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Apple cider vinegar : Health Benefits, Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

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By NS Desk 20-Nov-2020

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is prepared with apple juice with added yeast and bacteria that give a sour taste and a strong smell to it. Apple cider vinegar is a beneficial health tonic with many medicinal properties that provides strength and power to the body. Apple cider vinegar is used for managing weight and is also beneficial for the digestive system as it helps in faster digestion of food. This health tonic has antibacterial properties that are beneficial for skin and hair problems like acne and dandruff. Moreover, apple cider vinegar can be consumed by diabetic patients as it can help lower blood sugar levels and manage high cholesterol levels in the body. Some other apple cider vinegar properties are antioxidant and cholesterol-lowering properties that are good for preventing heart diseases. 

Properties of Apple cider vinegar:

Apple cider vinegar has so many beneficial properties that may help in the treatment of various health problems. Some of these properties of Apple cider vinegar are as follows:

  • Antioxidant property
  • Cholesterol-lowering property
  • Vata balancing property
  • Antibacterial property

So these are some of the properties of apple cider vinegar. All these properties are beneficial for the overall health of a person.

Historical uses of Apple cider vinegar: 

Apple cider vinegar is used in Indian households as a health tonic for years. It has many beneficial health properties that may help in the treatment of various health problems. Apple cider vinegar is a multipurpose tonic that has a different beauty, cooking, and household uses. Some of the health problems that can be treated using apple cider vinegar are as follows: 

  • Lowers high blood pressure
  • Helps in weight management
  • Lowers the risk of cancer
  • Helps in the treatment of sore throat
  • Skin and hair problems
  • Lowers high cholesterol levels.
  • Prevents heart diseases 

These were some of the health problems that can be treated by consuming and using apple cider vinegar. People for years have believed in the medicinal properties of this health tonic.

Benefits of Apple cider vinegar in Ayurvedic treatment:

Apple cider vinegar is a health tonic that is highly valued for ayurvedic treatments. Apple cider vinegar has so many health benefits and has useful healing properties. Check out all the benefits of this health tonic in the treatment of health problems.

  1. Helps with weight management

Science

Ayurveda

According to scientific studies, Apple cider vinegar has an enzyme content called AMPK that helps break down fat accumulation in the body. Also, it burns excess fat by controlling appetite and increasing fat metabolism. Consuming apple cider vinegar can help break the breakdown of starch into sugar and prevent fat accumulation in the body. Therefore, consuming apple cider vinegar can help with weight management.

According to ayurvedic studies, apple cider vinegar has the property of Pachak Agni that helps increase the pachak Agni and reduce the Ama that is the toxic waste that is the main reason for the increase in weight. Therefore, consuming apple cider vinegar can help in managing weight. 

Ayurvedic tip for consuming apple cider vinegar for managing weight

If you want to control your weight, you can follow these steps for consuming apple cider vinegar.

  1. You could take one glass of water and add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to it.
  2. Mix apple cider vinegar well with water before consuming. 
  3. You can consume it before your meal, or you also have the option of consuming it in the morning on an empty stomach for reducing fat.

Good for diabetic patients

Science

Ayurveda

  According to scientific studies, apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which is beneficial for the breakdown of carbohydrates to sugar in the blood; this way, apple cider vinegar can control the blood sugar levels of a diabetic patient. Also, according to scientific studies, it is found that consuming apple cider vinegar at night is beneficial for controlling the glucose level of a diabetic patient.

According to ayurvedic studies, Apple cider vinegar helps increase the pachak Agni that helps lower the blood sugar levels in the body. The high content of sugar levels in the body is also the cause of toxic remain in the body, which can be reduced with apple cider vinegar consumption.          

Ayurvedic tip for consuming apple cider vinegar for controlling the sugar levels in the body

If you want to control high sugar levels in the body, you can follow these steps for consuming apple cider vinegar.

  1. You could take one glass of water and add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to it.
  2. Mix apple cider vinegar well with water before consuming. 
  3. You can consume it a half-hour before a meal, or you also have the option of consuming it during bedtime for controlling high blood sugar levels.

Helps in the treatment of high cholesterol

Science

Ayurveda

According to scientific studies, apple cider vinegar has the content of acetic acid that reduces high cholesterol and lowers the bad cholesterol levels in the body. Apple cider vinegar also has the antioxidant property that prevents the oxidation of bad cholesterol levels.

