5 Great Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar

First things first, what exactly is apple cider vinegar?

A staple kitchen ingredient, apple cider vinegar is a type of fermented juice made from crushed apples. It contains acetic acid – an active ingredient in vinegar – and nutrients such as vitamins B and C. From salad dressings to sauces, it can be used in almost any recipe.

But did you know that apple cider has other helpful uses that benefit your health and home, as well as your beauty regime?

Find out by taking a look at these five uses:

It Aids in Weight Loss

Studies show that consuming one to two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar daily before or with your meals helps you feel fuller. This can lead to you eating fewer calories, losing weight and reducing belly fat.

It’s an All-Purpose Cleaner

Thanks to its antibacterial properties, apple cider vinegar makes for a great cleaning and disinfectant agent. Simply mix one cup of water with half a cup of apple cider vinegar, and use it to clean any surface.

It’s Great for Hair

If your hair is suffering from dirt build-up, tangles and dullness, mix one part apple cider vinegar with one part water, then pour the mixture over your hair. Leave it in for a few minutes before washing it out.

It Soothes Bites

Bites, itches and scratches begone! Apply diluted apple cider vinegar to a cotton pad and dab it on any bites or scratches you may have to relieve itchiness or irritation.

It Relieves Sore Throats

Mix a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar, a teaspoon of honey, and a small pinch of cayenne pepper stirred in a cup of warm water, then gargle. The combined properties of each ingredient make for a great throat pain reliever.