Proponents of apple cider vinegar claim that it is a useful tonic which may be consumed on a daily basis to support overall health. However, many claims, such as its ability to aid in weight loss, remain unsubstantiated. Nevertheless, apple cider vinegar has been studied for its affect on insulin levels in diabetes. In the form of a topical application, apple cider vinegar offers many household and cosmetic uses as well.
For Pets
Having many practical applications for pets, apple cider vinegar can eliminate the smell from a skunk spray. Simply pour the apple cider vinegar on the dog's coat, undiluted. Dabbing a cotton ball with equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water is an easy and natural way to clean out bacteria from inside the ears of dogs and cats. Following a good shampoo, an equal mixture of warm water and apple cider vinegar may be poured over a dog's coat to acidify their skin, making it undesirable to fleas and ticks.
For the Hair
Useful on human hair, the Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits website recommends adding 1/3 cup of apple cider vinegar into one liter of water for use as a hair rinse. Applied once or twice a week after shampooing, an apple cider vinegar rinse helps to balance the pH of hair giving it a healthy and vibrant shine. Any residual vinegar smell on the hair will disappear as it dries.
For Body Odor
As a natural deodorant, undiluted apple cider vinegar may be dabbed onto a cotton ball and applied underneath the armpits to kill odor-causing bacteria. Soaking smelly feet in apple cider vinegar and water may alleviate this problem. Gargling a mixture of 1/2 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar in one cup of water can kill bad breath, and ease the pain of a sore throat.
For Diabetics
According to the American Diabetes Association, apple cider vinegar is useful for improving insulin sensitivity in Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. In a study conducted by Carol Johnson PhD at Arizona State University, insulin-resistant subjects were given a meal high in carbohydrates (about 87 total grams) and given an apple cider vinegar and water mixture. Another control group was given a placebo in place of the vinegar. Their findings showed an improvement in insulin resistance of 19 to 34 percent. The conclusion of that study effectively demonstrated that apple cider vinegar significantly improves insulin sensitivity in those with insulin resistance.
References
- Apple-Cider-Vinegar-Benefits: "Pet Care With Apple Cider Vinegar"
- Apple-Cider-Vinegar-Benefits: "Apple Cider Vinegar is a Versatile Natural Hair Care Product"
- Home Remedies Web: "Apple Cider Vinegar Health Benefits"
- American Diabetes Association: "Vinegar Improves Insulin Sensitivity to a High-Carbohydrate Meal in Subjects With Insulin Resistance or Type 2 Diabetes"
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