Why does my foot itch after soaking in mugwort water?
Disease description:
I've had the habit of soaking my feet every day for a long time. But today, after soaking my feet with mugwort, my feet became itchy. Why do my feet itch after soaking them with mugwort?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wan
Itching after soaking feet in mugwort water may result from excessively high water temperature or soaking for too long. When using Artemisia (mugwort) leaves to soak the feet, it's important to pay attention to the water temperature; otherwise, the natural oils on the skin surface may be stripped away, causing moisture inside skin cells to evaporate. Without the protective layer of oils, dryness and itching may occur. Additionally, prolonged soaking in mugwort water should be avoided, as it can increase the osmotic pressure on the skin surface, leading to cellular dehydration, blood vessel blockage, skin peeling, and itchiness.
