Detoxifying foot baths, also called ionic baths, are used as part of holistic and naturopathic treatment to reduce the amount of toxic build-up inside the body, though the exact way in which the foot bath works is not known. This practice has gained popularity as a modern addition to holistic health care. Detox foot bath treatments can usually be obtained at spas, holistic clinics and some massage centers, while foot bath units are available for home use as well.
Purpose
A detoxifying foot bath is assumed to draw out toxins and waste from the body with mild electrical current. Water is placed inside the foot bath, which then produces an electrical current. This current breaks up the molecules inside the water and gives them a negative charge. These molecules are absorbed through the skin on the feet. Toxins in the body, such as parasites, heavy metals and chemicals, contain a positive charge and combine with the negatively charged water molecules, causing the toxins to be drawn out of the body through the pores in the feet.
Technique
Once the foot bath is prepared, the user places her feet inside the bath. After several minutes, the water inside the foot bath begins to change color, supposedly from toxins having been drawn out through the soles of the feet and into the water. The user keeps her feet inside the bath for the length of therapy, usually several minutes to half an hour.
Controversy
Controversy exists about whether detoxifying foot baths really provide toxic cleansing properties, or if the process is a scam intended to make users believe the claims of increased health with foot bath use. The practice of detoxifying the body through foot baths has not been approved or recommended by the United States Food and Drug Administration, and concern exists in the medical community that health improvements noted by consumers who have used foot bath treatments are the result of the placebo effect, and not true improvement. Despite these concerns, consumers have reported health improvements after having foot bath treatment.
Safety
Ionic foot baths are not recommended for those with a pacemaker or other implanted or external medical electrical device, due to the electrical current produced in the foot bath. Additionally, the affect of ionic foot bath use for children and pregnant women is not known.
Warning
Consumers should be aware of dubious claims made by promoters of ionic foot baths. Ionic foot baths are available for home use, as well as in salons and other establishments, and may be promoted with exorbitant claims of medical healing which are not supported by science or medical professionals.
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