Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda Tonic Health Benefits

| Modified: May 15, 2020
Add New Post Apple Cider Vinegar Baking Soda Tonic

As popular as the apple cider vinegar remedies are, for some of us this home cure can be even better, or at least easier to take, with the addition of baking soda to the ACV Tonic. Apple cider vinegar and baking soda in water offers all of the nutritional benefits of ACV in a less acidic form, thereby increasing even further the beneficial alkalizing effect that apple cider vinegar has for the body.

Our in-house remedy expert Ted is a big proponent of an apple cider and baking soda tonic as an alkalizing agent and general health tonic, and he recommends it for a variety of health conditions.

Why is the Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda Tonic Helpful?

The apple cider vinegar and baking soda tonic is helpful to a variety of conditions for several reasons:

First of all, the tonic is encouraging you to consume more liquids of a quality nature. The tonic is mostly water. If you drink this tonic twice daily, you may be taking in more water, which prevents dehydration. Even mild dehydration aggravates and causes a variety of health problems. Consuming the tonic will satisfy thirst and you may drink less of drinks that are not health promoting (coffee, soda pop, energy drinks.)

Secondly, the tonic contains nutrients and enzymes that help your body to digest your foods better.  Your health may be improved by this increase in nutrients.

Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, this tonic helps to alkalize your body. Health problems thrive in an acidic body. Dealing with the acidity problem by alkalizing, can cure or at least reduce symptoms of many, many health problems.

What Nutrients Does ACV and Baking Soda Contain?

The ACV and Baking Soda tonic contains enzymes and important minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, zinc, iron. It also contains vitamins A  and  B.

What Health Conditions Benefit from this Tonic?

1. Digestive Problems

A variety of digestive problems can be alleviated with the ACV and baking soda tonic. GERD, acid reflux, heartburn and indigestion have all be improved by this tonic. Enzymes and nutrients present in the tonic help your body to digest food better.

2. Arthritis and Pain

Arthritis and gout can both be helped with this tonic. The hydration the tonic provides and the alkalizing nature of the tonic both help arthritis and pain caused by a variety of other causes as well.

3. Skin Problems

Acne, dry skin and rough skin may also be improved with the apple cider vinegar and baking soda tonic. Have you ever heard that beauty starts on the inside and works its way out? Oftentimes skin issues are caused by an acid system and dehydration.

4. Allergies and Cold Symptoms

Allergies and hives are both assisted by this tonic. Sore throats, colds, coughs, congestion and sinus problems may all respond well to the addition of the ACV and baking soda tonic several times a day.

5. Bladder Infections

UTIs or bladder infections respond well to the tonic when it is consumed at early onset of symptoms. The tonic should be taken twice a day. Soaking in an apple cider vinegar bath for at least 10 minutes is also effective for bladder infections. Add two cups of apple cider vinegar to warm bath water. Fill the tub no more than 1/3 of the way.

6. Weight Loss

Our readers report that the apple cider vinegar and baking soda tonic aids in weight loss when consumed two to three times a day before a meal.

How Much Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda Should I Use?

A simple way to begin with this remedy is to add 2 teaspoons of raw and organic apple cider vinegar to a glass.  Add 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) to the apple cider vinegar. (It will fizz up at this point.) Fill the glass the rest of the way with water.

Many people find that adding the baking soda to the apple cider vinegar makes a more tolerable and tasty tonic than taking straight apple cider vinegar.

Can I Add a Sweetener to this Tonic?

If you need to add a sweetener to this tonic to make it more palatable try one of the following:

  • honey
  • agave nectar
  • maple syrup
  • stevia
  • xylitol

It is not recommended that you add the following:

  • sugar
  • artificial sweetener

 How Often Should I Take the Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda Tonic?

Each individual has different needs.  There is no exact frequency to take this tonic. Some take it once daily. Some find it helpful to take it twice daily. It may be helpful taken daily for a season.  It is a good idea with supplements to give the body a break from them every so often. Taking a day or two off each week is a good practice.

It is best to start slowly with new remedies, for the most part. Try this tonic once a day and see how you feel. Add a second tonic in the evening after a week, if you think you need more.

This tonic is best taken on an empty stomach between meals or 30 minutes before meals. But if you need this remedy for discomfort caused by a meal, taking it after a meal is fine, too.

Can Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda Cause Side Effects?

The ACV and baking soda tonic can and does cause side effects in some people, Side effects include heart palpitations, anxiety, and panic attacks. It is best to immediately stop taking the tonic if you feel any side effects for a few days and add a magnesium supplement. B complex is also said to help side effects from this tonic.

Additionally, baking soda has a fair amount of sodium and is contraindicated for those on a sodium-restricted diet. Learn more about apple cider side effects.

