Apple Cider Vinegar
Health Benefits

Apple Cider Vinegar: Uses, Health Benefits and FAQ

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
Sinus Infections and Sinusitis
Posted by Marie (USA)
★★★★★

I was skeptical in believing that ACV would help my sinus infection. However, I took 2 tablespoons by itself and I felt my throat burning. Immediately it cleared up my nasal passages, and my throat was so much better. It was instantaneous! Forget going to the doctor!


Sinus Infections and Sinusitis
Posted by Kate (Chandler, AZ)
★★★★★

After years of sinus problems, the apple cider vinegar has allowed me overwhelming relief. Thank you.


Sinus Infections and Sinusitis
Posted by Jessica (San Diego)
★★★★★

acv cured my sinusitis - caused from living in polluted California.


Varicose Veins
Posted by Elma (UK)
★★★★★

After having my children 'I had a distended vien between my legs, to one side. I suddenly noticed it had gone after taking cider vinegar for about three months, twice a day.

EC: Click here for more varicose vein cures.


Warts
Posted by Jim (Youngstown)
★★★★★

I have only taken apple cider vinegar for two month, 3 tablespoons in morning, and 3 after work. Warts on my finger completely disappeared and I tried commercial removers. I had them for many years, so I believe the vinegar is responsible.

EC: Click here for more warts cures.

Vitamin and Mineral Content of ACV
Posted by Susan (USA)

Scientists have reportedly measured ninety different substances in apple cider vinegar such as thirteen types of carbolic acids, four aldehydes, twenty ketones, eighteen types of alcohols, eight ethyl acetates etc. It also contains important minerals, trace elements and vitamins as well acetic acid, propionic acid, lactic acid, enzymes, amino acids as well as roughage in the form of potash and apple pectin.

Apple Cider Vinegar contains minerals and trace elements such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, chlorine, sodium, sulfur, copper, iron, silicon, fluorine. An alternative to drinking apple cider vinegar may be to take potassium supplements, as potassium is known to absorb excess fluids (ie, mucous) in the body. Drink lots of water if you take potassium supplements so you don't get dehydrated! Potassium, by the way, lowers high blood pressure.

Apple Cider Vinegar's vitamin content includes Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B6, Provitamin beta-carotene, Vitamin P (bioflavonoids).

Vitamin and Mineral Content of ACV
Posted by Lee (Brooklyn, NY) on 01/08/2010

WARNING: This post on EC states that potassium supplements will lower high blood pressure. I worry that it may not be stated clearly enough: potassium supplements In Natural Forms may lower high blood pressure. Strictly taking potassium pills may actually kill you. I am speaking from experience with a doctor.

If you need potassium, make sure it is within a natural product that you may consume. That is the safest way to supplement it."


02/09/2011: Jfb Maarketing from Toronto, Ontario, Camada replies: "Hey I just started using this remedy and l can tell you one thing l am starting to feel younger and fully of energy. Have since stopped smoking and have more energy then l have had in years... Thanks for all the great information so far love all you have written about all of this great and best of all inexpensive methods of taking care of your body...

All the Best, JFB"


03/05/2011: Jms from Albany, Ny replies: "I have read everything up to this point, and I have to ask. Just above, the USDA data indicated absolutely NO vitamins or amino acids in apple cider vinegar (ACV). There are minerals, I'll give you that. But, honestly, for any other claims, how do I know it's not just wishful thinking? My ACV bottle has a pretty much empty list of nutritional info...


Apple Cider Vinegar and pH Balance
Posted by Lynn Greene (Canada) on 05/28/2023

Yes. I have had gut problems for over 15 years. I started taking apple cider vinegar and got worse, instant diarrhea, stomach pain - very terrible. I ordered the book: The Bloated Belly Whisperer by Tamara Duker Freuman, MS. RD, CDN (Crazy title name, for sure). She recommended NO vinegar, and soluble fibre (acacia -) and had lots to say about many gut problems. I have no association with her or her books. Her suggestions helped me a great deal.


