Apple Cider Vinegar: What Can’t It Do? [Infographic]

Although apple cider vinegar (ACV) is currently touted as a cure for, well, almost everything, it has been used as a home remedy for centuries. Some uses seem like old wives’ tales, and others have been backed up by science.

Here’s a quick look at the health benefits of ACV backed by science, and some that are backed by anecdotal evidence and granny. Because we all know that if your grandmother told you that ACV would cure your sunburn, that’s your clinical study right there. How many of these cures have you heard of or used?

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Aids in Weight Loss

The results of a Japanese study found that participants who consumed vinegar daily for a 12-week period had a 1-2 pound weight loss during that time. Additional research is required to determine the link between weight and vinegar consumption.

Helps Control Blood Sugar

The main component of ACV is acetic acid, a substance that seems to block the enzymes that aid in starch digestion. This results in a lower blood sugar response after a starchy meal. In 2017, researchers published a report that indicated vinegar helped decrease blood sugar and insulin fluctuations after a meal.

Combats Dandruff

A light spritz of vinegar mixed with water may combat the itchiness, irritation, and flakes caused by dandruff.

Freshen Hair between Shampoos

To freshen your hair between shampoos, mix five ounces of water with 5 drops of vinegar and spritz it on your roots to control the oil twice a week.

Soothes Bug Bites and Stings

Try applying a weak solution of ACV to mosquito and other bug bites, jellyfish stings, and poison ivy to stop itching and irritation.

Relieves Sunburn Pain

Try lightly spraying a mixture of cold water and ACV lightly sprayed on the sunburned area to cool the burn.

Clears Up Acne

Another possible use for vinegar is drying out pimples. Just dab some diluted vinegar carefully on pimples and blemishes. ACV varies in strength, so be sure to test it first.

Alleviates Sore Throat Pain

Another time-honored tradition is gargling with vinegar, honey, and cayenne pepper to reduce sore throat pain. Mix it all up in a glass of warm water.

Eases Indigestion

Vinegar may reduce the discomfort of some types of acid reflux, heartburn, and other digestive conditions such as diarrhea or constipation. Check with your doctor if you are on a heartburn diet that requires reducing acidic foods.

Stops Hiccups

To stop hiccups, try a teaspoon of sugar mixed with 4-5 drops of vinegar. However, if you often get hiccups, visit your doctor. Hiccups can signal a hiatal hernia or GERD.

Control Foot Odor

Mix a little vinegar with water, then moisten cotton balls or cotton pads with the solution and wipe the bottoms of your feet. Can’t hurt, right?

Neutralizes Underarm Odor

Lightly spritz a cotton pad towelette or cotton rag and swipe onto your armpits to deactivate odor-causing bacteria. The vinegar smell should dissipate when it dries.