50+ Ingenious Ways to Use Apple Cider Vinegar That Might Just Change Your Life
What’s the Big Deal About Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar, also known as ACV, has been morphing from a no-nonsense item in the kitchen cupboard, into a health supplement. The reason why apple cider vinegar has been getting all of this positive attention, and why it is becoming well known for its health benefits, is due to the fact that it is a product of natural fermentation. Like kefir, kombucha, and other celebrated fermented health foods, apple cider vinegar is a natural probiotic. It also contains minerals and enzymes, and alkalizes the body.
While it might seem that the health benefits are only being discovered today, apple cider vinegar and other natural vinegars have long been used for medical and health purposes. Vinegar is mentioned in the bible as being used as an energizer, food flavoring and antiseptic medicine. Hippocrates reportedly prescribed apple cider vinegar mixed with honey for a variety of ailments. During the Bubonic Plague, aristocrats were said to carry pieces of absorbent material soaked in natural vinegars which they would hold to their noses and breathe through, in order to avoid inhaling the virus.
There are records indicating that vinegar was also used extensively in military settings for its antiseptic properties, as an energy and stamina tonic, and as a disinfectant for water.
Although apple cider vinegar might not turn you into a Samurai swordsmen overnight, it can definitely offer a range of health benefits. Not only that, you can also use it around your house for sanitation purposes.
My family is a FIRM believer in the benefits of apple cider vinegar, having used it successful to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome, indigestion, and even (as of a few months ago) a surface staph infection outbreak on my brother’s hand!
This is THE holy grail of Apple Cider Vinegar that I use. There’s other brands out there of course, but Braggs has not let me down yet! Whatever ACV you buy, make sure it’s sourced from organic apples and RAW unpasteurized! We do compare some of the more popular ACV brands in another article, though without a doubt, Bragg is our main pick.
Buy it on Amazon ($28 for 128 ounces)
50 Amazing Uses of Apple Cider Vinegar
Here’s 50 unique and health-benefiting ways to use ACV!
#1: As a Natural probiotic
Because it is a product of fermentation, apple cider vinegar contains probiotic microbes. These microbes assist to re-balance the internal flora of one’s digestive system. The microbial balance within ones digestive system is easily harmed by substances like antibiotics, pesticides, chlorine from water etc. Taking a probiotic ensures that these internal microbes are being supported and boosted on a daily basis, allowing them to carry out their processes of elimination and absorption at optimum levels.
# 2: As a Source of minerals
Apple cider vinegar contains small amounts of potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron and chromium. These minerals are not present in high amounts, but if you are consuming apple cider vinegar on a daily basis anyway, you will be enjoying the benefits of them.
# 3: As a Source of acetic acid
Acetic acid is a compound not found in many other food substances. Wine, kombucha and other products of fermentation can contain small amounts, but vinegar is the most concentrated form.
# 4: To fascilitate absorption of nutrients from other foods
Apple cider vinegar assists the stomach and its microbes to fully take up nutrients present in the food you consume. While it might not contain concentrated forms of vitamins and minerals, it facilitates the uptake of these from other foods.
# 5: As an Alkalizer
Apple cider vinegar has a low, acidic ph. Once consumed and metabolized, the effect this has on the body is alkalizing. Most fruits, vegetables and raw foods have a slightly acidic ph. If a large enough proportion of these are eaten on a daily basis one’s body will be in an alkaline state. However many food products such as processed carbohydrates, cooked meats and sugar are acid forming. If left in an acidic condition over long periods of time, the body can start to develop problems like arthritis, weight gain, allergies, tiredness, premature aging, nervous system, cardiovascular and muscle problems and heart disease. Drinking apple cider vinegar on a daily basis can go a long way to maintaining an alkaline state and keeping the above problems at bay.
# 6: As a Detoxifier
Apple cider vinegar is known to be cleansing and supportive to the liver and kidneys. If you are consuming it on a daily basis, then you will be assisting these two important organs to do their job of expelling unwanted toxins.
# 7: To Reduce Calories Consumption (causes satiety)
Once ingested, acetic acid can induce a feeling of fullness or satiety. If taken in conjunction with a meal, this can result in smaller amounts of food being consumed and fewer calories ingested over the day.
# 8: As a Natural Carb blocker
It is thought that apple cider vinegar is nature’s own carb blocker. With the advent of Dr Atkins, Tim Noakes, and all the other paleo enthusiasts, stubborn carb lovers are spending money on over the counter supplements which block the absorption of carbohydrates. There are theories that apple cider vinegar inhibits enzymes in the stomach responsible for breaking down carbohydrates, thus reducing their uptake. The other theory is that because apple cider vinegar has an effect on insulin levels, this allows fewer sugars to enter the blood, and forces more to be expelled, rather than taken to the muscles or deposited as fat.
# 9: To Lower blood pressure
If you are struggling with high blood pressure, experimenting with taking apple cider vinegar might be well worth a try. By balancing ph and breaking down fat and mucus, apple cider vinegar can aid circulation and reduce pressure against the arterial walls.