Apple Cider Vinegar and pH Balance
Posted by Doris (Il, Usa) on 11/06/2014

Have u read Dr Jarvis' book? Vinegar is an acid. The whole reason for taking it is to make the urine more acidic. Alkaline urine demonstrates u are not healthy. It all works biochemically via electrical energy. His explanations are very strange, but he proved this folk remedy with cows, horses, and dogs so he could see for himself whether it had all of the benefits espoused. However, he added Lugol's iodone to the mixture as well - at least 3 drop to one serving 3 times weekly. If one has a health problem, they are to drink with each meal. The vinegar & natural honey are supposed to be mixed together well in a glass before adding water. The honey adds solar energy to the concoction.


Apple Cider Vinegar and pH Balance
Posted by Bill (San Fernando) on 03/13/2015

I've read quite often in allopathic research and in doctor's articles that the pH homeostasis mechanism in the human body always operates perfectly and never goes wrong. Really?

So even though the western diet is so bad and so poisonous, even though people have all manner of sickness in huge numbers, including autoimmune and other diseases and even though our immune systems and hormone systems have been thoroughly trashed through our poison processed food diets -- through all this the final conclusion for some people is that our homeostasis pH regulating mechanism always remains untouched, works perfectly and never fails us?

Here is some interesting research evidence from my side on the direct association of acidosis that is increasingly accumulated in the body and which is caused by poor processed food diets over a period of many years. This research looks at our dietary evolution and the ultimate corruption of our older but healthier natural diets in terms of the rising acid levels in our bodies that are apparent today.

Diet, evolution and aging


Capsules
Posted by Susan (USA)
★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

Be careful if you decide to buy apple cider vinegar capsules. They are extremely acidic and can cause heartburn. However, they are a useful alternative if you are worried about protecting your dental enamel.

Capsules
Posted by Amy (League City, Texas) on 04/13/2009

If you suck apple cider vinegar through a straw, it doesn't bother your teeth nearly as much! (Remember not to brush your teeth for an hour afterwards since it softens the enamel.)"


05/11/2009: markkimb from dothan, alabama,america replies: "I can't drink apple cider vinegar, I bought capsules, 500mg. each. Help! I have no idea how much, or how often to take. Trying to help my acid reflux, any suggestions would help.thanks"


08/15/2009: Winniekate from Northern, Il replies: "Regarding: "Remember not to brush your teeth for an hour afterward since it softens the enamel.


04/13/2009: Amy from League City, Texas"Did you mean to say to Brush your teeth afterward? Or is brushing too harsh for teeth? Also, am I right in assuming from this that the enamel returns to its original strength after an hour? Thanks."


09/28/2009: E from Nw, Fl replies: "regarding the brushing your teeth...yes she is saying NOT to brush immediately, My dental hygienists have always said don't brush if you vomit (I think this might have been when I was pregnant) just to rinse with water to remove the excess acid from your mouth but if you brush immediately it can damage the enamel on your teeth since the acid has broken it down temporarily. So the poster is saying wait before brushing. Your saliva will help counteract/re balance the correct ph balance in your mouth...you could always brush your tongue and gums gently and then rinse gently but just don't scrub the teeth. Hope this helps! :)"


01/18/2010: Dandygirl from Newport Beach, Ca replies: "I have suffered from GERD...heartburn/acide reflux etc... for years...have been on medication for years and finally found my cure! I started with digestive enzymes combined with 2 apple cider vinegar pills with EVERY meal...now I ONLY use apple cider vin pills with every meal and I have NO MORE heartburn or acid reflux! I also always keep papaya enzymes to chew on after a heavy meal or anytime between meals! It's like a MIRACLE!!! :o)"


01/31/2011: Andrea from Springfield, Missouri Usa replies: "Why not try rinsing your mouth with water or bottled water to get the vinegar off of your teeth so it doesn't ruin the enamel rather than waiting an hour for your ph to return the salivia to normal, because it is probobly just eating the enamel off of your teeth during that hour after taking the ACV.


Capsules
Posted by Zolton (Solon, Ohio) on 05/15/2014
★★★★★

I have been using ACV for years and it does work. I suggest people to buy it in capsule form at your local drug store or online.


