A Detox Foot Pad, also known as foot patches or sap sheets, is reputed to relieve fatigue, joint pain, headaches, skin rashes and many other health problems. You apply a foot pad on the bottom of both feet before bed, and remove them in the morning. Many have claimed that they experience better sleep and wake feeling refreshed the following morning.

The detox foot pad contains natural ingredients that stimulate and draw out toxins while you sleep. Next morning, by simply removing the patch you can actually see some of the material that has been ÒsuctionedÓ out.

Detox Foot Pads are used to:

• Relieve pain and discomfort of arthritis
  
• Improve immunity system
  
• Cleanse the lymphatic system
• Increase vitality and energy
  
• Reduce stress and anxiety
  
• Improve circulation
  
• Improve sleep
  
• Enhance mental focus and concentration
  
• Soothe headaches

Detox pads are patches made from natural ingredients that extract toxins from the body by simply sticking them onto the soles of the feet (or other places). They are typically made in Japan and are composed of all-natural ingredients and most importantly they have been proven over time to be a safe, effective, convenient and economical method of detoxification.

How Do Detox Foot Pads Work?

According to foot pad advocates, when toxins are absorbed into the system, most become embedded in our tissues. Detox foot pads heat the foot and then absorb the perspiration from the bottom of our foot. The foot pads clean out waste and toxic materials that are expelled in the form of sweat.

The detox foot pads are placed on the Kidney 1 Meridian on the soles of the feet, which is used extensively by Acupuncturists and Acupressurists to promote healing and relieve tension. In essence, detox foot pads gently stimulate this point for an 8 to 10 hour period.

Traditional oriental medicine has long held the knowledge that distributed throughout the body are acupuncture points called meridians. Meridians act as channels that link various parts and organs of the human body and are directly connected to the function of circulatory and lymphatic systems of the body. It is also known that the human feet have a large concentration of meridians. Proper stimulation of these points in the feet explains why one feels very relaxed and energetic after a good feet reflexology massage. Through the combined action of wood vinegar, far infrared and minus ion emissions, the meridians are stimulated. This stimulation results in the breakdown of water and waste molecules that frees blockages in the circulatory and lymphatic system allowing blood to flow freely and waste to enter the bloodstream readily for elimination.

Why apply the foot pads to the soles of the feet?

According to Chinese medical knowledge, our human body has over 360 acupuncture points, with more than 60 acupuncture points found on the sole of the foot alone. Our feet, also known as the "second heart", are the reflective zones of our internal organs, a potential home for toxins and a potent avenue to accelerate body detoxification through, avoiding the healing crisis effect of other rapid detoxification methods.

As the blood circulates to the soles of our feet the powerful ingredients of the Takara Body Detoxification Foot Patches unleash and accelerate the release of toxins through those acupuncture points. Takara's exclusive formula Hwalgicheon comes in a sachet, or patch that is attached to the skin via an adhesive sheet. After only one night of body detoxification, there may be significant changes (depending on your state of wellness or homeostasis) to the smell and color of the Takara Body Detoxification Foot Patches.

Depending on what the foot patches are absorbing they will range in color from black or dark brown to different shades of green and gray with possible spots of red and will feel a bit slushy (evidence of the toxins and excess moisture being released) after 8 to 12 hours of use.

FAQ from a leading detox foot pad company:

Does the Detox Foot Patch contain chemicals?

No. Detox pads have only 100% natural ingredients in them and what's more, none of the ingredients get into the body. They merely stimulates the meridians on the feet to loosen the toxin plaques and extract it through the pores of the skin. In other words, any substance only travels one way - from inside the body and out and not the other way around. Click here to see the ingredients that make up our foot patches

What are toxins and how did I get them?

In these modern times, bodily toxins come from a variety of sources. Among these are chemicals in the food we eat, the pollution in the air we breathe, the harmful substances from junk-food eating, smoking and drinking, drugs and as a by-product of the body's metabolism. Read this informative page on detox-cleanse.com

How do toxins affect me?

The accumulation of toxin results in poor health as manifested by weakness, pains and aches, a less efficient immune system, which in time will result in sickness or disease. Thus, it is very important that bodily toxins should be removed regularly to maintain good health.

How do I remove bodily toxins?

Toxins are expelled from the body mainly through the excretory system. For various reasons however, modern lifestyle is not conducive to the efficient and regular removal of toxins. Thus, even if one exercises regularly, our bodies accumulate toxins to the detriment of our health. Detox pads are the answer to the problem of accumulating toxins. By using Detox pads regularly, one can safely and effectively eliminate toxins from the body. The result is improved blood circulation, leading to a more energetic and healthy lifestyle, proper elimination of waste, and free movement of the lymphatic fluids. This translates to a feeling of vigor, easing of muscle and joint pains, improved immune system, and better sleep.

How do Detox Pads / Detox Patches remove toxins from my body?

