MEET YOUR HOUSEHOLD HERO, apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (commonly referred to as ACV) is a household staple that packs hundreds of uses. Whether ingested or used topically, apple cider vinegar has been considered a natural health remedy for thousands of years. It contains properties such as acetic acid, malic acid, potassium, magnesium, probiotics, enzymes, and polyphenols, making it the antibacterial, antiseptic, antiviral, and antifungal go-to for various purposes. 

A few ways to make use of apple cider vinegar, both on your body and in your home
Clean surfaces and neutralize household odors
Diluting apple cider vinegar with water and a splash of lemon creates a household all-purpose spray that also doubles as a deodorizing spray. 

Cure colds and sore throats
Its antibacterial properties kill off the bacteria that could be causing your sore throat. Gargle with diluted apple cider vinegar to help alleviate soreness and prevent further inflammation in your throat. 

Calm bug bites and poison ivy
Irritation from mosquito bites, poison ivy, and even jellyfish stings can be eased with a weakened apple cider vinegar solution. Dab this onto stings and bites to combat redness, itchiness and swelling. ​

Condition your hair for an extra shine
Apple cider vinegar as a hair rinse is said to remove product buildup, detangle and add shine to your hair. Mix 1 part apple cider vinegar with 1 part water and slowly work the mixture in your hair. Use it as a leave-in conditioner for a few minutes before fully rinsing. 

Swish around as a mouthwash
Antiseptic properties prevent plaque buildup while fighting the bacteria responsible for bad breath. Perform this minimally and with caution, as over-usage can lead to tooth enamel erosion. 

Balance pH and deodorize your underarms
A light swab or spray of diluted apple cider vinegar functions as a natural underarm deodorant. 

Repel fleas and ticks on pets
Spray a mixture of 1 part water and 1 part apple cider vinegar onto your pet to create an environment that fleas will not want to hang around in. 

Soothe sunburn
Relieve the pain and discomfort of a bad sunburn by adding apple cider vinegar to a cool bath, or by mixing it with chilled water as you lightly spritz affected areas.

Some of apple cider vinegar’s health benefits may include:

• Eliminates candida (yeast) overgrowth
• Fights seasonal allergies
• Promotes healthy detoxification of the liver
• Treats acid reflux and other digestive ailments
• Kills fungus on toes and skin
• Lowers blood pressure and reduces cholesterol
• Maintains your body’s alkaline pH level
• Provides skin toner for eczema and acne
• Relieves sinus congestion
• Lowers blood sugar levels
• Helps manage weight 
• Slows growth of cancer cells​

How to start incorporating apple cider vinegar into your diet 
To reap these benefits, make sure you’re buying organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar ‘with the mother’. The ‘mother’ creates a cloudy and murky appearance which indicates the presence of the proteins, enzymes and friendly bacteria that make all of the magic happen. Be sure to dilute the vinegar with water before use, as it is highly acidic. 

Keep a bottle of apple cider vinegar in your fridge or pantry as a natural and safe solution for common ailments. These ACV tonics help us feel great, as well as disguise the taste!

Limeade Apple Cider Vinegar Drink
1 1/2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 Tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon stevia or other natural sweetener
2 cups of cold water

Ginger Spice Apple Cider Vinegar Drink
1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon stevia or other natural sweetener*
2 cups of hot or cold water

Apple Pie Apple Cider Vinegar Drink
1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 Tablespoons organic apple juice
3/4 teaspoon stevia or other natural sweetener*
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 cups of hot or cold water

Honey Cayenne Apple Cider Vinegar Drink
1 Tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 Tablespoons honey (ideally raw and local)
1 dash cayenne pepper
2 cups of hot water

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