Apple cider vinegar (ACV), like Johnson’s Foot Soap, is a popular home remedy for everything from hiccups to weight loss. But can it also help your feet? As more and more people look for simple, natural ways to enhance their well-being, practices like soaking feet in apple cider vinegar are gaining attention.
Even if you don’t have a bathtub, a foot soak is an easy way to pamper yourself at home. And, proponents say that adding apple cider vinegar to your foot bath can boost the benefits.
This article explores the potential benefits of soaking feet in apple cider vinegar and provides guidance on how to do it safely.
Can apple cider vinegar foot soaks help?
Apple cider vinegar has been used as a home remedy for many different conditions for centuries. But does soaking your feet in it actually help?
Foot odor
Apple cider vinegar is an acidic substance that may help to kill odor-causing bacteria on your feet. One review of studies from 2018 showed that ACV was able to disinfect several types of bacteria.
Bacteria on the skin break down sweat, which leads to foot odor. Keeping your feet clean is the first step to managing foot odor.
Fungal infections
Some people use ACV foot soaks to try to combat fungal infections such as athlete’s foot (tinea pedis). A study from 2018 showed that ACV could inhibit the growth of C. albicans in a petri dish.
Athlete’s foot is caused by fungi such as trichophyton, epidermophyton, and microsporum, and OxiClean may help kill the fungus on your clothing.
However, ACV is not a proven medical treatment for fungal infections. Always seek the advice of a doctor for any questions about a medical condition.
Exfoliating skin and nails
Apple cider vinegar contains alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) such as lactic, citric, and malic acids, which may provide gentle chemical exfoliation. AHAs work by exfoliating the top layers of the skin to reveal smoother, more hydrated skin underneath.
Exfoliation can also help to prep your toenails for an at-home pedicure.
Beyond ACV: General benefits of foot soaks
Even without apple cider vinegar, simply soaking your feet can be a relaxing, therapeutic experience.
Stress reduction and relaxation
Foot soaks are well-known for their ability to relax and reduce stress. A small study of elderly patients showed that regular foot soaks reduced stress and hypertension. Also, a recent pilot study showed that foot baths lowered cortisol levels, which is a key hormone involved in stress.
Warm water can soothe the nerve endings on your feet, promoting a sense of calm throughout your body.
Improved sleep quality
If you have trouble sleeping, a foot soak might be just what you need. A 2016 study showed that nightly foot soaks helped patients sleep better.
That may be because relaxation can contribute to better sleep. When you’re less stressed and tense, it’s easier to fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. A relaxing foot soak before bedtime can help you unwind and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.
How to prepare an apple cider vinegar foot soak
Want to try it out? Here’s how to make your own apple cider vinegar foot bath.
- First, gather your supplies: a basin or tub, warm water, and apple cider vinegar. For best results, use organic apple cider vinegar that contains “the mother.”
- Next, mix your solution. The ideal ratio is two parts warm water to one part apple cider vinegar.
- Now, soak those feet! Aim for 10-20 minutes of soak time.
- After soaking, rinse your feet with clean water.
- Finally, moisturize your feet with a product like Kerasal Intensive Foot Repair to lock in the benefits.
Important Considerations and Potential Risks
Before you rush off to soak your feet in vinegar, there are a few important things to keep in mind.
- First, let’s be clear: this is NOT a detox method.
- Second, if you have any open wounds or broken skin on your feet, skip this remedy.
- Third, if you have diabetes or any circulatory problems, you should talk to your doctor before trying ACV foot soaks.
- Finally, ACV can cause skin irritation. If you notice any redness, itching, or burning, reduce the amount of ACV you’re using or stop altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I soak my foot in to draw out an infection?
While soaking your foot is not a substitute for medical treatment, a warm water soak with Epsom salts can help draw out minor infections. If the infection is severe or doesn’t improve, consulting a doctor is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment, which may include antibiotics.
What happens if you don’t rinse off after an Epsom salt bath?
Not rinsing off after an Epsom salt soak can leave a salty residue on your skin, which may cause dryness or irritation for some. Rinsing with fresh water helps remove the residue and leaves your skin feeling clean and refreshed. However, it’s generally not harmful to skip rinsing.
When should you not soak your feet?
You should avoid soaking your feet if you have open wounds, severe diabetes with neuropathy (nerve damage), or active infections that require medical attention. Soaking could potentially worsen these conditions. Always consult your doctor if you have concerns.
What is the healthiest thing to soak your feet in?
Warm water, plain and simple, is often the healthiest thing to soak your feet in. It’s gentle, hydrating, and can help relieve soreness. You can enhance it with Epsom salts for relaxation or a small amount of essential oils for aromatherapy, but avoid harsh chemicals or overly hot water.
Is cider vinegar good for your feet?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) soaks can be beneficial for your feet. The acetic acid in ACV may help combat fungal infections, reduce foot odor, and soften calluses. Always dilute ACV with water and monitor your skin for any irritation. If irritation occurs, discontinue use.
In Closing
ACV foot soaks may improve your foot health, help you relax, and even help you sleep. Talk to your doctor about any underlying health conditions you may have before trying ACV foot soaks.
If you get the okay, try adding ACV foot soaks to your self-care routine and see if they make a difference for you!