(NaturalNews) Offering a wealth of outstanding health benefits, raw apple cider vinegar has been the darling of natural remedies for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations used the vinegar as a preservative and condiment, while Hippocrates (otherwise known as the "Father of Medicine") enthusiastically praised its medicinal virtues.

Rich in malic acid, apple cider vinegar may assist in helping reduce the symptoms of fibromyalgia. A preliminary, double-blind trial discovered that malic acid, when combined with magnesium, lessened muscular pain in those who suffer from fibromyalgia. Participants who consumed upwards of 600 mg of magnesium and 2,400 mg malic acid experienced the greatest reduction. Additionally, due to its malic acid content, apple cider vinegar possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thereby supporting cardiovascular health.

But the perks of malic acid aren't the only benefit of the vinegar. It also is a great cleanser of the lymphatic system, aids in shedding excess weight by regulating glucose and breaking down fats, supports detoxification and rids the body of excess candida through the action of natural enzymes.

When the vinegar is applied topically, it also increases skin collagen production, reverses sun damage and soothes acne flare-ups. Left on overnight, ACV will fade acne scars and age spots. It regulates the pH of the skin. To use, dilute one part vinegar to one part water and apply with a cotton ball.

If you need further incentive to give apple cider vinegar a try, consider this: It's an excellent, all-natural household cleaner and eliminates the need for harsh - -and oftentimes dangerous -- chemical products. Use it straight to clean toilet bowls along with sinks. Dilute one part vinegar with three parts water for a non-streak mirror, floor, stove and countertop cleaner.

To make an economical natural hair rinse, dilute 1 tablespoon ACV with 2 cups water. Apply to freshly shampooed hair twice per week to encourage brilliant shine. By adding a cup of apple cider vinegar to bathwater, the healing time of sunburns and rashes is greatly reduced.

And for pennies on the dollar, you can easily make your own unpasteurized, organic apple cider vinegar from apple peels and cores. A good recipe can be found here.

How to avoid potential side effects

When all is said and done, unrefined apple cider vinegar presents a spectrum of healthy benefits and is generally considered safe at reasonable levels. Be that as it may, it's in our best interest to not ignore potential risks -- including the following:

Tissue damage: If using undiluted ACV in liquid or pill form, the esophagus and other parts of the digestive system can sustain injury due to its acidic nature. More isn't necessarily better, and most natural health practitioners recommend only a tablespoon or two in a full glass of water per day.

Enamel erosion: Teeth can suffer over time if ACV is consumed on a daily basis. Likewise, excessive use can contribute to low bone mineral density, yet another obstacle to a healthy smile. Consuming ACV with a straw will help preserve tooth enamel, while staying within a moderate range of ingestion (as noted above) will keep bones strong.

Low potassium levels: Prolonged and immoderate use of ACV may lead to hypokalemia, a condition which interferes with proper functioning of nerve and muscle cells, especially the heart.

Medication contraindication: Since ACV affects blood glucose and insulin levels, it may interfere with diabetes medication. Apple cider vinegar also lowers blood pressure. It's always wise to consult with a qualified practitioner before using ACV if you're on medication.

Sources:

http://www.mnn.com

http://altmedicine.about.com

http://www.mayoclinic.org

http://gerson.org

http://www.uofmhealth.org

http://www.pacificcollege.edu

http://science.naturalnews.com

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