The DL on ACV ~ A Buzz report

Bragg's brand of ACV

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER!

Apple Cider Vinegar + ACV Rinse

This is one process/term that definitely caught my attention once I began reading and getting an education in things natural for hair and skin. I know of the Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar brand and, I know people have used it as a part of their regimen when dieting to suppress their appetites.  But, as the light bulbs came on, I was glad that I kept on asking questions of folks here and digging for more and more information on Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV).

So what is ACV, you ask?
Apple Cider Vinegar is made through a process of fermentation, that is, when yeast and different bacteria have been added to apple cider (to break down its sugars), it causes the liquid to sour or to ferment. ACV is also yellow-brown in colour and may be sold unpasteurized and unfiltered; and possesses excellent health benefits.

On the Bragg's bottle pictured above, you will see it says: "With The Mother". Don't get worried now! No human or animal mums were used in the production process. The "Mother" in this case, refers to the harmless grain-like substance/residue found mostly at the bottom of the bottle. You might find some of it floating around at the top, as well. But a good shake will cause everything to come together nicely.

What are some of the benefits to our bodies?

Without getting too scientific, it should be noted though that many ingredients of ACV are said to aid in reducing high cholesterol; fighting headaches, fungal and bacterial infections; indigestion and high blood pressure - among other things. To take advantage of some of these benefits, you can drizzle some Apple Cider Vinegar on your salad, or use to marinate fish and meats. My mum uses Apple Cider Vinegar as part of a marinade; but also at one point in time, to aid in lowering her cholesterol .

Now, what about hair?
This is where it gets even better.  Apple Cider Vinegar is effective as a natural product for hair care because its pH is similar to the pH level of human hair. In other words, it will not have a harsh or stripping effect on hair.

Now, because of these acidic properties, ACV (vinegar on the whole is acidic) is said to be a great conditioner and cleaning agent. Two excellent ways to use ACV are in the treatment of dandruff and head lice; the latter being a highly contagious situation.

Even beyond these uses, it restores the pH balance of your hair and can act as a clarifying agent as it removes any gunky buildup from hairsprays, loc gels, pomades and other haircare products. Rinsing your hair with ACV actually strengthens the hair shaft and no more gunk, means no more dull and lifeless hair. Now, your hair can be shiny and healthy...the way it is supposed to be. So, don't let the smell deter you! There is much more to gain for using Apple Cider Vinegar.

Rosemary herb

Here goes my:
DISCLAIMER:  
Please desist from quoting and paraphrasing anything I have written in this post as I am NOT a qualified anything to do with science.  
 

I've added two simple rinses that you might find useful, along with some quick tips.

• These rinses may be included as a part of your haircare regimen - shampoo and conditioner.
• The frequency with which you will use the ACV rinse of your choice is dependent solely on your observations and needs.
• Be cautious not to overuse or mix rinses with too a high a vinegar concentration as it may very well lead to dry hair. Remember it is an acid!
• Stick to unfiltered unpasteurized organic Apple Cider Vinegar - minimize pesticides, increase the minerals, pectin and all the other good stuff not found in distilled ACV
• Where possible, mix your vinegar rinse with filtered or 'soft' water.
• Remember, remember - Moderation is key!

1) A Basic ACV Rinse
What you will need:

• 2.5 oz. to 3 oz. of your choice of Apple Cider Vinegar (as mentioned above)
• 1 liter of bottled or soft water

Combine these two liquids and store in a clean bottle of your choice. It makes it easier to take to the bathroom or sink when you are washing/rinsing your hair. Make sure that you have thoroughly rinsed all of the shampoo out of your hair before applying your ACV rinse. It is okay to leave the ACV rinse on your hair for a bit, but I'd recommend a limit of 2 minutes - especially if this is your first time. Then, rinse and towel dry your hair.

2) Essential oil & ACV Rinse
This recipe yields quite a large quantity so you will have to change it up to suit your needs if so desired. I've put lesser quantities in orange.
What you will need:

• 2 cups of ACV of your choice (1 cup)
• 8-10 drops of an Essential oil like rosemary, lavender, lemon (click here for post on EO's) (4-5 drops)

Combine the vinegar and Essential oil and store in a glass bottle since the oil may react with plastic. You can either use this mixture right away, or allow it to sit for a day or so. This way, the essences or 'flavours' will have the chance to blend and create a wonderful aroma. (If you will use right away, combine the EO and Vinegar mix with cup of warm water, instead). 

A day or two later when you are ready, dilute a 1/2 tablespoon of the vinegar & oil mixture with a 1 cup of bottled or soft water. Once again, can apply to your wet hair after it has been shampooed. After rinsing your hair, towel dry. And, re-loc, flat twist or style you hair as you had planned. Do you have your own ACV Rinse? Why not share it with us!

I'm interested in hearing your feedback. So drop me an email or leave a comment so we can keep the information flowing.

Thanks and...

Besos (o:

For further information:
http://www.apple-cider-vinegar-benefits.com/natural-hair-care-product.html

Or have a look at two of my favYouTube naturalistas -

a) Click on link---> Kokofemme 

b) BronzeGoddess1