To understand how Detox pads work, we must first understand some fascinating facts about the human body. Traditional oriental medicine has long held the knowledge that distributed throughout the body are acupuncture points called meridians. Meridians act as channels that link various parts and organs of the human body and are directly connected to the function of circulatory and lymphatic systems of the body. It is also known that the human feet have a large concentration of meridians. Proper stimulation of these points in the feet explains why one feels very relaxed and energetic after a good feet reflexology massage. Through the combined action of wood vinegar, far infrared and minus ion emissions, the meridians are stimulated. This stimulation results in the breakdown of water and waste molecules that frees blockages in the circulatory and lymphatic system allowing blood to flow freely and waste to enter the bloodstream readily for elimination.

What do the different colors of the used Detox Pads indicate?

The color of the used pads are very difficult to predict because toxins drawn out of the body are almost always a mix of several types like heavy metals, sodium, uric acid, etc. The color is a function of the chemical reaction of the toxins and the wood vinegar. Most of the time, toxins drawn out of the body are mostly composed of heavy metals which is why brown and gray are the usual color of the used pads. We have had one report of dark purple color from a user with failing kidneys and undergoing dialysis.

Are Detox Foot Pads safe and what side effects do they have?

Yes. Detox pads are externally applied. Nothing is ingested or injected. Aside from allergies to the ingredients used, to date, no side effects have been noted.

How often do I have to use Detox pads?

It is recommended that Detox pads be used daily for at least 1 week every 3 to 4 weeks. A good indicator is the color of the pads after use. Since the color of the pads becomes lighter after every use, application of Detox pads may be halted when the used pads no longer become discolored. After a few weeks, use of Detox pads may be resumed.

Can I use Detox Foot Pads only on one foot?

Yes. However, the detoxification will not be as thorough as when used on both feet. After using the Detox pads on one foot, you will feel that the leg with the Detox pad is lighter than the one without.

If I have a backache, can I stick Detox Patches on my back?

Yes. In fact, Detox pads may be used on other areas for a localized effect. Among the areas known to react well with Detox pads are the shoulder blades, lower back, back of the neck, knees, and ankles. Detox pads effectively ease pain on these parts when applied directly. Note that you cannot stick Detox pads anywhere on the body and expect it to relieve pain. The specific area must have meridians that can react to the wood vinegar. A good indication is the discoloration of the pads after use.

Can Detox Foot Pads ease pains caused by gout, arthritis and rheumatism?

Users around the world have proven that Detox pads can greatly ease pain caused by gout, arthritis and rheumatism. It is done through the action of the pads' negative ion emissions and its ability to extract toxins like uric acid which causes gout. However, it is NOT a cure but its main use is as a pain reliever and detoxifier.

What is Far Infrared? What are Far Infrared emissions?

Far infrared is a form of safe radiated energy given off by the ingredients of detox pads. As the far infrared energy penetrates, it warms the tissues and increases the blood supply within the affected area promoting healing and cell regeneration. It also stimulates the breakdown of water & waste molecules. The individual waste molecules are then easily released into the blood stream and eliminated from the body.

What are Negative Ion (or minus ion) emissions?

Technically, neagtive ions or negatively charged ions are atoms with an extra electron. Negative ions are formed naturally and an abundance of it may be found beside waterfalls and rainforests. This is the reason for the soothing effect one experiences when in the vicinity of these areas. Negative ion devices such as electronic ionizers have been around for a long time and their health benefits have been proven.

Can I remove the used pads and wear that same pads a second and third night?

No. The pads are for a single use only because once the pad becomes saturated with extracted toxins and fluids, it loses its potency.

Can I wear the pads all day? Is there a problem wearing the pads too long?

Yes you can wear the pad the whole day. There is no effect in doing so. However, there might be a point when the extracted toxins are so minimal that wearing the pads the whole day might simply be a waste of money.

What about the water intake?

The advice for water intake is still the same 8-10 glasses as recommended by your physician. Generally, drinking lots of water is a very good way to aid in the detoxification of the body.

Do Detox Foot Pads Really Work?

There is quite a controversy brewing about the actual effectiveness of detox foot pads. Web sites selling foot pads are filled with testimonials, so here are a few divergent opinions from those who have tried them:

A little research into how the body detoxifies (the liver) will tell you that the whole idea of removing "toxins," "parasites," and even "cellulite" from the bottom of the feet is completely false. The surface of the pad picks up dead skin and dirt, and a chemical on the pad ensures the color. Repeated use of this pad will clean your feet, but nothing else.


As far as I can tell, there doesn't appear to be any legitimate research done on this product. but it's unlikely, as is typical when something has this much marketing behind it and no formal research- it's just snake oil.


I used the footpads and believe they work simply because one night I placed the pads on my heels and the parts of the pad that were against the sides of my foot remained white. Only the part against the bottom of my foot turned brown.


