Homemade Apple Cider Vinegar: Easy Steps & Benefits

Per the name Herb'N Eden, I clearly have a knack for herbs! I'm always reading books about herbs, alternative medicine, and of course skincare. One of my favorite reads is an amazing book called the Apple Cider Vinegar Cure, which has a ton of apple cider vinegar recipes and uses for apple cider vinegar. More interestingly, there is a recipe for making apple cider vinegar! For some reason, because I'm used to using the Bragg's brand, I didn't know you could make it yourself. Even better, it takes only apples, water, and sugar to make it! During the first week as the apples are in the sugar water, they start to ferment and go through the process of becoming apple cider. The apples are then strained after that and left to turn into vinegar for 3-6 weeks.

It was a no-brainer that I was going to make my own homemade apple cider vinegar because it has so many uses! It has worked wonders for me when I had heartburn and indigestion. I like to start my day with a shot of organic ACV too, as I've heard it helps with weight loss. Although, I use it more so in hopes that it aids my morning digestion.

When I saw a recipe in the book for Fire Cider, the possibilities just seemed endless! I first heard about fire cider when I went to an herbalist conference. It's been a staple in the herbal community for years, well known for keeping colds away and immune systems strong.

My favorite benefit of apple cider vinegar is that it balances the pH of skin. It also helps to remove dead skin cells and aid a thriving environment for newly regenerated cells! Apple cider vinegar mixed with a little filtered water makes for a great skin toner!

For those interested in how to make apple cider vinegar, here's a simple guide:

• Gather your ingredients: 3 apples (roughly chopped and cored), 1/4 cup honey, and 3 3/4 cups water.
• Place the apples in a large jar, covering them with water and honey.
• Cover the jar with a cloth and secure it with a rubber band.
• Let the mixture sit at room temperature for about a week, stirring it daily.
• After a week, strain out the apples and allow the liquid to ferment for another 3-6 weeks until it becomes raw vinegar.

As an herbalist, I'm always in my kitchen concocting different potions and creations as I see fit. Check this Facebook Live video of me making apple cider vinegar from scratch.

Apple cider vinegar benefits are numerous, including aiding digestion, supporting weight loss, and improving skin health. Whether you're using it as a toner or a dietary supplement, the versatility of apple cider vinegar makes it a must-have in any natural remedy toolkit.

Making homemade apple cider vinegar is not just a rewarding process, but also an empowering one. By crafting your own organic ACV, you ensure that every ingredient is natural and eco-friendly, aligning with the Herb'N Eden philosophy. Plus, the satisfaction of creating something so beneficial from scratch is unparalleled. The process of making apple cider vinegar is simple yet profound, allowing you to connect with the natural fermentation process and enjoy the fruits of your labor in a truly holistic way.

Here are some additional apple cider vinegar uses:

• As a natural hair rinse to add shine and remove product buildup.
• In salad dressings for a tangy, health-boosting flavor.
• As a natural cleaner for surfaces around the home.
• To soothe sunburn when diluted with water.
• As a foot soak to reduce odor and fungal infections.

By incorporating homemade apple cider vinegar into your daily routine, you can enjoy a multitude of health and wellness benefits, all while embracing a more natural lifestyle. Whether you're exploring new apple cider vinegar recipes or simply enjoying a daily dose, the potential for enhancing your well-being is immense.