Foot detox: Recipes and how 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.
What is a foot detox?
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:
- balancing the body’s pH
- reducing swelling
- boosting mood
- relieving stress
- increasing immunity to illness
- aiding weight loss
- improving heart health
- destroying harmful microorganisms
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.
To make a clay mask, mix the following ingredients in a bowl:
- 3 tbsp of bentonite clay
- 3 tbsp of apple cider vinegar
- 3 drops of tea tree essential oil
- 3 drops of lavender essential oil
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.
5. Olive oil foot scrub
To make a hydrating foot scrub, mix:
- 1 cup of Epsom salt
- a half-cup of olive oil
- 5 drops of lemon essential oil
- 2 drops of peppermint essential oil
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.
Takeaway
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:
- children
- pregnant women
- those with pacemakers or electrical implants
- people with diabetes
- anyone who has open sores on their feet
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.
- Shop for ionic foot baths.
- Shop for detox foot pads.
- Shop for Epsom salts.
- Shop for apple cider vinegar.
- Shop for bentonite clay.
- Shop for tea tree essential oil.
- Shop for lavender essential oil.
- Shop for lemon essential oil.
- Shop for peppermint essential oil.
We picked linked items based on the quality of products, and list the pros and cons of each to help you determine which will work best for you. We partner with some of the companies that sell these products, which means Healthline UK and our partners may receive a portion of revenues if you make a purchase using a link(s) above.
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