With all the uses and benefits of apple cider vinegar, no house should go without a bottle. But first take note – not all apple cider vinegar is created equal!

We like Bragg Organic, Raw, Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar, but any brand that is raw, unpasteurized and unfiltered is good. Also, don’t be alarmed by the sediment collected at the bottom of the bottle, known as ‘the mother,’ because this is actually the most beneficial part. It contains nutrients, enzymes and beneficial bacteria that results from a dual fermentation process not spoiled by being pasteurized.

Also important to note is when taken orally, it must be diluted. For example, mix 1 teaspoon with a cup of water or herbal tea, or add it to a salad dressing.

Here is a list of some of the most common uses of apple cider vinegar (and some that may surprise you):

Allergy Relief – Issues with pollen, dander, dust, animals or food allergies? Apple cider vinegar can help stop the histamine response in the body. Add 2 tablespoons to 8 ounces of water and drink once per day. Some people will add a packet of stevia to dilute the strong taste a bit! Others mix with juice instead of water, or add some honey to the mix.

Bug Bites – Use a cotton ball with full strength to speed healing and reduce the itch of bug bites by pressing the cotton ball onto the bite for 30 seconds – repeating every hour as necessary to control itching.

Diabetes – Studies show those who drink apple cider vinegar diluted in water (1 tablespoon in 32 ounces of water) each day show a decrease in insulin and glucose levels in those with diabetes.

Digestive Issues – Diluted in water 15 minutes before a meal can help prevent gas, bloating and heartburn, and sip 1 tablespoon diluted in a few ounces of water to alleviate symptoms once they start.

Flea Control for Pets – One part vinegar and one part water can be sprayed directly on your pets fur and rubbed into the skin. Repeat once a day for a few days to rid your pet of fleas.

Hair Care Rinse – Mixing ½ tablespoon with one cup of water (be sure to rinse well) can help remove oil and dirt, balance the hair’s pH to seal the cuticle, help wth dandruff, remove greasy build-up and soothe an itchy or irritated scalp. Poor it over hair after shampooing a couple times per week.

Non-Toxic Cleaning – Not only does it absorb odor, but it also has antibacterial properties. Mix ½ cup of apple cider vinegar with one cup of water in a spray bottle and use on hardwood floors, bathroom tiles, cabinets, countertops, windows, glass and mirrors. It can also be used for toilets! Simply pour it into the toilet and let it sit overnight.

Skin Toner – Just as it regulates the pH of the body, it can do the same for the skin. Dilute it with two parts water and apply to the face with a cotton ball as a toner.

Sunburn Treatment – To soothe the skin from sunburn, dilute it in water and apply directly to sunburn or add a cupful to a bath and soak in it.

Teeth Stains – Rub it directly onto teeth to remove stains and then rinse.

Wart Removal – Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and tape it to the wart with a band-aid overnight for five to seven nights until the wart falls off. Then do it a few more night to ensure it doesn’t grow back.

Weight Loss Aid – Because it breaks down fat, may dieters will add 2 teaspoons to 16 ounces of water and sip throughout the day.