According to ayurvedic studies, high cholesterol is because of an imbalance in pachak Agni and the increase of the toxic remains in the body called Ama. Consuming apple cider vinegar can increase the pachak Agni that helps control high cholesterol levels and reduce the Ama in the body.

Ayurvedic tip for consuming apple cider vinegar for controlling high cholesterol levels

If you want to control high cholesterol levels in the body, you can follow these steps for consuming apple cider vinegar.

  1. You could take one glass of water and add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to it.
  2. Mix apple cider vinegar well with water before consuming. You can also increase the amount to 2-3 tablespoons.
  3. You can consume it regularly for controlling high cholesterol levels.

Helps in the treatment of high blood pressure

According to scientific studies, high blood pressure is an enzyme called renin, which increases blood pressure. However, apple cider vinegar consumption can help reduce the activity of this enzyme called renin for managing and controlling high blood pressure.

Ayurvedic tip for consuming apple cider vinegar for controlling high blood pressure

If you want to control high blood pressure, you can follow these steps for consuming apple cider vinegar.

  1. You could take one glass of water and add one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to it.
  2. Mix apple cider vinegar well with water before consuming. You can also increase the amount to 2-3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar.
  3. You can consume it regularly for controlling high blood pressure.

Helps in the treatment of acne

Science

Ayurveda

According to scientific studies, apple cider vinegar has an acidic property that helps control the acne-causing bacteria on the skin and balances the skin pH levels.

According to ayurvedic studies, acne is a cause of aggravation of Kapha that leads to excess production of sebum, which clogs the skin's pores and leads to acne and blackheads. Another reason is the aggravation of pitta that cause acne with pus. However, apple cider vinegar has amla property and has Kapha balancing properties that are beneficial in controlling acne by fighting the acne-causing bacteria.

Ayurvedic tip for using apple cider vinegar for controlling acne

If you are suffering from acne, you can follow these steps for controlling acne and other skin related problems.

  1. You could take about one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a bowl and add about 3 tablespoons of freshwater.
  2. Now take a cotton ball and dip it in the mixture for applying it to the affected area.
  3. Let the mixture stay on your skin for 4-6 minutes.
  4. After 4-6 minutes, wash the mixture off the skin with cold water.
  5. You can repeat this process daily for a month for better and improved skin.
  6. However, you must always dilute apple cider vinegar with equal amounts of water as the direct application of apple cider vinegar can lead to scarring and discoloration of the skin. 

Helps in the treatment of dandruff

Science

Ayurveda

According to scientific studies, apple cider vinegar has an acidic property that balances the pH level of the hair. Therefore, it may help in getting rid of dandruff to an extent.

According to ayurvedic studies, apple cider vinegar has amla property that helps control the problem of dandruff in hair as it helps in balancing the pH level of the hair. Dandruff in hair is usually caused by the aggravation of Vata and Pitta dosha of hair. Therefore, using apple cider vinegar for hair can help in managing dandruff to an extent.

Ayurvedic tip for using apple cider vinegar for controlling dandruff

If you are suffering from dandruff, you can follow these steps for controlling dandruff and other hair related problems like a fungal infection.

  1. You could take about one mug of plain water and add ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar to the mug.
  2. Stir the mixture properly, and then pour it on your hair and scalp.
  3. Let the mixture stay on your hair for about 5-10 minutes.
  4. After 5-10minutes, rinse off the mixture with plain cold water.
  5. Repeat this procedure 2-3 times a week for better results.

Dosage of Apple cider vinegar recommended by doctors:

The quantity of Almond recommended by doctors is as follows:

  • Apple cider vinegar capsule - You could take 1-2 capsules of apple cider vinegar once in a day.
  • Apple cider vinegar liquid- You could take about one to two tablespoon of apple cider vinegar liquid in one glass of water regularly, or you can also take about one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar liquid in 3-4 tablespoon of water.
  • Apple cider vinegar tablet- You could take about one to two tablets daily.

Usage of Apple cider vinegar for ayurvedic treatment:

Apple cider vinegar can be consumed and used for ayurvedic treatment; check out how you can consume and use this health tonic for your treatments.

Apple cider vinegar diluted with water.

You can consume apple cider vinegar diluted with water in the following way.

