Health trends have started to adopt more “natural” methods and ingredients during the past few years. One specific trend that has been on the rise, and is continuing to grow, is the use of Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV), which is basically the fermented juice of apples. From beauty hacks to weight loss hacks, ACV has been the rising star of all health trends recently. If you’ve been wondering what this common household staple could possibly have to add to your lifestyle, here are a few other uses other than adding a zing to your salad.
Personal Health
Facial Toner
Due to its antibacterial properties, Apple Cider Vinegar can be used as a face cleanser to help reduce breakouts. Dilute the ACV in water, apply to a cotton ball and then apply directly onto any blemishes you have.
Oral Health
Apple Cider Vinegar can be used as a mouthwash at night, to help get rid of bad breath. At night, before you go to bed, swish ACV around in your mouth a few times before spitting it out. This gargle may also help whiten teeth, beside eliminating bad breath.
Hair Conditioner
Apple Cider Vinegar can also be used to “condition” the hair, if you’re going down the chemical-free route. Mix ACV with water and then apply the mixture to your hair, and then rinse.
At-Home Uses
Multi-purpose Cleaner
Mix 1-cup of Apple Cider Vinegar with 1 cup of water to create a cleaner that will kill bacteria and remove any built up grease. This mixture can be used on anything and any surface, and within minutes the mixture will dry up and the smell will fade.
Recipes
Apple Cider Vinegar is very versatile when it comes to food, it can be used in cooking, baking, soups, juices and it’s most commonly used as a salad dressing.
Health
Sore Throat
Gargling with Apple Cider Vinegar helps remove the bacteria from your throat, which decreases the pain you may feel from having a sore throat. Mix 1/3 cup ACV with 2/3 warm water and gargle.
Sinus Congestion
Apple cider vinegar can be used to help break up the mucous in your body which clears out your sinuses. Try drinking a mixture of water and ACV to help clear your sinus.
Sunburn
A mixture of Apple Cider Vinegar and water can also help treat sunburn by applying it directly to the area that has been affected or by soaking in a bath with one cup of ACV.
Digestion
To help combat indigestion, add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a large glass of water or juice. The acid from the ACV will help aid in your body’s digestive process.
Weight Loss
Adding Apple Cider Vinegar to your diet can help you feel full faster which will lead to a decrease in the amount of calories you consume per day (around 250 calories) leading to weight loss. Several small studies have shown that when taken with a meal that’s high in carbohydrates or bread, ACV leads to decreased hunger throughout the day. ACV is also available in the form of pills, but the more natural form is more reliable and it’s content is more guaranteed.
Try out this recipe for an Apple Cider Vinegar drink that isn’t too sour
