Vinegar has been around since the dawn of history. References to it can be found in writings of the world’s first known civilization - the Sumerians.

Facts About Apple Cider and Balsamic Vinegar.

Natural and beneficial vinegar should never be confused with the synthesized ethyl-alcohol vinegar. The latter has no known nutritional benefits. This author does not recommend or endorse it.

Natural vinegar is produced when the airborne bacteria, “acetobacter aceti” comes in contact with liquids that have less than 18% alcohol content.

The Sumerians (thought be the very first civilization) used vinegar as an anti-biotic, general tonic, condiment, detergent and preservative.

As you read more about fine vinegars, you will discover a world where vinegar labels are read like fine wine labels.

Apple Cider Vinegar and It’s Rich Balsamic Cousin

Apple-cider vinegar is the most well-known natural vinegar. It’s low cost and easy access make it ideal for the general purposes mentioned throughout this article.

While all natural vinegars have many beneficial uses, all vinegars are not created equal. Gourmet vinegars have a long history and were favored by royalty.

One of the best known traditional vinegars is known as balsamic vinegar (aceto balsamico). Literary references to it first appeared in 1046 AD. The birthplace of balsamic vinegar is Modena, Italy.

The past few years has seen an increase in interest for balsamic vinegar. This heightened interest is largely due to the creations of inventive chefs at upscale restaurants. Their use of balsamic vinegar in recipes has alerted millions of patrons to the savory tastes of this traditional vinegar.

The Many Beneficial Uses for Vinegar

1. Sauces and Toppings: Another excellent use for traditional balsamic vinegar. If you’re into cooking, this fine vinegar is an excellent base for new sauce and topping creations.

2. Pie Crust. By adding 1 tablespoon of apple-cider or gourmet vinegar to your pastry recipes you can create an exceptional crust.

3. Respiratory Congestion. Clear up congestion by inhaling a vapor mist from a steaming pot water and 7 to 8 spoonfuls of apple cider vinegar.

4. General Tonic. Apple cider vinegar and honey has been used as a cure-all for thousands of years. These uses include: prevention of apathy, obesity, hay fever, asthma, rashes, food poisoning, heartburn, sore throat, bad eyesight, dandruff, brittle nails and bad breath.

5. Mildew Elimination. It will eliminate mildew, dust and odors when vinegar-soaked cloth is used to wipe down walls, cabinet shelves and other similar surfaces.

6. Poaching Eggs. Add a teaspoon of apple-cider vinegar to the water to prevent separation.

7. Meat Tenderizer. When boiling meat, add a spoonful of balsamic vinegar to the water to add taste and make it more tender.

This article covered brief information about the two most popular types of vinegar and their uses. There are many more varieties with different properties and flavors.

As you learn more you will definitely want to add vinegar to your daily diet and start enjoying it’s many healthful benefits.