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.
Acid Reflux
Posted by Judy (Pardes Hanna, Israel) on 09/21/2008
★★★★★
I started using stronger and stronger medicines for acid reflux and wanted to try something else. Looking in your site, I got some apple cider vinegar. I take less than a teaspoonful in a large glass of water, twice a day, and have stopped using any medicine. Thank you so much.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Alice (New Fairfield, Connecticut) on 09/11/2008
★★★★★
Some friends recently joked that I should put Apple Cider Vinegar in a spray bottle and keep it with me at all times since I am recommending it to everbody for everything! (think windex and "My Big Fat Greek Wedding") Anyway, I always try to have 2 bottles in the house (1 for internal ingestion and one for topical uses) and I take 2 Tbsps (a shot glass full) every day. I personally prefer to take it this way as I feel it's not going to taste great no matter what I add it to so I just get it down and follow up with a water or juice chaser. I am recently diagnosed with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, a form of hypothyroidism, and I now realize that when I first started taking the ACV regularly I noticed a little change in my energy, digestion, and skintone. I stopped taking it a week before my physical and stopped taking it daily and my symptoms were a little worse. I have started taking Levothyroxine and am still waiting for it to kick in...it's only been a few weeks, but I am defintely going to continue ingesting the ACV . As far as ACV for other things, here are a few that I absolutely swear by:
1. bee stings - we had quite a few this summer, my 7 year old's hand swelled up incredibly where it was stung and as soon as I applied a cottonball soaked in ACV the spot immediately deflated and she pain stopped after a few minutes. Hours later there was almost no sign of the sting.
2. Herpes cold sores - My husband and both my daughters have gotten them and at the first sign it's coming on I apply an ACV soaked cottonball and hold it on for a couple of minutes. Since the first time I tried this it has worked every time! The cold sores never ever broke out. Also important to note that I read on this site how diet sodas can bring on Herpes cold sores and I told my husband about it. The last 3 times he drank diet soda he felt a breakout coming on which I stopped dead it it's tracks with the ACV. He is finally convinced not to drink diet soda and that the ACV really works.
3. Triglycerides - Not an issue for me but a friend researched ACV for that purpose and her husband started taking it a couple of months before his next doctors appt. She said his levels did drop quite a bit although not enough to avoid medication, but it did seem to work. Maybe if continued his levels could drop more?
4. pimples - Not a problem for me but occasionally I get one and the ACV clears it up. These are the main uses of ACV for our family but I'm sure I will find more...I am a devoted user!
Diabetes
Posted by Faith (St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands) on 09/09/2008
★★★★★
I must say when I heard about Apple Cider Vinegar I was curious. I went out the same day and purchased a bottle. I'm a type 2 diabetic and I must say that I feel a lot better since taking it, my monthly cycle has changed to a more normal cyle. It used to be very heavy the first two days...no more.
I also started the pulling oil...that too is great. My mouth feels so clean all day. Just started it so I haven't really seen anything major, but I will report back. Thanks Earthclinic.
EC: Read more about apple cider vinegar and diabetes here.
Libido
Posted by Jerry (Grand Rapids, Michigan) on 09/07/2008
Was wondering how much ACV this person takes in reference to his increased libido. I am currently taking 3-6 tsp each day. I noticed most of the folks here are taking 2-4 tablespoons and am considering increasing my dosage. The ailment I am working on is GERD and it seems to be working well. Thank you for any ideas and suggestions. - Jerry Voltura
Blood Sugar
Posted by Pat (Ballwin, MO) on 09/05/2008
★★★★★
I found this article on RealAge (www.realage.com//ct/tips/2655) about ACV and wanted to share.
Vinegar Delight
Research suggests that a little bit of vinegar could have a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels.
In a study, ingesting a couple tablespoons of apple cider vinegar before a high-carbohydrate meal was found to help dampen expected spikes in blood sugar levels from the meal.
For a bit of vinegar's benefit, try starting off your next pasta meal with a salad splashed with red wine vinegar and olive oil.
