Sinus Infections
Health Benefits

Use Apple Cider Vinegar to Naturally Treat Sinus Infections

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.

305 User Reviews

5 star (258) 
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4 star (19) 
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3 star (2) 
  1%
1 star (16) 
  5%
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Posted by Vitalia (Boulder, CO) on 07/15/2008
★★★☆☆

WORKED TEMPORARILY

Well, after reading about ACV on your website along with all the positive feedback I decided to give it a shot. I have been suffering from a sinus infection that just won't go away. I've tried everything from colloidal silver to nettie pots, garlic soups, eucalyptus inhalation steam baths, you name it, I did it. And so here comes ACV. I drank 1/4 cup of it with hot water the first night and yes it worked, my head ache felt better, my face was relived of some pain and my nose cleared up, not all the way though. Well this is day three and I have to come to a conclusion that it is no longer working for me. My throat hurts again, my head is pounding and so is my face, and my nose is completely clogged. I've been drinking two cups a day for the last two days and I am drinking it right now and nothing!!! I really hoped this would be my cure. I am breastfeeding and refuse to take meds of any kind. So, at this point not sure what my next step should be. Wishing you all luck with your bodily ailments!

Replied by Mira
(Venice, California)
07/29/2008

Hi, this is for Vitalia from Boulder Colorado, 1/4 cup is a lot! I imagine it would make your system really acidic, almost feeling like you want to throw up, and that is not the way to healing yourself. I had this lesson to learn, less is more.You want to make your system alkaline.
Trust me I had a sinus infection for 15 years that was cured like magic from Acv and OIL pulling. after years of anti-biotic s and pain killers...Also bouts of laryngitis that made me crazy; as i am a singer.
All you need for the relief of your sinus is a neti pot and a teaspoon of vinegar(the acv burns your nose like hell and so watch out) in warm water and rinse your nasal cavity's. keeping your head a bit forward always moving your head side to side and blowing out the opposite nose, you poured in.

I blew out chunks and years of Flem and mucous it was like a scary blob movie.
When you drink the Acv you need "one or two tablespoon ACV" mixed in a 1/4 cup of WATER...what I have done is made my own magic potion. I buy a large tub of Honey. I pour 3/4 of it in another jar,and store that for normal use. Then with the 1/4 tub of honey that is left, (in original Jar), I pour in ACV to fill to top (so it would be 1/4 honey to 3/4 vinegar) and shake really well to mix. Not only does this work for coughing ,acid reflux,stomach aches and arthritis... just about any ailment... It doesn't taste bad. I made some for my mother who is a naysayer on everything and made her use it. she complains of coughing at night and every other ailment back aches...I made up the potion and Put it into what looked like an old fashion jar( she wouldn't have gone for it if it was just in a old Acv bottle or something... I will be forever amazed this mother of mine who believes in nothing but the doctor; then complains about that too...really believes in my potion!hahaha. It works.also this potion never goes bad.! No expiration date if stored in a cool dark area with jar closed tightly. don't give up your fight...
and good luck!


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Cindi (Anchorage, United States) on 07/13/2008
★★★★★

I have suffered from sinus infections for more than 20 years. About 1 1/2 years ago, after battling a 2 year infection, I had surgery. The surgery helped for about 4 months, then the pressure and congestion came back. Since the surgery, I use a saline rinse daily to flush out my sinuses and also installed air purifiers in the house. I was doing everything right and I was still having problems. I had constant pain and pressure under my eyes that sinus rinses were not helping. I had a sinus infection last fall and my doc said if I continued to have problems, it was time for another cat scan and more meds (noooooo!!!)

For the past couple of weeks, I could feel an infection starting up. Because of all of infections I have had, my body is now immune to three antibiotics. Not wanting to start down that road again, I searched the internet for natural cures and found this website. I have to admit I was skeptical that ACV could cure my infection, but I was desperate. I figured if it didn't work, I could use it to make salad dressing. Yesterday, I took 3 tablespoons ACV in an 8 oz. glass of warm water at noon. It wasn't the most pleasant tasting stuff, but I chugged it down. Around 8 pm, I put 1/2 teaspoon ACV into 8 oz water and used it as a sinus rinse. Owwww! The right side of my face where the infection is, burned so bad! After I recovered from the rinse, I drank a second dose (and added a little honey for taste) around 8 pm. About an hour later, I was shocked. The pain under my eyes was gone and I could breathe thru my nose!

