Did you know that apples weren’t eaten since ages, this fruit was a symbolic representation of forbiddance. Until relatively recent history, this fruit bore several implications albeit it was also very bitter to munch on. Instead of eating them, people use to crush the apple and extract it’s juice and would leave it to be fermented. The National Apple Museum(1) says that drinking ‘cider’ i.e. the extracted fermented juice from apple was something that was being practiced from 55 BC.
The cider has evolved and transformed itself from a boozy drink to a salad dressing and an essential cooking ingredient. Adding bacteria and yeast to the crushed apple extract transformed it into apple cider vinegar.
- How is it prepared?
- Composition Of Apple Cider Vinegar
- Health Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar
- Myths about Apple Cider Vinegar
- Side-effects Of Apple Cider Vinegar
- Questions
- Medicinal Benefits of ACV
How To Make Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider, a boozy drink evolved into a household item that is now being used as a cooking ingredient. The process responsible for the evolution of this ingredient involves fermentation. A biological process where yeast is added to the solution to break it down.
When yeast is added to the cider, these bacteria break down the sugar present and convert them into alcohol. In the second step, acetobacter species of bacteria are added to this resting solution which converts the alcohol into acetic acid.
The sour taste of the apple cider vinegar can be attributed to a mixture of acetic acid and malic acid that is present in the solution.
Step 1: Yeast + Apple Cider → C2H5OH + O2
Step 2: C2H5OH + O2 → CH3COOH + H2O
(Ethanol + Oxygen → Acetic Acid + Water)
Ethanol is formed from the fermented apple juice when yeast is added to it and in the presence of acetobacter species of bacteria, it is converted to as acetic acid.
Composition Of Apple Cider Vinegar:
Apple cider vinegar like every other solution has several components in it, it majorly consists of water. To be accurate 94% of water and other remaining parts (2) is divided into some pectin; vitamins B1, B2, and B6; biotin; folic acid; niacin; pantothenic acid; and vitamin C. It also contains a small amount of the minerals like sodium, phosphorous, potassium, calcium, iron, and magnesium. It also consists of acetic acid and citric acid.
Did You Know?
Most people have had the question, is acetic acid and vinegar the same? Are they interchangeable, can I use acetic acid instead of vinegar in the food?
Chemically speaking, yes vinegar and acetic acid are the same. That is both of them have the same chemical formula. However, Vinegar is the diluted form of acetic acid. To be precise 5% of acetic acid.
Note: Pure acetic acid is corrosive in nature and can cause serious skin burns when it comes in contact with your skin, hence be very careful while handling it.
Health Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar
Now that we have understood the precautions to be taken and the side effects that are caused improper usage of apple cider vinegar.
It is about time we dwell into the health benefits of this solution. Apple cider vinegar has several health benefits that range from controlling/preventing diabetes to inducing weight loss in the body.
1. Weight Loss
Although there were a lot of conflicting opinions in the health biome about apple cider vinegar, all of them have been put to rest after several studies and researches cemented the status of apple cider vinegar as a beneficial weight loss constituent.
A Japanese study (3) conducted by Kondo T has examined the effects of daily vinegar intake on body fat in obese adults. A 12-week intensive study concluded that vinegar had profound effects on body fat and reduced a significant 2 pounds at the end of the course. Not only was it beneficial in trimming that stubborn fat it also helped reduce the BMI (body mass index), waist circumference, triglyceride level and visceral fat present in the body.
However, there are several studies being conducted at this very moment to understand the connection between apple cider vinegar and weight loss.
People have an innate need to look conventionally beautiful and the desire to be healthy, in search for this quest they have started consuming a lot of apple cider vinegar hoping they would fasten the process of weight loss, some have even integrated apple cider vinegar pills into their regimen to boost the process of their weight loss thereby exposing their body to dire side effects.
It is suggested very strongly that you only limit yourself to the recommended dosage, as there are no studies suggesting that consuming higher amounts would lead to rapid depletion of your weight.
2. Control Your Blood Sugar Level and Prevention Of Diabetes
Apple cider vinegar and vinegar products came into the limelight after its reported benefits for diabetic patients who swore by apple cider vinegar stating that it helped control their diabetes.
The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar has a chemical function that is very beneficial to diabetic patients. It blocks the enzymes (4) (Sucrase, maltase, galactase, lactase) that help you digest starch in your body thereby resulting in a controlled blood sugar level, as the food is digested relatively a little longer causing the blood sugar level to not spike immediately which reduces the burden on insulin.
In a report (5) that was published in 2017, researchers reviewed previously published clinical trials on the effects of vinegar intake with a meal and observed that vinegar helped to decrease the fluctuations in blood sugar level and insulin activity after the meal.
Apple cider vinegar certainly has a lot of benefits for diabetic patients, however, it is strongly recommended that you consult a doctor/physician before adopting this regimen as certain diabetic medication may produce some complications in the body. Also, if you suffer from gastroparesis it is strongly advised that you don’t use apple cider vinegar.
3. Eases HeartBurn and Indigestion
Apple cider vinegar is said to ease down some types of heartburn, acid reflux, and some digestive conditions like constipation and diarrhea. Heartburn is most commonly caused due to the acidic contents of the stomach travel back up your esophagus. This causes severe irritable pain in the chest, the stomach acid irritates the mucosal lining of the esophagus which manifests in the form of this pain.
Most doctors and physicians were baffled with the fact of using acid to treat acid reflux. However, several patients have vowed that they have seen a lot of benefits of using it.
A report (6) that was published in 2016, studied a woman who used apple cider vinegar and several other natural remedies to treat her heartburn, after meticulous studies conducted on the patient it was concluded that apple cider vinegar and other natural remedies were very helpful in treating the condition.
Although it is still widely accepted that when you suffer from gastric acidity, you have to reduce acidic food intake and stick to only fruits and foods that promote in reducing the acidity.
4. A Pathogen Killer
As discussed earlier, apple cider vinegar consists of acetic acid. Acetic acid is a pathogen killer (7), including bacteria. Vinegar was traditionally used for cleaning and disinfecting, treating diseases that were caused by fungi, bacteria. Apple cider vinegar is an established antibacterial and anti-fungicidal agent.
As it is mentioned in several Greek texts, Hippocrates the father of medicine used vinegar as a sterilizing agent to clean wounds and clean his instruments. Yes! Vinegar has a long history of usage.
