Foot detox pads have become increasingly popular. They're touted by their manufacturers as an easy way to detoxify the body through the application of special herbal pads to the bottom of the feet. Manufacturers claim that the pads draw toxins out of the body and into the pads while sleeping. MayoClinic.com states that there have been no medical studies showing foot detox pads to be effective. Consult a physician for advice before applying foot detox pads to the feet.
Allergy to Adhesive
Many brands of foot detox pads attach to the feet by adhesive backing. It's possible to have an allergic reaction to the adhesives in the backing. Signs of a mild allergic reaction include itching underneath the pad, along with redness and swelling of the area. Signs of a severe allergic reaction include the development of an itchy rash and hives; difficulty breathing and swallowing; and swelling of the face and eyes, mouth and tongue. A severe allergic reaction is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.
Reaction to the Herbs and Minerals
It's also possible to have an allergic reaction to the herbs and minerals contained in the foot detox pads. Most manufacturers of foot detox pads and patches state that they're made according to tenets of ancient Asian cultural medicine. According to MayoClinic.com, foot detox foot pads contain tourmaline, a mineral that emits negative ions. They may also contain bamboo vinegar to aid the body in removing wastes and toxins and wood vinegar to draw the toxins into the pad, along with other herbs. Some foot detox pads contain chitosan, which is derived from shellfish, so those with a shellfish allergy shouldn't use them. Toxins are supposedly drawn out at certain spots that reflexology believes correspond to the different organ systems. The substances used in many foot detox pads claim to react with the body, give off infrared energy that acts to improve cell function and draw out toxins, including arsenic and lead. Some manufacturers claim their product aids in reducing blood pressure and in weight loss.
Possibly Ineffective
There is some question as to the effectiveness of foot detox pads. HubPages also states that the color change seen on the pads that is supposedly due to the heavy metals and toxins being removed from the body is more likely a reaction of the dried particles of vinegar being reconstituted back to its normal dark liquid form when combined with the sweat of the feet. According to Dr. Stephen Barratt, M.D. of the Quackwatch website, others have been able to reproduce the color change by dipping the pads in water or holding them over steam, indicating that any type of water can affect the color change. MayoClinic.com states that the Federal Trade Commission has charged some manufacturers with deceptive advertising.
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