Apple Cider Vinegar History (Part 2)
Posted by Susan (USA)

We thank Jonothan Shiloka for emailing us the following:

Vinegar: A Natural Approach to Avian Management
By Wanda Barras

"Many herbalists recommend the use of raw, unpasteurized, unheated, organic apple cider vinegar as an important dietary ingredient for humans, farm animals and pets, including birds. The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care describes apple cider vinegar in this way: "Long a folk remedy, cider vinegar has been shown to improve the health of dairy cows, horses, dogs and other animals. It reduces common infections, aids whelping, improves stamina, prevents muscle fatigue after exercise, increases resistance to disease and protects against food poisoning. Cider vinegar is rich in the vitamins, minerals and trace elements found in apples, especially potassium; it normalizes acid levels [pH] in the stomach, improves digestion and the assimilation of nutrients, reduces intestinal and fecal odors, helps cure constipation, alleviates some of the symptoms of arthritis and helps prevent bladder stones and urinary tract infections."

Vinegar Through The Ages

Vinegar has been used to cure ailments for centuries. For hundreds of years, folk medicine practitioners have recommended daily doses of apple cider vinegar, not only for specific medical problems, but also for overall food health. In Asia vinegar is called the friend of Chinese herbs because it is often used to process herbal preparations. It is also successfully used in modern Chinese medicine.

Historically, the origin of vinegar was never specifically noted. Vinegar was probably discovered when one of our ancestors found that wine exposed to the air would turn sour, thereby creating vinegar. It is amongst the oldest of foods and medicines know to man. For its healing ways, vinegar has been used for thousands of years. In 400 B.C, Hypocrites, known as the father of medicine, treated patients with vinegar, making it one of the world's first medicines. Throughout biblical times, vinegar was successfully used to treat infections and wounds. For centuries medical textbooks have listed various ways to use vinegar. These uses include everything from keeping a sharp mind to purifying the waters of the body and to easing pain and alleviating dozens of other ailments. Modern laboratory analysis verifies the antibacterial and antiseptic properties of vinegar. Many of the old-time uses are just as applicable now as they were centuries ago. (Moore xii)

Natural Apple Cider Vinegar: One of Mother Nature's Most Perfect Foods

Fermenting sweet juice makes vinegar. The juice turns to wine or cider which is allowed to ferment a second time until the alcohol mixes with oxygen in the air, changing it into acetic acid and water. Natural---that is, undistilled, organic, raw, apple cider vinegar is often called one of Mother Nature's most perfect foods. Apple cider vinegar should be made from fresh, organic, crushed apples that are allowed to mature naturally in wooden barrels. Natural apple cider vinegar, found in health food stores, should be a rich amber color with the "mother" quite visible as sentiment on the bottom. The strength of vinegar is important. All varieties of vinegar contain about 4 to 7 percent acetic acid, with 5 percent being the most common amount. Acetic acid is what gives vinegar its tart and sour taste.

There is nothing beneficial about commercial distilled vinegars except for pickling, cleaning and disinfection ---they have no health value! They do not contain the health values of organic, raw apple cider vinegar with the mother still intact and viable. Distilled white vinegar and cider vinegar sold in supermarkets are considered "dead" vinegars with none of the enzymes and other live factors that make raw, unpasteurized vinegars so valuable. Distilling removes the beneficial "mother" from the vinegar, thereby, destroying the powerful enzymes and life giving minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, natural organic sodium, magnesium, sulphur, iron copper, natural organic fluorine, silicon, trace minerals, pectin and other powerful nutrients. Also destroyed are natural malic and tartaric acids, which are important in fighting body toxins and inhibiting unfriendly bacteria growth (_____ 1- 4).

Apple cider vinegar has shown to be an extremely valuable constituent in the body's biochemical operations and an essential building block in the construction of many complex substances in the body. Vinegar is low in calories and carbohydrates but does contain small amounts of calcium, phosphorus, iron and, of course, lots of potassium. A cup of ACV is 98.8% water, has 34 calories, a trace of protein, and no fat. (Moore p.viii) Acetic acid, the principal constituent in vinegar, plays an important role in the release of energy from fats and carbohydrates. It is of primary importance in the body's metabolism.