In recent ages, vinegar is also being used as a food preservative, and studies (8) show that it inhibits bacteria like E.coli from growing in your food. Vinegar induces an acidic environment that doesn’t promote any kind of bacterial growth.
5. Eases Sore Throat
Apple cider vinegar is the elixir that if you gargle and swish in your mouth will effectively alleviate the pain of your sore throat. Sore throat is mostly caused by a strain of bacteria called streptococcus and some kinds of virus. These bacteria/viruses lodge themselves in your oral cavity and in your trachea, causing severe discomfort during breathing and swallowing.
Acetic acid present in vinegar is known to kill the bacteria and virus lodged in your nasopharyngeal area(9). Therefore it is one of the best-known solutions, to cure your strep throat effectively. However, there have not been several conclusive studies cementing this fact in the scientific community.
Several researchers alternatively have suggested that the acidic components of the apple cider vinegar could cause burns and could cause more harm than benefits. However, there are no established reports stating the same, except for one.
Hence it is suggested that you dilute your apple cider vinegar solution and use it moderately for treating minor sore throats.
6. Get Rid Of Dandruff
Many people have used apple cider vinegar as an effective remedy for treating dandruff. These white ruffians are known to cause several hair problems like weak hair follicles, dry and rough hair, split ends. Yeast is one of the main contributors to dandruff when you apply apple cider vinegar it alters the scalp’s pH making it hard for dandruff to sustain and cause havoc.
Typically it is used as a spray, which constitutes diluted apple cider vinegar and once this applied on your hair, it is left to sit for about 15 minutes before rinsing and this should be done once or twice a week. However, if you have any kind of hair color it is advised that you consult your hairstylist as it may affect your hair color
7. May Help You Against Cancer
Cancer is a terrible health condition which affects several people around the globe. In this condition, there is an uncontrolled mutation of normal cells of the body, that cause tumors and impact your immune system and could lead to indefinite organ failure.
There has been a lot of hype surrounding the anti-cancer properties of apple cider vinegar, let us uncover the truth.
Owing to its properties and medicinal benefits vinegar is not just an acidic condiment that is used as a dressing and that fact is well established. There have several studies (10) that were conducted using fruit-based vinegar and traditionally prepared vinegar (based on the geological context the process varies) where they have shown potential to kill mutated cancer cells and shrink tumors
Vinegar acts on the cells and depending on the type, they act differently in inhibiting the spread of cancer and killing the cells. Some tend to induce apoptosis whereas others act on the proliferating capability (11) of the cell and inhibit it.
However one has to keep in the mind that this was conducted on isolated cells .i.e not in a simulated human body environment. It was conducted on cancer cells that were extracted from rats or guinea pigs in a test tube or a petri-dish. This necessarily does not connote that it can be used on a human body yet.
There is a riveting and heated debate about the anti-cancer properties of apple cider vinegar, it may prevent cancer however there has to be a consensus reached in the scientific community one could use this on daily basis for cancer.
8. Clear Acne And Pimples
Vinegar is we already established a known anti-bacterial agent, that kills pathogens. You may be wondering, what is the connection?
Acne is caused is by a bacterium Propionibacterium acnes also referred to as P.acnes, these bacteria lodge themselves in the pores and cause inflammation that manifests as acne. While they aren’t many studies linking apple cider vinegar’s ability to fight P.acnes however, they are several studies (14) linking organic acids such as lactic acid, succinic acid and citric acid to killing P.acnes.
Apple cider vinegar consists of all the organic acids, like lactic acid, succinic acid, and citric acid. A recent study (15) conducted on 22 people who applied lactic acid lotion for twice a day for a year, 90% of the participants have seen monumental changes in their skin and there was no occurrence acne and also already present acne got cured in the time span. Only two of the participants did not experience much change.
Based on these results, it could be hypothesized that apple cider vinegar has higher chances of working on curing and preventing acne. However, it again depends on the dosage and application method.
Key TakeawayAlthough they are several contradictions in the research of apple cider vinegar, it does have several proven health benefits that have been reported by people who consistently use it. You might hesitate a little to use this an alternative treatment option in the beginning, however, we suggest that you use apple cider vinegar and decide for yourself if it is for you or not. |
Myths about Apple Cider Vinegar – Debunked
Apple cider vinegar is a very common household item now, thanks to rage across the internet. It is one of the most trending solutions (pun intended!).
This solution offers several benefits ranging from a refined taste palate to weight loss. It is being used so inadvertently by some who reap the benefits, while others are still stuck over the myths about apple cider vinegar.
1. All Apple Cider Vinegar Is The Same
It’s a very common misconception to have that all the apple cider vinegar that is available is the same. However, there are two different types of apple cider vinegar available. Unfiltered and the filtered variety. Now both of them have different kinds of uses and bear different kinds of effects. If you are looking to create your batches of vinegar or you want to kickstart vinegar brewing as a hobby the unfiltered variety is the best choice.
Filtered is what most people refer to when they talk about the benefits of apple cider vinegar. However, you need to be very cautious the next time you go out shopping for apple cider vinegar. To differentiate visually between a low-end cheap vinegar and a high-end organic one is the color. The organic ones are a little dark brown and are very murky.
2. You Have To Drink It Raw!
There are numerous benefits of drinking apple cider vinegar though, It is very understandable as to why no one would like to drink vinegar raw – no matter how extensive the health benefits are. However, it is strongly advised that you don’t drink it raw either, as obvious as it is. This is an acid and it may impact on your esophagus and your gastrointestinal tract.
There are several methods that you could employ to make the process of ingestion a lot easier . Using honey in the mix (for an avid sweet tooth), you could use it in it’s diluted form, use it as a salad dressing.
3. There are no significant health benefits
There are several rumors in the mill about apple cider vinegar and that it is just a hoax. Sorry to break your delusion (to people who believe it) but apple cider vinegar is a proven medicine, in fact, the FDA has approved medication with acetic acid – that is what apple cider vinegar is made off. Apple cider vinegar has known to lower blood sugar, stomach aches, even work wonderfully on acne. It is an amazing concoction that is an antibacterial and an antifungal agent.
4. Effective against cancer
There have been a plethora of studies and researches that tested apple cider vinegar as a potential cancer-fighting agent. All the studies were only able to mark it up to inconclusive. There have been an array of results varying from having colon cancer to increased risk of developing bladder cancer. However, with moderate usage of apple cider vinegar and using it the way it is directed.
