Practical Health Uses of Vinegar

Practical Health Uses of Vinegar
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Vinegar as Medicine

A spoonful of … vinegar? Yes, its true vinegar is not only used in cooking and eco-friendly cleaning but it is also a regular home remedy for sunburns, dull hair, acne, and the list goes on. Why are there so many health uses of vinegar? It is a source of trace minerals, valuable enzymes, it helps to balance body chemistry, and it is naturally anti-bacterial.

Try to use a natural, minimally-processed vinegar for health reasons instead of commercial, processed brands which are not as rich in nutrients and enzymes. A vinegar that still has the ‘mother’ contains more beneficial compounds. It will appear somewhat cloudy when held in the light. What kind of vinegar to use — balsamic, white wine, red wine? Apple cider vinegar works very well and is frequently recommended.

Acne

Cider vinegar can be used to treat blemishes. How to use? Using a clean cotton cloth, dab a small amount onto pimples before going to bed. Another method is to dilute the vinegar in water at a ratio of one part vinegar to ten parts water. This is efficient if acne covers an entire area of the face. This should produce results within two or three weeks as it takes time for the vinegar to balance the pH of the skin. There are no negative side effects or risks of this use of vinegar.

Dull Hair and Hair Loss

Vinegar can also be used as a hair rinse to promote healthy hair growth. It helps to remove build-up on hair follicles. Use two tablespoons as a rinse after shampooing. It will not make your hair smell of vinegar as the odor goes away quickly. For a more potent remedy use equal parts of apple cider vinegar and sage tea.

Sunburns

Vinegar can also be used to treat sunburned skin. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and purified water. Use this solution as a wash for the affected area to relieve pain and redness. It will nourish the skin and promote faster healing.

Fungal Infections

Vinegar can also act as a natural first-aid treatment for many types of fungal infections by helping to protect the body from harmful microbes. For toe and fingernail fungus soak nails in white distilled vinegar that has been diluted with an equal amount of purified water. For fungal growth on toes such as with athlete’s foot dab vinegar between toes at least once a day. Vinegar can also be used as a natural remedy for ringworm. Dab directly onto the affected area of the skin twice daily.

Digestion

Cider vinegar can help with common digestion problems. Rich in enzymes, it is a general digestive tonic, helping to relieve gas, bloating and indigestion. In cases of indigestion where not enough stomach acid is produced naturally, it can even help with heartburn. Take one teaspoon of cider vinegar that has been diluted in a glass of water.

General Tonic

Vinegar can simply be used as a general tonic to improve immune health and cleanse the body of impurities. One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in water in the morning is a great way to help cleanse the kidneys and liver and to provide the body with nutrients and enzymes. If you don’t like the taste add one teaspoon of honey.

There are so many health uses of vinegar from treating common conditions to improving overall well-being. Vinegar is safe for general use, although it should always be diluted when ingested so the acid does not wear down teeth enamel. Be sure to choose a high-quality, natural vinegar when using for your health.

References

Sikorski, Jeramee. “Incredible Sunburn Remedy: Vinegar.” (Mother Earth News) https://www.motherearthnews.com/Natural-Health/Natural-Sunburn-Remedy.aspx

Balch, Phyllis A. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing.” Fourth Edition (Penguin Books, 2006).

Page, Linda. “Healthy Healing: A Guide to Self-Healing for Everyone.” Eleventh Edition (Traditional Wisdom, 2003).

photo by Andy Rob (CC/flickr)

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