Apple cider vinegar has been used for its health benefits for many years (Photo: Shutterstock)

Apple cider vinegar has been used for years and it has a load of benefits. From being used as a cleaning agent, an ingredient in meal preparation and in skincare, it also brags numerous health benefits. 

Here is what you should know to help you make the best use of your apple cider vinegar.

1. Facial toner

Apple cider vinegar is a natural toner that can be used to remove impurities from the skin’s surface. It also protects the skin and moisturizes it. Dilute it with water and using a cotton ball, dab on your face and neck after you have cleansed.

2. Cleaning agent

Apple cider vinegar is effective in cleaning surfaces in the same way that soap does though on a smaller scale. It contains acid which kills harmful bacteria that might be lying on surfaces. Dilute with  water and put in a spray bottle. Then use it on glass surfaces for that extra shine.

3. Trapping fruit flies

Fruit flies can be a pain to get rid of. They are attracted to fermenting fruits and vegetables. Start by ensuring your surfaces and kitchen sink are clean. If they are persistent, put some apple cider vinegar in a bowl and cover it with cling film. Poke small holes on the cling film. The fruit flies will be attracted to the vinegar, fly into the bowl and get trapped inside.  Alternatively, add a drop of dish soap to apple cider vinegar in a bowl and mix well. Once the flie fly into the bowl, they will get immersed in the mixture and will be unable to fly out. 

 Add a little apple cider vinegar when boiling eggs to help them cook better (Photo: Shutterstock)

4. Washing hair as a rinse

Use apple cider vinegar in your final rinse to get rid of any product residue. Dilute it in water and pour on your hair. Let it sit as per recommendations and then rinse it off. 

5. Boiling eggs

Do you have trouble ensuring your boiled eggs are well done? Do your poached eggs collapse leaving you with an eggy mess? Use this apple cider vinegar trick. Add a little apple cider vinegar to the boiling water. This will help your eggs set and cook to perfection.

6. Preserving food

For ages, people pickled food as a form of preservation. Due to its acidic nature, apple cider vinegar can be used in pickling as the acid in the vinegar will prevent any bacterial growth in food.

7. Helps with weight loss

According to Healthline, apple cider vinegar can help increase the feeling of fullness making you eat less. Another study showed that taking two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar a day may help you lose weight. However, the acidic nature of this vinegar may cause problems in people with stomach problems such as ulcers. Consult a health practitioner before trying it out

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