5. It contains several vitamins and minerals
Several people across the internet would proclaim that apple cider vinegar is filled to the brim with minerals and nutrients. However, that is not the case. If you take a look at a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar it has traces of minerals, a negligible amount of carbs and fats. Your RDA (recommended dosage) for calcium per day would be 1000 milligrams, however, apple cider vinegar has around 1 milligram of calcium present in it.
6. Same effects of the apple
Apple cider vinegar may have the word apple in it, but it does not connote to the fact that it bears the same nutritional values as an apple. Yes, it is extracted from apples, however during the process of distilling and liquidating the nutrients and fiber don’t show up in the final product.
Side-effects Of Apple Cider Vinegar
- Digestive Side Effects
- Delayed Stomach Emptying
- Enamel erosion
- Throat Burns
- Low Potassium Levels and Bone Loss
- Skin Burns
- Drug Interactions
Yes, you read that right. Apple cider vinegar has been reported to cause some kind of side effects. However, this doesn’t hold true in the case of small and controlled doses. Large Doses of this solution can cause more harm than benefits.
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Digestive Side Effects
In some people, when they consume large/more than the recommended quantity of dosage it is observed that they develop gastrointestinal problems.
Researches (16) conducted by several medical journals have stated that apple cider vinegar and acetic acid may decrease appetite and promote the pseudo feeling of fullness in the stomach.
However, one controlled study suggests that in some cases, appetite and food intake may be caused due to indigestion.
In a trial (17)conducted it was noticed that people who consumed 25grams of apple cider vinegar reported having less appetite but also significantly greater feelings of nausea, especially when the vinegar was consumed raw.
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Delayed Stomach Emptying
Apple cider vinegar is proven to prevent blood sugar level spikes and it does it by reducing the rate at which food travels from the stomach to the lower digestive tract. This, in turn, slows down the absorption of food into the bloodstream. (18)
However, this may effect may worsen symptoms of gastroparesis (19), a common condition in people with diabetes 1.
In gastroparesis, the nerve endings in the stomach are numbed out, hence the food stays in the stomach for too long and moves at a very slow pace. This causes an array of health risks such as heartburn, bloating and nausea.
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Enamel erosion
Acidic foods and beverages have a drastic effect on tooth enamel. Although there are several studies that have been conducted on soft drinks and high sugar value beverages. However, some research shows that acetic acid in vinegar may damage the tooth enamel.
In one lab-study, enamel from wisdom teeth was immersed in different kinds of vinegar with pH ranging from 2.7-3.95. The vinegar led to a 1-20% loss of minerals from the teeth after four hours. (20)
However one could argue that in the oral cavity, saliva acts as a buffer and helps prevents the action of vinegar. Nevertheless, there has been evidence that in large quantities it may cause dental erosion.
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Throat Burns
Apple cider vinegar poses a certain threat to your food pipe (esophagus), albeit it could be caused due to improper dosage. Using undiluted apple cider vinegar above the recommended dosage.
A review that was conducted on harmful liquids that are consumed by children accidentally found that acetic acid was one of the major reasons that cause a throat burn.
Although there are no conclusive studies that state apple cider vinegar causes a throat burn. However, there is one report (21)of apple cider vinegar pills getting lodged in a woman’s throat. She complained of pain and difficulty in swallowing for several months after the incident.
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Low Potassium Levels and Bone Loss
Although there haven’t been any conclusive studies suggesting that there is any link between the consumption of apple cider vinegar and potassium levels and bone loss.
However, there has been a singular incident(22), where a woman was admitted to the hospital for having low potassium levels and other blood abnormalities in her bloodstream. The doctor’s attributed this to the large doses of apple cider vinegar she consumed during a very long period.
This woman was put under severe observation and the doctors finally concluded that she was suffering from osteoporosis(23), a condition that is only seen in older people.
A hypothesis by the doctors was that the large doses of apple cider vinegar acted as an acidic environment and leached into her bones and also made her blood highly acidic. They also noted that high acid levels in the blood halt the process of bone formation.
It is to be noted, that this woman consumed a lot of apple cider vinegar way over the recommended dosage, for a very long period hence the complications.
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Skin Burns
Apple cider vinegar has acetic acid in it, which used in its undiluted form like any other acid is bound to cause burns when applied on your skin.
There are several personal anecdotes on the internet stating that they have experienced severe burns after the application of apple cider vinegar. As stated earlier if it is not diluted, the acetic acid in the solution will interact with the skin causing a decaying reaction.
In several of the cases that have been noted, a 14-year-old girl (24) developed several erosions on her nose after applying apple cider vinegar on her nose to treat acne, supposedly she read it on the internet and used the undiluted form.
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Drug Interactions
It is an established fact that when you ingest apple cider vinegar you shouldn’t be on any kind of medication. Hence consultation with a physician is mandatory before you start using this regimen.
There are several drugs that are listed in the red zone, a few of them have been listed below. If you are on any of these medications, do not use apple cider vinegar.
Diabetic Medication: If you are on diabetic medication, it is strongly advised that you don’t consume any apple cider vinegar, as apple cider vinegar will reduce the efficacy of insulin and thereby depleting blood potassium and glucose levels, thereby causing hypokalemia and hypoglycemia respectively.
Diuretics: Diuretics are prescribed to patients who have problems with micturition (25), these drugs help in increasing the urine volume and flow in the body. However, as apple cider vinegar is a natural diuretic substance the compounded effect of these both causes a plethora of problems in the body that can range from dehydration, fatigue to death.
Digoxin/ Lanoxin: Both of these drugs are administered to people who suffer from cardiac problems like high cholesterol, reduced blood flow. If apple cider vinegar is consumed alongside the drugs it causes a wide array of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue and in some severe conditions diarrhea.
Heavy Consumption while on painkillers: It could be safely assumed that one knows not to consume heavy amounts of apple cider vinegar regardless of the time interval. However, if you do when your on any kind of painkillers (or even if you’re not) it is not advisable to consume large amounts of apple cider vinegar as it causes liver damage and may increase your chances of developing osteoporosis.
Key TakeawayIt should come as no surprise that if you use apple cider vinegar recklessly without proper supervision and without prior consultation with your physician, you’re bound to have several complications. If you would like to gain the best out of this solution, it is recommended that you follow these:
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There have been several questions a lot of people have, such as how to drink it? How much to drink? The optimum level of dosage? And several other questions that have clouded the internet for which they are no definite answers. In the section below we will be discussing these questions and will offer you the most informative and medically sound answer.
Answers You may not know about ACV
- How (much) to drink Apple Cider Vinegar?
- When to drink apple cider vinegar?
