Apple cider vinegar carries a long history as a remedy for many different conditions. Vinegar that has not been pasteurized or fermented is a rich brownish color. The cloudy material suspended in the vinegar is called the "mother" and it is traditionally thought to be the source of the beneficial properties of the vinegar. Individuals can take it internally or use it topically in a compress or in a bath. No known side effects exist for vinegar, but one should never take it internally without diluting it first, since full-strength vinegar may damage tooth enamel.
Weight Loss
Drinking a glass of water containing 2 tsps. of apple cider vinegar before each meal may help with weight loss. According to a study in the "European Journal of Clinical Nutrition," when normal subjects added vinegar to a high-starch meal, the level of glucose and insulin in their blood after the meal was significantly lower than in subjects not taking vinegar. The researchers concluded that vinegar may reduce the body's ability to break down and use carbohydrates.
Headache Relief
To soothe a headache, a compress may be made from a half vinegar, half warm water mixture and applied to the forehead or the temples. Adding an aromatic such as lavender oil may make the compress even more soothing. Exercise caution when using lavender oil.
Cures Bad Breath
Apple cider vinegar may be useful for a case of bad breath, or halitosis. According to HomeRemediesWeb, one-half tbsp. should be dissolved in a glass of water and gargled 10 seconds at a time until the glass is empty.
Body Odor Remedy
Since it is acidic, apple cider vinegar may help to adjust the skin's pH and reduce body odor. It may be used undiluted on a cotton ball to wipe the armpits. For foot odor, try a warm water foot bath that contains 1/3 cup of vinegar; soak feet for 30 minutes once or twice each week.
Skin Care Help
Vinegar's acidity makes it an effective aftershave when used undiluted. When diluted equally with water, it is also a useful skin toner and a natural astringent that will help remove oil from skin. According to Discovery Health, a paste made from apple cider vinegar, flour and honey may help to heal pimples. The paste should be applied and left on irritated areas overnight and then washed off in the morning.
Member Comments