Apple Cider Vinegar Can Make Any Living Thing Healthier

Dr. D.C. Jarvis, MD who wrote "Folk Medicine, A Vermont Doctor's Guide to Good Health" and "Arthritis and Folk Medicine", is completely convinced that apple cider vinegar could make any living thing healthier. He believes, Potassium, which is found in just the right amounts in natural apple cider vinegar "is so essential to the life of every living thing and that with out it there would be no life. Potassium is the most important of all minerals that are necessary for good health." Potassium's main function is to promote cell, tissue and organism growth. It is necessary to replace dead cells and tissue. There is no better source of potassium than vinegar---particularly natural apple cider vinegar.

Dr. Jarvis believes Apple cider vinegar can help fight infection, simply by keeping fluids where they belong---in body cells, not in bacteria. Bacteria need moisture to thrive. As bacteria multiply, they will pull necessary fluids from healthy cells in order to flourish, particularly during times of stress when resistance is low. Stress is a major agent in causing a previously sub-clinical problem to break into a full-blown illness. If the process goes unchecked illness will occur. In order to defeat bacterial infections and illness it is important to keep moisture in the cells and prevent germs from depleting that moisture. According to Dr. Jarvis: "If there is enough potassium in each body cell, it will draw moisture from the [harmful] bacteria, instead of the bacteria taking moisture from the body cells." Therefore by providing natural sources of potassium in the diet (fruit, berries, sprouts, edible leaves, edible roots, etc.) and including apple cider vinegar to that diet the body cells are provided with the necessary moisture-attracting potassium. It is interesting to note that many traditional medicines used to combat bacterial illness also work by depriving bacteria of moisture and thus keeping fluids inside the cells (O'Brien p40)

Acidic pH Balance Will Discourage Bacteria, Yeast & Fungal Growth

Apple cider vinegar destroys microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, viruses and others, and prevents poisons from reaching the rest of the systems of the body. It has been proven to inhibit the growth of gram-negative bacilli, Pseudomonas, and Candida. The acid nature of vinegar makes the digestive tract environment unpleasant for germs and fungus. Apple cider vinegar has proven to be a natural treatment (and preventative) in simple cases of avian pediatric digestive disorders. Dr. Jarvis through his own research believes that apple cider vinegar will lower bloods natural alkalinity, bringing it closer to a natural healthy acid state. A naturally acidic digestive tract digestive, with the correct pH balance, will discourage bacteria and is less likely to grow yeast and fungus. Apple cider vinegar can assist the natural process of breaking food in the stomach. The acidic qualities of ACV will help break down protein, in the digestive system, for absorption into the bloodstream.

Apple Cider Vinegar On The Farm

For the past year and a half I have routinely added apple cider vinegar, to my baby birds' hand-feeding formula, to all drinking water and sprinkled some on the food of the animals here at our aviary and small dairy farm. These animals include several species of breeding exotic parrots, chickens, ducks, dogs, cats and LaMancha dairy goats. The vinegar keeps the water bowls and bottles very clean and sanitary and the animals seem to love it--- of course, the nutritional and health benefits are a plus. Apple cider vinegar added to young birds drinking water encourages early weaning and healthy weight gain and they will feather out faster. Adding a little raw apple cider vinegar to the hand-feeding formula water can prove nutritionally beneficial and help to inhibit the growth of yeast, fungus and bacteria. In formula a ratio of about 1/4 tsp per 4 oz water is best.

You may safely add cider vinegar to food and/or drinking water, starting with small amounts and building up to 1/2 to 1 teaspoon per 15 pounds of body weight or about 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (health food store variety best) to 8 oz water. That is about %1/4 cup per gallon of water and/or you may sprinkle or spray small amounts on bird's food. Gradually add small doses to food over time, you can help even the most finicky eater to accept this. Do not use metal food or water dishes when using vinegar, stainless steel is OK.

In Conclusion

Why Vinegar? Because it can be used medicinally, gets rid of poisons in the body, has disinfecting and cleaning properties and is a natural, nontoxic, biodegradable substance. That is, vinegar is an unadulterated food, a powerful cleansing agent and healing elixir---a naturally occurring antibiotic and antiseptic that fights germs and bacteria. We would be smart to make use of vinegar in our own lives and in our avian nurseries and breeding facilities. --- For a healthier, stronger, longer life for our animals and ourselves.

