Apple cider vinegar, with a history dating back to at least 3000 BC, has been used for various ailments. Ancient civilizations like the Babylonians, Greeks, & Japanese Samurai warriors believed in its healing properties. It is made by crushing apples & collecting the concentrated liquid, which can be organic & unfiltered, containing beneficial elements like "mother," proteins, enzymes, & bacteria.
There are two types: natural & synthetic, with natural ACV being more expensive but offering remarkable health benefits compared to the cheaper synthetic version.
Nutritional Composition:
The various ingredients found in Apple Cider Vinegar serve to enhance its health benefits. Calcium, iron, sodium, potassium, malic acid, & pectin are some of the nutrients present in it. The main component of ACV is acetic acid which is also known as ethanoic acid, a colorless liquid that has a pungent smell & sour taste.
How each of these nutrients benefit our body:
Potassium: to avoid runny nose, hair loss, & brittle teeth.
Malic Acid: to fight infections from harmful bacteria & fungus.
Acetic Acid: accounts for the sour taste of vinegar; lowers the blood's pH levels thereby creating an inhospitable intestinal environment for bacterial & fungal infections.
Pectin: facilitates regulation of blood pressure & removal of bad cholesterol. Lastly, it contains other ingredients like Folic Acid, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid, Sodium, Phosphorus, Calcium, & Iron.
Choosing the Right ACV:
When it comes to apple cider vinegar (ACV), there is often confusion about which variant is better for our health. With numerous brands available in the market, including organic, synthetic, & those containing the 'MOTHER,' it can be overwhelming to choose. To make an informed decision, let's explore the differences & benefits of each variant of ACV.
ORGANIC APPLE CIDER VINEGAR | SYNTHETIC APPLE CIDER VINEGAR |
Organic apple cider vinegar is natural in form. It is rich, amber in color with a cloudy appearance referred to as the "mother of vinegar." | Non-organic apple cider vinegar has undergone pasteurization. It has a bright color, free from cloudiness, & often appealing to buyers. |
The mother of vinegar is where all the vitamins, minerals, & enzymes associated with apple cider vinegar are found. | The pasteurization process of non-organic apple cider vinegar removes the mother of vinegar hence it lacks essential nutrients. |
The organic apple cider vinegar contains bacteria because of the lack of any pasteurization or distillation. | The vinegar does not contain intact enzymes & is not as easy to tolerate by the body. |
Home remedies with Apple Cider Vinegar :
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ACV is very effective in treating skin problems & preventing acne. The acidity present in ACV dries the blemished patch of skin & allows fresh, healthy skin to replace it.
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Maintain the pH balance of your facial skin by mixing 1 part ACV with two parts water. You can use this concoction every day as a toner with the help of a cotton ball along the T-zone i.e; forehead, nose, & chin.
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Soothe a sunburn as you add 1 cup ACV to your bath, & soak for 10 minutes.
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For added body & shine to your hair, try applying a mixture of 1/2 tablespoon of ACV mixed with 1 cup of water, followed by a rinse.
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ACV reactivates the hair follicles & also treats dandruff & itchy scalp.
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Give yourself an at-home pedicure by soaking your feet in equal parts warm water & ACV. Its antifungal properties will keep your feet healthy, soft, & clean.
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The nutrients & vitamins present in ACV can help alleviate & minimize the dysfunction of varicose veins
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To specifically target age spots, create a mixture of 1 tablespoon of orange juice & 2 tablespoons of ACV, as this combination can help fade the appearance of age spots.
Here are five recipes that you can make using Apple Cider Vinegar:
Immunity booster:
This power-packed drink is loaded with nutrients & antioxidants. The combination of green tea & ACV is an excellent source of antioxidants for the maintenance of good health. Green tea is rich in catechins & hence helps to increase the metabolic rate, reduce body fat, & improve overall weight loss. Cinnamon & ginger, both, helps lower cholesterol & type 2 diabetes.
To know the full recipe, Read more
Kick it up salad dressing:
Apple cider vinegar is a versatile ingredient often used in salad dressings, allowing you to explore creative alternatives to the typical olive oil-based dressings. In addition, this recipe includes liquid stevia, a natural low-calorie sweetener that is beneficial for diabetics & supports healthy blood pressure maintenance.
To know the full recipe, Read more
Lose it salad dressing:
The ingredients of this recipe include ACV along with flaxseed & garlic. Both apple cider vinegar & ground flax seeds offer remarkable digestive benefits, aiding in body cleansing. Flax seeds are rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, & lignins, which are beneficial phytochemicals. They contribute to lowering LDL cholesterol levels & reducing the risk of heart disease. On the other hand, garlic's sulfur-containing compounds help prevent blockages & the development of arteriosclerosis in our blood vessels.
To know the full recipe, Read more
Detox drink:
This incredible health drink helps you burn fat, boost metabolism, lose weight, fight diabetes, & lower blood pressure.
To know the full recipe, Read more
Healthy cider salad dressing:
This incredible salad dressing is full of herbs rich in antioxidants. Rosemary & thyme are rich in polyphenols that are known to cut the risk of heart disease. Basil is a versatile herb with antiviral, anti-fungal, & anti-cancer properties also known to cure digestive disorders.
To know the full recipe, Read more
In conclusion, apple cider vinegar (ACV) offers a range of potential health benefits. From aiding digestion to promoting weight loss, supporting heart health, & managing blood sugar levels, ACV can be a valuable addition to a balanced lifestyle. Incorporating ACV into your routine may provide a natural & beneficial boost to your overall well-being.