Apple cider vinegar has been reported to heal many conditions – from minor ailments to serious illness. Some people swear by it. For example, apple cider vinegar is used across the world as a natural/alternative treatment for allergies, and is thought to reduce the risk of cancer.
Vinegar has been in use since ancient times – as a health remedy, cleaning agent and for many other purposes from household to science. Hippocrates (460-377 BC), the revered ancient father of medicine after whom the Hippocratic Oath was named, prescribed it for curing pleurisy, fever, ulcers, and constipation. [1] It was utilized throughout history in other societies as well; for example, the Egyptians are thought to have used it to kill bacteria and the Babylonians relied on it to preserve food and medicines.
In Ancient Rome, Apple cider vinegar was considered the holy grail or fountain of youth. It was commonly consumed for its properties as an elixir; one that has been forgotten in modern times – until recently.
Fast forward to the future: Today, Apple cider vinegar is considered to be useful in cases of diabetes, heart disease and cancer. For example, in 2001 the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) published a study in which it was indicated that alternative or natural therapies like ACV might be more effective than prescription drugs and other western medical treatments. Apple cider vinegar is also useful in emergency situations such as jellyfish stings because it acts as a deactivating agent toward the venom.
Apple cider vinegar is made via fermentation, which is very beneficial for digestion and has in some cases worked as a cure for acne. Apple cider vinegar is also commonly used as a treatment for other skin disorders such as warts. In fact, studies have shown that Apple cider vinegar can clear up blemishes and breakouts – avoiding the need for potentially harmful prescription medications such as Retin A or Acutane.
Another little known fact we found in a scientific report: During the American Civil War, Apple cider vinegar helped to prevent scurvy and also was used as a disinfectant for wounds.
Apple cider vinegar has the potential to balance pH levels in the human body. This process occurs because of the naturally-occurring acetic acid it contains. When PH levels are balanced, the body maintains an alkaline state which reduces the potential for disease. The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar may be too strong for some palates. For this reason, many people drink it with honey and lemon. Others prefer to add 1 Tablespoon to an 8-ounce glass of water.
We were surprised and intrigued to find that Apple cider vinegar has many benefits for hair health. Apple cider vinegar has been known to encourage hair growth and reduce the occurrence of breakage. To improve body and shine of the hair shaft, apply 1/2 Tablespoon of Apple cider vinegar mixed with 1 cup water after shampooing.
Another suggestion that is made with regard to consuming Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is to rinse the mouth afterwards. This is because, being acidic, there may be a possibility of harm to tooth enamel with long term exposure.