For further reading on vinegars medicinal and antiseptic qualities:"

Contact Information
Telephone: 337-394-6683 FAX: 775-542-2120
or 337-394-1944
Postal address: PO Box 493, St. Martinville, LA 70582

Capsules
Posted by Deirdre (EC) on 10/29/2022

Hi Anne,

I would check the reviews under Apple Cider Vinegar capsules or tablets on Amazon. Braggs finally started selling ACV capsules with added D3 and Zinc, so perhaps! However, on Earth Clinic, there are old posts that say capsules or tablets are not as effective as liquid.

Here are the customer reviews for Bragg's on Amazon.


Capsules
Posted by Mama To Many (Tennessee) on 12/02/2023

Dear Sheila,

I was skeptical at first but do think that Apple Cider Vinegar Capsules are helpful. I get mine from Costco. Huge bottle and I generally like all the supplements I get from Costco.

~Mama to Many~


Warnings
Posted by beverly (Texas) on 02/04/2022

Are you absolutely sure about this? I have researched and cannot confirm this.


Capsules
Posted by Kaur (Canada) on 09/08/2014

My son is 13 years old and we take webber naturals apple cider vinegar capsules. It says max you can take is 6, but how much can my son take?

Broad Benefits
Posted by Karen S (Canada) on 10/22/2013

It matters very much if the "mother" is with the vinegar, I'm afraid. I know that even using clear Apple Cider Vinegar will still give you a nice complexion. However, the amazing wonderous enzymes that exist in the "mother" are what heals us. Maybe that's why they call it that.


Broad Benefits
Posted by Cat (Austin, Tx) on 02/05/2016

Comment on 'lovin the buttermilk but not losing weight'

Rama - I noticed you said you can't lose weight despite the fact that you are a fitness person. Suggestion: Eat full fat buttermilk or not at all -- better for you because of more nutrients! But, you may possibly have a milk intolerance (many people from your part of the world do) and your body protects you by keeping you full of fluids (food sensitivities can do this). I suggest going a week with no milk products (ice cream, cheese, milk & buttermilk...) and see if that makes a difference. OR, perhaps your body is getting too many carbs from the usual sources (rice, wheat, corn...) Remember this: It is not fat that makes us fat but way too many carbohydrates. Lower your carbs just for 1 week to between 70-100 a day and see how you feel and if your weight recedes. If it does, you have your culprit! Tally your carbs on-line or get a good carb-counting book. Love & Happiness...CAT


General Feedback
Posted by Marie2mil (Adelaide, South Australia) on 10/04/2012

Dee, I drink ACV through a straw too, make sure the straw is way back in your mouth - that way it will surely bypass your teeth no problems. Good Luck. Marie


Warnings
Posted by C. Jones (Cleveland, Oh) on 08/28/2012

Warning! I took apple cider vinegar (ACV) with lunch and dinner daily for about four years and developed ever-worsening fatigue. I never put the two together until I came across a book about copper toxicity and zinc deficiency. ACV is stored in copper vessels. Taking it daily can increase your copper levels and subsequently decrease your zinc levels. If your copper levels get high enough, you will develop thyroid and adrenal issues and be plagued with fatigue. Since cutting out the apple cider vinegar and taking a zinc capsule I cannot believe how much better I feel. I can exercise again and not be exhausted for days. I had tried EVERYTHING (dietary changes, medication, supplements) and nothing helped until I added zinc AND eliminated ACV (adding zinc only did not help).


