While many natural health specialists tout the benefits of using apple cider vinegar as a health cure, many are unaware of the apple cider vinegar side effects that come along with use of the compound. As a disinfectant and technique to balance the pH of the body, you may have turned to apple cider vinegar for a cure. The side effects you can expect from vinegar use, though, directly depend on how the compound is used.

On the Skin

Using apple cider vinegar on the skin is one of the most popular ways for the natural cure to be utilized in solving common health problems. Mostly, the antifungal and antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar are the components of the substance that make it perfect for skin use.  You may be using apple cider vinegar for some of the following reasons:

  • Curing Acne: Be aware that the vinegar will sting any broken skin and may lead to scarring.
  • Treating Athlete’s Foot or Fungal Nails: Again, any broken skin may be hurt from the acidity of the wash. Most often, apple cider vinegar is mixed with distilled water to prevent pain and stinging. The uninfected skin of the feet may dry and crack after soaking.
  • Cleaning Wounds: The disinfectant properties of this vinegar make is a common folk remedy to clean wounds. Be aware of intense stinging.
  • Curing Yeast Infections: Always make sure to dilute apple cider vinegar to two tablespoons to a liter to prevent burning and damage to skin. Too highly concentrated, vinegar will chemically burn any mucus membranes.

As a Hair Rinse

Many people use an apple cider vinegar mixture to rinse their hair for a number of reasons from correcting scalp pH to making hair shiny and smooth. Always be careful to keep the vinegar from getting into your eyes or nose when washing, as this could cause serious health problems. Some popular hair rinses are in response to the following health issues:

  • Head Lice: The acidity of apple cider vinegar is said to kill lice eggs and adults. Be careful about using this cure with children, as they may scratch their scalps, opening wounds that may sting and scar.
  • Dandruff: Flaky scalp is caused by the growth of a certain fungus, which apple cider vinegar kills. Make sure to dilute the vinegar with distilled water if you plan to use a vinegar wash.
  • To Make Hair Shiny: Some claim that vinegar washes make the hair shiny. Be aware, though, that the acidity may dry some hair types.

For Drinking

Many turn to apple cider vinegar as a kidney and liver detoxifier, weight loss supplement, or pH balancing agent. Be aware that constant intake of apple cider vinegar over a number of years can cause dangerous drops in potassium along with increased risk of osteoporosis. Drinking the acidic mixture regularly can also wear down enamel and cause tooth browning and decay. Whenever consuming vinegar, always make sure to dilute about two tablespoons in a full glass of water to prevent damage to your esophagus and mouth. Too much concentrated vinegar in the diet might also lead to stomach ulcers.

As a Disinfectant

Many use apple cider vinegar as a disinfectant in the home, and the good news is that there are no adverse side effects to this cleaning agent. The side effects of apple cider vinegar as a kitchen cleaner are nonexistent compared to some other chemical agents. Just make sure to dilute the vinegar to prevent the burning of your hands as you clean. Another way to avoid a chemical burn is to wear gloves while cleaning.

Using Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is an extremely helpful health and home remedy for a number of problems from acne to dandruff. Apple cider vinegar side effects shouldn’t be a problem either as long as the compound is used safely and securely. Always make sure to dilute the vinegar to prevent the burning of skin, and always take care to keep vinegar away from the face and eyes.

Posted on: May 27th, 2011 by Jeremy Waller

Filed under: Vitamins and Supplements

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