Vinegar has been used for medicinal and beauty purposes throughout the centuries. Unpasteurized, raw, organic apple cider vinegar retains its healthy ingredients such as potassium, vitamins, minerals and calcium. The fermentation process also produces beneficial enzymes and nutrients. There are several medicinal and beauty uses for raw, organic vinegar. Though organic vinegar is touted for its many health and beauty benefits, further research is needed to prove its effectiveness.
May Lessen Glucose Levels
Current organic vinegar research primarily deals with its effectiveness in lowering glucose levels in Type 2 diabetics. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar aids in starch digestion, which may lower the glucose rise after meals, according to Naturopathic Doctor Edward Group. A 2004 study featured in an American Diabetes Association publication, entitled "Vinegar Improves Insulin Sensitivity to a High-Carbohydrate Meal in Subjects with Insulin Resistance or Type 2 Diabetes," discovered that taking organic vinegar before meals greatly reduced insulin boosts after eating. Organic vinegar appears promising in aiding Type 2 diabetes, yet more research is needed to confirm its benefits.
May Help Prevent Cancer
Osteopathic Doctor Joseph Mercola, states preliminary research shows organic apple cider vinegar may prevent cancer. Several laboratory studies found apple cider vinegar killed cancer cells or inhibited their growth, according to Mercola. However, research on people has been inconclusive. Although laboratory research appears positive, there is insufficient evidence to verify organic vinegar as a treatment for cancer patients.
May Control Blood Pressure
Raw, organic apple cider vinegar contains pectin, which may act as a blood pressure regulator, according to Dr. Group. A 2006 study on laboratory rats discovered that vinegar lowered their cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Group cautions that the same effects may not be seen in humans and stresses the need for additional research to determine vinegar's blood pressure benefits.
Beauty Treatment
Egyptians were the first to use organic vinegar as a beauty treatment, and it's used today to improve the skin and scalp. Dr. Mercola praises the use of organic vinegar for facial needs such as improving skin texture, soothing and toning, exfoliation and softening. Vinegar cleans, promotes firm skin and regulates PH balance, says Mercola. Discovery's Planet Green recommends organic vinegar for the scalp. Try a mixture of 50 percent vinegar with an equal amount of water for dandruff removal. For soft skin, just add 1 cup organic vinegar to your bath water. Vinegar can also be used as an aftershave, according to Planet Green.
References
- Global Healing Group: The Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
- MecolaHealthySkin: Your Ticket to a Totally Refreshed Face
- Planet Green: 7 Green Beauty Uses For Apple Cider Vinegar
- Mercola.com: What the Research Really Says About Apple Cider Vinegar
- 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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