How Does Apple Cider Vinegar Cure Sore Throat?
Apple cider vinegar is nothing but fermented apple juice. The addition of yeast to apple juice converts the fruit sugar into alcohol, which is then converted into acetic acid by bacteria. This is when we get the vinegar from apple juice. It is this acetic acid content that makes ACV an effective remedy for treating various medical conditions, including sore throat. The properties of apple cider vinegar that are beneficial and helpful in combating a sore throat are as follows:
The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar can balance the pH of the tissues of your body. This inhibits the growth and spread of bacteria in your throat. It has antibacterial properties that are quite effective in fighting against infectious germs and bacteria. ACV contains a prebiotic called inulin that boosts your immunity by increasing the number of white blood cells and T cells in your body. Apple cider vinegar has been long used as an expectorant that can loosen and thin the phlegm in your body and ease breathing (1).
How To Use Apple Cider Vinegar To Cure Sore Throat Naturally
Using Apple Cider Vinegar For Sore Throat
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar 1 glass of warm water
Gargle with apple cider vinegar several times a day. The acidic and antibacterial properties of apple cider vinegar, along with its expectorant properties, can be of great help in eliminating sore throat and the infection causing it (2).
2. Apple Cider Vinegar And Cayenne Pepper
1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper 3 teaspoons of honey 1 glass of warm water
Do this 2 to 3 times daily. While apple cider vinegar breaks down the phlegm and decongests your nasal passage with its expectorant properties, the capsaicin in cayenne pepper offers relief from the pain and inflammation that accompany a sore throat (3), (4).
3. Apple Cider Vinegar And Cinnamon
1 teaspoon of apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder 1 teaspoon of honey 1 teaspoon of lemon juice 1 cup of warm water
You can do this 2 to 3 times daily. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of cinnamon and apple cider vinegar can help you combat a sore throat and its symptoms naturally. Additionally, the healing properties of honey and lemon juice help speed up your recovery (5), (6).
4. Apple Cider Vinegar And Honey
2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar 2 tablespoons of honey 1 glass of warm water
You must drink this solution once daily. The expectorant properties of both apple cider vinegar and honey, in combination with the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory nature of honey, can provide immediate relief from a sore throat (7), (8), (9).
5. Apple Cider Vinegar And Baking Soda
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon of baking soda 1 glass of warm water
Gargle with this solution several times a day. The antimicrobial properties of ACV and baking soda help kill the bacteria causing the sore throat (10).
6. Apple Cider Vinegar And Lemon
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon of lemon juice 1 glass of warm water Honey (optional)
Drink this solution 2 to 3 times daily. The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of lemon juice can aid ACV in treating a sore throat (11), (12), (13).
7. Apple Cider Vinegar And Saltwater
1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar 1 teaspoon of salt 1 glass of warm water
Do this several times a day for a speedy recovery. The antimicrobial nature of salt (sodium chloride) aids ACV in eliminating sore throat (14). These remedies can help treat a sore throat when taken in the prescribed amounts. However, given the acidic nature of ACV, it is better to take some basic precautions while using it.
Precautions
As ACV is highly acidic, it should be used in the diluted form. Do not take more than the recommended dose of apple cider vinegar as it may have harmful side effects. In case you experience any side effects from overdosage, see your doctor immediately. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should steer clear of apple cider vinegar.
Can apple cider vinegar make a sore throat worse? Apple cider vinegar is popularly used as a sore throat remedy. However, taking it in the wrong dosage, or not diluting it properly may increase the risk of acid reflux and worsen a sore throat. Is apple cider vinegar good for strep throat? Yes, apple cider vinegar may help improve strep throat due to its antimicrobial properties. Does apple cider vinegar help fight viruses? Although apple cider vinegar has strong antibacterial and antifungal qualities, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support the efficacy of apple cider vinegar as an antiviral agent (15). Can I drink apple cider vinegar everyday? Yes, you can drink apple cider vinegar everyday but you need to be mindful about the dosage and dilution to prevent side effects. It is recommended that you consult your healthcare provider before introducing apple cider vinegar in your diet.
