Does a foot bath with mustard help against colds?

A mustard foot bath is a traditional home remedy that is thought to relieve or prevent cold symptoms.

The idea behind this is that the warm water helps to stimulate blood circulation and that the mustard has a warming effect that can contribute to a feeling of comfort. A warm foot bath can indeed improve blood circulation and have a relaxing effect. This can contribute to an overall feeling of well-being, but the effect on resistance to disease is virtually non-existent. There is no scientific evidence for this.

Colds are caused by viruses, and the best ways to prevent a cold are good hand hygiene, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and avoiding contact with infected people.

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2022-12-09 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024