For centuries, health practitioners have used apple cider vinegar in folk remedies to treat a variety of symptoms. Arthritis and other diseases traced to inflammations in the body are among the maladies that may be relieved by ingesting apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is also used in folk remedies for improving hair and scalp conditions, and for fighting fungi, which dislike acidic conditions. Always consult your health care professional before using apple cider vinegar to treat medical complaints.
Arthritis Symptom Relief
In 1961, arthritis sufferer and nurse Margaret Hills hypothesized that excess acid crystallization aggravated arthritis stiffness, swelling and pain in the human body. She devised a natural regime that relieved her arthritis, and opened a clinic in Warwickshire, England in 1982 that still operates as of 2010. Her natural remedy, which has not been tested in scientific trials, is a mixture of apple cider vinegar, honey, hot water and molasses taken after each meal. The regime shuns alcohol, refined sugar and citrus fruit, but adds vitamin A, vitamin B, calcium and magnesium supplements to the daily diet. Sufferers also take daily hot Epsom salt baths. Don't use apple cider vinegar to treat arthritis without your physician's approval.
Hair Care
One common folk remedy is a hair rinse made from apple cider vinegar and plain water. Many of today's synthetic shampoos, creams and conditioners can leave build-up in your hair. If left unrinsed, the chemicals may clog the follicles in your scalp, leaving your scalp flaky and dry. Acidic apple cider vinegar may break down the build-up, which is alkaline, and wash it away. Users report that the apple cider vinegar rinse also closes hair cuticle scales, making hair shinier and easier to manage. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove that apple cider vinegar can improve your hair's condition.
Bacterial and Fungus Inhibitor
Apple cider vinegar has antiviral, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, according to the Asian Hospital and Heath Center website. People suffering from athlete's foot and toe nail fungus can try an apple cider vinegar soak to kill the fungi that create their condition. Fungus finds it difficult to grow in acidic conditions. Since vinegar contains agents proven to help kill bacteria and fungus, one of the medical benefits of vinegar is it can help cure athlete's foot and other foot fungus, notes the Disabled World website. Soaking your feet in apple cider vinegar for 30 minutes each day may help change the acidic levels in your feet and inhibit bacteria and fungal growth.
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