How To Gargle Apple Cider Vinegar

Soothe a sore throat, get rid of bad breath, and whiten teeth – just by gargling apple cider vinegar! This amazing, ancient ingredient is touted as a natural remedy around the world.

Apple cider vinegar is a fermented mix of apples, yeast, and sugar. The concoction sits for several weeks and, through the work of natural bacteria, transforms into a golden colored, multi-purpose potion. People claim that apple cider vinegar has so many benefits for the body, like clearing acne, helping with weight loss, and boosting energy.

The fermentation process produces probiotics which are good bacteria that help your microbiome, the collection of microbes in your gut. The microbiome plays critical roles in digestion and the health of your immune system. So keeping your microbiome full of good bacteria, keeps you healthy!

This naturally occurring remedy has been used for thousands of years. There are records of apple cider vinegar being prescribed in Greece in 400 B.C. for various ailments, but it was probably used far longer than that!

Nowadays, apple cider vinegar is a common pantry staple. Available in your local grocery store, any task, (from cleaning to baking to beauty), uses this powerhouse liquid. Be sure to look for raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar as it contains the highest amount of good bacteria. 

People can consume apple cider vinegar directly or mixed into foods, yet one can receive benefits only by gargling it! Gargling apple cider vinegar can help soothe a sore throat, eliminate bad breath, whiten teeth, and thin mucus to clear your sinuses. However, due to its acidic nature, always dilute the apple cider vinegar in water to avoid throat irritation. An appropriate amount of apple cider vinegar and water is 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar to 1 cup water.

When to Gargle Apple Cider Vinegar

Soothe a sore throat: Gargle diluted apple cider vinegar every 2 hours to soothe your throat. The vinegar terminates harmful bacteria in your mouth and creates an environment that doesn’t allow the bacteria to regrow. 

Eliminate bad breath: Similar to soothing a sore throat, gargling apple cider vinegar + water kills harmful bacteria in your mouth which causes bad breath.

Whiten teeth: Gargle and swish diluted apple cider vinegar around your mouth, then wait at least 30 minutes before brushing teeth as usual. The apple cider vinegar will help fight stains on your teeth. However, swish the apple cider vinegar sparingly, (about 2-3x a week), as it is highly acidic which could harm your tooth enamel with overuse. 

Thin mucus: Gargle the apple cider vinegar mixture to eliminate bacteria in/around your nasal cavity and prevent its further growth, which in turn thins mucus. To make an every stronger impact on mucus, sip a tea of apple cider vinegar, warm water, and splash of fresh lemon juice.

Tips For Use

• Consult your healthcare provider before beginning an apple cider vinegar regime.

• Always dilute the ACV in water to prevent throat irritation and tooth enamel damage.

• Gargle for approximately 1 minute.

• Add a pinch of salt to the diluted apple cider vinegar for a mini antibacterial boost!

Related Articles

If you’re interested in learning more about other potential benefits of apple cider vinegar, check out the following related articles!

• Best Apple Cider Vinegar to Drink
• Best Apple Cider Vinegar for Your Hair
• 10 ways to use apple cider vinegar for plants

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