- What is the ‘mother’ in apple cider vinegar?
- How to detox using apple cider vinegar?
How (much) to drink Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar has several health benefits ranging from weight loss, blood sugar level management to PCOS. However, there is no clear consensus on how much to drink. Owing to its raw acidic taste several people have taken a disliking to consume it.
There have been several mentions of diluting your apple cider vinegar concoction, however, it is not clear how much water to add to this acid to make it safe to consume.
The table below gives a clear idea about the dosage of apple cider vinegar for particular diseases and in a brief idea about how you could combine it to make it taste better.
|
Disease/condition |
Ideal Time To Consume It |
Dosage |
Time Interval |
|
|
1 |
For blood sugar level management |
Before consuming a high carb meal |
4 teaspoons (20ml) of apple cider vinegar diluted in a glass of water (120ml) |
Do this until you have a normal/controlled blood sugar level |
|
2 |
For Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome |
Consume it after having dinner |
1 tablespoon (15ml) of apple cider vinegar diluted in a glass of water (120ml) |
Do this for 4-5 weeks until you see your symptoms alleviated |
|
3 |
For Weight Loss |
Consume it before meals or you could even add it in your food for that extra acidic punch |
1 to 2 tablespoons (15-30 ml) of apple cider vinegar diluted in a glass of water or you could also mix it with oil |
Do this for 2-3 months and check your weight after this regimen. |
When to drink apple cider vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is consumed by a lot of people and not many are sure when to drink it, is it good to drink it after a meal, is it okay to consume it in the morning?
This liquid miracle could easily replace your coffee in the morning or even during the day.
One study (26) conducted by ADA (American Diabetes Association) on diabetic patients who weren’t on their insulin medication, were asked to drink 20 ml of the solution before they go bed after their meal. It was shown that their blood sugar level was controlled/normal in the morning.
One of the best time to consume apple cider vinegar is to drink it in the morning, as it quickly starts your day and energizes your metabolic process and the organ system of your body.
Although some people do take it in the night, strict precaution is to be taken that you don’t directly consume it after your meal as it could halt the process of digestion. It is advised that you take 30 minutes to an hour before you consume your bedtime drink. It is also advised that you don’t vapourize apple cider vinegar and inhale it as it could damage your lungs.
What is the ‘mother’ in apple cider vinegar?
Weird question, isn’t it? Apple cider vinegar is made through a two-step process. Firstly the yeast is added to the crushed apple juice and the yeast breaks it down and turns it into alcohol. Then acetobacter species are added which converts the alcohol into acetic acid. This bacteria is referred to as mother because it is the catalyst that converts alcohol into vinegar.
This cloudy murky solution in apple cider vinegar is normally removed. This is done so that customers who buy it don’t assume that it has gone bad. The mother is actually the healthiest part of apple cider vinegar, that has several minerals and essential nutrients that boost the health factor of the vinegar.
You could still buy this as it is available, just look for an organic version of apple cider vinegar, that is cloudy and use that.
How to detox using apple cider vinegar?
Detox is defined as the period of abstinence that one voluntarily chooses to cleanse his/her body of all the toxins that are present in the body. The body has liver and kidney and several other mechanisms that are detoxifying your body, however, using apple cider vinegar could magnify your detox manifold.
A typical detox using vinegar or any different types of vinegar includes drinking a concoction made of vinegar three times a day. It is strongly advised that you try it out for a short period of time because detox ideally lasts only for 40 days – 2 months. Using the mother apple cider vinegar, the one with all the good bacteria, enzymes, and minerals increases the benefits tenfold.
These are the questions that have been asked frequently and the ones that don’t have a definite answer, armed with this information you would be able to use apple cider vinegar to it is maximum potential to improve your health condition.
Apple cider vinegar is not only used for treating several diseases and health conditions, however, it is also used for enhancing and betterment of the human body. It could be used for making your hair smoother, your face clear-less like a radiating pearl.
Medicinal Benefits of ACV
(a) Beauty
There are several uses of apple cider vinegar to enhance the beauty of your body making you feel and look better about yourself.
1. Hair Growth
With the upsurge of chemical products for hair, there have been more side effects than the actual benefits of using these products. This is where apple cider vinegar steps in, as it is an anti-bacterial and an antifungal agent it kills all the pathogens that are causing hair fall and thereby promoting your hair follicles to flourish and helping your hair to grow. Also, the minerals and nutrients present in the raw apple cider vinegar promote an environment that helps the growth of hair.
How to use apple cider vinegar for hair growth?
Cayenne pepper and Apple Cider Vinegar
To a diluted solution of apple cider vinegar add 2-3 drops of cayenne pepper extract and stir it well until it gets settled and is mixed properly.
Now wearing gloves (cayenne pepper is spicy and if it gets into your eye could cause a lot of pain) apply this mixture on your scalp and massage the scalp well and make sure you get the paste well on the scalp, especially in the neglected areas.
- Wear a head cap and ideally let it rest overnight if that is not possible let it stay for an hour or so.
- After that wash your hair with lukewarm water (about 25-27 Celsius) and let your hair dry out
- For the best results, it is recommended that you apply this hair pack 2-3 times in a week.
Benefits:
This hair pack works on two levels. Firstly it kills all the pathogens present on the scalp and secondly, it promotes better circulation of blood to the scalp, thereby causing an increase in hair fall.
2. Clear And Radiant Face
Everyone wishes for a clear face without any blemishes that radiate positive energy. However, in this age and time of pollution, fast food that seems to be a task that is close to impossible.
This is where apple cider vinegar steps in and provides a quick one-stop solution for all your beauty needs and to enrich your skin.
As apple cider vinegar is a well-known anti-inflammatory agent that can prevent and even cure redness and any kinds of inflammation that is seen on the skin. It also contains alpha hydroxy acids, that are known to remove the dead skin that populates the fascia(first layer of the skin) of the face. This, in turn, helps the pores in the skin to ‘breathe’ and prevents clogging. It also prevents wrinkles and age blemishes from ever forming.
Additionally, it also revitalizes and stabilizes oily/sticky skin by altering the pH of the skin.
A general way to use apple cider vinegar for face
Procedure:
Dilution of apple cider vinegar: As this is on your face, it is suggested that you dilute in the ratio of 1:2, one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to 2 tablespoons of water. In simpler terms, add twice the amount of water to your apple cider solution.
- Mix this solution well, until all the apple cider vinegar settles in well.
