Apple Cider Vinegar: From Folk Remedy to Modern Day Medicine

By Dane Kasimir-Cruz


Recently apple cider vinegar has been deemed a very helpful health elixir. What once used to be considered folk remedies using apple cider vinegar are now backed by scientific research indicating its helpful effects. The primary ingredient of apple cider vinegar or any vinegar is acetic acid. Vinegars also have other acids, vitamins, mineral salts and amino acids. Vinegar is a product of the process of fermentation by which sugars in a food are broken down by bacteria in yeast. In the second stage of fermentation the alcohol ferments further and we get vinegar .Specifically, apple cider vinegar comes from crushed apples.

Due to the widely acclaimed theories that apple cider vinegar can promote good health, scientific evidence has been collected and has proven that the theories are true.

Comprehensive research has been carried out on blood sugar levels and apple cider vinegar for the condition of diabetes. Apple cider vinegar may aide in lowering blood glucose levels. You can consume 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar prior to bed time. Research has shown this can lower glucose levels by morning by four to six percent.

A study conducted in 2006 showed that apple cider vinegar could lower cholesterol levels. The study however was done with rats, so it is not determined as to whether this would be experienced by people the same way. Another study conducted in rats showed a link between consumption of vinegar and lowering high blood pressure.

A few laboratory studies have shown that apple cider vinegar can kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth. Studies done with humans have inconclusive results. On one hand consuming vinegar is associated with decreasing the risk of esophageal cancer while it is associated with increasing the risk of bladder cancer.

Apple cider vinegar may be helpful for the conscious dieter. Studies have shown consuming vinegar promotes fullness and fends off hunger. Controlling appetite can be a life saving technique for those who are obese or are approaching obesity.

Popular home remedies involving apple cider vinegar are abundant. A particular remedy for dandruff is to mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water. The vinegar solution restores the pH balance of the scalp and discourages the growth of the fungus which is the culprit causing dandruff. When applied to acne, use one part vinegar to three parts water to make a vinegar solution. It is extremely important to dilute the vinegar so as not to damage the skin.

The popularity of apple cider vinegar continues to this day. And the best part is that it is readily available at your local supermarket. There are books, magazine articles and online articles specifically dedicated to apple cider vinegar, and by this alone it can be deduced that it is a possible healthy cure.




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