The Ins and Outs of Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar is pretty much an all around household ingredient that can be used from cleaning our countertops to our underarms.
There are several ways one can benefit from apple cider vinegar. Whether you drink it daily for weight loss, use it in your clarifying shampoo, in baking or as a laundry detergent, it’s certainly a household staple - especially for those of us interested in integrating safe and effective ingredients into our home. In this article we’ll cover the benefits of ACV, the downsides of ACV, and different ways to incorporate ACV into your daily routine.
Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar
The acetic acid present in apple cider vinegar, which forms during the fermentation process is what makes it so darn good for you. The natural probiotics found in ACV contribute to gut health and can boost one’s immune system, but there’s even more to it than that!
Apple Cider Vinegar can be used to:
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Aids in weight loss
Though there isn’t any hard conclusive evidence that ACV will directly help one lose weight, there are many studies that point to the possibilities. It’s believed that ACV can prevent fat deposition and improve one’s metabolism. -
May reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels
The consumption of ACV can improve the glycemic control of diabetics. And there has been evidence to support the reduction of hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c) for type-2 diabetes. -
Reduces Dandruff
It can help control dandruff by balancing the pH level of one’s scalp. It’s antimicrobial properties will also remove any bacteria or fungus that creates the dandruff on the scalp. -
Clarifies Hair
It’s famously used to clarify the hair, removing any product buildup near the roots and in the hair. ACV will also exfoliate your scalp, opening up those potentially blocked hair follicles. It may even help with volume and curl definition too! -
Reduces inflammation and acne
The lactic, citric,malic acids and acetic acid can help kill the acne-forming bacteria on one’s skin. ACV’s exfoliating properties can also help remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin, bringing forth a healthier, clearer layer of skin to the surface. -
Eliminates body odor
Apple Cider Vinegar balances the skin’s pH, helping to combat body odor, and eliminates bacteria that cause body odor in the underarms or feet. It can also be used as an underarm detox by pulling out any toxins and aluminum from your pores (for those transitioning from antiperspirants to natural deodorants - ACV will help speed up the process).
What Are the Downsides of Apple Cider Vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar is an extremely potent ingredient. This means that when it’s not diluted correctly, it can cause more harm than good. Just take one quick whiff of the ingredient and you can sense just how strong it is. That being said, it should never be applied directly to the scalp, skin or hair without being diluted first.
Eating or drinking too much apple cider vinegar can lower your potassium levels more than is good for you, which is why you may need to consult a professional if you want to drink apple cider vinegar everyday. It can also be too harsh on the teeth, damaging the enamel on the teeth, which can lead to cavities.
Because it is in fact acidic, it can burn the skin, scalp, throat or intestines when not diluted correctly. Some people don’t react to it well, especially when it’s not balanced out by other more alkaline ingredients like baking soda.
Takeaway
You’ll find ACV as a main ingredient in Play Pit’s natural deodorant for both children and adults. We safely combine ACV with delicious essential oils, soothing butters and alkaline ingredients like baking soda to protect your skin while protecting your scent!
When transitioning from chemical deodorants to natural deodorants you may find the body acting in surprising ways as it sheds all those toxins, opening up pores that have been unhealthily sealed. Some people may even have slight skin irritations, a rash or darkening of the armpits. And in those cases, we always recommend applying a small amount of aloe vera gel or coconut oil for quick relief as your body transitions to more natural ingredients.
If you’ve had problems in the past with natural deodorants, we’d love to hear what those issues were and if you found any natural solutions during your transition.
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