This morning I drank another dose, and didn't notice any change in the pain in my cheekbones. As a matter of fact, it got worse as the day went on (probably the infection from under my eyes was pooling in my cheekbone area). At 5 pm, I repeated the sinus rinse only using 1/4 teaspoon ACV to 8 oz water. Much more tolerable and it seemed to only burn in the areas I could feel the infection. I pinched my nose and held the solution in as long as I could stand it. I then drank another dose. It is now 2 hours later and I can only feel a slight tenderness in my cheekbones. I am absolutely stunned how fast the ACV worked. At this rate, I should have this infection kicked in another day or two. I haven't felt this good in years. I plan on continuing using the ACV every day as a preventative measure. I can't thank you enough. Everyone's experiences here with ACV is what convinced me to try it. Thanks again.

Replied by Robin
(Rural, VA)
07/14/2008

Cindi, I too had chronic sinus problems for years. ACV is a great help, I ingest it daily, but I suggest you look at the section on Borax. I came to the conclusion that the problem was basically caused by systemic candida. Yes the ACV will help this, but don't discount other possible remedies.


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Deeva (Atlanta, GA) on 06/19/2008
★★★★★

I have bad allergies and it got to the point where it was causing me to have an ongoing sinus infection. I would wake up every morning with a dry throat and mucus backed up in my throat, having to cough it up every morning. I read on the internet about ACV curing sinus infections so I started taking a tablespoon every night and gradually my sinus infection got better and better and is now gone. I still take, some nights I forget but the nights I do forget I don't wake up the next morning with an infection. Needless to say its effects are long lasting and not just temporary based on usage!


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Jaimi (Orlando, FL) on 06/06/2008
★★★★★

WOW! I have come to love the wonderful product of ACV. I have had severe allergies and sinus problems since I could walk. Chronic bronchitis, sinusitis, tonsilitis (they have lonce since been removed), rhinitis, etc... I have always taken prescription medication. However I am 8 mos pregnant and have not been able to take anything but over the counter Tylenol products. For the past 3 days I have been down and out with a severe sinus migraine, congestion and pressure. Nothing worked and I am sleep deprived! Adding these symptoms to 8mos of pregnancy spells MISERY for sure. I was desperate so I hopped online and what do you know? I found the same product that cured my husband of his pesky wart will also clear my sinuses. I only wished I found this info sooner! I took 1 tbsp of ACV with 8oz of water and downed. Then I made a mixture and put it in my veggie steamer (ACV is also a great residue cleaner) and sat over it for about 5mins. Everything started to clear up within the hour. I then rinsed with saline solution and I can breathe out of both nostrils! My headache is almost gone and the pressure almost nil! Oh and by the way the ACV steam bath is great for oily skin. I noticed a difference immediately after the face bath. I was then curious to see if this was a known rememdy for acne/skin problems and sure enough it is!!! In fact, Earth Clinic was the first hit.
I am amazed that such a simple, inexpensive product can do so much. Thank you dearly for this site.


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Karen (Biloxi, Mississippi) on 05/26/2008
★★★★★

Went to the doctor for a sinus problem and ears beginning to stop up. Of course, he prescribed 10 days of Augmentin, Allegra, Singuliar, etc. Had enough sense not to take the Singuliar and Allegra just makes blood pressure go up. Any antibiotic usually also gives me a yeast thing. That's another story to deal with now. Yesterday mucas started again and ears began to stop up, mucas draining down the throat also makes it sore. After reading this site I started 2 Tbs. of ACV with The Mother yesterday, was all ready taking garlic caps. This morning I awoke and my mucas problem is totally better and ears are popping. I can actually breathe a lot better. I'm really happy and will continue ACV. I also mix 1 tsp. salt and 1/4 tsp. baking soda with 2 cups warm water and wash out my nasal passages. Natural is the way to go!


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by George (Jamaica, NY) on 05/15/2008
★★★★★

I have had sinus infections for the last 2 years; my ears were always clogged. The sinus infection would come and go. I began taking 2 Tablespoons of Apple Cider Vinegar at night and in the mornings, it appears my sinuses have cleared up.


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Gaylene (Denver, CO, USA) on 05/11/2008
★★★★★

Thanks for the ACV suggestion - my sinus infection was held at bay and feel great compared to the typical 3 week bout.

A suggestion for those who found ACV didn't work - my wise Chinese acupuncturist gave me 2 bags of a dried compostion that I couldn't imagine describing other than bizarre. It was amazing -great night sleep and minimized the symptoms.

