Apple cider vinegar is not an invention of the modern times; it has been used for more than 5000 years as a preserver and a flavoring ingredient. Vinegar was, and is still obtained from several sources. It can be made from molasses, sorghum, any kind of fruit, and even from strange basic ingredients such as coconut, honey, beer, maple syrup, potatoes, beets, malt and grain. Every kind of vinegar has specific benefits and qualities, but one of them certainly stands out – namely, the apple cider vinegar.
Here are the major benefits of apple cider vinegar, some of them little known:
It refreshes breath
Rinse your mouth with a solution of an equal part water and apple cider vinegar to refresh your breath.
It treats acid reflux
One of the best solutions to treat acid reflux is to drink two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar diluted in a few tablespoons of water. This drink will stimulate the secretion of gastric acid, as the unpleasant sensation is the effect of indigestion. Apple cider vinegar will also help to relax the gastro-oesophageal sphincter.
It quickly relieves diarrhea
Most often diarrhea is caused by a bacterial infection and apple cider vinegar can help because of its antibiotic properties. In addition, pectin from apples relieves intestinal spasms. Drink one to two sips of apple cider vinegar, or simply add some to mint tea. Repeat the treatment every two to three hours until the symptoms disappear.
It prevents and relieves indigestion
Mix 3-5 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with one teaspoon of honey and a small cup of water. Drink this mixture and repeat the treatment after 8-10 hours.
It pampers hair
Apple cider vinegar is the best solution for oily hair. All you have to do is rinse with a solution of water and apple cider vinegar in equal parts. It is equally useful for dry hair, in which case we recommend massaging your scalp with pure apple cider vinegar. This rinse is ideal for fine and brittle hair, and it prevents tangling.
It soothes a sore throat
Apple cider vinegar should be used from the moment the first signs of a throat infection appear. Mix 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar with warm water and gargle two or three times per hour.
A remedy for allergies and itchy skin
Apple cider vinegar soothes itching caused by allergies or insect bites. All you have to do is to rub itchy skin with vinegar. For a stronger effect, use chilled vinegar.
It brightens up the complexion
Apple cider vinegar is ideal in cosmetics. Apple cider vinegar compresses make the skin radiant and relieve skin irritations. In addition, they relieve psoriasis and eczema, and make stains less visible.
It lowers glucose level in the blood
Apple cider vinegar taken in the morning on an empty stomach (one or two tablespoons in a glass of water) is a very effective treatment for maintaining a normal rate of glucose levels, especially for people suffering from diabetes.
It lowers cholesterol and blood pressure
Apple cider vinegar can be applied to treat diabetes; if administred for a long time, it lowers cholesterol and blood pressure.
NOTE: Ideally, you should use natural apple cider vinegar made from organic apples. The cure should last for prolonged periods of time. Obviously, if any negative reactions appear, the cure must be discontinued immediately.
There are some indications that apple cider vinegar taken in excess can lead to bone demineralization and loss of higher than normal amounts of potassium and calcium.