Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries as a home remedy for various conditions. It has been shown to have many health benefits, including lower blood sugar, weight loss, and can even help improve symptoms of diabetes. One of its main uses is for skin disorders such as eczema.
Eczema is a term used to describe a group of skin conditions in which the skin becomes inflamed and irritated. It displays itself as dry, itchy, skin that can develop lesions or blisters. Apple cider vinegar is an excellent home remedy for these things because it contains antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Here are five ways you can use apple cider vinegar (ACV) to help treat and relieve symptoms of eczema.
1. Diluted topical solution
Because of the high acidity of ACV, it’s advised to never apply directly to the skin. This could actually cause symptoms to worsen. Instead, dilute ACV with water to apply it topically.
Mix equal parts ACV and water in a cup or bowl. However, for very sensitive skin, or when first using, use more water than vinegar – ¼ cup of vinegar and 3 cups of water. You can pour this mixture into a spray bottle and use it to spritz affected areas, or you can apply the mixture directly using a clean cotton ball. Do this twice a day, preferably in the morning and night times.
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2. Oral solution
Since eczema is considered an autoimmune disorder, it’s a good idea to take advantage of the immune system boosting benefits of apple cider vinegar. Do this by mixing a couple of tablespoons of ACV with a cup of water, and drinking it twice a day. You can add some honey, syrup, or blackstrap molasses to the drink if you like, to improve the taste.
3. Homemade ACV Cream
Since eczema can cause extremely dry skin, keeping it moisturized it crucial. However, many over-the-counter lotions and creams can cause reactions with sensitive skin. It can also be tedious to apply the diluted solution with a cotton ball.
You can make a natural cream with 2 tablespoons coconut oil, 1.5 teaspoons beeswax, and 1.5 tablespoons apple cider vinegar. Simply heat the oil and beeswax for several minutes, then mix the ACV until it forms a cream. You can apply this daily.
4. Solution with baking soda
You can create another oral solution with baking soda, which has it’s own benefits for balancing pH levels in the body. Some studies have shown that an imbalance of pH levels in the body could lead to dry skin and eczema.
Mix two tablespoons of ACV and ¼ teaspoon of baking soda with a half cup of water. You may add honey for taste, or add this mix to tea. Drink daily.
5. Vinegar bath
This is an excellent way to relieve pain associated with sores or blisters, and also helps break down and remove dead skin.
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Add two cups of ACV to warm bathwater and mix thoroughly. You may also add 1/3 cup of safflower or sunflower oil to help with dryness. Soak in this for half an hour.
These methods may help relieve eczema symptoms. Be sure to test for sensitivity first, and be aware that ACV may burn when first applying. Repeated use, however, can improve and may even heal eczema.