Replied by Ruth
(Taupo, Bay Of Plenty, New Zealand)
12/29/2009

Can Gaylene from Denver CO USA tell me what it was the Chinese Acupuncturist gave her for her sinusitis? My older sister has chronic sinusitis i don't know if she could take ACV as she has chron's disease and has to be very careful what she eats. Her chronic sinisitis is really getting her down and she seems to be continually on antibiotics
Many thanks Ruth


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Chris (san Pedro, ca) on 05/07/2008
★★★★★

Recently, from something my dr told me & from ur site, which by the way is fantastic, i mixed up a 10% solution of apple cider vinegar & put it in a nasal sprayer bottle & use it like nasal spray.........it works real well......my nutritionist told me that candida can colonize mucus membranes........what i do is, spray 1 full spray in each nostril, NOT SNIFFING IN...... immediately pinch my nose closed.....hold it for about a minute.......then let go and for about 10 to 15min, sniff the drip very lightly, cause if ur sinus' r inflamed, it can hurt, but u do want to get some of it to the deeper sinus tissue & the back of the throat..........after about 15min u can start blowing........it clears up the clogged nose, deep mucus and i'm pretty sure it kills the candida, which i am now sure is the cause of mine & my husband' sinus problems.......this solution also works on anyone who has itchy skin........._____s' vinegar seems to me to be less harsh........don't know yet if it works the same or not........i'm thinking it should...i was amazed at how simple & effective this is.......hope this helps those out there who want to find the cause of things & cure them naturally...


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Julie (Houston, Texas) on 05/05/2008
★★★★★

Here I was plagued with yet another sinus infection. The last one I had settled in my chest and I was sick for two weeks! This one started the same way...I swear this is true. I called my husband he bought lemons, organic ACV and the rest was up to me. I boiled water and steamed over it for 15 minutes in a bowl with 2 table spoons. Then I drank the water, lemon honey mixture and 45 minutes later I can taste, breath and smell 50% better and my ears finaly popped within an hour! I feel so much Better!! WHOOOOOOOOOOHOOO..This is not mind over matter...this worked!


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Faedah (Cape Town, South Africa) on 05/04/2008
★★★★★

Hi there, After 8 weeks of sinusitis; 2 episodes of antibiotics, my sinus infection had not cleared. By the 9th week, I contracted an eye infection, had severe upper jaw ache and toothache, had severe nasal congestion which kept me awake at night combined with persistent headaches and lots of green mucus, sore body and I was very listless. I was on various allopathic medication - but nothing helped - and did not even provide relief to my symptoms!! I then came across this website. It was either surgery OR apple cider vinegar.

I then followed the following strict routine because ACV on its own did not work effectively:-
1. 2tbsp ACD in one glass of water - followed by another glass of water. I drank this on average 4 - 5 times per day for the 1st 4 days
2. Used luke warm saline water with a normal syringe to clear my nasal passages. At least 2 - 3 times per day.
3. Inhaled steam in a bowl - couple of eucalyptus oil drops in boiling water and covered my head with a towel. At least 2 - 3 times per day
4. Followed a strict diet of apples, fresh fruit, meat and chicken - no dairy, wheat and sugar
5. Drank lots and lots of water
6. To dry the mucous, I used I used homeopathic meds and took this every 3 - 4 hours
7. Took Panados (pain killers) every 4 - 5 hours to relieve the pain

After 5 days of following the above routine...my sinus infection cleared!!!

It has been 5 weeks since I last accessed this website and I can happily report back - that ACV works. When I feel a bit sick, I take the ACV and it really works!! I haven't taken any medicaton since then - which is amazing - given that I was constantly taking nasal drops and medicines etc.

Thank you for this website. It has really proven to be invaluable.

Kind Regards, Faedah


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Katie (Chatham, Canada) on 04/15/2008
★★★★★

Amazing, I am not even done sipping a glass of 1tps ACV with water and honey and my sinuses are opening up. The pain is starting to decipate and my nosal cavity doesn't feel like acid is being poured in there. I still have a fever (I'm heading for the aspiren), but I feel soooo much better than I was when I read these articles only 1/2 hour ago. Thanks for the heads up.


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Jessica (Great Falls, Montana) on 03/23/2008
★★★★★

My husband had a sinus infection and took some super strong antibiotics and cold medication, but his sinus infection just came back. He was sick for a month or so when I read about the apple cider vinegar. He tried it and not five minutes later the pressure was completely gone!!


