In a world where stress and anxiety run rampant, it's no wonder that many are searching for a quick fix. Fatigue, low energy levels, and poor mental clarity are common concerns. For those looking to combat that sluggish feeling, there is the detox foot bath - this ionic system of detoxification has swept the nation. It claims to remove harmful toxins from the body in a way that you can see. However, there has been plenty of controversy surrounding the popular spa treatment.
Examining the Detox
What It Is
Foot baths are nothing new. Neither is the desire to detoxify the body. Both date back thousands of years as part of ancient Chinese and Native American traditions. Today, the foot bath for detox is gaining momentum. The main goal of the bath is to detox the body, ridding it of toxins and heavy metals by soaking the feet in warm salt water for 30 minutes while a low-charge electrical current is run through the water. That current generates positively charged ions which work to remove and neutralize toxins. By the end of the process (which is also referred to as an ionic foot bath), the color of the water in the tub will change from clear to a murky brown. This is thought to show toxic substances leaving the body.
What the Water Color Means
Following the 30-minute treatment, the color of the water will be studied. The water might turn dark brown, light brown, or even a soft orange. A chart is then used to determine which organs were detoxified. For example, a yellowish-green color represents detoxification of the kidneys and bladder. Brown represents cleansing of the liver. A scientific explanation for the water color? Rust. Two metal electrodes are placed inside the tub of water to create that electrical current. The combination of metal and salt water causes electrolysis to occur. This is a chemical process that makes the water rust. Hence the change in color.
What It Does for the Body
Many claims have been made about this holistic treatment, specifically, how the foot bath can affect the body. It has been said that the process can treat issues like asthma, arthritis, fatigue, and inflammation. There have also been claims that it boosts overall health and improves the quality of sleep.
The Safety and Effectiveness
Does it work? The answer is yes and no. One study published in the Journal of Environmental and Public Health tested ionic foot baths for their effectiveness. They collected and analyzed water, hair, and urine samples of six participants to determine whether significant changes occurred. The study found that no toxins were released through the feet during the process. However, it is important to note that some people do in fact experience feelings of wellness and increased energy afterward. At the very least, a calming foot soak can revitalize the mind and reduce stress levels. While the detox foot bath may not rid toxins from your body, you may still feel positive results and it is completely safe to do as there have been no reports of negative effects or ill health.
The Best Ways to Try It Out
If you'd like to try one of these foot baths yourself, there are a couple of options to consider.
Do It at Home
The first option is to invest in your own machine. The Zen Living Ionic Detox Foot Bath and the IonCleanse Solo are two excellent examples. Both allow you to experience the detox foot bath safely and comfortably. The Zen Living machine even has a built-in MP3 player. All you need to do is place the liner in your foot tub (to prevent staining), fill it up with warm water, and add in Epsom salt. The electrodes are then placed in the salt water along with your feet.
There is also the DIY route. You don't need a machine to detoxify your body as there are simple and effective do-it-yourself recipes. The Salt Detox Bath Recipe is a good one to try. Dissolve ¼ cup of Epsom salt, ¼ cup of sea salt, and ¼ cup of baking soda in hot water. Fill up a foot bath or your bathtub with warm water. Add in 1/3 cup of apple cider vinegar and pour in your salt mixture. Soak your feet (or your whole body) for 30 minutes. You will feel rested, relaxed, and cleansed. Other detoxifying ingredients to try include green tea, dried peppers, garlic, and citrus peels. See what you have in the kitchen and whip up your very own detox foot bath.
Head to a Spa or Health Center
Another option is to visit a spa or health center. Since this treatment is becoming more and more popular, it is much easier to find a location that offers it. Single treatments range from $30.00 to $45.00. Most spas recommend six treatments over a period of two to three weeks for maximum effectiveness.
The detox foot bath is a unique spa treatment. It blends traditional detoxification methods with modern technology. While its effectiveness is questionable, many people have experienced noticeable results afterward.
Your Experience, Your Results
While the verdict on actual detox results from a detox foot bath are mixed, what really matters is how you personally feel after experiencing one. If you feel as though a detox foot bath is beneficial for you, in the end, that's all that truly matters.
