There’s nothing quite like a good foot soak to soothe tired, achy feet and provide a little relaxation. And you don’t have to go to a spa to enjoy the benefits. Taking care of your feet can be as simple as soaking them in a tub of warm water at home.
While there are many ways to enhance a foot soak, two popular ingredients are baking soda and salt. Both are natural substances that people have used for generations to address a variety of foot problems.
Here’s a guide on how to use a baking soda and salt foot soak to pamper your feet.
The science behind baking soda and salt
Baking soda and salt are both natural compounds that have properties that may benefit your feet.
Baking soda’s benefits
Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, is a mild exfoliant that can leave your skin feeling soft and smooth. It has antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities.
A soak in baking soda may relieve:
- Calluses
- Muscle tension
- Dry skin
- Blisters
- Foot odor
It may also soothe the symptoms of eczema and pruritus (itchy skin).
Salt’s role in foot soaks
Epsom salt can help with sore muscles, and sea salt may help to reduce bacteria and foot odor.
Salt is thought to help draw out impurities. Whether you use Epsom salts or sea salt, a warm foot bath can be a relaxing way to ease pain and discomfort.
How to prepare a baking soda and salt foot soak
Here’s a simple recipe for a foot soak that can help you take care of your feet.
What you’ll need:
- Baking soda
- Salt (Epsom salt or sea salt)
- Water
Start with 1/4 cup of baking soda and 1/4 cup of salt per gallon of water.
For additional benefits, you can add a few drops of essential oils like:
- Lavender (for relaxation)
- Tea tree (for its antifungal properties)
- Peppermint (for a refreshing sensation)
Instructions:
- Fill a basin with lukewarm water.
- Add the baking soda and salt.
- Stir until the crystals are completely dissolved.
Be sure the water is warm and not hot. Hot water can dry out your skin.
Time to soak and pamper your feet
Are you ready to give your feet some TLC? Here’s how to make the most of your baking soda and salt foot soak.
How to soak
Set a timer for 15 to 20 minutes and give your feet the time they deserve in the warm water.
While you’re soaking, relax! Close your eyes, listen to music, or read a book. This is your time to unwind.
After your soak
When your timer goes off, take your feet out of the water and dry them thoroughly, paying special attention to the areas between your toes.
If you’d like, you can use a pumice stone or foot scrub to exfoliate your feet. A baking soda scrub can also help with this. Just mix baking soda with a little honey or lemon juice to make a paste.
After you exfoliate, it’s important to moisturize your feet, perhaps with a product like Kerasal Intensive Foot Repair. Massage your feet with castor oil for extra hydration.
Addressing Specific Foot Concerns
Fungal Infections (Mycosis)
Baking soda is a natural antifungal, so it can help treat fungal issues affecting the feet. If you have a fungal nail infection, try soaking the affected nails in a baking soda and salt mixture once a day until the infection clears up, or explore options like Johnson’s Foot Soap for nail fungus.
Blisters and Calluses
Baking soda foot soaks can help reduce pain and inflammation caused by calluses, corns, and blisters. For blisters, soak your feet in a baking soda solution for about 15 minutes to help them heal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Epsom salt pull toxins out of your feet?
The idea that Epsom salt draws toxins from your body is a popular belief, but there’s limited scientific evidence to support it. Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) can be absorbed through the skin, potentially easing muscle soreness and inflammation. While it may provide relief, “detoxifying” isn’t quite the right term.
What does soaking your feet in baking soda do?
Soaking your feet in baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) can help soften skin, exfoliate dead cells, and neutralize odors. It can also provide relief from itching and minor skin irritations. Plus, it’s a readily available and inexpensive option.
What is the healthiest thing to soak your feet in?
There’s no single “healthiest” soak for everyone, as it depends on your individual needs and concerns. For general foot care, warm water with Epsom salt or baking soda is a great starting point. If you’re dealing with a fungal infection, adding tea tree oil might be beneficial. Always consider any allergies or sensitivities you may have.
When should you not soak your feet?
Avoid soaking your feet if you have open wounds, severe infections, or uncontrolled diabetes, as it can increase the risk of complications. If you have any concerns about whether soaking is right for you, consult with a healthcare professional.
What are the benefits of soaking feet in salt water?
Soaking your feet in salt water can help reduce swelling, ease muscle aches, and promote relaxation. The warm water increases circulation, while the salt may help draw out moisture from swollen tissues. It’s a simple and effective way to soothe tired, achy feet after a long day.
To Conclude
Foot soaks with baking soda and salt can be a great way to treat a variety of foot problems. They’re a simple, natural remedy that you can easily do at home. Adding foot soaks to your regular self-care routine can help you maintain healthy, happy feet.
If you have severe or ongoing foot problems, it’s important to talk with your doctor to find the best treatment for your specific condition.