A Natural Remedy for Common Foot Problems: When it comes to simple, affordable, and powerful home remedies, few are as versatile as the chlorine dioxide foot bath. This easy-to-prepare soak has gained attention for its ability to cleanse, oxygenate, and purify the feet, an area that often reflects the overall health of the body.
People have found that chlorine dioxide, when used as a water purification agent, may also support the body’s natural defenses against microbes, fungi, and pathogens when used externally in a non-medical way. The feet, being one of the most absorbent parts of the body, can benefit tremendously from a gentle foot soak that helps release toxins and refresh tired tissues.
What a Chlorine Dioxide Foot Bath May Help With
A chlorine dioxide foot bath has been used by many people for:
| Condition / Concern | How It May Help |
| Nail fungus (onychomycosis) | Helps dissolve biofilm and oxidize fungal overgrowth under nails. |
| Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) | Reduces itching, burning, and flaking by neutralizing pathogens. |
| Foot odor and bacterial buildup | Eliminates odor-causing bacteria and helps sanitize skin. |
| Calluses and rough skin | Gently exfoliates dead tissue and promotes healthy skin turnover. |
| Toxic overload or heavy metal detox | Through osmosis, chlorine dioxide draws toxins from the feet. |
| Swelling or inflammation | Promotes circulation and can provide soothing relief. |
| General relaxation | Offers a grounding, detoxifying experience after long days on your feet. |
How to Prepare a Chlorine Dioxide Foot Bath
This simple recipe comes from Taylore Vance of the Reiki Ranch, who has used and shared this method for years with remarkable results.
“Here’s what I do,” Taylore explains.
“I add a short squirt of Sodium Chlorite to a shot glass with the same amount of Citric Acid. After one minute, I see a dark amber color in the shot glass. I pour that into a plastic container of hot water to soak my feet. To that mixture, I add one tablespoon of DMSO and stir it into the solution. I soak my feet until the solution gets cool. That is it! I repeat every day for two weeks.”
Let’s break it down step-by-step:
How-To Guide: Chlorine Dioxide Foot Bath
You’ll need:
- Part 1: Sodium Chlorite Solution (usually 22.4%)
- Part 2: Citric Acid Solution (usually 50%)
- 1 shot glass (glass preferred for mixing)
- 1 small plastic foot tub or basin
- Hot (not boiling) water – enough to cover both feet
- 1 tablespoon of DMSO (optional, but enhances absorption)
Directions:
- Activate the Solution
- In the shot glass, add an equal short squirt of Sodium Chlorite (Part 1) and Citric Acid (Part 2).
- Wait about 1 minute until the mixture turns amber or golden in color. This means the chlorine dioxide gas has formed within the liquid.
- Add to Water
- Pour the activated mixture into your basin of hot water (enough to cover your feet).
- Add DMSO (Optional but Effective)
- Add one tablespoon of DMSO to the water and stir well. DMSO acts as a carrier, helping the solution penetrate deeper into tissues, nails, and skin layers.
- Soak
- Place both feet into the solution and soak for 20–30 minutes, or until the water cools.
- Relax — read, meditate, or breathe deeply during this time.
- Rinse and Dry
- When finished, rinse your feet with clean water, pat them dry, and allow them to breathe.
- Repeat
- For fungal or stubborn issues, repeat daily for 2 weeks.
Tips for Best Results
- Use clean containers — chlorine dioxide is reactive, so avoid metal tubs or utensils.
- Keep away from fabrics, as chlorine dioxide can cause mild bleaching.
- Be consistent. Daily use over 10–14 days often provides the best results.
- Listen to your body. If irritation occurs, shorten soak times or reduce frequency.
- Optional boost: Add a teaspoon of Epsom salt or sea salt for additional mineral support.
Why It Works
Chlorine dioxide is a powerful oxidizer, not a poison. It does not build up in the body — instead, it selectively targets and neutralizes unwanted microbes, fungi, and toxins. When used topically, its action is mild yet effective, helping to cleanse and oxygenate the tissues while supporting a balanced environment for healing.
When combined with DMSO, absorption through the skin increases, allowing deeper tissues and nail beds to receive the benefits. Many users report that their nails begin to grow out clear and healthy again after consistent use.
Cautions
This method is intended for external use only. Chlorine dioxide in this context is sold as a water purifier, and its use for health applications is considered off-label. Always use common sense: if irritation occurs, reduce exposure or stop use.
In Closing
The chlorine dioxide foot bath is a powerful example of how simple, inexpensive natural remedies can support the body’s return to balance. Whether you’re battling foot fungus, tired feet, or just want to detox and relax, this gentle daily ritual can make a remarkable difference.
As Taylore Vance says,
“It’s simple, it’s natural, and it works.”