There are three minerals (rocks) in nature that naturally emit heat. One is uranium (NOT safe to use!) They include ground up pebbles of one of the other three rocks that is harmless to the body). The heat from the rocks plus the natural heat from your feet (your feet are among the warmest parts of your body (that's why feet smell sooner than other parts of the body!) increase the sweating of the feet generating extra sweat. The type of tree bark and root they use turns to yucky brown gunk when subjected to salt water at a relatively low temperature (i.e. 98.6 degrees). Dip a pad into simulated human sweat (98.6 water with a certain amount of salt and other minerals) and, walla!, the pad will drip with brown yucky gunk! All ads are CAREFULLY written to skirt the edge of FDA rules of advertising product. LOTS of glowing testimonials but few reports from accredited labs of what is in that brown gunk. Some are worthless but with lots of charts and graphs. Like what the pad cloth is made of! Boy is that important! Totally bogus but what I've told many people who are zealots to these pads, if it makes you feel better, do it! It may just be "sugar pill" relief but, sometimes, sugar pills are worth the price if you are frantic for relief. I know. I was. I have been fighting Lyme disease for many years and have finally found real answers. These foot pads were among the many things I tried. I'm also a research engineer so I know how to do proper testing. I also debunked ion foot baths if you've tried one of those. HUNDREDS of glowing reports but the relief wears off after a few hours. Put your feet into warm water and relax for 30 minutes and you will feel better with or without the foot bath. There are so many bogus products preying on desperate people that the small percentage of non-FDA approved products that DO help get lost in maze. What a shame! And extra shame on those who prey on people who are just seeking medical relief!


The footpads do not work. The discoloration on the pad is just an iron reaction with your sweat (basically creating rust on the pad). The change in time of the color of the pad until it is white is due to a layer (Im not sure of what yet) being deposited on your foot by the pad. When you dont wear the pad for a few days (ie, building up toxins) your socks, shoes, etc rub this layer off and when you wear the pad again after not having worn it for a few days, it will turn dark again, gradually build up another layer on your foot and the cycle repeats.. Any feeling of health obtained by the use of this product is the same as with a clinical placebo trial. It prays off the power of the mind. When you buy into the claims that it works, your expect it to work. You use it (expecting to feel better in the morning) and because you see a reaction (the pad turns dark) you think you are getting healthier and feel better. I would be willing to bet if you went to the doctor, had a blood tox screen done before using the pads, and without changing anything in your daily life, used the pads and had another round of blood tox screens done after the pad turned white, they would be virtually identical, even with the dark pad color.


After using the footpads one night, there was brown in the pad. Yuck. I guess it does work. However, I didn't feel any differently. Maybe I need to use them until they are clear of all brown. I'm going to try the epsom salt water. However, I won't see if any brown (toxins) are being removed to determine if it does indeed work.

A Last Word on Detox Foot Pads from the Health Insider:

Are Detox Foot Pads Too Good to be True? Have you ever had someone warn you about something sounding too good to be true? This warning may ring true when it comes to foot detox pads. These pads are the latest health craze. Manufacturers claim that when applied to the feet at night, these pads will draw the toxins out of body while you sleep. In the morning the pads will be discolored, supposedly a sign they have worked properly. While these pads may have some detoxifying action - on the soles of your feet at least - be wary of the product. It probably does not give you as good a detox as you think.

First, think rationally about the way the product promises to work. Promoters say the product will draw all toxins, even heavy metal deposits, out through your skin. Although the skin does allow some nutrients and other substances to pass back and forth through the pores, my biology classes never indicated anything as dense as heavy metal particles could be drawn through the skin. According to modern medicine, the only way these toxins can be cleared from your body is by taking an internal chelator that will bind to the metal substances and allow them to be flushed out of the body.

Also according to the manufacturers, these foot detox pads are formulated using ancient Japanese and Asian cultural medicine. They contain a combination of ingredients including Tourmaline, a stone or mineral that emits negative ions; bamboo vinegar, which is supposed to help aid the body in releasing waste products through the skin; and wood vinegar, supposedly popular for its drawing actions. The pads supposedly work on the basis of reflexology which holds to the belief that there are zones in the feet that correspond to each organ system in the body. Reflexology indicates the wastes from these organ systems will accumulate in the feet where they can be drawn out through the skin by the pads.

As for the color change most people note in their foot detox pads, the wood vinegar may be responsible for this phenomenon. The vinegar is generally dried and ground before being mixed in with the other patch ingredients. When this dried vinegar comes back in contact with water, through your sweaty feet, it returns to its liquid version which is a dark colored liquid. The sweat from your feet mixed with the herbs in the patch may account for the bad odor that comes from the pad after it is removed.

Do detox foot pads provide some benefits? Some people say they notice a difference when using them, but if you want to purge internal waste through the pores of your skin my advice would be to take a sauna or steam bath. To get rid of solid waste that can't be passed through your skins pores The Master Cleanser is a very effective diet that can cleanse your body in just a few days

If you feel your body is in need of serious internal cleansing you're going to need more then foot pads because at best these pads are only removing trace amounts of waste from your body.