Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular home remedy, often explored for various ailments. A common question is whether ACV can effectively combat viruses in the throat, particularly when experiencing a sore throat.
Understanding Apple Cider Vinegar’s Characteristics
Apple cider vinegar is produced through a two-step fermentation process involving apples. First, yeast ferments the sugars in crushed apples into alcohol. Then, bacteria convert this alcohol into acetic acid, ACV’s primary active compound, responsible for its distinct sour taste and pungent smell. ACV is notably acidic, typically possessing a pH between 2.5 and 3.0. This acidity is often associated with its broad antimicrobial properties.
Apple Cider Vinegar’s Effect on Viruses
Despite its reputation as a home remedy, apple cider vinegar does not kill viruses in the human throat. Viruses are distinct from bacteria; they are not living organisms but rather genetic material encased in a protein shell that require host cells to replicate. While ACV’s acetic acid has demonstrated antiviral effects in laboratory settings, such as inactivating certain viruses on surfaces or in controlled in vitro environments, these results do not translate to effectiveness within the human body. The concentration of acetic acid needed to inactivate viruses in a lab would be too high and harmful for human tissue if used in the throat. Gargling with ACV, even diluted, cannot reach viruses, as they replicate inside the cells of the throat and respiratory system. Viruses are intracellular pathogens, making them inaccessible to external agents like gargled ACV.
Soothing Sore Throat Symptoms
While apple cider vinegar does not eliminate viruses, gargling with a diluted solution may offer temporary relief from sore throat symptoms. The acidic nature of diluted ACV might help create an environment less favorable for some bacteria, though its direct impact on viral load in the throat is not supported. Gargling itself helps wash away irritants, mucus, and potentially some microbes from the throat’s surface. This mechanical action, combined with ACV’s mild astringent properties, can provide a soothing sensation and alleviate discomfort. Adding honey to the mixture can further enhance this soothing effect and may help suppress coughs.
Safe Application and Important Considerations
Using apple cider vinegar for gargling requires careful dilution to prevent harm. A common recommendation is to mix one to two tablespoons of ACV with at least eight ounces (one cup) of warm water. Undiluted ACV is highly acidic and can erode tooth enamel, irritate the throat lining, and cause digestive upset if swallowed. If symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by a fever above 101°F (38.3°C), difficulty swallowing, a rash, or swollen lymph nodes, consult a healthcare professional. Apple cider vinegar is not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment, especially for bacterial infections like strep throat, which require antibiotics.