# 10: As a Cancer preventative and treatment aid
One of the most exciting aspects of dosing oneself daily with apple cider vinegar, is its potential cancer preventative properties. According to research1 cancerous cells can only develop in an acidic environment. Because apple cider vinegar can effectively help to balance the body’s ph and prevent acidity, this has quite meaningful implications with regards to cancer prevention. In the same vein lowering one’s levels of acidity while under treatment for cancer is thought to be of assistance in maximizing the chances of full recovery.
# 11: As a Diabetes tonic
Diabetics have reported that ACV can act in much the same way that generic diabetic medication does. Research had indicated that this is due to its effect on insulin and blood sugar levels.
# 12: As a Decongestant
By cutting through mucous and phlegm, apple cider vinegar can alleviate congestion and help to clear symptoms like postnasal drip, phlegm on the chest etc.
# 13: To Relieve Allergies
The decongestant properties of ACV can provide some relief from the persistent irritations caused by allergies.
# 14: To Treat Ringworms
ACV has been used effectively in the treatment of ringworm infections by applying a few times a day in pure form on a piece of cotton wool. Gently swap the area and let dry.
# 15:To Boost Energy
Fatigue and feelings of tiredness can be caused by lactic acid build up in the tissues, brought on by exercise or stress. ACV’s amino acids can act as an antidote to this by flushing out the lactic acid build up.
# 16: As an Immune support
Apple cider vinegar can act as an aid and support to the lymphatic system. Its mucous clearing abilities help to flush out the lymph nodes, allowing them better functionality. This is turn will usually result in a strengthened immune system which can better fight to protect you against viruses and other invaders.
# 17: Teeth Whitener
A DIY natural remedy for stained or yellow teeth, apple cider vinegar can be used by itself or in combination with baking soda. Be careful, because the acidic nature of ACV can erode tooth enamel.
# 18: As a Hair rinse
A very common use of apple cider vinegar is as a hair rinse or conditioner. The acidic ph of ACV causes the individual ‘scales’ which make up a shaft of hair, to flatten, resulting in shiny hair that feels silky.
# 19: As a Deoderizer
Due to its antiseptic and antibacterial actions, apple cider vinegar can be spritzed over areas of your home to deodorize them against unpleasant smells. Wiping areas with a solution of vinegar will also eliminate smell. Remember you can use spirit vinegar for these purposes, as it is cheaper, and your counters and dog beds are not going be missing much by getting distilled vinegar instead of premium ACV!
# 20 As a Facial toner/cleanser
ACV diluted with water is a popular facial toner and skin cleanser. Its acidic nature acts to balance the skin’s ph, and the antiseptic properties can effectively clean pores and disinfect spots. The acidity has another function which is that it acts a very mild facial peel agent, a toned down version of what salons administer. The result is that old skin is shed, leaving clean soft skin behind.
# 21: To Eliminate Foot Oder
Apparently foot odor is attributed in part to bacteria existing on the soles of the feet. Soak a cloth or sponge in slightly diluted ACV and wipe the soles of your feet. Repeat this a few days in a row, and your odor problem should evaporate!
# 22: As a Deodorant
Underarm odors can also be avoided by the application of diluted ACV. Be sure to dilute well with water before wiping or spritzing on, as pure ACV can burn the sensitive skin.
# 23: To Prevent Mold
The antibacterial components of ACV are effective mold fighters. Wipe or spay onto infected surfaces or items to kill mold spores and deter a subsequent breakout.
# 24: As an Antibacterial gargle
At the onset of a sore throat, gargling with a diluted mixture of apple cider vinegar and warm water can kill the germs which have taken hold in the back of the throat before they spread to the rest of the body. If done in time, doing so can prevent the onset of a full blown flu.
# 25: As a Breath Deodorizer
Gargling and rinsing one’s mouth with a dilute solution of apple cider vinegar and water can help to eradicate bad breath. This is due to the antibacterial properties which will kill bacteria in the mouth and on one’s tongue, that are often responsible for bad breath. Be cautious however, as the acidic ph can erode tooth enamel. Be sure to use a very dilute solution when making a mouth rinse.
# 26: As a All Purpose Cleaner
ACV can be used as an effective but safe, and chemical free, all purpose cleaner. It can be used straight or diluted with water depending on the severity of what needs to be cleaned.
# 27: As an Indigestion Relief
Indigestion can be eased by drinking ACV diluted with water. The acids help to break down and digest food in the stomach, resulting in an easing of indigestion/heartburn/acid reflux. Many people find ACV helps treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). In fact, my very own brother successfully manages his IBS by drinking ACV every day!
# 28: As a Bath Additive for Detoxing
ACV can make for a detoxing bath additive. Combine it with Epsom salts to pull toxins from the skin, ease skin problems and condition for smooth soft skin all over.
# 29: As a Fruit Fly Trap
Placed in a bowl with one drop of dish-washing liquid, ACV will attract pesky fruit flies (also known as vinegar flies) that crawl into the solution and become trapped there.
# 30: As a Fruit & veg rinse
If you are concerned about pesticide residues on your fruit and vegetable, make it a point to wash them in a basin of water with a quarter cup of vinegar. You can use spirit vinegar in place of ACV to reduce cost.
