Mugwort Ginger Foot Soak

Why people make this soak

Some people have overactive sweat glands in the soles of their feet — even with scrupulous hygiene, foot odor remains a persistent problem. The science behind it is straightforward: sweat itself is not odorous, but when sweat (with its urea, lactic acid, and other compounds) meets the bacteria naturally present on the skin, the breakdown produces that characteristic smell. In shoes that do not breathe well, the smell intensifies rapidly. Fresh mugwort (ai ye) combined with ginger provides a strongly antibacterial, warming foot soak that Nourilo recommends both for foot odor and for those with a damp, cold constitution who benefit from regular foot soaking to stimulate circulation. Fresh mugwort is available at Chinese herbal shops and Asian grocers, or online.