Vinegar is no substitute for healthy eating habits or for proven methods of blood sugar control. The beneficial effects of vinegar on blood sugar levels may not apply to healthy individuals, and more research is needed to confirm its potential benefits for other populations.
In a recent study, ingesting 20 grams (approximately 2 tablespoons) of apple cider vinegar before eating a high-carbohydrate meal improved insulin resistance.
Study participants who experienced the blood sugar control benefits from vinegar were either diabetic or had insulin resistance syndrome. They followed the 20 grams of apple cider vinegar with a high-carbohydrate meal consisting of a white bagel, butter, and orange juice.
After the high-carbohydrate meal, the acetic acid from the earlier serving of vinegar appeared to reduce blood sugar levels by 19 percent in people with diabetes and by 34 percent in people with insulin resistance.
Acetic acid may help lower blood sugar levels by suppressing enzymes required to break down sugars, resulting in slower absorption.
The best way to keep blood sugar levels steady is to eat a balanced diet, eat at regular intervals, and engage in a moderately strenuous program of physical activity. If you have diabetes or insulin resistance syndrome, follow your healthcare provider's advice.
Acid Reflux
Posted by Debbie (Waverly, United States) on 09/03/2008
★★★★★
Apple Cider Vinegar has been a miracle for my mother. She has been suffering terribly from acid reflux and it was so bad the other night she felt like she could not breath. She has tried every medication over the counter and prescription and nothing has worked. She was desperate, so I thought I would look up some natural cures and found this site. I called her right away and told her about the apple cider vinegar. She tried it right away and she could not believe it. She said immediatley her throat felt better and she slept all night for the first time in weeks. She took it agian today and said she still feels great. She said she has not even taken a pill today. She used 8oz of water and a Tb. Apple cider Vinegar and a pinch of baking soda. Thanks for this site. Its a life saver. Debbie
Libido
Posted by Michael (Clarksville, Indiana) on 09/03/2008
★★★★★
I have started taking Apple Cider Vinegar two days ago...And I am having a side effect that no one else so far has reported. My sex drive has doubled. As well as my energy has went through the roof. No weight yet but have only been taking it for a couple of days...Will update later...
Iodine Depletion
Posted by Sean (Toronto, Canada) on 08/18/2008
Just came to know that my itching was due to another problem. An insect bite. Just wanted to post this clarification. I am very happy with ACV and Honey drink and no complaints. Thanks!
Broad Benefits
Posted by Bret (Orlando, FL) on 08/15/2008
★★★★★
Grandma's been telling us to use ACV for EVERYTHING that ales us for years. She's 93 and has not seemed to age for the 20 years. She even recently fell and broke her nose. What did she do even before going to the hospital? Rubbed ACV on her face. That still seems excessive to me but my history with ACV tells me there is knowledge in that old lady.
I ran into a very old man at a yard sale who helped me carry a porch bench to my car. I told him I was very impressed with his energy. He made me watch him do some ankle kicks. I can't even do that. He was 86. Whats he contribute it to? ACV.
Before my esophogus issues, which I am now treating with ACV thanks to your site, I tried ACV on an unsightly mole by my pelvis. Taped a soaked cotton ball to it nightly. Got a bit worried when it appeared to grow, get darker and more coarse. But then it flicked right off by the third day! Gone for 9 months now. But I have to cred my brother with that idea since he once showed me some absolutely frightening genital warts he had. He called me weeks later to say they were gone after soaking them by paper towel over night with ACV in about 1 week! And that was after several doctor visits that would not remedy.
Well, hope it clears up my acid reflux now. But after what I know, and the continual testimony from fam and those willing to share on this site, I'd be a fool to not partake daily. I'm on it. Hint: hold your nose while taking it - even before you let go wash it down with juice or something and completely clear out your mouth if the taste is too strong.
Sinus Infections and Sinusitis
Posted by Jean (Las Vegas, Nevada) on 08/14/2008
★★★★★
Apple Cider Vinegar has cured my chronic sinus infection.