- Using a cotton swab/Q- tip dip in the solution and very carefully apply this on your face, make sure you don’t get it into your eyes.
- Let this rest for about 10-20 minutes.
- Wash your face with lukewarm water and dry your face.
3. Nail Maintenance
Your fingernails often go so neglected, they may look whitish and when you grow them out they might be weak and may fall off, leaving you with a broken nail/exposed nail.
Apple cider vinegar could be the answer that you are looking for. The weakness in your nails and the presence of half cuticles could be because of a lack of minerals and vitamins in your body. Apple cider vinegar is a known sterilizing agent, that can not only kill any fungus/pathogens present in the nails, it could also help promote nail growth.
A general way to use apple cider vinegar for nails
Procedure:
Dilute your apple cider vinegar in a warm water solution, use the suggested ratio of 1:2 of apple cider vinegar and water. Dip your fingers in the bowl that contains this solution and let it rest for 15-20 minutes and wash it off. Additionally, you could also drink apple cider in the morning, after diluting it.
4. Foot Soak Detox
Feet are the most ignored body parts. A detox to your feet maybe such an eccentric idea however, your feet deserve it. They are the most vulnerable and disease prone areas in the body. Apple cider vinegar provides all the benefits to your feet and helping you not only prevent diseases but also making them look beautiful.
You may ask why apple cider vinegar? It is a known natural odor deterrent, after a long inside your shoes. Dipping your legs in apple cider vinegar can make them smell like apples and who doesn’t want to smell like apples?
Apple cider vinegar is an antifungal agent, not only kills any pathogens or bacteria, but it also alters the pH preventing them from growing. They have also been known to work wonders on cracked heels and inflamed feet.
A general way to use apple cider vinegar foot soak
Take a large bowl, large enough that you could fit in both of your feet
In the bowl make a demarcation against the ideal height you’d want your feet dipped
In the bowl now you could apple cider vinegar (preferably the organic version) and warm water, in the ratio of 1:2 respectively. Also, make sure you fill a little below the demarcation.
- Now you dip your feet in for as long as the water, it would ideally last for 15-20 minutes.
- Once you are done, dry your feet and clean them gently with a towel
- Additionally, you could also throw in peeled lemons in the mix and also use a scrub to peel off the stubborn dead cells and skin layers.
These are few of the ways you could use apple cider vinegar to enhance and supplement your beauty, using these home remedies you could see the effects almost immediately. However, it is very strictly advised that you use only organic apple cider vinegar and dilute it before applying it.
Apple cider vinegar is not only limited to enhancing one’s beauty. This concoction has been used for ages to treat a lot of diseases. Read on ahead to learn more.
(b) Health Conditions
- Weight Loss
- Hair Growth
- Acne
- HeartBurn
- Acid Reflux
- Yeast Infection
- Gout
- Sore Throat
- Blood Pressure
- Sunburn
- Cold
- Kidney Stones
- Dandruff
- Skin Tags
- Blood Sugar
- Candida
- Bronchitis
- Toenail Fungus
- Pink Eye
- Hemorrhoids
- Bacterial Vaginosis
- Allergies
- Hot Flashes
1. Weight Loss
One of the main primary uses of apple cider vinegar, it helps in reducing that stubborn fat around your bellies, thighs. Obesity has been one of the main reasons for deaths across the globe. It could happen because of poor health choices, genetic factors, mental health disorders. The reason could be anything, however, this solution is going to help you reduce your stubborn fat.
Apple cider vinegar works in several ways to burn fat, primarily it improves metabolism of the body by increasing the production of an enzyme APMK (27) (Activated Protein Kinase) which helps in the increasing the adipocyte burning and helps in reducing the fat and sugar production of the liver. Apple cider vinegar also suppresses appetite which can lead to reduced intake of food.
Aloe vera gel and apple cider vinegar for weight loss
- Slit two freshly plucked leaves of Aloe Vera plant scoop the gel out
- To this Add 3-4 teaspoons of raw apple cider vinegar to the gel to make a mixture
- Pour the mixture into a blender and blend for a few minutes until the contents get thoroughly mixed.
- Add water to adjust the consistency and up to the mark that it looks like a smoothie. If you think they’re problems with the consistency add aloe or water accordingly
- Drink the decoction on a daily basis for about a month.
2. Hair Growth
In a 2014 study(28), it was concluded that the shampoos that have basic pH were causing more harm to the scalp and are contributing to hair breakage, friction, and dryness. Chemicals in the shampoo damage our hair and change the pH balance of the scalp. Apple cider vinegar is acidic in nature thereby it helps in maintaining the natural pH of the scalp (4-5). This, in turn, contributes to the betterment of your hair quality. It is also known to increase the blood flow to the cuticles by killing the pathogens and thereby promoting hair growth.
A general way to use apple cider vinegar for hair growth
- Mix apple cider vinegar and water in equal quantities of volume (1:2 respectively)
- Store the solution in a bottle
- Shake the bottle and pour some solution on your scalp
- Massage it properly and then leave it on for about fifteen minutes
- After that wash your hair with water
- You can repeat this remedy two times a week, to see the best results.
3. Acne
As discussed earlier, a study (29) conducted on 22 individuals has proven that the lactic acid present in the apple cider vinegar can not only cause you to drastically lessen your acne, it could also help prevent the formation of acne as it kills the bacterium P.acnes that causes acne on your face. Additionally, apple cider vinegar also makes your skin radiant and helps it glow.
Apple cider vinegar and baking soda for acne
The addition of apple cider vinegar enhances the antiseptic and anti-inflammatory nature of baking soda. A paste of baking soda, apple cider vinegar, and water makes for an excellent home remedy for acne.
- Mix a teaspoon each of baking soda and raw apple cider vinegar to make a paste.
- Add a few drops of water to dilute the paste. Make sure to have thick consistency of the paste. Also, you could also add more baking soda to adjust the consistency
- Apply the mixture on the acne prone are/acne and keep it on for about 15-20 minutes
- Rinse your skin with cold water to remove the paste
- Do this twice or thrice a week for the cure of acne
Note: Conduct a patch test to make sure that your skin is not sensitive to apple cider vinegar and baking soda mixture.
4. Acid Reflux
It is a very common problem these days to suffer from acidity or medically referred to as acid reflux. It is commonly dismissed however it could bear several complications on your health if it goes untreated. Apple cider vinegar is one of the best solutions to treat this condition as it balances the stomach acidity and helps in flushing out the extra acid from the body.
