Does Detox Foot Bath Really Work?

Also known as ionic detoxes, detox foot baths are just one of many trends for miracle treatments that are marketed as the solution to various conditions. In this case, it is a therapy in which an electrical mechanism emits high frequencies of negatively charged ions to detoxify and cleanse the body.

This works according to principles that the inventor Royal Raymond Rife discovered. He claims that viruses can be destroyed if they are exposed to certain frequencies. Using this theory, Dr. Mary Staggs created these detox foot baths. During the cleaning procedure , the water that soaks the feet changes color, which supposedly shows that the detoxification works.

In this article, we will describe this procedure and see if it is really effective.

How does detox foot bath work?

First, we need to clarify that the term detox generally refers to various treatments or things that reduce toxins in the body through certain techniques and procedures. Now, when it comes to detox baths, there is a device that ionizes the water with salt in a small tub.

Through electrolysis, the elements in the water separate. When they come in contact with the feet, they load the body with negative ions, stimulating and eliminating free radicals.

The main goal of detox foot baths is to increase the level of alkalinity in the body. Some consider this to be beneficial to health, as bacteria and other diseases need acidic pH to thrive.

The procedure consists of putting your feet in salted water and turning on the appliance. An electrolyte reaction begins immediately which will stimulate the body to get rid of toxins.

Why does the water change color?

During the procedure , the water turns brown, reddish or yellowish, depending on the cause. Supporters of the technique assure that this is due to the cleaning process and that the color shows the different toxins.

They even confirm that the colors can denote toxins that come from different organs. If the water is black, the liver is cleansed; if it is orange, it is the joints; white foam corresponds to the lymphatic system; and if it is brown, it is from tobacco and alcohol.

However , the reality is that the water changes color from precipitation of the oxide, mainly from corrosion of the electrodes. Other elements may also play a role, such as salt, sweat or dirt.

These changes actually occur when the appliance is on without the feet having any contact with the water.

Possible benefits of detox foot bath

Detox foot baths are recommended for rheumatic diseases, joint pain, edema, varicose veins, stress, various problems from sedentary lifestyles and even sleep disorders. In addition, they are part of the treatment for dyslipidemia, arthritis, acne and kidney failure.

In this way, there are many benefits to these baths. From pain relief to metabolic stimulation to regulation of oxygen flow, energy field balance, strengthening of the immune system, cellulite control, reduction of acne and improvement of flexibility.

They can also help with the following:

• Accelerate recovery time  after illness, injury or surgery.
• Eliminates excess uric acid and lactic acid.
• Helps eliminate heavy metals.
• Help treat sleep disorders.
• Improves heart health and even mood.

Possible risk of detox bath

Detox of the feet has become a very popular alternative treatment. They are considered unlikely to be harmful, but some people should not use them or talk to their doctor first.

These cases include children, pregnant women, people with pacemakers, diabetics and those with open wounds or sores on the feet. Specifically, diabetics may inadvertently experience hot water burns.

Does the detox foot bath work?

The evidence supporting these footbaths comes mainly from customer satisfaction surveys. The manufacturers themselves often perform these studies and approve them, or the companies that market the devices.

Other research has attempted to demonstrate the efficacy of the IonCleanse ® device in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). They did a study of this, which showed that the symptoms were reduced by 55%.

In this study, however, there are no names of medical professionals in charge. At most, it mentions the group “The Thinking Moms’ Revolution”.

In general, there has not been much scientific research on detox foot baths. Among the few is a clinical study from 2012 from “Kennedy and colleagues”, Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine and University of Toronto.

They conducted the study with several patients who all used IonCleanse ® foot baths. The researchers collected urine and hair samples from the subjects, as well as water from the unit, before and after the sessions.

After analyzing each of the samples, they concluded that the level of toxins did not decrease. They were not eliminated through the feet, and the body did not detoxify from the liver or kidneys.

On the other hand, a 2008 study by the Center for Research Strategies showed that levels of aluminum and arsenic fell by 46% and 24%, respectively. However, these results were actually rejected. Kennedy et al. states that it was connected to IonCleanse® itself.

Foot baths are an aesthetic procedure, not a sanitary one

While there is no research that definitely supports all the benefits of detox foot baths, there is also no evidence that they are harmful. In fact, those who sell them recommend as a simple aesthetic supplement.

So if you want to enjoy the experience of these bathrooms to relax and revitalize, then these inventions can do it. However, there are also cheaper options for softening the feet, such as essential oils or various salts.