Apple Cider Vinegar is a fantastic multi-purpose tool that everyone should keep on hand. It has generated a lot of buzz in the media lately for its numerous health benefits.
You can purchase a bottle of Bragg Apple Cider Vinegar for under $10 at most local grocery stores like Trader Joe’s. Here are 7 reasons why you should.
1. It’s natural healing properties
Rachel Grumman Bender of The Dr. Oz Show says vinegars contain many antioxidants, and taken by mouth, vinegar can improve blood sugar levels, kill bacteria, contribute to weight loss and help reduce your risk of cancer among other things. The Healthy Eating Site explains, “Even though vinegar is acidic, when we take apple cider vinegar it has an alkaline effect in our bodies. The fact that apple cider vinegar causes our pH levels to become more alkaline could play a large part in it’s curative properties. It also reacts to some toxins in our bodies, converting them into less toxic substances. Our bodies need a slightly alkaline pH balance to be healthy. The typical Western diet creates an acidic pH in our bodies, and many health problems are attributed to this. Taking a tonic containing apple cider vinegar can help restore alkalinity, and therefore assist the body in getting rid of some health problems.”
2. ACV is great for hair
Used as a hair rinse, Tamara Floyd from babble.com explains ACV can condition, stave off dandruff, promote hair growth, reduce frizz, prevent split ends and be used as a super-cleanser when combined with baking soda.
3. It can also treat a variety of skin conditions
From psoriasis, to athelete’s foot, to skin rashes, the antifungal properties of ACV can relieve these conditions. It even has been proven to work on acne. Michael Shapiro, MD, medical director and founder of Vanguard Dermatology in NYC says, “the acidity in vinegar can help clear skin and stop acne by drying out the blemishes and allowing for clear skin to take its place. Apple cider vinegar can also help regulate the pH levels in your skin. It keeps it at optimum levels between being oily and dry.” Apply ACV to affected areas with a cotton ball.
4. Is your drain clogged?
Apple Cider Vinegar can fix that too! Before resorting to Drano which is chock full of chemicals try this natural remedy to unclog drains and eliminate standing water.
5. Flea reduction
If you have pets, chances are you have encountered problems with fleas. ACV is safe, natural and effective in getting rid of (and repelling!) these crawlie creatures. Dilute the vinegar with water and spray on fur, in a bath, or in their water dish. Bonus: ACV is great for treating bites and stings (on pets and humans!)
6. Got hiccups?
Mallory Kievman suffered from chronic hiccups until she discovered (and patented) Hiccupops, a sugar and apple cider vinegar mixture she found which cured her hiccups. She said, “It triggers a set of nerves in your throat and mouth that are responsible for the hiccup reflex arc. It basically over-stimulates those nerves and cancels out the message to hiccup.” The next time you find yourself with hiccups try swallowing a teaspoon of ACV.
7. As a household cleaner
Mix one part water with one part vinegar in a spray bottle for a non-toxic household cleaner. Bobby’s Healthy Shop writes, “because of its antibacterial and antifungal properties, the Apple Cider Vinegar also makes an effective disinfectant, preventing the growth of moulds and bacteria.” It can be used on floors, in bathrooms, on windows and can be used to eliminate stubborn odors.
These are just a handful of reasons why you should invest in a bottle of Apple Cider Vinegar. From a household cleaning product, to a beauty agent, to a health booster, its versatility makes it a must-have for every college student.