Do you already know the amazing benefits of apple cider vinegar on your feet? In addition to being a delicious culinary ingredient, science has recently discovered several health benefits of apple cider vinegar.
Within this wide range of healthy benefits are the benefits for skin and foot health. Are you curious? Check out everything about the topic in this article! For those who don’t know, apple cider vinegar is rich in beneficial health properties, such as acetic acid, for example.
In addition, its composition is rich in compounds that help the skin, improving circulation and eliminating dirt and harmful agents. It is also known as a natural remedy for foot odor .
But what happens if we dip our foot in an apple cider vinegar solution? This is a home remedy to combat some problems and prevent various illnesses. Do you have any doubts about the effectiveness of this simple and traditional homemade method? Well then check out the information below!
Table of Contents
Benefits of apple cider vinegar for the feet
Apple cider vinegar can eliminate fungus, fight foot odor and soothe skin irritations. These and other benefits can be achieved through the method of soaking your feet in the water + apple cider vinegar solution.
See below for more details on these and other benefits of vinegar for the feet, considering the evidence from science.
Eliminates fungi
It is important to start by talking about one of the main benefits of apple cider vinegar: its fungicidal action . Studies show that the use of this food is responsible for combating and eliminating fungi present in the body, whether on the outside or even inside the body.
Thus, it is possible to highlight that, when applied to the feet, apple cider vinegar has a very positive effect on combating and preventing fungi, especially when they appear on the nails.
In addition, it is very important to combat this problem quickly, as it is a problem that can worsen, harming the aesthetics of the nails and the health of the feet.
Fight the foot odor
Foot odor is a problem that everyone has, but at different intensities. The way we wear shoes, the types of shoes, the weather, the temperature, the length of time we wear closed shoes. All of these are factors that influence the process of formation of this odor, which is a result of the union between sweat and bacteria.
According to studies carried out in England, apple cider vinegar has a bactericidal action, that is, it combats and eliminates the presence of bacteria . This benefit can be obtained both by ingesting apple cider vinegar and by applying it in a diluted form to the skin.
As we said before, foot odor is the union of moisture (sweat) and bacteria. Therefore, with the bacteria eliminated by apple cider vinegar, it is possible to combat foot odor or significantly reduce its intensity.
Soothes skin irritations
Feet are easy targets for some types of skin irritations. This is mostly due to the time we keep them locked inside shoes and sandals.
Apple cider vinegar has an anti-inflammatory effect , in addition to having an antiseptic action . Its use on the feet helps to sanitize the irritated region, which facilitates recovery and prevents the problem from worsening.
However, remember that the vinegar in question is acidic and you should not apply it directly to the foot irritation. The best way to use it is to soak your feet in a solution of water and apple cider vinegar (learn more below, still in this text).
Another way to use it is to dip a cotton ball in a mixture of 1 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Then apply on the irritation.
Exfoliates the skin of the feet
A lot of people don’t know, but vinegar can be an amazing exfoliant if used correctly! In addition to eliminating bacteria and harmful agents present on the skin, apple cider vinegar is great for preventing the onset of inflammation, such as those caused by calluses, wounds and ingrown hairs and nails.
Softens calluses
In addition to the benefit mentioned above (exfoliating effect), the apple cider vinegar solution is also indicated for smoothing calluses on the feet . Exfoliation helps maintain the quality of the skin, which leaves the epidermis softer and less rigid, which relieves calluses and dreaded cracks.
Fights and prevents chilblains
Chilblains is a highly contagious fungal infection of the skin or scalp.
Apple cider vinegar, as we’ve already mentioned, is a great fungicide . This means that soaking your feet in the apple cider vinegar solution is a natural, home remedy against chilblains.
In addition, this method can be used both to combat the existing chilblains and to prevent this problem. If the problem is not resolved, it is recommended to seek a doctor, as it is a contagious disease that needs to be treated with care.
Strengthens the nails
Last but not least, the use of apple cider vinegar on the feet helps maintain healthy nails . The antifungal action helps to combat yellowing on the nails, and makes them stronger and more resistant.
Often, the biggest reason for weak nails is the presence of fungi and bacteria that do not allow the body to properly nourish the nails.
In addition, it is noteworthy that healthy eating is also directly related to the strength and health of nails and hair . Therefore, opt for healthy foods to have beautiful and strong nails.
How to soak your feet with apple cider vinegar?
The process is quite simple actually. You’ll need a bucket or other container that fits both of your feet so that the solution covers more or less up to your ankles.
Therefore, follow the instructions below to soak your feet in apple cider vinegar and get all the benefits mentioned:
- In the container that will fit your feet, add enough warm water to cover them.
- Then add 1 cup of natural apple cider vinegar
- Soak your feet in the solution for 15 to 20 minutes
- After that, rub your feet well with your hands to remove all bacteria, fungi and dirt along with the vinegar. Remember to rub between your fingers and also your nails. This is very important in cleaning
- Finally, throw the solution away (it should not be reused as it is dirty)
- Rinse your feet with clean, warm water.
The benefits of apple cider vinegar will start to show right away, but to maintain them, it’s best to repeat the process once a week. If you are trying to fight foot odor, you can repeat the process twice a week until you reach the desired result.
My name is Ellie Lauderdale, MD and I am USA based professional Nutritionist .
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board certified specialist in sports dietetics who is trained in integrative medicine. I have worked with hundreds of clients, from those suffering with chronic disease to professional and olympian athletes. My goal is to help optimize you from the inside so that you can feel, perform, and look your best on the outside.