The first questions that probably popped in your head when reading this blog post title: What is apple cider vinegar, and why should I use it?
What is apple cider vinegar? It’s made from crushed apples that are fermented to make alcohol, which is then fermented again to make the vinegar.
Why should I use it? First things first, you can use it for a whole slew of different things, and one bottle only costs around $3. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has gotten quite the buzz in the health world recently for its antioxidant content and supposed benefits for your digestive system and skin. ACV also contains iron, calcium and potassium, and in addition to health use, it can also be used as a cleaning product.
When purchasing apple cider vinegar, you want to look for raw, unfiltered ACV with “the mother” (the strand-like cloudy stuff that is actually enzymes of connected protein molecules), which you can find at most grocery stores like Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods Market.
Here are a few ways to use ACV:
- Make a natural toner. Mix two parts water with one part apple cider vinegar to make a natural pore-cleansing toner that will help reduce breakouts. You can store it in a travel-sized reusable lotion bottle (available in the dollar section at Target), and dab some on a cotton ball to use on your face.
- Mix up a healthy morning cocktail by combining one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with half of a freshly squeezed lemon, four ounces orange juice and four ounces of water. You can get creative with this and add different types of juice to change the flavor. You can also freeze berries in ice cubes to add to your drink for a little more fun and flavor.
- Help remove buildup of hair products by using a few tablespoons of a one-to-one mixture of ACV and water in your hair after you shampoo. It’ll make your hair smoother and shinier.
- Make an all-purpose cleaner. Just mix up equal parts ACV and water, pour in a spray bottle, and use as a disinfectant in your apartment.
- Use it as a produce wash. Combine 1/4 teaspoon ACV with 1 cup of water and store in a container for washing fruits and veggies. The vinegar will help rinse off all the dirt and pesticides that can be found on your produce.
Have you ever used apple cider vinegar before? Tweet us @dbmojo or leave a comment below!
