Versatile vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is an incredibly versatile staple to have in your kitchen and bathroom. It is rich in vitamins E, A, and P, magnesium, iron, potassium and calcium, and a handy tool for beauty and health.

Weight loss

If you’re looking to shed some pounds this summer, apple cider vinegar helps you feel fuller longer or it can help you avoid feeling hungry by slowing the emptying of your stomach. It lowers the glycemic index of high-carb foods and slows the release of glucose in your system. So have a spoonful before your next heavy meal to ensure you don’t eat too much.

Digestion

It can help improve your digestion if your stomach is feeling iffy. The pectin in apple cider vinegar can ease constipation. Try a fibrous green salad and an apple cider vinaigrette to help move things along.

Warts

Apple cider vinegar can help heal warts naturally. For a fast and easy treatment, soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and put it on the wart with medical tape to let it soak.

Cutting Caffeine

If you’re looking to cut down on caffeine and don’t want your energy levels to suffer, try adding a few tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to your water to boost energy levels.

Immunity boost

Combine apple cider vinegar, cayenne pepper, lemon and honey and serve hot to help boost your immunity. If you’re already sick, it helps replenish minerals, open up your sinuses and boost your immune system. Use it in salad dressing, smoothies, or in for an easy way to support your immune system and liver.

Heartburn

Take a spoonful or use in drinks or dressings to ease heartburn or an acidic stomach.

Skin and hair

Apple cider vinegar can be great for your skin and hair. Try rinsing your hair with it to boost shine and get rid of dandruff and buildup. Use it as a natural treatment for acne, to soothe sunburn, help with varicose veins or treat age spots.

Cleaning product

Use it as an all-purpose cleaner in your home, a safe and chemical-free way to clean most areas. Mix one part water, one part apple cider vinegar and a few drops of your favourite essential oil in a spray bottle.

Bath

Use it with essential oils for a relaxing bath. Add ½ to 1 cup to bath water. Epsom salts and lavender essential oil are also good to add.

Hiccups

Try a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to get rid of hiccups.

Fruit Flies

Get rid of fruit flies in your home by putting a thin layer of apple cider vinegar in a cup with a drop of dish soap. Put it where you find fruit flies.

Cat urine

Add apple cider vinegar to the laundry to get rid of the smell of cat urine.

Fleas

Mix with water and spray on your dog to treat fleas. You can also add a bit to their water or food to fight fleas.

Yeast infection

If you have a yeast infection or get them frequently, add 1½ cups to your bath water and soak for 20 minutes.

Sunburn

Massage onto the affected area for quick relief.

Sore throat

Mix a small amount with water and gargle to ease a sore throat and combat bad breath. Also helps whiten the teeth.

Leg cramps

Rub on your legs when they cramp up and it can help ease the pain.

— By Lauren Stewart, is a freelancer writer from Michigan who enjoys writing about beauty, health, fitness, wellness, makeup and skincare. www.yourbeautyadvisor.com