Lesser Known Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has been used for years as a way to preserve perishables and flavor foods.  But it is useful for many other things besides tasting great on a salad.  Here are some less well-known uses for apple cider vinegar.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.

Apple Cider Vinegar as a Cleaning Solution

Did you know that apple cider vinegar effectively cleans glass? Your grandmother likely did, and probably used it often around her house.

With the increase of chemical-based, commercial cleaning products to the market over the last century, apple cider vinegar has fallen out of favor in the cleaning game. If you’re out of Windex but have some Apple cider vinegar in your fridge, you could make use of it right now and clean things in your home just as effectively as commercial cleaning products, without the poisonous chemicals.

For an effective glass cleaning solution, mix some apple cider vinegar with water, one part each.  You can clean any window or mirror in your house using this solution.

It is also extremely effective at getting rid of stains, either in carpets or clothes.  As an example, wine stains on the carpet can be removed by pouring apple cider vinegar on the stain, letting it soak for a little while, then sponging it away.

Kitchen counters and stoves tops can also be cleaned with apple cider vinegar.  The smell may be a little strong for a half-hour or so, but as a positive side effect, ants and other insects hate the smell of vinegar and will avoid counters that have been wiped down with it. The strong odor is a small compromise for cheap, chemical-free cleaning product, and will dissipate as the vinegar dries. Apple scented candles can help to cover the smell in the meantime.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss

Let's face it: some people love the taste of vinegar, and some people are repelled by it.  Either way, apple cider vinegar can actually help you lose weight.

Ingesting a small amount of it during the day can help suppress your appetite and curb any cravings you have.  If you can’t tolerate the taste, this trick will still work if you add a small cap-full to a glass of apple juice to make it more palatable.

Do not overdo it; as with any other method of losing weight, you should take it slowly.  Drinking too much apple cider vinegar can cause problems in the stomach due to its acidity.  A little, every once in a while will cause no harm, but if you suffer from stomach problems be sure to do some further research or check with your doctor first. There are many other health benefits to drinking vinegar as well. Just imagine; a small glass of apple juice could work as effectively as other diet aids, except with the assurance that you know exactly what’s in it.

There are many other uses for apple cider vinegar, some of which have been known for years.  Next time you are at the store and are looking at a bottle, remember that it is good for more than making your food taste great; it can also take the place of many things you use right now to clean your home or help maintain your health, without any of the bad chemicals or side-effects they bring.