Editor’s Note: elephant journal articles represent the personal views of the authors, and can not possibly reflect elephant journal as a whole. Disagree with an Op-Ed or opinion? We’re happy to share your experience here. This website is not designed to, and should not be construed to, provide medical advice, professional diagnosis, opinion or treatment to you or any other individual, and is not intended as a substitute for medical or professional care and treatment. For serious.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a must have in my house, and it is beneficial for so many things!

Raw, organic, unfiltered and unpasteurised apple cider vinegar is a cost effective and natural alternative to so much more than you think!

ACV is normally taken one-two tablespoons at a time, diluted in a glass of water. (1)

1. ACV can relieve and maintain gastrointestinal issues such as indigestion and bloating.

A dose of ACV is said to stimulate your digestive system to help breakdown food. Experts also suggest that the ACV contains pectin to help relieve intestinal spasms. Take up to 30 minutes before food to help your digestive processes. (2)(4)

2. It can help you recover from the common cold.

My number one remedy for fighting the common cold is a shot of ACV (diluted with water) followed by a glass of warm ginger water. ACV contains potassium and acetic acid which prevents bacterial growth and keeps your nasal passages clear. (2)(50

3. ACV is a natural energy drink.

Apple cider vinegar taken several times a day will provide quick and effective energy bursts. It contains potassium and enzymes to help combat fatigue. (2)

4. ACV can help clear the skin.

Dilute ACV with water and spread the concoction over your face with a cotton ball. You can do this morning and night, and also dab directly onto age spots. (2)(3)

5. ACV can make your hair shiny and treat your dandruff.

After shampooing, rinse your hair with ACV solution. Use several times a week for shiny results! The solution is made of 1/2 tablespoon ACV and a cup of cold water. (4)(2)

6. It Regulates and alkalises the body’s natural pH level.

Some natural practitioners recommend using apple cider vinegar to restore alkaline acid balance. Taking a shot of ACV (diluted with water) in the morning will provide alkalising benefits. (4)

7. It can regulate the pH of your skin and help clear acne.

Apply a washcloth soaked in diluted ACV to your skin and watch it do wonders. You can also apply a dab of diluted ACV to your skin overnight and help reduce the appearance of pimples or age spots. (3)

8. ACV can remove teeth stains.

Use your finger or a cotton pad and rub apple cider vinegar directly onto the teeth. Don’t forget to rinse out with water. ACV, removes stains; whitens teeth and kills the bacteria around your mouth and on your gums. (2)

9. Can provide relief from aching sunburn.

Run a cool to lukewarm bath and add a cup of apple cider vinegar. Soak for at least 10 minutes. (3)(4)

10. ACV can aid in weight loss.

A Japanese study has shown that even without any calorie change, adding the consumption of apple cider vinegar into the daily routine may reduce obesity. Take two tablespoons in water daily. (1)(7)

11. ACV cleanses and detoxes the liver.

Along with balancing pH levels, research shows ACV helps stimulate cardiovascular circulation and helps to detoxify the liver. (6)

12. ACV can cure reflux symptoms.

Apple cider vinegar is rich in acetic acid which helps buffer the acidity level of the stomach. Take one-two teaspoons diluted in a glass of water for best results. (8)

13. ACV maintain heart health and reduce blood pressure.

Potassium found in ACV helps balance sodium levels in the body, which aids in maintaining blood pressure within healthy limits. Apple cider vinegar also helps relax blood vessel walls through the mineral magnesium thus reducing high blood pressure. (7)

14. Relief for mosquito and insect bites.

Using as little as 1/4 teaspoon of ACV will relieve insect bites instantly. (7)

15. ACV cleans the toilet, bathroom and kitchen.

Just pour ACV into the toilet and allow it to sit overnight. You can use it in the dishwasher instead of detergent. Also make a spray of two parts water, one part ACV and spray onto surfaces.

The antibacterial and antifungal properties of ACV make it an effective disinfectant, preventing the growth of bacteria. (9)

16. It even cleans dirty and clogged drains.

For the drain, sprinkle baking soda down the drain then add apple cider vinegar and let it bubble for 15 minutes, then rinse with hot water. The acetic acid of ACV helps dissolve through mineral build up and cut through grease with ease. (9)

Sources:

1. http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/apple-cider-vinegar-and-health?page=2

2. http://www.doctoroz.com/slideshow/surprising-ways-use-apple-cider-vinegar

3. http://gerson.org/gerpress/8-amazing-uses-for-apple-cider-vinegar/

4. http://www.naturalnews.com/042226_common_cold_natural_remedies_apple_cider_vinegar.html#

5. http://www.livestrong.com/article/95855-use-vinegar-detoxify-liver/

6. http://preventdisease.com/news/13/071113_Is-Apple-Cider-Vinegar-That-Powerful-of-a-Health-Tonic-Science-Says-Yes.shtml

7. http://www.refluxmd.com/learn/resources/2013-05-01/2427/apple-cider-vinegar-acid-reflux

8. http://www.bobbyshealthyshop.co.uk/Apple-Cider-Vinegar-In-The-Home.php

~ 

Simple health advice:

~

Editor: Travis May

Photo: Flickr.