Cider Vinegar Uses and Health Benefits

Cider vinegar is produced when bacteria in the air convert the alcohol in apple juice to acetic acid. Cider vinegar is preferred for medicinal uses because it is less acidic than wine vinegar and easier to digest.

Cider vinegar is high in potassium, which is needed for the proper functioning of the heart and muscles. It also contains beta-carotene, potassium, magnesium, calcium, riboflavin, pectin (fiber), and thiamin. It also has vitamins B6, C, and E.

Therapeutic Effects of Cider Vinegar

Cider vinegar is a germicide and fights infection and inflammation. It helps prevent blood clots and stimulates the excretory organs. The vitamin C and beta-carotene in cider vinegar destroy free radicals that weaken the immune system and increase the risk of various diseases. The acids in cider vinegar control the proliferation of yeast in the intestine.

Specific benefits of cider vinger are as follows:

• Varicose Veins: A compress made with cider vinegar helps ease the pain and swelling. Soak a towel in cider vinegar and then wrap it around the affected area. Cover with a dry towel, elevate the legs, and rest for 30 minutes. For sensitive skin, dilute the vinegar with warm water.
• Fever Reducation: Immerse a pair of socks in a mixture of equal parts cider vinegar and cold water. Wring them out and place them on the feet of the feverish person. Repeat this process a few times.
• Itchy Skin: For sunburn and mild burns, soak a linen cloth in equal amounts of cider vinegar and water; wring out cloth and apply. Vinegar water can also be used as a rinse to relieve dry and itchy skin. To treat dandruff, vinegar can be applied directly to the scalp before shampooing.
• Skin Purification:  A daily l0-minute bath in hot water (100°F) and cider vinegar (7 cups added to the bath water) can cleanse the body of acid residues. Vinegar baths are also useful as an additional therapy for fungal skin diseases and for treating vaginitis. Vinegar baths can be safely taken over a 6-week period.
• Cough Remedy: To calm a cough, mix 5 tbsp of honey with 5 tsp. of cider vinegar. This mild syrup will relieve coughing and help break up phlegm. Soak a towel in equal amounts of cider vinegar and hot water and place on chest for 30 min.
• Heartburn: Avoid wine vinegar and use cider vinegar instead to season food.