Good Uses For Apple Cider Vinegar

Good Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar

Sep 2, 2010 | By Megan Smith

You may reach for apple cider vinegar when you're making coleslaw or spicing up pasta salad. You can also use apple cider vinegar as a home remedy for some ailments, with the approval of your doctor. Apple cider vinegar is available at drugstores and grocery stores, and can make your life a little bit more comfortable while lessening the need for expensive drugstore products.

Natural Deodorant

Apple cider vinegar works as a natural deodorant, neutralizing odors that are released under the arms, says Margot Hellmiss in her book, "Natural Healing With Cider Vinegar." Saturate a cotton ball with over-the-counter apple cider vinegar and dab it under your arms to help prevent underarm odor and keep you smelling fresh. Apple cider vinegar is not an antiperspirant, so you may need to reapply the vinegar to your underarms throughout the day if you perspire heavily.

Soothe a UTI Infection

Adding an essential oil and apple cider vinegar mixture to your bathwater may help soothe the pain and discomfort of a urinary tract infection, says Valerie Cooksley, R.N. Mix three drops of sandalwood essential oil, two drops of tea tree oil, one drop of chamomile oil and 2 tbsp. of honey in a small dish. Add 2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar to warm bathwater, then add the honey and oil mixture. The warm bath with these ingredients added will help reduce the burning and irritation associated with a urinary tract infection, but it is not a cure for a UTI. Always consult your doctor when you think you may be suffering from a UTI.

Banish Bad Breath

Bad breath may be caused by a lack of hydrochloric acid. Instead of gargling with mouthwash to cover up the smell, treat the source of the problem. As you age, your body produces less hydrochloric acid, which may cause bad breath. To help neutralize bad breath and replenish hydrochloric acid in your mouth, take 1 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar before every meal.