Apple Cider Vinegar: Beauty and Household Uses — Part II

The antimicrobial properties of apple cider vinegar make it an excellent cleanser. One study indicated that the acetic acid in vinegar was found to be lethal to E. coli. A combination of lemon juice and vinegar was shown to be effective against salmonella. In Part I last week, we looked at some “medicinal” uses for apple cider vinegar, but let’s see what else it can do.

Beauty Routines

(1) Deodorant – Applied to underarms, apple cider vinegar is a natural deodorant. (Diluted strength may be best to avoid sensitivity.) It may also be wiped on the feet to kill odor-causing bacteria.

(2) Facial Toner – Dab a little diluted apple cider vinegar on a cotton ball and apply to face. (Full strength may cause redness!)

(3) Hair Rinse – Combine one-third cup of vinegar with four cups of water. Use weekly to help remove product build-up and balance the pH level of the scalp.

Around the House

(1) Dishwasher – Pour a cup into the bottom of the dishwasher and run a normal cycle to clean and keep it smelling fresh.

(2) Drains – Mix half a cup of baking soda and half a cup of salt together. Pour this down your drain and follow with half a cup of apple cider vinegar. The reaction cleans the drain. After three hours, flush the drain thoroughly with water.

(3) Nontoxic Fabric Softener – Instead of your regular fabric softener, add half a cup of apple cider vinegar to your washing machine for soft clothes.

(4) Windows – Spray a 50:50 solution of apple cider vinegar and water on your windows and allow to dry. Buff with a paper towel to remove any smears.

(5) Odor Neutralizer – Pour a little in a bowl to help neutralize odors in your home.

Distilled white vinegar can be used for cleaning and laundry purposes. But if you are using it for your health, always choose organic and unfiltered vinegar — the one with a “murky” appearance. As noted in our previous article, it’s this murkiness that indicates a high-quality product. For long-term use internally, be aware that it could possibly cause low potassium levels and have an adverse effect on bone density. It may also react with certain medications, so always consult your health care practitioner before starting a course of apple cider vinegar.

Washed in the Blood

Though we’ve addressed the cleansing properties of apple cider vinegar, there is a cleansing we all need that can only come from Jesus: the spiritual cleansing from within.

“Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean.” (Matthew 23: 25-26 / NIV)

What uses have you found for apple cider vinegar? Better yet, have you gone to Jesus for the ultimate cleansing?