How to Use Vinegar in First Aid

Vinegar is useful in many first aid situations.

The ancients knew the amazing benefits of vinegar. They used vinegar in everything, from hygiene to food to sanitation. Vinegar was literally the world’s first antibiotic treatment. The Babylonians first recorded the use of vinegar around 5,000 BC, and reportedly discovered it by fermenting the fruit of date palms. Keep vinegar on hand for quick first aid treatments.

Things You'll Need

• White vinegar
• Cider vinegar
• Water

Instructions

How to Use Vinegar in First Aid

1. Treat abrasions. Vinegar is a natural antiseptic, so use diluted solution of half vinegar and half water to clean minor cuts and abrasions. It can also reduce the itch from poison ivy or insect bites.

2. Soothe sunburn. Cover sunburns with a towel or rag soaked in water and vinegar. If possible, sleep this way. Re-soak and repeat. Put vinegar in a spray bottle with water and mist directly on the sunburn. To relieve swelling and fluid from too much sun, mix a paste of baking soda and apple cider vinegar and apply.

3. Alleviate stiff muscles. Reduce the stress of over-worked muscles by mixing a half vinegar and half warm water solution. Soak a towel in it, then wring out the towel and cover the sore muscles. It is often helpful to cover the towel with plastic wrap and leave on overnight. Reduce bruising by following the same method, but instead use cold water and secure the compress in place with a tape or sports wrap.

4. Treat diarrhea. Cider vinegar helps with digestion and works as an antiseptic through the intestines and the digestive track. One tsp. of cider vinegar in a glass of water before meals will lessen the intensity of the diarrhea.

5. Combat hay fever. Hay fever symptoms include watery eyes, sneezing and runny nose (and other extra body fluids). Use honey and vinegar. Take 1 tbsp. of honey and a dose of cider vinegar 3 times a day during hay fever season. To add extra relief, use local honey and begin the treatment early.

6. Relieve a scratchy throat. To soothe a sore throat, try gargling with apple cider vinegar and water. Make a 50/50 mixture, and spit it out immediately after gargling, repeating the treatment ever hour. Be sure to rinse your mouth or the acidity will damage your teeth.

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult a physician for any serious health concerns.

• Vinegar is acidic, so always protect your eyes.