Is the power of vinegar an old wives’ tale or a well-known fact? Vinegar is basically acetic acid and as such makes an effective and inexpensive cleaning agent. I must admit, being very aware of and sensitive to TOXINS, I do use extra-strength (10%) plain white vinegar for many things. This extra-strength variety is also called cleaning vinegar; I find it in grocery stores in the same section as the culinary (eating) kind.
Here are a few of the uses of the plain white, extra strength kind:
- carpet cleaner
- drain unclogger (with baking soda)
- laundry cleaner (disinfects) and softener
- weed killer, but be aware that it is non-selective meaning it will kill your grass too, so is best used between patio stones etc
Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
ACV, made from fermented apples, has the benefits of acetic acid as well as enzymes, magnesium, probiotics, and potassium. It has become more popular recently as a dietary aid and home remedy to:
- relieve heartburn
- relieve sunburn
- detoxify your liver and lymphatic system
- lose weight and maintain healthy weight
- remove skin tags
- treat acne
- clean wounds (antiseptic)
- balance blood sugar levels
- lower cholesterol levels
- boost energy
- condition hair
- keep blood alkaline
- clear sinuses by thinning out mucus
- clean teeth
- improve circulation
That is an impressive list of benefits for both types of vinegar!
How to Use Vinegar
White vinegar can be used as a cleaning agent directly from the bottle for any of the suggested uses listed above. For weeds in sidewalk cracks, I pour some into a large spray bottle. Use caution if your stonework is a dark colour as the concentrated vinegar may bleach the colour out.
Apple cider vinegar should be diluted before use. To drink it, add one or two teaspoons to an eight-ounce glass of water. As a weight loss remedy, drink it before meals. Rinse your mouth after drinking to prevent erosion of enamel from your teeth. There are other adverse side effects of apple cider vinegar too, especially if consumed in excess.
Conclusions
So dig out those bottles from the back of your pantry and put them to work as non-toxic cleaners and home remedies. My favourite way to use ACV is to alleviate heartburn. I know it sounds counterintuitive, but it does work!
I knew about the power of apple vinegar, never knew about vinegar itself. Interesting post.
Vinegar really is great stuff, the finest universal cleanser known. 😊❤❤
Thanks for this valuable information!
I have a little Braggs ACV every morning in a tall glass topped with water and I really believe it has many beneficial qualities. Janet 🙂
I love my white vinegar I use it to clean my washing machine and as a cleaner for thins such as limescale
I use white or cider vinegar diluted 50|50 to help sooth psoriasis attacks on my face as well as external yeast infections. For example between the toes — though I don’t have that issue. I did check with the Doctor to make sure it was okay and wound’t harm the skin. I don’t think I’d use it on delicate areas though.