Honey and Apple cider vinegar for acid reflux
Add 2 tablespoons of organic honey to 2-3 tablespoons of raw and pure Apple cider vinegar to make a paste
- To this add a teaspoon of water, however, make sure that the paste does not become too runny
- Ingest this mixture for the management of acid reflux naturally
- Follow the home remedy twice a day on a daily basis for the natural treatment of acid reflux
This blend contains a high amount of potassium which aids in the neutralization of the acids and digestive juices secreted in excess inside the stomach. Apple cider vinegar helps in soothing the burning sensation of acid reflux and curing the inflammation of the food pipe.
5. HeartBurn
Acid Reflux is medically referred to as GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. The feeling of heartburn is a symptom caused by GERD when the acid climbs up the esophagus and causing irritation and sensation of burning in the chest area.
Honey and Apple cider vinegar for heartburn
- Add 2 tablespoons of organic honey to 2-3 tablespoons of raw and pure Apple cider vinegar to make a paste
- To this add a teaspoon of water, however, make sure that the paste does not become too runny
- Ingest this mixture for the management of acid reflux naturally
- Follow the home remedy twice a day on a daily basis for the natural treatment of heartburn
- The apple cider vinegar in the blend not only balances the stomach pH, however, it also helps in soothing the food pipe, thereby reducing the pain and displeasure that is present in the chest area.
6. Yeast Infection
Genital yeast infection is a common occurrence in women all around the globe. Candida Albicans, this is the strain of the fungus that grows in the mucous membranes of the body causing scarring and pain and most importantly the characteristic ‘rotten fish’ smell.
A 2018 study (30) studied the effects of apple cider vinegar on the growth of candida and it was observed that candida was dying and was unable to grow in the acidic environment. However this was conducted in a petri dish, it is suggested that you don’t apply apple cider vinegar directly on these areas. You could use this DIY.
Apple cider vinegar for yeast infection
- Fill the bathtub with lukewarm water up to a level that the surface of the water touches your belly.
- Pour in two cups of raw and organic apple cider vinegar into the bathtub.
- Pour in a cup of Epsom salt into the bath water and stir the water gently until the apple cider vinegar, and the Epsom salt gets evenly dissolved.
- Get into the bath and sit in a posture where your knees are folded and drawn towards your chest. Do not stretch your legs out during bathing.
- Rub the parts of the body where you have an infection and make sure it is very gentle
- Rub the sensitive parts of the vagina with gentle care and soak your body in the water for about 20 minutes or until the water turns cold.
- Pat your skin dry after the bath.
- Do this on a daily basis to get rid of this fungus.
7. Gout
Gout is a complex form of arthritis, in which the joints are affected especially the knees joints where there is an accumulation of uric acid from the body and this acid get crystallized, hence the characteristic ‘needle pain’ when you walk. Although there haven’t been any concluding studies stating that apple cider vinegar helps with gout, however, it helps in weight loss and it has been hypothesized that weight loss is linked with reduced uric acid levels (31) in the blood.
Apple cider vinegar for gout
- Topical application of apple cider vinegar is known to alleviate all the pain present in the joints.
- Pour out three to four tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar in a bowl and dilute it with water
- Soak a clean cloth and squeeze the cloth before using it.
- After that, put the cloth on the affected joint and wrap it around
- Cover it with a plastic wrap and use a bandage to secure it
- After that, leave it overnight
- Repeat the process every other day to get quick relief
8. Blood Pressure
There is a good chance that you may be suffering from hypertension .i.e high blood pressure. This condition is caused due to the exertion of high pressure by blood on the arterial walls. One of the major reasons could be high cholesterol. Apple cider vinegar is known to reduce renin activity and as well as lower cholesterol level in the body.
In a study conducted by Life Science Journal,(32) it was published that 19 participants who drank apple cider vinegar on a regular basis had seen reduced cholesterol levels.
Apple cider vinegar for blood pressure
Procedure:
- To a diluted solution of apple cider vinegar add 1/16 tbsp of cayenne pepper extract and stir it well until it gets settled and is mixed properly.
- Drink this tonic.
9. Sore Throat
There are several bacteria, viruses that are spread via air that may cause a sore throat resulting in pain and irritation in the lower region of your nasopharyngeal area. However, there may not be any definitive research pointing to the treatment of sore throats using apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is a proven anti-bacterial agent (33) that can fight off against any kind of pathogens that are causing this problem and if you are using the organic version of apple cider vinegar you are prone to boost your immune system.
Apple cider vinegar and salt for sore throat
This effective remedy will help you evade the pain and inflammation of a sore throat readily. It also helps to control coughing. Germs fail to grow in the acidic environment which apple cider vinegar forms in your throat.
One tbsp of apple cider vinegar and one tbsp of salt have to be mixed together and to this, you need to add a glass of water, preferably lukewarm as you would use it for gargling.
Benefits
Apple cider vinegar alkalizes the throat surfaces. This property makes it difficult for the bacteria to grow any further in your throat. Salt and warm water limits the existing infection and stops the growth from damaging your throat any further.
10. Sunburn
Sunburn is common skin trouble caused due to the harmful effect of the ultraviolet rays of the sun. Melanin, a pigment present in your skin that gives the skin its color. When your skin surface gets exposed to the sun rays, your body increases the production of melanin which protects your skin from the damage from the UV radiations. However, too much exposure from the sun could inhibit the production of melanin thereby leading to skin cancer.
Apple cider vinegar is a known anti-inflammatory agent and it helps in reducing the swelling and redness on the skin. It also prevents any kind of infections to arise.
Note: Before using this remedy make sure you dilute apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar for sunburn
- First, take a shower with cold or lukewarm water to clear off the toxins or chemicals present on your skin
- Pat yourself dry
- Now to a bowl add apple cider vinegar and water in the ratio 1:2
- Dip a washcloth in the solution and leave it on your sunburned skin for ten to fifteen minutes
- Repeat it to get rid of the inflammation and pain.
Additionally, you can also add apple cider vinegar and water to a spray bottle and use it when necessary.
11. Cold
Modern and conventional medicine has no cure to cold, leaving it to the hands of the person suffering to take care of himself. However, apple cider vinegar can provide you a lot of relief and also reduce the duration of your cold. Organic apple cider vinegar consists of ‘must’ that is known to consist of probiotic bacteria, which boosts your immunity. Additionally, apple cider vinegar can also kill the virus (rhinovirus) that causes cold as well. Thereby not only reducing your duration but also preventing you from a susceptible cold attack.