About 4 years ago a root-canal on an upper back tooth developed an abcess that drained into my sinus. For two years I had a chronic sinus infection on that side and it seemed as though I would never be able to breath through my nose again! Anti-histamines, antibiotics, nasal sprays & saline rinses would knock down the pain and swelling temporarily, but nothing worked permanently until I found this site and started using ACV & baking soda. I used 2 TBS ACV and 1/4 tsp baking soda morning and night in small glasses of fruit juice. Put the ACV in the glass first, then the Baking soda (it will foam up and then subside) then fill with fruit juice.
Almost immediately the sinus started to drain and I can't describe the yucky blod filled mucous that came out at first. Gradually, the discharge became clear and now I feel "normal" for the first time in years. I can even smell the roses again!
GERD
Posted by Maggie (Brick, New Jersey) on 08/13/2008
★★★★★
I have suffered with GERD with a year. I could not eat tomato sauce, choclate, soda or fried foods (basically 90% of my diet :). I also could not lie flat in bed. The pain was constant, no matter what I ate, how I ate, when etc. I was put on the typial meds which either did nothing or made the pain worse. I was eating antacids like tic tacs. I asked the MD why I developed GERD as I have no risk factors for it and was unsatisifed with the answer of "it just happens". As a nurse, I need to know the reason why. The pain had to stop. I was not going to go through this the rest of my life. I came across your web-site and thank you and Thank God!! I used the regular ACV and it worked a little. My sister in law talked me into trying the organic ACV with the enzymes and I have used it for two weeks AND HAVE HAD NO PAIN!! I am back to eating whatever I want. I realized I felt better when I had raviloi for lunch followed by pizza for dinner and NOTHING HAPPENED! Previously, I would have been in pain for hours and eating meds and not able to lie down. I still get pain in my stomach if I'm stressed out, combined with bad food, and I rely on an OTC med that works, now one pill is all I need. But I have gone to eating meds to taking nothing!! I checked with my MD first who could neither recommend or dissuade me from using it, but he had no problems with me using it and basically said "knock yourself out". Thank you for being there for us who suffer and I wish someone would do a study on this so that others could be pain free as well.I can also sleep flat again, and on my back, with no pain. I take a tblsp in the morning in 12-16 oz water (be sure to shake the bottle) and again at night before bed. I feel great otherwise as well. It's like my stomach is happy!! Thank you thank you thank you.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Les (Naples, Florida) on 08/11/2008
★★★★★
I have had problems with excess mucus which prevented me from getting a good nights sleep. I found your site and tried your apple cider vinegar remedy. I use one to two tablespoons of ACV to a glass of warm water. It worked like a miracle. Not only is my mucus problem gone it also has helped my asthma.I sleep through the night like a baby. Thanks again for this excellent website. Les
PS: Also improved my church choir voice.
Recipes
Posted by TERESA (GREENSBORO, NC) on 08/10/2008
★★★★★
I FOUND THE VINEGAR TASTE IS NOT SO BAD IF I ADD ONE OR TWO PACKETS OF PRE-MEASURED STEVIA W/2 TSP OF VINEGAR, W/6 TO 8 OZ WATER. UNREFINED, ORGANIC ACV WITH MOTHER IS AN INEXPENSIVE PROBIOTIC. I SIP IT THROUGHOUT THE DAY, AS A BEVERAGE. I ONLY USE DISTILLED VINEGAR FOR CLEANING.
Iodine Depletion
Posted by Sean (Toronto, Canada) on 08/05/2008
Dear Ted, Firstly, I want to convey my heart felt thanks for the awesome job you have done in posting your tips! God Bless you!!
Could you comment on the ACV's role in affecting Iodine in the body? I started taking ACV + Honey for the last 20 days, and my skin is excessively itchy and resulting in small bumps / rashes on the skin where-ever I scratch. At times, it is so bad I scratch so much that I see blood.
I worry if this is caused by ACV impacting my iodine levels in the body? I am a borderline Hypo thyroid patient and trying the ACV remedy to see if it helps my hair regrow (I have very very thin hair).