How to Take
Posted by Cat (Austin, Tx) on 02/05/2016

Comment on Gargling with ACV:

I would not frequently do this, folks! The enamel on your teeth will eventually erode making it very easy to get cavities, plus, your teeth can thin. Best to mix with warm water in a small baby jar with a lid -- about 2 ACV tsps with 3 tablsps of water and 1 tsp of honey or molasses (if you are not worried about sugar-diabetes) and either chug down or straw-down toward the back of the throat. And certainly never gargle with ACV without quickly rinsing your mouth out thoroughly afterwards. If you want to thicken thin teeth, look into ingesting a tsp a day of FOOD GRADE diatomaceous earth (DE) for a couple of weeks to a month. Many report that it thickens teeth (it did mine - from playing card look to corn bulb look and it tightened my loose teeth. You can even brush once a week with it to whiten your teeth); helps with thin hair, gum health, arthritis, shoulder, wrist, knee and other joint pains. Do your "safety" research first. Peace out, CAT


Triglyceride Levels
Posted by Cvbhossain (Doha) on 04/27/2012
★★★★★

Hi, Few months I googled and found this site for Apple cider vinegar to reduced my trigleceride level. I am 48 and took medicines for reducing. Then I took risk and took one tablespoon daily for 4 months within two months to my & doctor surprise my triglercite level went down.. Thanks for the person who created this site and the contirbutors for sharing their own personal effect and experience.....


Acid Reflux
Posted by Taz (Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa) on 04/03/2012
★★★★★

I have had such bad bouts of reflux. When I had my gallbladder removed it improved. But this have gotten stressful medication prices have hit the ceiling never mind to mention the side effects. Out of desperation I googled a natural remedy. I used normal vinegar and it worked. So I know that the apple cider vinegar is going to be even more effective. Thank you!!!


Hair Conditioner
Posted by Ellenf (Leander, Tx, Usa) on 03/06/2012
★★★★★

Thank you EarthClinic contributors... You have made me the happiest mom!!!

My eight year old daughter has had dense, curly hair since she was two. I have for six years of my life dealt with her screaming and crying while brushing or combing the tangles out of her hair. I literally had to chase her when she was younger and brush her hair while running. I only brush her hair when it's wet or it turns into a puff ball. I have tried every shampoo and conditioner you can imagine. Even special (expensive) products made for curly children's hair.

I read the posts here, washed my daughter's hair, then rinsed. Next, I mixed about 2 tbsp of ACV mixed with warm water in a 16 oz squeeze bottle. I applied it to her scalp and worked it down through her ends, then rinsed and towel dried. I applied a small amount of leave in conditioner and began brushing her hair with a special (expensive) brush made for curly hair.

As I brushed her ends, the tangles fell out with VERY little effort. I then brushed from scalp to ends... Completely dumbfounded. I finished in about one minute and she ran off to play with her sister. I stood there, paralyzed in amazement, on the verge of tears. I could not believe that 2 tbsp of ACV solved this long standing problem. I think of the time, energy, frustration and tears that have gone into brushing my little girl's hair over the last six years and all I can do is shake my head. Bless you all!


How to Take
Posted by Leehofook (Plainville, Ct) on 01/15/2012

I did the obvious: I mixed the apple cider vinegar (ACV) with apple cider. It gives the cider a great kick and makes it a fantastic drink, and you don't even notice the apple cider vinegar going down!


Making Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Lori (Watertown, Wisconsin, Usa) on 10/16/2011

I've tried two different methods for making cider vinegar. I used the method described on the website that calls for making hard cider first. Although it worked okay, it produced a milder-tasting vinegar and it took more time. (My DH did like the hard cider though, and set aside a bottle for his own consumption.) Using fresh, unpasturized, unfiltered apple cider, fresh from the orchard is my preferred method. It helps to have everything prepared before you leave for the orchard to pick up the cider. Wash and stage an appropriate number of large, wide-mouthed glass containers (the kind that bulk foods come in). Lay out cheesecloth and rubber-bands for covering the container openings after filling them with cider. Set aside a warm location out of direct sunlight for fermentation for the jars. (Out-of-the-way tables and counters work well. Cold shelves close to the floor do not work. ) Pitfalls of this method: 1) If you don't have everything prepared the cider will need to be refrigerated until then. 2) There is more of a chance that a jar will get a mold-growth on top of the mother. I've had to throw out a few jars because of this.

One thing I have learned over the years is that some orchards (combo's of apples) produce better vinegar results than others. Once you find an orchard with good results, stick to it. One more note: The best batch I ever made was from windfall apples collected from random trees. If I'm ever able to make my own press I'll be using this method exclusively.



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