If this remedy causes you to feel unwell, reduce the amount you take or the frequency with which you take it, or discontinue using it all together.

This tonic is sometimes used for detoxification purposes. So, it is possible that it will cause some sort of detox reaction, especially if you are taking it often. For this reason, it is generally best to start with less and slowly increase the amount you take.

Apple Cider Vinegar & Sodium Bicarbonate Video Tutorial

Learn how to make an apple cider vinegar and baking soda tonic with Earth Clinic's Founder, Deirdre Layne.


Have you tried this wonderful tonic? Please share your experience with us! Continue reading to learn the feedback from Earth Clinic readers who have used this beneficial health tonic to cure their ailments.

Ted's Recipe

Posted by Kelly (San Luis Obispo, Ca, Usa) on 04/22/2010


Just wanting to know if instead of 1/2 a glass of water for the ACV and baking soda recipe if I could use 1/4 cup water and 1/4 cup of apple juice? It tastes so much better.


Replied by Eva
Mt. Laurel, Nj

Try to blend a cup of cabbage with some water and drink it 3 times a day. Good for acidity and bloating pain.

Marcia B Bogan
Spartanburg Sc

Eva, how much water does one use with a cup of cabbage?

Replied by Rob
Indianapolis, In

Is it safe for infants to take this?

Replied by Jeanne
Mesa, Az


I've always heard that you never give honey to young children. I'm not sure what the age limit is. I have no idea what the effect of vinegar or baking soda is on children but with regards to honey and corn syrup, I got the following information from a renown internet medical site. It says that both honey and corn syrup are potential sources for infant botulism. You might want to check with your pediatrician.


Hi ... according to the medical doctors, an infant under a year should not consume raw honey.

Replied by Lisa
Palm Springs, Ca

Hello Ted,
I read on dr Hoover's site that baking soda as well as vinegar is toxic and should not be used. Can you please expound on why that may be true?

Dee P.

A definition of a poison is anything taken in excess. You use baking soda for many things as well as vinegar. Do not over do any amount of anything.

Replied by Self

Lisa can you provide a link to Dr. Hoover's website. There are a number of Dr. Hoover websites and I did not find any that said vinegar and baking soda are toxic. One of the only times Ted advices against alkalizing remedies, such as raw, organic apple cider vinegar and baking soda is "... In stage IV cancer, the use of oral alkalizing remedies may be counter productive, as they tend to accelerate cachexia, the inability to digest the food. "

Also raw, organic apple cider vinegar (ACV) is alive (living nutrients, good bacteria, and enzymes) and has the benefits. The pasteurized apple cider vinegar is said to be dead (stripped of nutrients) and possibly toxic to the body.

And lastly, diluted ACV is beneficial long-term. I recommend rinsing with plain water after drinking even diluted ACV. Adding the baking soda further helps alkalize ACV and save the body's bicarbonates from having to do the job. Undiluted ACV or excess of any ACV may hurt the tooth enamel and digestive tract.

Excess amounts like 8 ounces of ACV a day over time could possible be linked to osteoporosis and low potassium but the alkalizing remedies here are modest, only 2 tspns to 2 tablespoons 1-3 times a day and only for 3-5 days a week. If you already have low potassium levels or osteoporosis, check with a naturopath doctor if you plan to use ACV long-term. Otherwise, use ACV modestly as outlined in this website and as added precaution, keep a healthy diet of fresh vegetables (and fruits) which are naturally high in potassium and avoid excess processed, acidic, common salt high foods and beverages which can throw off potassium and calcium levels.
Source: CIDER VINEGAR.aspx?activeIngredientId=816&activeIngredientName=APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Replied by Ripple
Seattle, Wa

Ted please help :Really hungry veggies and avacado not giving me protein I need or carbs :Savere Candida Here: Cant digest protein, hurts like heck. Does baking soda stop digestion ? One of the posts here says it does and can cause some disease?WHat protein CAN I eat , and how long after I eat it, do I wait to take the baking soda. Also , I started to do the Apple Cider Vinegar and baking soda and was reading that it will hurt the enamal on my teeth. This sucks because I have very little to begin with. Do I stop taking it ? Also bumps on the back of tongue are large , is this bad? Much Love Ripple

Replied by Pietro R. Toll

Ripple be careful misquoting posts, there was an earlier post that said some CANCER patients may lose appetite with baking soda, you've got candida not cancer. To protect your enamel dilute the vinegar before drinking, drink water after. Use a straw. As was mentioned by posters already, lots love.

