I’d like to start off the first installment of the “One Product, Ten Uses” series with an amazingly versatile product–Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV). I first started using ACV after reading how it was beneficial to those with sinus problems. While I don’t have chronic sinusitis, I seem to suffer from some morning congestion every now and then. Really not the best condition to wake up to, trust me. Ever since I’ve added ACV to my diet, my mucous production has somewhat normalized, and I no longer have any problems with Post-nasal Drip (when your mucous drips down to the back of your throat, ew!).
ACV also helped me tremendously in recovering from a really bad Sinus infection that plagued me for the past two weeks. I was literally pulling out sticky globs and strands of thick mucous from the depths of my throat… Apologies if that’s a little too graphic, but I really want to emphasize how much it helped my condition. My mucous thinned up really quickly, I no longer had to run to the bathroom and spend five minutes gagging at the sink! I’m glad I didn’t have to go to the Doctor for antibiotics, because they really screw up your body in the long run. While ACV isn’t exactly the most palatable liquid to consume (most things which are good for you aren’t, unfortunately), I’m going to share with you my favorite way to take it.
You will need:
- 1 teaspoon of raw organic honey (I prefer Manuka honey for the added benefits, I’m currently using Woodland’s Organic)
- 2 tablespoons of ACV (Bragg’s Organic Unfiltered ACV is recommended, you can find it at your local supermarket or com)
- Juice squeezed from a lemon quarter
- Water
Mix all of the above, and you’ll have a yummy tasting energy-giving drink to kick start your day. It’s that simple! I’ve recommended this concoction to a couple of my friends, and they’re all addicted to it. Even my dogs drink every last drop from the bowl after their walk. Try it, and you’ll eventually reap the benefits.
But that’s not all, here’s nine other things I like to do with ACV:
- Facial toner: Dilute one part ACV with two parts of distilled water. You can choose to store it in a spray bottle for easy application, or saturate a cotton pad and spread it over le visage.
- Hair rinse: Dilute a tablespoon of ACV in a cup of cold water and pour the solution over your head after your shampoo ritual. Leave it on for a bit, rinse out and then proceed with conditioner. Voilà, soft and shiny hair! Supermodel Miranda Kerr swears by this trick, and well, we can’t argue with that can we?
- Fruit fly trap: Fill the bottom of a plastic cup with some ACV, cover the top with cling wrap and use a toothpick to poke some holes. You’ll soon have a watery fruit fly graveyard to deal with. Repeat as necessary.
- Soothes sunburn/inflammation: Pour some ACV onto a cotton pad and lightly dab over areas of sunburn or inflammation for quick relief! It might sting slightly at first, but you’ll feel better after.
- Natural flea prevention for your pet: Mix one part ACV with one part water, and thoroughly spray the solution onto your pet’s coat, making sure you rub it into the skin before walks to prevent any possible flea infestation.
- Effective household cleaner: Pour some ACV into a pail of water, and use that to mop your floor instead of utilizing toxic substances that could potentially be damaging to your health. This will leave your floors and kitchen counters squeaky clean!
- Room/fridge freshener: Leaving 1/2 a cup of ACV in a musty room or funky smelling fridge will leave the contained area smelling of apples. No need for ozone-layer depleting aerosols.
- Homemade facial mask: Add ACV and raw Manuka honey to oatmeal and facial clay for a detoxifying, acne-busting mask. Allow the mask to dry for 15-20 minutes, and wash off with tepid water.
- Bath soak: Add a cup of ACV to your weekly soaks in the tub. Throw in some Epsom Salts and Baking Soda for extra detoxification benefits, sit back, relax, and enjoy.
Do you know any other unusual ways of using ACV in your daily life? Please do share! I would also love to hear if you’ve tried any of the above tips and tricks, and how they’re working out for you. Questions are also welcome, just drop me a comment below.
Disclaimer: Due to the lack of supporting medical research, ACV cannot be recommended for treatment or prevention of any health issues. If you’re unsure, please consult with your general practitioner before taking any home remedies or supplements. While I’m happy to share my experience for the general public’s benefit, one man’s meat is another man’s poison. Those with sensitive skin are also advised to do a patch test before application.
Disclosure: In the spirit of full disclosure, some of the links above are affiliate links, which means I may get a commission if you decide to purchase anything from iHerb. I only recommend products I love and use myself, so rest assured you’ll be in good hands. Compensation was not provided by Bragg Live Foods/iHerb. The opinions expressed herein are mine and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Bragg Live Foods/iHerb.
