Different foot bathing methods have different functions. Some have a refreshing aroma, some can relieve itchiness and pain, some can promote blood circulation, and some can detoxify and eliminate dampness. By combining and using medicinal herbs in a reasonable way, the therapeutic effect of foot bathing can be greatly enhanced. This is what we call functional foot bathing.
1. Aromatic Foot Bath
Peppermint, patchouli, calamus, camphor, and other aromatic herbs are boiled and used for foot bathing. The aromatic smell of the herbs can refresh the mind, relieve fatigue, and calm the mind. Some people also add 1-2 drops of essential oils to the water during foot bathing, which can help with relaxation and sleep.
2. Anti-itch Foot Bath
As the name suggests, the function of an anti-itch foot bath is to relieve itchiness. Medicinal herbs such as Sichuan pepper, sophora, bai bu, borneol, and mang xiao are used for foot bathing and have anti-itch properties. It is recommended to extend the duration of the foot bath to allow for skin peeling, which can have an antibacterial and anti-itch effect. However, the causes of foot itchiness can vary, such as dampness or toxin, so the specific condition needs to be analyzed and the appropriate herbs and formula selected.
3. Medicinal Wine Foot Bath
We often see scenes in movies and TV dramas where family members or friends use medicinal wine to massage the injured area of a sprain. This is because medicinal wine can promote blood circulation, resolve blood stasis, and accelerate the healing process. Similarly, a medicinal wine foot bath can also promote blood circulation, resolve dampness, and expel wind. Regular use can improve various leg and foot diseases caused by rheumatism. For a medicinal wine foot bath, you can either purchase ready-made foot bath liquid or, under the guidance of a doctor, soak certain herbs in wine for more than three months and then dilute it with warm water in a foot bath basin. It is recommended to steam the feet first, and then apply hot water to the joints and skin of the feet until they turn red. This can enhance the absorption of the herbs by the skin and maximize the medicinal effect.
4. Fermented Foot Bath
This method involves fermenting food or herbs and then using them for foot bathing. The most commonly used fermented foot bath formula is called xing zao. In some places, people often use fermented rice or bury their feet in it to eliminate dampness. In other places, tofu is heated and then used to massage the joints of the toes and soles, which can be effective for foot pain. Although fermented foot baths are not widely used, the use of fermented food and herbs has natural biological functions and can be effective for various foot diseases.