Replied by Harveyb
Austin, Texas

I realize this is an old topic now, but for any future readers, in reference to what a poster asked about Dr. Hoover saying Baking Soda is toxic for infants is wrong. And not only wrong, but it's the complete opposite, It is the primary ingredient in Gripe Water formulas, to reduce acid reflux specifically for infants. I don't know about the ACV, and I'm sure in large doses Baking Soda can be bad, but this just makes me not want to go to Dr. Hoover for questions.

Replied by Shawna
Okaton, Sd

Too much of anything is a bad thing. High intakes of coffee are said to do the same thing that this says ACV does in high quantities. Coffee drank in excess is also said to strip the body of potassium, calcium and be toxic to the body but there is nobody warning us not to drink it any more. The key to anything is moderation.


Exactly. I was desperate and drank a whole pot of rather disgusting coffee one night at work to stay awake. (I help in night security for a troubled teens facility.) Anyways, by morning time I figured that the killer pain in my right big toes first joint was gout along with the heat and the swelling. Yet a cup of coffee a day can help with diabetes or pre-diabetes. Definitely moderation to everything. (Well almost everything. Can't see any good from some bad illicit drugs.)

Replied by Todd
Gilbert, Az

Lower your pH? Do you mean raise? The lower the pH the more acidic, alkaline is higher, so alkalinizing is raising your pH.

Replied by Mark
Las Vegas

@ D from Jamaica Plains, Ma:

You are ignorant of the topic you are speaking of. Many people have cured cancer with baking soda and molasses in fact if you google "baking soda and molasses" you will find videos from one man that did it.

Baking Soda with ACV had also helped many people. There is a question about the carbon dioxide being ingested but most people drink more in a soft drink than they do in a glass of ACV and Baking Soda.

People drink softdrinks everyday doing damage to their body due to the acidty and sugar and chemicals.

But Baking Soda & ACV actually alkalizines the body and ACV has potassium in it. And salt does not lead to high blood pressure, dehydration leads to high blood pressure and can be cured with adequate water and magnesium. Salt is natural sea salt is good for you.

Replied by Ron

The main difference in ACV is whether or not it is organic, I personally would not drink any that is not organic. It may cost a little more but your health is worth the investment.

The BRAGG brand is one that is well known and trustworthy. And, there may be others, but I'm sure you can google organic ACV and come up with a number of places to get it and pick the best price.

Replied by Tina
London, Uk

Its not about the taste. Its if you want to be healthy or not. So I'd say, no. Juice is juice and Apple Cider Vinegar is Apple Cider Vinegar.

Replied by Deloris
Des Moines Iowa

I wondered about that combination. I use this to clean my drains. The way it boils up, I would think it could suffocate a person if regurgitated.

Replied by Mmsg
Somewhere, Europe

Delores, usually you are using much less baking soda than ACV and you would wait until the fizzing stops, before adding water/honey/whatever, and drinking it. Even so, you will probably get a good burp later, but nothing dangerous!

Replied by K

I can not stand when people are snarky. If you had concerns against be genuine say why. I looked up your link and read it. For future reference I'd suggest you slow down when you read because you missed the "despite widespread use of oral bicarbonate, LITTLE DOCUMENTED TOXICITY HAS OCCURRED, and the emergency medical literature contains NO reports of toxicity caused by the ingestion of baking soda. The case and effects being discussed were a possible result of EXCESSIVE oral intake of bicarbonate. And since you apparently can't understand what that means taking too much at one time..not 2 to 3 tb couple times a day some days a week were talking like 1/2cup a day or such. Grow up.

Replied by Jessica

Infants are not to have honey until age 1 as it can cause botulism.

Replied by Marion
British Columbia

I think the original poster was asking if they could substitute half of the water for apple juice, not substitute the ACV with apple juice.

Replied by Ann
P.s. Ca

Marcia B, Hi, You can make a Cabbage Juice Tonic.

1/4 organic green cabbage

1 Tablespoon sea salt (not regular table salt)

1/4 Cup whey

Filtered water (makes 2 quarts)

If you do not have or know how to make whey just double the salt.

Shred cabbage finely, and pound gently until the liquid comes out. Place cabbage & liquid in 2-quart jar with rest of ingredients, tight lid (canning jars are great) and let sit at room temp ( high 60's to mid 70's) for 2 - 5 days. Open lid to burp everyday, this is important as the gases of the ferment build up. After 2 days taste to see if you like it and let sit long if you need to until you like the taste. Remember this is not like coleslaw. However it is addicting, and good for you. So is beet kvass.

Information from Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon

Replied by Wd Herrin

I have been drinking a solution of baking soda, Braggs apple cider vinegar and vitamin C daily for nearly ten years - DAILY!

I am 59 years old and am as healthy as you can get.

I eat right, take good nutrition supplements and vitamins and workout twice weekly.

I look 45-ish.