Please advise. Thanks!
Foot Health
Posted by John (Lanarkshire, UK) on 07/26/2008
★★★★★
Put about a pint of distilled white or cider vinegar into a basin of warm water and soak feet. This deodorizes and softens calluses at the same time. Rinsing socks in this solution after washing acts like a built-in odour eater.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Amy (Sachse, TX) on 07/26/2008
★★★★★
I had horrible acne and started applying it straight topically and taking two table spoons internally daily. Also started applying it to my arm pits nightly. I had a horrible problem with deodorant not working after my first pancreatic attack. I now only have to apply deodorant once in the morning. No reapplying 3 or 4 times during the day. I noticed after about a week that I was using the restroom more regularly. Because I have Pancreatitis, sometimes my food does not digest properly. The ACV has also helped with this. I have never believed in anything the way I believe in Apple Cider Vinegar. It is inexpensive and good for you. So even if it doesn't work for Cellulite it will make you feel better over all. I have heard of people using ACV as a fat flush to lose weight. Maybe that is why it has helped with some peoples cellulite. Good Luck!!!
Acid Reflux
Posted by Keith (Nacogdoches, Tx. USA) on 07/17/2008
★★★★★
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is the best. Lived on all the prescriptions and over the counter drugs. They relieved but they did not cure. ACV does. It's not just good for acid reflux but for other things in your body. Every Morning 1 tble spoon ACV plus 1 package of emerg C in 8oz. of pure water, been acid reflux free 2 years and counting.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Denise (Greenwich, CT) on 06/30/2008
★☆☆☆☆
I used 1 tsp. acv in apple juice 3x/day for about a year. Unfortunately, it didn't help my acid reflux, blood pressure or cholesterol. My bp and cholesterol got higher in fact. My diet never changed. I've stopped the ACV and both numbers dropped. So strange as I used _____'s organic ACV and they say it works for everything. I was so disappointed. Wish I knew why it didn't work for me. I also developed something called sjogren's disease A after using it which is dry eyes and dry mouth. I don't have symptoms ironically, but I do get these huge cysts in the orbit of the eye. They have also stopped since I discontinued the ACV.
Since everyone is discussing using ACV and baking soda, why not use Alka Seltzer gold? It is sodium and potassium bicarbonate. A naturopath doctor told me to use it back in the 80's when I developed severe food allergies. As soon as one started, I put alka seltzer gold in water and it halted the reaction immediately; 1000mg of Vit C does the same thing.
My daughter developed laryngeal acid reflux and was put on prevacid 2x/day. I didn't want to do this as she is only 13, but she is having problems with singing. The naturopath prescribe licorice tablets but it says it's for adults and can only be used for 6 weeks since it causes the bp to rise. Her skin is dry and she has mild asthma and she has been breaking out with little pimples on her back, chest and arms and face. It's so frustrating as I hate meds. They have helped her, but I hate any long term meds as I'm frightened they may cause cancer. I'd try the ACV but it may make her skin break out more.
Broad Benefits
Posted by Mel (Garner, NC) on 06/30/2008
★★★★★
I found your website about a year ago and I have consulted it regularly since to find remedies with amazing results for various symptoms. I will stick with Apple Cider Vinegar for right now and post the others at a later time.
I have been taking a tablespoon of Organic ACV with Mother of Vinegar just about every day for the past year. Not only have I not experienced acid reflux, but I have also noticed that I have not had a cold to speak of during that time. Back in December of '07 I experienced a slight irritation in the back of my throat and watery eyes that normally would signal the onset of a cold with worse symptoms to follow. It never got any worse and in three days I felt completely normal. I am 52 years old and that is the first time that has ever happened to me.
While several of my co-workers were scurrying to get flu shots, I continued taking ACV and never missed a step and for the first time in years I did not spend a dime on over-the-counter allergy medication.
This may not work for everybody, but I am convinced it has worked for me. I thank God for the practical wisdom contained on this website.
God bless you all!