HEALTH AND BEAUTY

KNOCK SPOTS OFF BAD SKIN

Acne and boils can be treated with apple cider vinegar which should reduce the pain and inflammation. Dab a little on to the affected area with a cotton-wool pad – it may sting but that’s a sign that the antiseptic elements are active and fighting the bacteria.

SOOTHE YOUR SUNBURN

If you’ve overdone it in the sun, soak a flannel with diluted clear malt vinegar and gently dab it on to the affected area. This is particularly effective if the vinegar has been chilled. It will help prevent itchiness, reduce blistering and subsequent skin peeling.

CLEAR CONGESTION

Fill a bowl with boiling water and add three tablespoons of cider vinegar. Pop your head over the bowl and cover yourself with a towel to keep the steam in. Close your eyes and inhale the vapour for a few minutes. Cider vinegar breaks up phlegm and clears the throat. Repeat twice daily until the phlegm has gone.

AID ACHING MUSCLES

When you exercise, your body uses oxygen to break down glucose for energy. During intense exercise there may not be enough oxygen available to do this; in which case lactic acid is produced. If that builds up, it can cause pain in the muscles. Cider vinegar helps to draw out lactic acid, so mix a few tablespoons into a cup of warm water, wet a flannel in this and plaster it on to any sore area for around 20 minutes. It will have a soothing effect.