# 31: As a Dandruff Treatment
Rinsing one’s hair with apple cider vinegar can not only leave your hair soft, shiny and sleek, it can also kill bacteria growing on the scalp which cause severe dandruff.
# 32: As a Urinary tract infection treatment
Urinary tract infections can be successfully treated by drinking ACV diluted in water through the day. The re-balancing of the body’s ph can quickly lead to relief. A douche can also be made to further treat the symptoms. Ensure that it is VERY well diluted to avoid irritation.
# 33: To Relieve Insect Bite Irritation
Apple cider vinegar applied to insect bites can quickly help to reduce itching. Sprayed on, it can also help to deter insects from inflicting more bites.
# 34: As a Natural anti-flea remedy for pets
Including small doses of ACV in your pet’s food can discourage fleas from taking hold. Washing your pet in a dilute solution of ACV and water will also help to calm bites, and further discourage fleas.
# 35: As a Rust remover
ACV can be a good rust remover for cast iron items in the kitchen when you do not want to use a chemical product, but want to save some elbow grease. Simply apply straight in its pure form and rub with an old cloth. Spirit vinegar can also be used.
# 36: As a Bath scum remover
ACV can also serve as a very effective scum remover for baths and other areas. Simply apply to the area and leave in for 10 + minutes. When you return, the acid should have loosened the scum enough to make it come away easily when wiping with a cloth or scourer.
# 37: As a Burn remedy
Strangely, there are reports that diluted ACV is an effective burn remedy. Apparently the change in ph after applying ACV can effectively discourage blistering and minimize the damage caused by burning.
# 38: As a Lime remover
Scale and lime, the bane of the house proud who have hard water, can be removed with a little more ease by applying pure vinegar to the area, leaving for a period of time, and then scrubbing off. If you are trying to de-scale your kettle, boil a solution of water and vinegar in it. The scale should lift easily.
# 39: As an Acne Treatment
Whether taken internally or applied as an antiseptic wash or toner, apple cider vinegar has received good reviews from people suffering from acne.
# 40: For Mole Removal
Anxious to avoid getting moles surgically cut out? There are reports of people who have removed theirs using ACV. The procedure is to soak a cotton ball in pure ACV and strap to the offensive mole with a bandage. Keep this going for about 5 days, until the surface forms a scab, while renewing the cotton ball soaked in vinegar.
# 41 As aWart remover
If you do not feel like going to have a wart frozen off or surgically removed, try soaking a cotton ball in ACV and applying with a bandage to cover the wart. Continue for a week, by which time the wart should have been killed by the acid present in the vinegar.
# 42: To Fade Bruises
An old use for ACV – if you have a unsightly bruise who appearance you would like to minimize, rub the area gently with a sponge dipped in ACV.
# 43: As a Pink Eye Treatment
If you or your child is suffering from pink eye, ACV is your friend. Take internally to kill the virus and boost gut flora and the immune system, and you can also even make an effective eyewash by combining one tablespoon of ACV with one cup of water. Sponge the eyes and try to squeeze a drop of two of the liquid into the eye itself for immediate relief.
# 44: As an Eye Brightener
Clear whites of the eye are a subconsciously attractive feature (like white teeth) which celebrities and TV hosts pay a lot of attention to. White eye whites are an indication of general good health and an unburdened liver. Taking ACV regularly can result in whiter fresher eyes, and if you want to get quick results by reducing any irritation caused by computer screens, allergies or sunlight, merely make the ACV eye drop solution mentioned above and apply to the eyes.
# 45: As a Mineral Puller in Broth
When making stock from bones, be sure to add some ACV. The acid will help to draw out marrow and minerals contained in the soup bones.
# 46: Alleviate Sunburn
Applying diluted ACV to sunburn can relieve irritation and may help to avoid peeling.
# 47: Osteoporosis
ACV has been linked to reduced rates of osteoporosis, the reason being that ACV helps to release and facilitate the uptake of calcium contained in foods consumed. It is thought that the alkalizing effect of ACV also plays a role in the prevention of osteoporosis.
# 48: Arthritis Relief
One of the factors which can cause or aggravate arthritis is high levels of acidity. This is the reason why ACV is a good supplement to take for the alleviation of arthritis. It also helps to dissolve the crystals which build up between the joints, and assist in flushing out toxins which accumulate and aggravate the painful symptoms.
# 49: Gout Treatment
If you are suffering from a gout attack, you might want to take advantage of the alkalizing affects of ACV. Gout is caused by a build up of uric acid, which can be counteracted by the consumption of ACV. ACV is actually an age old remedy for gout!
# 50: As a Meat Tenderizer
Last but not least, ACV is also a meat tenderizer! If you have a tough cut of meat that you wish to make soft and delectable, simply pop in into a dish with a little ACV and let sit for a few hours.
#51: As starter for Kombucha
You can substitute Kombucha starter or distilled vinegar an equivalent amount of ACV. Be careful though, ACV introduces new bacterial strains into your Kombucha which may affect your flavor. There IS a significant difference between Kombucha and Apple Cider Vinegar.