Apple cider vinegar for cold
- Mix one tablespoon of raw and organic apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water
- To this add one tablespoon of raw honey
- Stir it well and ingest this solution, do this twice a day.
12. Kidney Stones
Kidney stones refer to accumulated masses of crystallized minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys and along the urinary tract as well. These solid structures usually develop when there is too much excretory waste and very little fluid in the kidneys. The major reasons for kidney stones could be Inadequate amount of water intake and lack of calcium.
Apple Cider Vinegar for Kidney Stones
- Mix one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water
- To this add raw honey and stir well
- Drink this solution daily, once or twice depending on the severity of the condition.
Benefits:
Apple cider vinegar contains substantial amounts of citric acid. This helps to break down the kidney stones which thereby helps in dissolving them quickly. On reducing the size of the kidney stones, you can get rid of them easily through urine.
13. Dandruff
Hair dandruff is a mild skin condition that causes the appearance of white flakes on your hair and scalp. These white flakes are known to cause several hair problems like weak hair follicles, dry and rough hair, split ends. Yeast is one of the main contributors to dandruff. Many people have used apple cider vinegar as an effective remedy for treating dandruff. when you apply apple cider vinegar it alters the scalp’s pH making it hard for dandruff to survive.
Apple cider vinegar for dandruff
Note: If your skin is sensitive, It is advised that you don’t use this method.
- In a bowl, pour half a cup of raw, diluted ACV
- Divide your hair into two parts
- Use a cotton ball to apply the diluted solution to your scalp and hairlines
- Cover your head with a warm towel and leave it for an hour
- Wash your hair using lukewarm water
Additionally, avoid using any kind of chemical products such as shampoos and conditioners after the application. Use this method twice in a week for best results.
14. Skin Tags
A skin tag is a tiny, non-cancerous skin-colored flap that hangs to your body from a stalk. Skin tags can grow in any part of your body and these unwanted skin growths comprise of blood vessels and protein fibers called collagen. It is hypothesized that skin tags are commonly caused due to friction that simulates the fascia to produce an accumulation of skin cells.
Skin tags are painless, However, in some instances, their inappropriate positioning could cause them to rub against your other skin parts more frequently. In these cases, the skin tags become pink and may irritate you.
Apple cider vinegar for skin tags
- Take a cotton swab. Make sure that the size of the cotton swab is enough to cover your skin tag easily.
- Soak it thoroughly in the apple cider vinegar. Place it on the affected area. Make sure to cover it completely
- Now place a bandage or a piece of medical tape over the saturated cotton ball. After placing the bandage on the skin tag, you may sleep.
- You can follow the process in the morning also, but there are high chances that you might accidentally knock off the cotton ball.
- Be sure that the cotton ball stays at its place undisturbed for about six to eight hours. In the morning, you can remove the bandage and the cotton ball. Clean the affected area with hot water.
- Repeat this process for two weeks, every day.
15. Blood Sugar
Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that occurs due to the inadequacy in the secretion of insulin by the Islets of Langerhans in the pancreas. The inability of the body cells to respond /use the secreted insulin properly could also be one of the reasons to piked sugar levels.The administration of home remedies prepared by using apple cider vinegar can address the symptoms of diabetes and help to bring down the level of blood sugar considerably.
A study conducted in 2004 (34) found that consuming apple cider vinegar diluted in water, was considerably able to lower blood sugar levels after meals.
Apple cider vinegar for blood sugar:
- Pour a cup of water into a saucepan and put on the boil on a low flame. Let it boil for a few minutes.
- Take the saucepan off the flame and let the water simmer down for 2-3 minutes.
- Grind a few sticks of cinnamon into a fine powder and then add the powder to the hot water and also add apple cider vinegar (2-3 drops) while gently stirring until you obtain a clear solution.
- Let the solution sit for about 2-3 minutes.
- Strain out the apple cider vinegar and cinnamon infusion into a mug and have it twice a day for the cure of high blood sugar.
16. Candida
Candida albicans, a kind of fungus also resides in your body. It lives on the skin, inside the mouth and other moist regions of the body. Under normal conditions it lives peacefully in your body; however, when the situation becomes favorable, the fungus starts multiplying rapidly. This rapid multiplication causes red sores, swelling and sometimes pain. In the mouth it is referred to as thrush, in the vagina, it is a yeast infection. Apple cider vinegar is antimicrobial, acidic and anti-inflammatory, when consumed efficiently combats the overgrowth of yeast in the body.
Additionally, following it up with topical application aids in easing the symptoms like redness, pain, and irritation associated with it.
Apple cider vinegar for Candida
There are several ways to use apple cider vinegar to treat yeast infection. You could directly apply it topically, you could add it into your bath or even you could add it in your tea. However, do bear this in mind that you need to dilute the apple cider vinegar before using it.
17. Bronchitis
Bronchitis is a respiratory disease that is marked by painful coughing fits, and breathlessness, soreness of the throat and the chest due to the bacterial infection, and inflammation of the bronchial tubes. It causes severe discomfort to people suffering from this condition. Apple cider vinegar is excellent for the natural treatment of bronchitis.
It is known for its powerful bronchodilatory, decongestant, and anti-inflammatory properties that work together for combating against the symptoms of bronchitis.
Apple cider vinegar for bronchitis
- Set a cup of water to boil in a saucepan.
- Chop an inch of fresh and juicy ginger into pieces. Grind the slices of ginger to extract the ginger juice.
- Add a teaspoon each of the ginger juice and ginger bits to the water in the saucepan and boil for a few more minutes.
- Take the ginger tea off the flame and add 2-3 teaspoons of raw apple cider vinegar to it. Stir well to prepare an evenly dissolved solution.
- Drink the mixture twice a day on a daily basis for the cure of bronchitis.
The anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting nature of apple cider vinegar get enhanced by the addition of ginger. This concoction helps in providing relief against respiratory inflammation, irritation, and swelling of the bronchioles and bronchial tubes.
18. Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is an infection that affects the toenails and toenail cuticles. It is a dermatological disease that is caused by Dermatophytes, they need keratin to grow and nails in the human body are made of that protein. Toenail fungus can also occur by mold and yeast infection of the cuticles. Apple cider vinegar being antifungal destroys the fungus strains and rejuvenates the health and beauty of the toenails.
Apple cider vinegar for toenail fungus
- Combine a bowl each of lukewarm water and raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar for preparing a diluted solution.
