foot detoxes. As a result, most evidence is purely anecdotal.

A small 2012 study with six participants tested the ability of the IonCleanse to remove toxic elements from the body. The researchers collected water samples before and after 30-minute sessions, both with and without feet in the bath. They also collected urine and hair samples from the participants.

After testing each of the samples, they concluded that the foot detox bath does not reduce toxin levels in the body. Toxins did not leave the body through the feet, and the system did not stimulate detoxification through the liver, kidneys, or hair either.

The authors of this study also dismiss earlier research by the Center for Research Strategies, which has links to the IonCleanse manufacturer. They state that this prior research may be unreliable due to poor-quality reporting, imprecise scientific methods, and the potential for conflict of interest.

The Center for Research Strategies had reported that ionic footbath sessions led to a reduction in the levels of aluminum and arsenic in the participants’ blood. However, they found no change in the levels of mercury, cadmium, or lead.

Ionic foot baths are available at alternative healthcare centers. At-home versions are also for sale online.

However, many people use alternative methods to detox their feet. The most popular types of foot detox include:

Popular recipes for detox soaks, scrubs, and masks include:

To make this foot soak, add 1 cup of Epsom salts to a footbath containing warm water. Soak the feet for 20–30 minutes. Avoid using Epsom salts if there are any open wounds on the skin.

Some people drink apple cider vinegar to encourage detoxification. To make a detox bath using apple cider vinegar, add 1 cup of the vinegar to a tub of warm water and soak the feet for 20–30 minutes. Vinegar may also deodorize the feet.

Dissolve 1 cup of sea salt and 1 cup of baking soda in a warm footbath. Soak the feet in it for 30 minutes.

To make a clay mask, mix the following ingredients in a bowl:

Add more clay or vinegar as necessary to achieve a thick paste. Apply this mixture to both feet and allow it to dry. Wash the paste off after 30 minutes and pat the feet dry with a towel.

This mask may be especially helpful for people with foot odor or fungal infections.

To make a hydrating foot scrub, mix:

Apply some of the scrub to each foot and gently massage the mixture into the skin, paying attention to the sole and the areas between the toes. Rinse the scrub off and pat the feet dry with a towel.

Foot detoxes are popular alternative health treatments that may relax a person, soften the skin, and treat minor foot complaints.

While there is no evidence to support the use of these treatments for detoxification, they are unlikely to be harmful to most people.

Some people should avoid foot detoxes or speak to a doctor before using them. These people include:

People who would like to try a foot detox can use ionic detox baths or foot soaks, scrubs, or masks.

The products and ingredients listed in this article are available for purchase online.

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