Foot detoxes
are becoming more popular as a way to remove toxins and heavy metals from the
body in health spas and alternative health businesses. However, no scientific
evidence exists to support their effectiveness.
People claim
that a variety of techniques, such as ionic footbaths, foot soaks, and scrubs,
can be used to detox the feet.
We'll look
at the science behind a foot detox and go over some of the most popular detox
methods in this article.
Foot
detoxes, according to proponents, can help the body rid itself of harmful heavy
metals.
A foot
detox, according to proponents, removes toxins and heavy metals from the body
via the feet.
Supporters
of this method claim that a foot detox can help a person achieve the following
results:
- Complementing the body’s pH
- Decreasing swelling
- Boosting of mood
- Relieving of stress
- Increasing immunity to sickness
- Aiding of weight loss
- Improving heart health
- Put an end to harmful microorganisms
Health-related claims
The makers
of the Ion Cleanse, one of the most popular foot detox systems, claim that it
creates an ionic field that cleanses and purifies the body by using charged
particles called ions. The system ionizes water molecules, separating H+ and
OH- ions from water (H2O).
Toxins and
heavy metals with the opposite charge are attracted to and neutralized by these
ions, which are then allegedly drawn out through the bottoms of the feet.
Users should
feel relaxed and refreshed after using this system, according to the theory.
The manufacturers recommend that people do a 30-minute foot detox once a week.
During the detox, the water in the bath may change color, which some people believe indicates that the detox is taking place. Changes in the color of the water, on the other hand, are usually caused by sweat and dirt from the feet. They can also happen if people add salt to their bath water or if metals in the bath corrode over time.
Other foot
detox methods, such as foot masks and scrubs, are not dependent on ionic
charges to work. Rather, they simply remove impurities from the skin's surface.
Proponents
claim that a foot detox has a number of advantages, the most important of which
is that it is relaxing. Many people enjoy soaking their feet in warm water,
especially if they add extra salts and essential oils. Foot soaks can help with
circulation, skin cleansing, and aches and pains.
What the research has discovered
The effectiveness of foot detoxes has received very little scientific research. As a result, the majority of evidence is based solely on anecdotal evidence.
The ability of the Ion Cleanse to remove toxic elements from the body was tested in a small 2012 study with six participants. Water samples were taken before and after the 30-minute sessions, both with and without the feet in the bath. The
participants' urine and hair samples were also taken.
They concluded that the foot detox bath does not reduce toxin
levels in the body after testing each sample. Toxins did not leave the body
through the feet, nor did the system stimulate detoxification via the liver,
kidneys, or hair.
The authors of this study also dismiss previous research by
the Center for Research Strategies, which has ties to the maker of IonCleanse.
They claim that previous research is suspect due to poor reporting, sloppy
scientific methods, and the possibility of bias.
Ionic footbath sessions reduced the levels of aluminum and
arsenic in the participants' blood, according to the Center for Research
Strategies. Mercury, cadmium, and lead levels, on the other hand, remained
unchanged.
Types
Alternative healthcare facilities offer ionic foot baths.
There are also at-home versions available for purchase on the internet.
Many people, on the other hand, use alternative methods to
detox their feet. The following are the most common types of foot detoxes:
Foot soak
A detox bath can be as simple as soaking your feet. It
entails dipping the feet into warm water. Epsom salts or a few drops of
essential oil are sometimes added to the water.
Foot masks
A clay foot mask can be used to cleanse and soften your feet.
The foot mask is usually worn for a set amount of time before being washed off.
Foot scrubs
Foot scrubs can help to clean and detoxify the feet on a
regular basis. They may also help to remove dead skin cells and reduce foot
odor. The foot massage that comes with it can help to relax muscles and relieve
tension.
Footpads
The feet sweat as a result of special detox foot pads. Some
people believe that by doing so, the toxins are drawn out.
Techniques using acupressure
Applying pressure to
specific points on the feet with special massage techniques can help you relax.
Acupressure may also help with detoxification, according to some.
Recipes for foot detox
The following are some of the most popular detox soaks,
scrubs, and masks recipes:
1. Soak your feet in Epsom salts
To make this foot soak, fill a footbath with warm water and 1
cup of Epsom salts. Soak the feet in warm water for 20–30 minutes. If you have
any open wounds on your skin, don't use Epsom salts.
2. Soak in apple cider vinegar
To aid in detoxification, some people drink apple cider
vinegar. To make an apple cider vinegar detox bath, dissolve 1 cup of vinegar
in a tub of warm water and soak the feet for 20–30 minutes. Vinegar can also
help to deodorize your feet.
3. Soak in baking soda and salt
Dissolve In a warm footbath combines 1 cup of sea salt and 1
cup of baking soda. Soak your feet for 30 minutes in it.
4. The Betonies clay foot masks
Foot masks might benefit soften the
skin.
To make a clay mask, blend the
following ingredients in a basin:
- 3 tbsp. of betonies clay
- 3 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar
- 3 droplets of tea tree essential oil
- 3 droplets of lavender essential oil
To make a thick paste, add more
clay or vinegar as needed. Allow drying after applying this mixture to both
feet. After 30 minutes, wash the paste off and pat the feet dry with a towel.
This mask may be especially
beneficial for people who have fungal infections or foot odor.
5. The Olive oil foot scrub
To create a hydrating foot scrub, mixture:
- 1 cup of Epsom salt
- A half-cup of olive oil
- 5 droplets of lemon essential oil
- 2 droplets of peppermint essential oil
Apply a small amount of the scrub
to each foot and massage it in gently, paying special attention to the sole and
the areas between the toes. After rinsing off the scrub, pat the feet dry with
a towel.
Lesson to take away
Foot detoxes are common alternative
health treatments that can help people relax, soften their skin, and treat
minor foot problems.
While there is no evidence to
support the use of these detoxification treatments, they are unlikely to harm
the majority of people.
Some people should avoid using foot
detoxes or consult a physician before doing so. These are some of the people:
- Children
- Pregnant women
- Those using pacemakers or else electrical implants
- People living with diabetes
- Anybody who has open sores on their feet
Ionic detox baths, foot soaks,
scrubs, and masks are available for those who want to try a foot detox.
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