Foot detox: Research, recipes, and alternative methods

Though not scientifically proven, foot detox is known to remove toxins out of the body through the feet. It has benefits like relieving pains, reducing stress, boosting energy levels, improving circulation and removing impurities and toxins. Risks like skin irritation, nausea and dizziness are associated with foot detox while certain people like pregnant women, diabetic patients, children and those with pacemakers are recommended to avoid it. 

What is a foot detox?

The most common foot detox method is done in an ionic bath with an ionising machine that charges the atoms attracting the impurities of the opposite charge, pulling them out of the feet. During the foot bath, the water changes its colour due to the impurities, sweat, dirt and the corroded metals. Some people also added other products, salts and essential oils which causes a change in colour. 

Research on foot detox

Though foot detox is recommended and practised, there is minimum research done for it. In a study during 2012, 6 participants were involved to test the effects of foot detox with respect to removing toxins from the body. 30 minute sessions took place where water samples were taken both before and after, with and without feet in the water along with urine and hair samples. When these samples were analysed, it was concluded that toxins weren’t released from the kidney, liver or hair. 

An earlier research highlighted the positive effects of detox feet with reduced levels of arsenic and aluminium in the participants’ blood. This study however was dismissed for reasons like unspecific scientific methods and poor-quality of reporting. 

Types of foot detox

Although, ionic foot detox is widely suggested and used, there are alternative foot detox methods as well - 

Foot pads and patches:

These are supposed to be worn or stuck on the bottom of the feet and left overnight to draw out the impurities from the body. There is no scientific backing when it comes to the use of foot pads and patches, however, the manufactures suggest that the discoloured or blackened patches in the morning are due to the toxins. This may or may not be true. 

Clay foot masks:

These are applied on the soles of the feet for a specific duration and are left to dry before finally washing off. These clay masks for foot detox are known to soften, soothe, cleanse and remove the impure substances from the body. 

Foot soak: 

Relieving and detoxifying warm water foot soaks are accompanied with essential oils, epsom salts, herbs and baking soda, leaving you with the best detox feet. 

Herbal foot baths:

Aren’t natural herbs our one stop solution for every problem? This is no different when it comes to herbal foot baths that make use of herbs like rosemary, tea tree oil, chamomile, lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus and ginger to get rid of toxins from the body with their purifying qualities. 

Foot scrubs: 

With brilliant exfoliating and moisturising qualities, foot scrubs remove the dead skin cells and prevent dryness and cracked heels. A gentle massage in circular motions before rinsing off the scrub helps clean better and leaves a relaxing effect. 

Acupressure foot massages:

There are specific points on our feet that aid and correspond to different organs and processes in the body which can lead to detoxification. Although this foot detox method is not a conventional one, it induces a great amount of relief in the body. 

Explore some foot detox recipes

If you are too tired and lazy to go out or you like to take the DIY route, look into these foot detox recipes that are both easy to prepare and execute - 

Epsom salt foot bath:

This is the easiest foot detox recipe and requires just 1 cup of Epsom salt to be added in warm water. One session usually goes on for 20-30 minutes and assists in reducing joint pain. However, if you have any open wounds, avoid this method. 

Coconut milk and honey foot bath:

For ultimate moisturisation, use 1 cup of coconut milk with 1 cup of honey and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder in a tub of warm water. 

Apple cider vinegar foot bath:

Add 1-4 cups of apple cider vinegar in warm water to get the best of its antibacterial effects. For better exfoliating results, you can add Epsom salt and lemon too. 

Baking soda and sea salt foot bath:

Use 1 cup each of baking soda and sea salt in warm water and have a calming foot detox and soak session for 30 minutes. 

Peppermint oil foot bath:

Soothe and refresh your feet with this foot detox recipe, adding a few drops of peppermint essential oil in warm water. Other complementing accompaniments include eucalyptus essential oil and Epsom salt. 

Integrating foot detox into a holistic wellness routine

Though you must be clear with what is foot detox, you might want to know how to incorporate it in your wellness routine. You should begin with doing foot detox for about 30-60 minutes per week. Foot detox can easily slip into your self-care routine or when you’re doing something as calm as mindfulness or just spending time with yourself. Ensure that you’re well hydrated because it assists in the overall detoxification process. 

Both physical activity and a healthy diet without processed foods is essential to aid your well-being. Other than the ionic bath, you can prepare foot bath recipes for a comfortable session at home. Finally, consider talking to a healthcare specialist to get a personalised plan and to avoid any existing health conditions from getting worse. 

Conclusion

A soothing therapy to your feet and a cleansing treatment to your body, foot detox sessions every week tend to work well on most people. An ionic bath is usually considered the best detox foot procedure but there are other alternative types like foot pads, clay foot masks, foot soak and acupressure techniques. 

Peppermint oil, Epsom salt, apple cider vinegar and baking soda can be used for DIY foot detox recipes. Even though science doesn’t prove the positive effects of foot detox, you must try the range of options for yourself and find out which ones work best for you! 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a foot detox?

Foot detox is done to remove the toxins out of the body. An ionising machine is used for the same where it charges the atoms which attract the toxins of the opposite charge and end up pulling them from the body through the feet. 

What are common methods of foot detox?

Common foot detox methods include ionic foot path, foot pads and patches, foot clay masks, foot scrubs, herbal foot paths, foot soak and acupressure foot massages. 

Are there any risks associated with foot detox?

Skin allergies and irritation on open wounds or sensitive skin could be triggered due to foot detox. In rare cases, nausea, vomiting or dizziness could appear as side effects. Children, pregnant women, diabetic patients and those with pacemakers should avoid foot detox sessions. 

What ingredients are commonly used in foot detox recipes?

Epsom salt, baking soda, peppermint oil, apple cider vinegar, coconut milk, honey, lemon, eucalyptus oil and tea tree oil are commonly used ingredients in foot detox recipes.