Saturday Share: 7 Health Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar

Every morning Darling Hubby and I each drink 8 ounces of water with 1 teaspoon of organic apple cider vinegar.

We think this is one reason our immune systems are strong. Actually, I can't remember the last time we had a cold.

Apple Cider Vinegar, or ACV as it is sometimes called, has anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-septic, and anti-fungal properties.

This means that it can be a natural treatment for ailments that come from bacterial, viral, or fungal origins, but never let that statement keep you from seeing a doctor.

(We use Bragg's which we buy at our local store. If you can't find it, check Apple Cider Vinegar on Amazon.)

Here are 7 ways you can use apple cider vinegar for good health.

1. Sterilize your toothbrush. 

Most people brush their teeth, rinse the toothbrush, and put it back in a rack without ever thinking about disinfecting it. If you have any kind of illness, you should sterilize your toothbrush every time you use it. You can pour boiling water over it, but it's easy to make a solution to use as a toothbrush cleaner.

In a tall container, mix 1/2 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 2 teaspoons baking soda. Place your toothbrushes into the mixture, brush end submerged. Let them soak for 30 minutes. Rinse well before using because undiluted vinegar can damage your teeth.

2. Treat dandruff.

This old remedy is cheap to try and works by killing a fungus that contributes to dandruff. Mix equal parts water and ACV. Dip a cotton ball into the mixture and apply to the scalp.  Massage the solution into the scalp.

3. Use as a produce wash. 

Rather than purchasing a commercial wash to clean produce, make your own. Simply mix 1 cup of ACV and 4 cups of water in a clean spray bottle. Shake to mix well. Place fruit and vegetables in a colander, spray thoroughly, and let drain. 

4. Use as a facial toner.

Mix 1 teaspoon ACV with 2 or 3 teaspoons water. Dip a cotton ball into the mixture and wipe onto cleansed skin. (If you have very sensitive skin or acne, use the 1:3 ratio.)

5. A sore throat Gargle.

This old home remedy worked well when I was a child. Mix 1 teaspoon ACV, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 8 ounces of warm water. Mix well and gargle.

6. Lower blood sugar.

There's anecdotal evidence that ACB helps diabetics manage their blood sugar levels. That was the result from a study in which people consumed vinegar after a high carb meal. 

7. Promote weight loss.

Dr. Oz said that taking 1 teaspoon of ACV before a meal can help with weight loss. Try mixing 1 teaspoon in 8 ounces of water and drinking before a meal.

Takeaway Truth

Sometimes old home remedies really do work.