Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV), where do I begin talking about this amazing ingredient. Although there are no scientific claims made about ACV, the health benefits have benefitted many over the years.

What's in it?

This is the nerdy bit but basically, its apple juice with yeast added to it, turning the fruit sugars into alcohol via fermentation. Bacteria help in turning this alcohol into acetic acid giving it a sour smell that can be revolting to many. There are several brands of ACV available in the market, however, make sure you choose the right one. Look out for the ones that say "Apple Cider Vinegar - with the Mother" preferably Organic. This will look cloudy and dirty in the bottle(ensure it's a glass bottle) but this is the best form of ACV in the market. If it's clear, it's not pure. The cloudiness comes from the "mother culture" in the ACV.

What does it help with?

You name it, it's on the list. Right from weight loss, blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, skin problems like acne and scarring to reducing acid reflux and promoting the growth of good gut bacteria, the list goes on.

My personal experience

I have dealt with several problems listed above. Been suffering from sensitive skin, high blood pressure, cholesterol, and acid reflux. Also, have people with fluctuating levels of sugar in my family. This simple ingredient has done marvels for me and others. When taken correctly in the proper dosage, the sensitivity of my skin has almost become negligible. My BP is normal, my cholesterol dropped rapidly and I don't have acidity anymore. Also surprisingly, sugar levels dropped and remained steady in my family even though we regularly consume sweets.

What's the right way?

Firstly, ACV is extremely acidic and if taken on its own, it will burn your esophagus and throat. There are a lot of articles on the internet stating othewise but come on, it's common sense, if something is so acidic, it's going to burn. Surprisingly though, when ACV enters your body, it turns alkaline.
Depending on your condition take ACV the right way.

For Sugar patients: 1/2 a teaspoon of ACV diluted in a glass of water about 20 minutes before your main meals, not exceeding 3 times a day. This can also be done for those wanting to lose stubborn belly fat which can be the root cause of diabetes.

For all other conditions: Mix 1-1 1/2 tablespoon of ACV in a glass of water and have it in the morning before your breakfast, daily.

Natural Deodorant: Artificial deodorants available in the market may help you smell great but do you more harm. They block your sweat glands and may also affect the bacterial balance in your armpits leading to an even more foul smelling concern. A natural way is to dab cotton into ACV and rub it over your armpits. You wont smell of ACV nor will your body leave an odour.

Dandruff: Dab cotton into ACV and apply over your scalp. Leave it on for about 15 to 20 minutes and wash off with warm water. You can shampoo as well.

Weight loss secret drink: Mix 2 tablespoons of ACV with few shakes of pure cinnamon powder (not cinnamon sugar). Fill the cup, half with water and half with Pure Apple Juice (not from concentrate, I use "Nudie" available at Sydney). Drink this daily, anytime you want. It tastes like apple pie. Trust me, this drink works wonders. You will not gain weight. But that does not mean you laze around all day expecting ACV to work for you. You have to lead an active and healthy lifestyle.

Sensitive Skin: This is one issue which is very close to my heart. Easily sunburnt, redness always, irritation and itchy dry skin are few of the issues faced by me. My solution was "Makeup" to cover everything. But once I understood the benefits of ACV, the results have been astounding.

Apart from having ACV in my apple drink as mentioned above, mix a teaspoon of pure turmeric powder with half a teaspoon of ACV and 1/2 teaspoon of honey and apply it to your face. You can also add milk if your skin is dry. Let it stay on for about 20 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water.

Don't expect miracles in a week. Do this at least thrice a week for about a month. When you wash your face, you will look all yellow but its fine, it will wear off in a bit. You will instantly feel your face so soft and smooth. The reason this will work is, since turmeric is antibacterial, it will kill the bacteria on your face, honey is a natural moisturizer and will soften your skin whereas ACV will act as a natural peel for your skin. Hence, if you have acne marks or scarring ACV will gently help you peel away these old layers of skin revealing new skin. Many dermatologists recommend Glycolic peels and I have tried them as well. But there is nothing more natural and safer than using ACV for the same.

The Verdict - Up to you

These are tried and tested methods followed by myself and I am sure if done the right way, will benefit you as well. I never wanted to write a blog on ACV however, I owe my inspiration to Dr. Luke Coutinho who made me realize that when you gain knowledge, be sure to spread the word like he does. For now, stay healthy and let nature take it's course in your life.
For now, stay healthy and let Nature take its course in your life!

* These home remedies are not a substitute for your regular medication. Please consult your doctor if you have any medical concerns before trying them out or have any reaction to the same.

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