- Dip your feet in the solution of water and raw apple cider vinegar and make sure that the infected and discolored toenails are fully immersed
- Keep your toes dipped in the solution for about 15-20 minutes or until the solution becomes cold
- Do this often in a day, as much as you can.
Soaking feet in the solution helps in establishing a healthy flow of blood to the toes which is crucial for the natural treatment of pain, infection, inflammation, swelling, and burning sensation of the affected area. The antibacterial, anti-fungal properties of the solution aids in the inhibition of growth of fungus and cures the discoloration and the brittle texture of the toenails.
19. Pink Eye
Pink eye or conjunctivitis is an eye disorder that is characterized by the inflammation of the external membrane of the eyes. The swelling of the outermost layer or the conjunctiva occurs due to allergic reactions or bacterial action. It is mostly caused by microbial infection by Haemophilus influenzae, Streptococcus pneumonia, and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The use of apple cider vinegar as an eye drop is a tested natural treatment for pink eye or conjunctivitis. Apple cider kills all the pathogens present in the eye and helps you recover quickly.
Apple cider vinegar for ‘pink eye’
- Diluted apple cider vinegar as an eyewash is an effective way to cure pink eye.
- Warm a cup of distilled water for a few minutes. Do not use tap water to prepare the solution
- Add a tablespoon of raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar in the cup of lukewarm water whilst slightly stirring it.
- Dip a cotton swab in the solution and then gently press the soaked cotton swab to the infected eye, whilst doing so keep your eyes closed.
- Repeat the same with the other eye with a fresh swab.
It is important to note here that the eyewash should be applied to the infected eye as well as to the uninfected eye for proper treatment of pink.
The application of the eyewash to both of the eyes is made to prevent the spread of infection.
Repeat the use of the eyewash of apple cider vinegar for pink eye thrice a day on a daily basis. Make sure that you use fresh cotton swabs every time.
20. Hemorrhoids
A hemorrhoid is a condition that is characterized by the swelling of the veins in the lowermost part of anus and rectum. The walls and linings of the blood vessels in the rectum and anus stretch out to become so abnormally thin that the blood veins bulge out and get inflamed and irritated. It has been proven by extensive clinical research that applying this vinegar can successfully reduce the size of the hemorrhoids. It can alleviate the swelling of the hemorrhoids and cure the painful sensations.
The acidic nature of raw apple cider vinegar might produce a stinging sensation when applied to the skin, but that stinging pain only lasts for a minute and is immediately followed with relief from pain and soreness of the affected area.
Apple cider vinegar for hemorrhoids
- Fill a glass dish with a few tablespoons of raw and pure apple cider vinegar. Do not add any water to it.
- Take a clean cotton ball and dip it in the apple cider vinegar. Make sure that the cotton ball gets completely soaked in it. You can also use sterile gauze or toilet paper as a substitute for cotton.
- Apply the cotton ball soaked in raw apple cider vinegar directly to the parts affected with the hemorrhoids. The skin might tingle slightly but keep pressing the cotton ball against the affected area with gentle pressure.
- Repeat this process twice or thrice a day for the natural treatment of hemorrhoids.
Follow through with this home remedy for a few weeks.
21. Bacterial Vaginosis
You are susceptible to bacterial vaginosis in which there is excess growth and multiplication of anaerobic or bad bacteria in the female genital region. BV manifests by the discharge of whitish and foul-smelling fluids from the vagina, itchiness around the vagina, and a burning sensation during urination.
Apple Cider Vinegar helps in maintaining pH levels of the vagina and possesses a host of different organic acids like acetic acid, citric acid, lactic acid, succinic acid, and malic acid. These organic acids help to enhance the acidity of the vagina which in turn inhibit the excess bacterial action inside the vagina
Apple cider vinegar for BV
- Fill the bathtub with lukewarm water. Pour in two cups of raw and organic apple cider vinegar into the bathtub.
- Pour in a cup of Epsom salt into the bath water and stir the water gently until the apple cider vinegar, and the Epsom salt gets evenly dissolved.
- Get into the bath and sit in a posture where your knees are folded and drawn towards your chest. Do not stretch your legs out during bathing.
- Rub the sensitive parts of the vagina with gentle care and soak your body in the water for about 20 minutes or until the water turns cold.
- Pat your skin dry after the bath.
- Do this on a daily basis for a week.
22. Allergies
Allergies is a defense mechanism of the body to fight against the invasion of foreign substances like insect venom, flower pollen, pet fur. They can be mild or severe.
Mild allergies manifest in the form of sneezing fits, runny nose, runny and red eyes, mucus congestion of sinuses and nostrils, and itchiness of eyes, noses, and throat.
Apple cider for Allergies
Take a tablespoon of manuka honey and add a tablespoon of the raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar to it to make a paste
- Heat a glass of water in a saucepan for a few minutes
- Add the paste of manuka honey and raw apple cider vinegar to the lukewarm water with gentle stirring to prepare a solution
- Drink the solution
- Do this twice a day for a few weeks to cure the sinus pain and inflammation
The consumption of the solution of manuka honey and apple cider vinegar helps in the natural cure of inflammation and infection of the sinuses. It soothes the soreness and aids in relieving sinus and nasal congestion by the expulsion of mucus.
23. Hot Flashes
Hot flashes are a symptom of menopause, they mostly occur post 45 years and are also sometimes seen in patients going to chemotherapy and also women who have gone through a hysterectomy.
It can be termed as a sudden feeling of heat and sometimes a red and flushed face. Although there is no known reason for this, it is however hypothesized that it could be due to change in the circulation of the blood.
Apple cider vinegar for hot flashes
- Set a cup of water to boil in a saucepan.
- Chop an inch of fresh and juicy ginger into pieces. Grind some of the slices of ginger to extract the ginger juice.
- Add a teaspoon each of the ginger juice and ginger bits to the water in the saucepan and boil for a few more minutes.
- Take the ginger tea off the flame and add 2-3 teaspoons of raw apple cider vinegar to it. Stir well to prepare an evenly dissolved solution.
- Drink the mixture of ginger tea and apple cider vinegar twice a day on a daily basis for the cure of hot flashes.
The anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting nature of ginger get enhanced by the addition of apple cider vinegar for hot flashes. Ginger is rich in antioxidants that help to fight against toxic free radicals and provide protection against hot flashes caused by oxidative stress — the consumption of ginger and apple cider vinegar assists in providing relief against sudden fits of perspiration, palpitations, sleeplessness caused by night sweats, and hot flashes.
