The use of raw apple cider vinegar, or ACV, to heal common ailments dates back to 3000 B.C. -- at which time doctors used the powerful vinegar to treat patients, says Brenda Skidmore, a natural health expert and writer for "Disabled World," who has been writing and researching topics in the holistic medicine field for more than five years. Inexpensive and easy to find, ACV contains more than 40 different vitamins and minerals. While it has not been proven that ACV causes weight loss, it is encouraged as an excellent natural remedy by many experts to treat a variety of conditions -- from digestive problems to acne to high blood pressure.
Origin and Common Uses
According to Dr. Edward Group, an expert on holistic health and founder of the Global Healing Center who has studied and taught natural healing methods for more than 20 years and has written four books on various natural medicine topics, ACV contains powerful healing properties that have been used for decades to aid in the relief of symptoms, including skin discomfort, high blood pressure, digestive problems, and other common conditions. ACV is made from apples and, because it is unpasteurized, it contains most of the fruit's powerful health components, enzymes, and antioxidants. In the process of fermentation, ACV produces enzymes that are believed to help cure a variety of conditions.
Vitamins, Minerals, and Enzymes
ACV contains potassium, which helps prevent hair loss, cold symptoms, and brittle teeth or loss of enamel. The malic acid in ACV is an anti-viral and anti-bacterial acid that can help cure and ward off cold sores and fungi. Calcium in ACV helps develop and maintain strong bone health. Acetic acid slows digestion of starches, helping the blood to absorb glucose at a healthy slow rate. Skidmore cites the weight-loss benefits of apple cider vinegar as well, due to its effect on blood sugar and digestion. Acting as a blood sugar stabilizer, ACV is often ingested by patients before meals for healthy interaction with carbohydrate-filled foods. Of course, these benefits and results are cited by holistic health practitioners but have not been proven by FDA studies. Therefore, it's important to consult your physician before changing your diet plan or supplementing with herbal medicines.
Dosage and Recipes
Just 1 tbsp of raw ACV mixed with a glass of water can be consumed before meals to help stave off hunger, speed the metabolism, and produce healthy digestive benefits. In addition, raw ACV may help improve bowel irregularity and constipation, speeding toxins through the body and helping cleanse the colon. Furthermore, the same dosage can be used after a meal to solve heartburn problems and acid reflux. Dr. Group recommends the following recipe: 2 tbsp of ACV, 1 gal of purified water, and raw locally harvested honey or agave nectar to taste. Shake the bottle well after mixing the ingredients. Always consult a physician before implementing a new medicinal plan, even when using natural herbs and medicines.
Precautions
Because ACV is highly acidic, it is recommended that you mix it with water or tea when consuming it in liquid form. It is also available in pill and vitamin form. According to SilverMedicine.net, the standard dose is 2 tsp three times daily. While many people enjoy taking each dose in a full glass of water (8 oz), ACV is most effective as a digestive tonic when taken in a more concentrated form. The maximum recommended effective dose is considered to be 2 tbsp three times a day. Of course, it is crucial to consult your physician if you plan on modifying your diet and include ACV on a daily basis. Because the powerful vinegar can also interact with certain medicines, always consult your health care professional before consuming ACV.
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