Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has gained a lot of hype in recent years. A common (and cheap!) household product, it has benefits both for beauty and health. So, what to use it for?
1. As a supplement
Many people have started drinking apple cider vinegar daily to give a boost their system. Acetic acid in the vinegar is believed to have health benefits. ACV promotes satiety and may aid in weight loss. There are also studies that suggest vinegar may be helpful in the prevention of diabetes.
You can drink ACV first thing in the morning, almost like a supplement, by diluting it with water. Add 1 tsp to a cup of water to drink and start the day with.
Do make sure to always dilute any ACV you are consuming – the acids in the vinegar will damage your tooth enamel otherwise.
2. As a conditioner
Washing your hair with ACV helps clean it of product build-up. It is more acidic than regular shampoo and hence its clarifying effect is stronger. An itchy scalp will benefit too, as the acidity helps soothe the skin.
The acid in ACV also works to smooth out the hair cuticle after washing. Give your hair an ACV rinse for shine and moisture. Make a mixture of 1 part ACV and 2 parts water for the treatment, and pour on the hair. Let sit for a couple of minutes, then rinse out with water for soft, silky hair.
Use caution when considering ACV for dry hair, as it might strip it of its natural oils. Same goes for coloured hair! It is best not to do ACV treatments more often than once a week.
Read more about natural hair washing methods here.
3. For baking
ACV is very common in vegan baking as an ingredient for vegan buttermilk. ACV mixed with plant milk will help vegan batter rise without any eggs.
Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a cup of plant milk. Leave sit for a few minutes. The mixture will start to curdle. Then stir in quickly with the other ingredients.
4. For cleaning
Vinegar is commonly used to kill bacteria due to its antimicrobial properties. You can spray ACV directly onto surfaces as a natural disinfectant. Free of harmful chemicals, apple cider vinegar cleans without hurting the planet.
5. For skincare
Apple cider vinegar can be used as a toner for the skin. The acid in the vinegar might help soothe irritated and dry skin, as it is not too much removed from the natural acidity of the skin. Alkaline products such as soaps and cleansers might only irritate the skin more. ACV is recommended as a topical toner particularly for eczema to protect the skin barrier.
Some use diluted ACV as a wash to help prevent acne. While there may not be strong evidence to support this, it can be used as a cleanser. Vinegar can be used to clean wounds and kill bacteria, and a diluted ACV face wash may help clear the skin of toxins.
Raw Rebellion 
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