Vinegar & Honey Cures

Vinegar and honey are both substances that have many uses in cooking, cleaning and for medicinal purposes. Vinegar is made by fermenting ethanol alcohol, and can be purchased at grocery stores and drug stores. Honey is created by bees through the pollination of flowers and can also be purchased at most grocery and health food stores. Used individually or together, vinegar and honey may provide relief for several ailments. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Vinegar

Vinegar may inhibit bacterial growth, according to the Mayo Clinic, which can make it an effective treatment for nail fungus or other fungal infections when the affected area is soaked in a mixture of 2 parts vinegar to 1 part warm water for 15 to 20 minutes. Vinegar can also help cure lice when used as a rinsing agent following the use of lice medication. Soak the hair in vinegar for several minutes and then rinse and comb hair. Vinegar can also be used as a treatment for jellyfish stings. Pour vinegar over the affected area to deactivate any stingers still present on the skin.

Honey

Honey may act as a natural cough suppressant, and according to the Mayo Clinic, has been shown to be as effective as cough medicine in adults and children over the age of 2. Take 2 tbsp. honey every four hours. Do not give to children under the age of 2, as babies are at risk for botulism when given honey. Consumption of local honey may also help reduce allergy symptoms due to low levels of exposure to local pollen in the honey. Honey is also a natural antiseptic and can be applied to wounds to help clean away bacteria and speed healing. Burns may also heal better when treated with honey.

Vinegar and Honey

Mixing apple cider vinegar with honey together in a drink may strengthen the immune system through the antioxidants present in the honey, while providing antibacterial properties through the vinegar. This drink is used by some as a detoxifying or cleansing drink. Mix 1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar, 1 tbsp. honey and 8 oz. cold water. Be aware that stomach upset may occur.