The healing power of cider vinegar, also called apple-cider vinegar, was first touted by Vermont physician D.C.Jarvis, who believed it prevented illness in pets. He then extended the use of this vinegar to people, suggesting that regular doses of cider vinegar and honey could increase longevity. Cider vinegar is produced when bacteria naturally present in the air convert the small amount of alcohol in apple juice to acetic acid, which gives vinegar its tangy taste. All types of natural vinegar are made this way, but cider vinegar is preferred for medicinal uses because it is less acidic than wine vinegar and so easier to digest. Cider vinegar is high in potassium, which is needed for the proper functioning of the heart and muscles, and in pectin (a type of fiber). A few tablespoons of cider vinegar a day help clear the body of toxins. It can also be used in a compress to reduce swelling and pain.
Cider vinegar : the healer
Cider vinegar contains many key vitamins, minerals, amino acids and enzymes, as well as valuable fruit acids. Its unique properties make cider vinegar superior to other kinds of vinegar. In fact, anyone suffering from excess stomach acid and heartburn should avoid wine vinegar and use cider vinegar to season food. Just make sure to choose vinegar that is certifies organically grown, since only organic cider vinegar is guaranteed to be pure and to contain all the vital elements.
Therapeutic effect
Cider vinegar is a germicide and thus helps fight infection and inflammation when administered internally or externally. It helps prevent blood clots and stimulates the excretory organs. It is therefore an important elimination promoting agent and blood purifier. The vitamin c and beta carotene in cider vinegar, destroy free radicals that weaken the immune system and increase the risk of various diseases. The acids in cider vinegar control the proliferation of yeast in the intestine.
Components
Cider vinegar contains many nutrients, such as beta-carotene, potassium, magnesium, calcium, riboflavin and thiamine; vitamins B6, C and e, and fruit acids and pectin. Of these, beta-carotene, potassium and pectin are especially important for the heart, skin and digestion.
Cider vinegar as an energizing tonic
Dissolve 2 tsp. of cider vinegar and 2 teaspoons of honey in a glass of warm water. Drink a glass of this tonic every morning and evening for at least six weeks. Over time, you will feel revitalized and more energetic.
Cider vinegar for varicose veins
A compress made with cider vinegar helps ease the pain and swelling that can be caused by varicose veins. Soak a towel in cider vinegar and then wrap it around the affected areas. Cover with a dry towel, elevate your legs and rest for 30 mins. If you have sensitive skin, dilute the vinegar with warm water. You can also massage the area with cider vinegar to improve blood flow and tighten the tissue. This massage can be done daily.
Extra Tip : Cider vinegar is part of an old folk remedy for corns and callus. Soak a slice of bread in cider vinegar until it is completely saturated. Place the moist bread on the affected area, secure with a piece of cloth and let it soften the skin overnight.
Used for burns, digestive and intestinal problems, weak muscles, sunburn, itchy skin, insect bites and stings, reducing fatigue and lowering high cholesterol
Methods of administration
Vinegar socks to reduce fever
Immerse a pair of socks in a mixture of equal parts cider vinegar and cold water. Wring them out and place them on the feet of the feverish person. Before the socks have dried completely, resoak them in the solution and replace. Repeat this process a few times. This method works particularly well with children.
Vinegar solution for itchy skin
For sunburn and mild burns, soak a linen cloth in equal amounts of cider vinegar and water; wring out the cloth and apply to the affected body part. Vinegar water can also be used as a rinse to relieve dry and itchy skin. To treat dandruff, vinegar can be applied directly to the scalp before shampooing.
Vinegar baths to purify the skin
A daily 20 min bath in hot water (100 deg F) and cider vinegar (1 cup is added to the bath water) can cleanse the body of acid residues. Vinegar baths are also useful as an additional therapy for fungal skin diseases and for treating vaginitis. Vinegar baths can be safely taken over a 6 week period.
Vinegar syrup as a cough remedy
To calm a cough, mix 5 tbsp. of honey with 5 tsp. of cider vinegar. This mild syrup will relieve coughing and help break up phlegm. A chest compress enhances this effect: soak a towel in equal amounts of cider vinegar and hot water (as hot as you can stand) and place it on your chest for 30 min. Both of these remedies work well for children.