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Pam (Flower Mound, TX) on 03/12/2008
★★★★★

I must admit- I had little faith but was desperate. After three rounds of antibiotics and still constant congestion/ sinus infection, I became addicted to Afrin. Using it twice daily cleared my nose enough for me to make calls at work and sleep at night but after only two weeks, I had to increase to 4x's a day to stay clear. I realized this was a major problem and began searching for alternative solutions. After reading the earthclinic site, I threw out the Afrin, purchased apple cider vinegar and a Neti Pot (since lots of friend have been recommending it too). My nose was so clogged the Neti Pot was not effective- the water had no where to do. So, I mixed the one TBS. of ACV with 8 oz. of water and chugged it. I haven't been able to taste anything for over a week but could still feel the bitter tingle on my tounge. I was disappointed when I didn't feel relief within the hour. The evening passed and I realized as I went to lay down for the night- I could breathe through my nose. While it wasn't totally clear- I could sleep with my mouth closed- without using the dreaded Afrin! I followed the same procedure the next day and by the second night- I was breathing totally clear and feeling great! GOD BLESS YOU earth clinic. My taste buds are back and the ACV is terrible but I don't care- it's worth it x's 100 for the relief I finally feel!!! After reading the other benifits ACV offers- I have recommended it and your site to many family and friends. Thanks again!

Replied by Nory
(Fort Worth, Tx, Usa)
11/23/2009

To Pam of Flower Mound TX,

I am suffering from severe nasal congestion for over a month now and have to use a phenylephrine nasal spray every hour at night just to get some sleep. The inside of my nose is so swollen when i look with a flash light. The nasal spray will bring the swelling down but it will swell again in one hour or less.I just bought apple cider vinegar from walmart. Do you think that will work? Thanks.

Replied by Robb
(Anchorage, Alaska)
11/24/2009

Pam,

You need a neti pot. I have had sinus problems for years and the worst thing you can due is use most sinus sprays. You will become addicted in a manner of days and it is difficult to break this bond.

I use a neti pot; you can buy one in most health food sections at your local super market. The last one I bought was at Fred Meyers, I like the plastic ones, unlike the porcelain pots plastic does not break when you drop them. To use just read the directions on the box, the pot usually comes with a supply of pre measured salt.

I use ACV every morning; I drink it, straight from the bottle, chasing it with water. If my sinus congestion is severe I also add a few drops to my neti pot; I use one full pot of warm water per side. This can be uncomfortable, even painful but it works and the results for me are immediate. I also use cayenne pepper, just a dab, this really sorts out any congestion you may have.

In the spring I am bothered by dust and various plant blooms, I use a pinch of salt and warm water, twice a day. This treatment has eliminated the allergy problems that have plagued me for years.

I am sure these remedies will make a difference. I believe that we as individuals are responsible for our health. We need to learn about our bodies, keep them tuned like a fast car and do most of our own maintenance...

Replied by Robb
(Anchorage, Alaska)
11/24/2009

Pam, You need to use "RAW-UNFILTERED APPLE CIDER VINEGAR" It needs to be "ORGANIC" and have "THE MOTHER".


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Julie (Tulsa, Oklahoma) on 03/04/2008
★☆☆☆☆

Is it possible to take too much acv? I have started getting sinus infections every time I get a cold, so this time I decided that I better not go on antibiotics, but let my body learn again to fight this off. After about the third day I was miserable so I got online looking for a way to survive this. The acv with honey and baking soda is working very well. After I take 2T acv/1T honey/1/4 bs, I feel better in about 30 minutes, but after another hour or so, I feel bad again and want to dring some more. Could it be bad to drink too much?

EC: Our experience is that the acv works to thin the mucous, but we've had to use a powerful anti-bacterial or anti-fungal herb or supplement at the same time to clobber the infection


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Gislain (Phoenix, AZ) on 02/22/2008
★★★★★

Earlier this week, I was diagnosed with a bacterial infection in the back of my throat and was prescribed antibiotics...which was a hit to my health ego because I eat well but somehow caught this bug. Along with this, I developed this awful sinus infection. Horrible headaches, watery eyes, no sleep, and non-stop discomfort accompanied this! I went to the health food store and bought some nasal spray and sublingual sinus relief tablets, both of which didn't work. While suffering at work, I came across this web site and read about Apple Cider Vinegar. While excited to try this for my Sinus infection, I ate an apple as a snack. Within an hour, my sinus symptoms decreased by 60%. When I came home, I had some ACV with water and within another hour, the symptoms decreased some more. Right now, it's almost time for bed and my Sinus Infection is 90% gone and just three hours ago, I was suffering!! The apple helped and the ACV sealed the deal on this Sinus stuff! Awesome!



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