Coming home after a stressful day deserves a nice soak in the bath, and why not, a foot bath now and then. However, due to our busy lifestyles, we often don’t have time for that. That’s why we invite you to take a few minutes to pamper yourself with some herbal foot baths.
If your shoes feel too tight all day or you’re too tired to take another step, we recommend a relaxing foot bath. Below, we’ll tell you which herbs are best for getting the rest you deserve.
Although they are one of the most important parts of the body, the truth is that most of us tend to forget about them. However, it’s worth giving them the attention they deserve and pampering them regularly, since they support our entire weight and help us move from one place to another.
The main ailments or problems that occur in this area are poor circulation, swelling, and calluses or corns. But, since it’s an area that’s almost always covered, we don’t give it the necessary attention or take care of its well-being.
Having tired feet after a long day at home is very common. The good news is that foot baths can help reduce this discomfort and leave you feeling better. Discover the best herbs for this purpose.
1. Mint
This herb is very easy to find and is attributed with stimulating and invigorating properties. Preparations made with its extract have been used to soothe itching and relieve skin irritation and inflammation, and its potent scent can also neutralize foot odor caused by regularly wearing socks and shoes.
Ingredients
- 4 liters of water.
- ½ cup of fresh mint leaves (30 grams).
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (30 grams).
Preparation
- First, heat the water without letting it boil and pour it into a large container where you can put both feet in.
- Next, add the mint and sugar and stir well.
- Then, when it’s at the right temperature to put your feet in, submerge them and leave them for 15 to 20 minutes.
- When finished, dry your feet thoroughly with a clean towel (don’t forget to dry between your toes).
2. Sage
Foot baths made with sage are perfect for relieving pain caused by shoes, standing for long periods, or walking a lot. Some species, such as Salvia mellifera, have been used to soak feet and treat patients with chronic pain.
Ingredients
- 4 liters of water.
- 1 handful of sage leaves.
Preparation
- First, in a large container, so that both feet fit, place the warm water (you can heat half of it and leave the rest cold or lukewarm).
- Next, add the sage leaves and stir well.
- Submerge your feet and leave for about 20 minutes or until the water cools down completely.
- Finally, dry thoroughly before putting on socks.
3. Chamomile
Chamomile flowers have many beneficial properties and are therefore often consumed as an infusion. However, their external use is also recommended. They have been used in conjunction with massages to alleviate fatigue in patients with chronic illnesses. In this case, we will use them to make foot baths and pamper our feet. This recipe is ideal for those who suffer from swelling.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of chamomile flowers (10 grams).
- 4 liters of water.
Preparation
- First, prepare an infusion. To do this, boil a cup of water with the chamomile flowers for 15 minutes. Then, remove from the heat.
- Then pour the infusion into a large container and add the rest of the warm water.
- Before placing your feet in, check that the water is lukewarm.
- The next step is to soak your feet for about 15 minutes, and after that time, massage them in circular motions. Finally, dry them thoroughly and put on socks.
Mint, chamomile, and sage can be used alone or together for a wonderful and relaxing foot bath. Combining them with other herbs will enhance their beneficial effects. Pay attention to the following herbal recipes or blends.
4. Sage, mistletoe, hawthorn and rosemary
As soon as you get home with sore feet, don’t hesitate to prepare this foot bath. You can enjoy it while watching TV, reading, or chatting with your family. Rosemary is known for its antimicrobial properties, so it can be somewhat helpful in controlling foot odor.
Ingredients
- Sage.
- Mistletoe.
- Rosemary.
- Hawthorn.
- 2 liters of water.
Preparation
- First, place the water and each of the herbs in a large saucepan.
- Then boil for 10 minutes and let it rest for half an hour.
- Pour it into a large container and, when the temperature is pleasant, put your feet in.
- Finally, leave it on for about 15 minutes, remove and dry well.
5. Hawthorn, yarrow, melilot and horse chestnut
This is another good herbal option for foot baths that helps reduce swelling and relax feet after a tiring day. The necessary plants can be found in natural health stores.
Ingredients
- Sage.
- Aquilea.
- Horse chestnut.
- Melilot.
- 2 liters of water.
Preparation
- First, in a saucepan, place the water and each of the four herbs.
- Bring to a boil and allow the decoction to take place for 10 minutes.
- Then, remove from heat and let it rest for 15 minutes.
- Pour into a large container and, when it is at room temperature, put your feet in.
- Finally, let it sit for 15 minutes, dry thoroughly, and put on socks.
In addition to these, there are other combinations that can help relax your feet. Simply add equal amounts of each herb to 2 liters of water.
The mixtures can be the following:
- Flowers of black broom, hawthorn and olive leaves.
- Sage, St. John’s wort, rosemary and yarrow.
- Chamomile and thyme.
- Sage, rosemary and eucalyptus.
These herbal foot baths will help you rest and relax your feet, especially after a long day. Try incorporating these preparations into your foot care routine at least twice a week. Your feet will thank you!