6 Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar

One of the most popular grocery “staples” is apple cider vinegar. If you asked a dozen people what they mostly use it for, I’m sure you’d get multiple different answers! It’s a popular home remedy that people have used for centuries in cooking, cleaning, medicine, and other DIY projects. 

Apple cider vinegar has various health properties, including antimicrobial and antioxidant effects and even more uses. 

Here are six uses and benefits of Apple cider vinegar:

Natural Preservative

Apple cider vinegar, like most kinds of vinegar, is an effective preservative. It makes food more acidic, deactivating the enzymes and killing any bacteria in the food that causes spoilage. 

To do so, you can look up pickling recipes for many different vegetables. Be sure you’re storing your vinegar properly for the best results! Store it in a completely dry place and only mix it with water when you want to use it (so the acidity levels don’t go down). Check the pickling container for cracks and be sure it can be closed effectively.

Beauty Uses (Hair and Skin)

There are many different “beauty” ways to use apple cider vinegar, including skin-care and hair-care hacks and as a deodorizer.

Because it has antibacterial properties, apple cider vinegar is known to eliminate bad smells, making it a great natural alternative to odor neutralizers. You can mix the vinegar with water and put it in a spray bottle as a quick DIA deodorizing spray or mix it with water and Epsom salt to make a foot soak. 

To remove dirt and product buildup, detangle your hair, and add shine, mix apple cider vinegar and water (half and half) and pour it over your hair. Leave it for a few minutes before washing it out. Many people have also found dabbing a bit of diluted vinegar on pimples can get rid of them. Always remember that vinegar is highly acidic, so be very careful. Use more water to dilute the vinegar (for your hair or face) if your skin is sensitive. 

The acidic nature can be helpful for other forms of beauty care, such as teeth whitening. Simply pour some on a cotton ball or swab and rub it on your teeth before rinsing your mouth out (very well, so you don’t cause damage to your enamels). 

Finally, you can use apple cider vinegar as a homemade facial toner or in the bath. If you’re planning to soak in your tub, add 1-2 cups of vinegar for some extra benefits.

Weight Loss

Apple cider vinegar can help you feel full, thus causing you to eat fewer calories. There have been some studies about apple cider vinegar aiding in weight loss and reducing belly fat. While the studies are not entirely conclusive, it is clear that apple cider vinegar may contribute to weight loss by promoting satiety, lowering blood sugar, and reducing insulin levels.

If you want to try utilizing apple cider vinegar for weight loss, start by drinking some in the morning or before a big meal. Mix 1-2 tablespoons with water and drink the solution 1-3 times a day. Or, if you’re not a fan of drinking it, you can try adding it to other foods! I really enjoy drizzling some on my salads and vegetables for extra flavoring and health benefits.

All-Purpose Cleaner

The antibacterial and acidic properties make apple cider vinegar a great natural all-purpose cleaner. Dilute the vinegar with water and put the mixture in a spray bottle for easy access. You can also pour some vinegar in a cup, add a few drops of dish soap, and set the cup out to trap fruit flies. 

You can also use the cleaning mixture on dentures, fruits and vegetables, and dishes to kill off unwanted bacteria and pesticides. 

Alright, I know that was a lot of things to clean, but there’s one more helpful cleaning use of apple cider vinegar. Simply mix half a cup of water with 2 tablespoons of vinegar and 2 teaspoons of baking soda. Then, drop your toothbrush in the mixture for 30 minutes to disinfect it! Just remember to rinse it well before using it again. 

To Lower Blood Sugar

Once again, many studies show drinking apple cider vinegar after a high-carb meal can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar. Some people disagree with this claim, and you should always consult your doctor first (especially if you take medicine for diabetes). Still, professionals generally agree that consuming vinegar can help lower blood sugar. 

To Help Sore Throats

Last but not least, let’s make some soups and tea! Apple cider vinegar is a popular home remedy for sore throats (mainly because it kills bacteria) by mixing it with water and gargling. You can also add vinegar to soup to enhance the flavors in addition to soothing your sore throat.

For hot drinks, you can either add 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a cup of tea or make your own alternative hot drink. Mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice into hot water (8 ounces) for a tasty drink that will help sore throats. 

If you prefer a recipe format:

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 
• 8 ounces water
• A drizzle of raw honey (optional)

Whatever drink you’ve made, be sure to sip it slowly. And, if you drink ACV daily, you may want to drink through a straw to prevent wearing the enamel of your teeth. Most importantly, do NOT drink apple cider vinegar straight (undiluted) because it will burn and can cause damage! 

As with any remedy, be sure to speak to your doctor first about any health concerns, especially if you’re pregnant! 

There are many more benefits and ways to use apple cider vinegar, including in different recipes, but this is plenty for today! 

So, CRUSHers, have you tried any of these apple cider vinegar hacks?

If so, how did it work for you? I’d love to know your favorite way to use apple cider vinegar, so drop it in the comments below!

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