  1. You could take about one glass of lukewarm water.
  2. You can then add about 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to the glass.
  3. Mix them well and consume it in the morning or after having your meals for better results.

Apple cider vinegar as capsules

You can consume apple cider vinegar as capsules in the following way.

  1. You could take about one to two apple cider vinegar capsules.
  2. You can easily swallow them with water, and it is advised that you swallow it with lukewarm water.
  3. You can consume one or two capsules daily for better results.

Apple cider vinegar as tablets

You can consume apple cider vinegar as tablets in the following way.

  1. You could take about one to two apple cider vinegar tablets.
  2. You can easily swallow them with water, and it is advised that you swallow it with lukewarm water.
  3. You must consume one or two tablets of apple cider vinegar daily for better results.

Apple cider vinegar for salads

You can consume apple cider vinegar with salads by following these steps.

  1. You could take about 2-3 cups of chopped vegetables like tomatoes, onions, cucumber, carrot, etc. in a bowl.
  2. Then you can add about 1-2 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar over the chopped vegetables.
  3. You also have the option of adding mayonnaise and salt for taste.
  4. You can consume the apple cider vinegar salad before or during your meals for health benefits.

Apple cider vinegar as a drink

You can make an apple cider vinegar drink for everyday usage. Follow these steps for preparation.

  1. You can take a bottle or a flask and fill it with lukewarm water.
  2. Then you can add about 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to the flask or bottle.
  3. You can consume this whenever you feel thirsty as it water mixed with apple cider vinegar has many health benefits.

Apple cider vinegar as a face toner

You can make your special face toner using apple cider vinegar. You can follow these steps for preparation.

  1. You could take about 2-3 tablespoon of water in a bowl and add about one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.
  2. Mix the contents and dip a cotton ball in the mixture and apply it as a skin toner. You can use it on your face, hands, and neck.
  3. Let the mixture stay on your skin for 5-8 minutes before you wash it off.
  4. You can repeat this procedure 2-3 times in a day for healthy and glowing skin.

Apple cider vinegar as a body scrub

You can make a body scrub using apple cider vinegar. You can follow these steps for preparation.

  1. You could take about half a cup of sugar in a bowl and add about one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the bowl.
  2. Then add one tablespoon of honey to the mixture and mix it well.
  3. You can then start rubbing this scrub on your body for about 3-5 minutes for removing dead skin cells and dirt.
  4. After 3-5 minutes, rinse your body with water. 
  5. You can repeat this procedure 1-2 times a week for better results.

Apple cider vinegar as a hair conditioner

You can use apple cider vinegar as a hair conditioner. Follow these steps for preparation.

  1. The first step is shampooing and conditioning your hair.
  2. Then add about ¼ of apple cider vinegar to one mug of plain water.
  3. You can then pour this mug of water on your hair and scalp.
  4. Let the apple cider vinegar water stay on your hair for 5 minutes.
  5. After 5 minutes, you can rinse your hair with plain water.

 Precautionary guide for consuming Apple cider vinegar

Certain precautions must be considered before the consumption of Apple cider vinegar. Check out certain precautions that must be followed seriously:

  • Expert advice

According to the expert’s advice, you must take care of the following things.

  1. Apple cider vinegar has acidic properties, and therefore it is advised not to consume undiluted apple cider vinegar as it can damage the food pipe and tooth enamel.
  2. You must be cautious while consuming apple cider vinegar if you have osteoporosis.
  3. You must never consume apple cider vinegar and acidic fruits like lemon or oranges, as it could lead to hyperacidity in the body.
  4. You must never consume apple cider vinegar after consuming tea or coffee, as it could lead to vomiting and nausea.
  • For diabetic patients:

If you have diabetes, you must know that apple cider vinegar has properties that can lower blood glucose levels. Therefore, it is advised that you check your sugar levels now and then after consuming apple cider vinegar along with any anti-diabetic medicines.

  • For breastfeeding ladies

It is advised not to consume apple cider vinegar during pregnancy.

  • For breastfeeding ladies

It is advised not to consume apple cider vinegar if you are breastfeeding.

  • For heart disease patients

The long-term consumption of apple cider vinegar may prove harmful to heart disease patients as they take diuretics or other anti-hypertensive drugs. Therefore, if you are consuming apple cider vinegar with other diuretics, it could lead to hypokalemia.

FAQ about Apple cider vinegar:

What is the best brand of apple cider vinegar?

