Karlie Mitchell: Just a Spoonful of…Apple Cider Vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is gaining popularity as a supplement–and it helps with a surprising variety of ailments.

Top image: Flickr: SPT Photographe / CC

Karlie Mitchell shares how ACV helped her horse:

This summer I discovered the wonderful yet simple product of apple cider vinegar. I heard people talk about it before, but never really tuned in. My first use of it this year was recommended by an equine therapist and alternative healer. She recommended it to help a kidney stone issue forming in my gelding. We let him finish his antibiotics for a bladder infection, then started on ACV. Sure enough, after starting him on ACV, I noticed instant improvement in the symptoms of kidney issues. After seeing it help I looked into it further. Vinegar has been confirmed in veterinary articles to be safe for horses in proper doses (no more than a cup a day).

ACV is believed to be useful as:

• Natural fly repellent (recipe here)
• Improving urinary tract  and kidney health
• Easing arthritis symptoms
• Hoof rot
• Promotes better digestion
• Soothes bug bites
• Detoxifying properties

There are several scientific articles emerging confirming the beneficial effects and uses of ACV in proper doses. Another staple to add to my barn supplies!

Flickr: Dan Heap/ CC

For more on the benefits of ACV, check out the following links:

• UC Davis Researchers Reveal Apples’ Protective Ways
• Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits and Uses in the Barn
• Apple Cider Vinegar’s Health Effects Studied by Scientists

Go Riding!