Apple Cider Vinegar Treatments

If any common food product could be called a miracle in a bottle, it would have to be apple cider vinegar (ACV). Its versatility is astounding. It can be ingested as a detoxifier or applied directly to the skin as a remedy for skin disorders; both ways produce positive results. Apple cider vinegar treatments have gradually gained much interest among our now health-conscious population.

The natural, unfiltered, whole apple vinegar in its pure form, containing an acidity level of 6%, has numerous beneficial attributes. It costs no more than regular vinegar. Of course, if you are so inclined, you can make it yourself with seasonal apples, using a fermenting process.

Many health advocates suggest drinking a mixture of 1-2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in water with or without 1-2 teaspoons of honey (another super food) 2-3 times daily. It acts as a detoxifying agent and promotes health of vital organs.

There is an abundance of external uses and benefits; the following are but a few popular examples of apple cider vinegar treatments:

Apple cider vinegar treatments at the spa: Many spas applaud the benefits of ACV. It is typically used in soaks, facials and other body treatments. Because vinegar has a high acetic content, it tends to neutralize substances that come in contact with your skin. The acid draws impurities to the skin’s surface and leaves it with a healthy glow. It combines well with other additives such as avocado, sugar or honey to produce a soothing facial. You can soak in a bath of apple cider vinegar, use it in the shower, or as a douche to eliminate body odors. A fragrant product can be used afterward to neutralize the vinegar scent.

Apple cider vinegar as a sunburn medicament:
If the sunburn covers a small area, you can apply apple cider vinegar full strength. Soak a piece of cloth in the ACV and place it directly on the burn to help calm the itching and prevent peeling. Do not wash it off. If the sunburn covers a large part of the body, soak in a warm bath to which you have added one cup of ACV. Thereafter, softly dry, pat on some additional ACV on the more damaged areas, and apply an aloe vera cream to the skin.

Apple cider vinegar as a hair and dandruff treatment:
There are many dandruff products available on the market, but you can give yourself an effective apple cider vinegar treatment for much less cost. ACV will help to destroy bacteria and other substances that are potentially harmful to your scalp. Apply pure apple cider vinegar to your hair and massage into the roots and entire scalp. Leave on for up to one hour then shampoo as usual. Many shampoo first and apply ACV as a rinse to strengthen and add shine to the hair.

Apple cider vinegar treatment for warts:
Warts are the result of the HPV virus affixing itself to the skin, usually on a person’s knuckles or feet. Apply a gauze bandage dipped in full strength apple cider vinegar over the area, and leave overnight. In the morning, replace it with a piece of gauze dipped in castor oil. You can alternate ACV with crushed fresh garlic and Vitamin E oil. There can be from moderate to severe pain associated with this treatment, but many ACV advocates report that it is worth the effort.

Written by: Carol C. is a registered nurse with experience in many areas of nursing who specializes in mental health and addictions. Her articles allow her the opportunity to share her knowledge and expertise on many health subjects.