One of the best apple cider vinegar brands is Braggs's organic apple cider vinegar, as it is produced using organically grown apples. This brand is unadulterated, unfiltered, and unpasteurized. It also contains a combination of good enzymes, probiotic bacteria, and proteins.

How to store apple cider vinegar?

You must not store apple cider vinegar in the refrigerator. You can easily store apple cider vinegar in an airtight bottle or container for retaining the flavor and quality of apple cider vinegar. You must place it away from heat or direct sunlight to help prevent any growth of bacteria. This way, you can easily store apple cider vinegar.

Can we consume apple cider vinegar for managing to bloat?

There are two views to this question. Check out the scientific view and ayurvedic view of consuming apple cider vinegar for managing to bloat.

Science

Ayurveda

According to scientific studies, apple cider vinegar has acidic properties beneficial for proper digestion and preventing bloating. However, there is not enough evidence available, but some experts say that apple cider vinegar provides relief from intestinal discomforts.

According to ayurvedic studies, apple cider vinegar can increase the flow of pitta ras that helps in proper digestion of food, and helps control bloating.

Tips for consuming apple cider vinegar for managing bloating

You can follow these steps for controlling bloating by consuming apple cider vinegar.

  1. You could take about one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass and add lukewarm water.
  2. Mix them well and consume it two times in a day, half an hour before consuming your meals.

What are the side effects of consuming undiluted or excess apple cider vinegar for the esophagus?

Consuming apple cider vinegar can damage your esophagus if consumed in undiluted form or in the improper ratio. Moreover, excess consumption of apple cider vinegar or not consuming enough water after taking an apple cider vinegar tablet could lead to throat burn. Some other side effects of consuming undiluted apple cider vinegar are stomach ulcers and heartburn.

Are there any side effects of apple cider vinegar on the liver?

According to scientific studies, there are no side effects of apple cider vinegar on the liver. Instead, apple cider vinegar may be good for the liver as it helps in detoxifying and cleansing the liver. Therefore, consuming apple cider vinegar is beneficial for the liver.

Tips for consuming apple cider vinegar for liver detoxification and cleansing

You can follow these steps for the consumption of apple cider vinegar.

  1. You could take one glass of water and add about one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to the glass.
  2. Mix the contents of the glass well and consume it half an hour before having your meal.
  3. You can consume these two times a day for better results.

Can undiluted apple cider vinegar damage the tooth enamel?

Apple cider vinegar has an acidic nature that is harmful when it is consumed in the undiluted form as it can damage your tooth enamel and further lead to cavities. Therefore you must take care of the following tips while consuming apple cider vinegar orally. 

  1. You could take one glass of water and add about 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to it.
  2. You can then use a straw for sipping as this will minimize the contact of apple cider vinegar with your teeth. 
  3. It would be best if you did not brush your teeth after consuming apple cider vinegar with water as brushing can erode the tooth enamel, resulting in a weak state after the consumption.

Which fruits should we avoid if we are consuming apple cider vinegar?

You must never consume apple cider vinegar along with citrus fruits, as it will lead to hyperacidity in the body. Some of the citrus fruits are lemon and oranges, which are both acidic in nature.

Does apple cider vinegar help with skin whitening?

Apple cider vinegar has skin-cleansing properties that may help clean the skin and reduce skin problems like excess acne. However, there is no evidence that apple cider vinegar can help with skin whitening.

Can we consume apple cider vinegar for weight loss?

There are two views to this question. Check out the scientific view and ayurvedic view of consuming apple cider vinegar for managing to bloat.

Science

Ayurveda

According to scientific studies, Apple cider vinegar has an enzyme content called AMPK that helps in the breaking down of fat accumulation in the body and also burns excess fat by controlling appetite and increasing fat metabolism. Consuming apple cider vinegar can help in the breakdown of starch into sugar and prevent the accumulation of fat in the body. Therefore, consuming apple cider vinegar can help with weight management.

According to ayurvedic studies, apple cider vinegar has the property of Pachak Agni that helps in increasing the pachak Agni and reducing the Ama that is the toxic waste that is the main reason for the increase in weight. Therefore, consuming apple cider vinegar can help in managing weight.   

 

Disclaimer - The aim of the article is just to convey information to you. Use any medicine, therapy, herb or fruit please do it under the guidance of a qualified Ayurveda doctor.