I have experienced absolutely no problems or issues with my solution - EVER, including enamel, toxicity, or any of the other potential side effects mentioned.

My research regarding baking soda and vinegar solution, at times are diametrically different of what the doctor you mentioned has stated in his findings, including those with late stage cancer.

Of course, everyone is different and each of our bodies sometimes reacts differently to certain treatments. There may be variations in how individuals react to the treatment based on their individual illness and how the curative process works, and how your body reacts as it cures itself. Don't let those physiological reactions be confused with negative or threatening side effects. All in all, there should be little difference of the life-sustaining effects this has on each one of us.

4 posts

I agree with you. Do u take 1 or 2 days break or take every day all the time? Do you take in morning :)

Thanks â¤

Replied by Wd Herrin

You may mix it with anything you want. But, there's a reason water is critical.

Water has oxygen which the body also thrives on, obviously.

We don't get enough oxygen.

Cancer cells hate oxygen!

Aside from the many other benefits water(oxygen) provides the body. I was told as a child we are supposed to drink 8 eight ounce glasses of water daily.

There was a reason why we were told that.

Apple juice, or any other beverage might taste better, but the objective here is not pleasure but life sustaining.

Replied by Elizabeth

How much of each do you use for your drink? water baking soda & acv? thanks?

Replied by Sactogirl

I use 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon ACV, in 6-8 oz of water every morning.

Replied by Dm
N. Ca

Disease cannot exist/thrive in an oxygenated/alkaline environment. And potassium balances the dehydrating effects of sodium.

Replied by Debb

A baby should not have honey until 12 months old. Honey may contain Clostridium botulinum spores which can lead to botulism poisoning.

Replied by Rich

The baking soda cocktail that I drink is made up of water, bs, stevia, and lime..mixed to taste. It tastes like lime soda pop, except better. A couple of other things: it is better to mix bs in last and drink immediately so that the co2 is assimilated into the body, not the air. Co2 is good for us. Oxygen levels are dependent on co2 levels.

Also bs is a systemic hydrater, the best hydrater, as shown by research. Better than saline. A person's own taste/intuition is the best judge of what's good for them, and if bs, lime and stevia tastes better than bs/acv, then it is better.

Replied by Earth

I wanted to ask you why is it that on some instructions it is advised to add table salt to the solution of ACV and Baking Soda. What would be the benefit in doing so especially for conditions dealing with the kidneys?

Replied by Mmsg
Somewhere, Europe

Earth, whatever answers you get here on EC, make sure you use real salt, not white table salt.c

Replied by Alicia

Salt does lead to high BP. You need to check facts before you post. Salt leads to fluid retention which raises the BP.

Replied by Charity
Faithville, Usa

I read a lot, and in Dr.Batmanghelidj books on water and salt I learned that if your body determines it has a salt shortage it will store any salt you eat so it can regulate your electrolytes for your heart and brain. Table salt is bad for you, natural salts are not but if you are salt starved and you eat salt your blood pressure will sky rocket as your body hoards that I advise as you increase salt a bit, drink more water to balance it out and move your body . Also read the watercure site for further education on this topic.

Replied by Janet

Alicia, Salt is not just salt. Table salt commonly known a iodized sodium chloride. Is the devil to health.

On the other hand. Sea salt Celtic Sea Salt and others are therapeutic and healthy. Providing trace minerals to the body aiding digestion, heart, bones, organ health.

Sodium forms of supplement powders are often the first choice for those of us that buy powders and make our supps.

Sodium bicarbonate is often the star of the health show at our house.

Sodium ascorbate is our choice for c supplementation

Sodium tetraborate is our choice for supplementing boron, removing fluoride. Hormone balancing, it is the foundation.

This list could be pages long. But removing the correct salt from the diet can be at the least, counterproductive to healing. To outright deadly.

Here is one chapter of sea salt information and it's properties from Ted here on E.C.


Replied by Teena
Melbourne Australia
182 posts

Hi Alicia, an eye opening and informative read was 'Your body's many cries for water' also called the water cure, should be called saltwater cure. More people need to understand that REAL salt like sea, Celtic, Himalayan etc are good for you, containing 80+ minerals, h20, (yes really) and make your body alkaline, whereas that stuff we were told to take, the iodized salt, has had all those minerals removed, to increase shelf life, and is acidic to your body. Every cell in the body (millions) require salt and water. Putting salt *real of course, 1/4 tsp in my water daily means my body retains the water, it is not being urinated out constantly my body is able to use it. When somebody says something that sounds skeptical I research and make my own conclusions. Btw I intend to reduce my husband's blood pressure, which absolutely nothing has helped, with salt. My best to you and all ECer's, who have helped me

Replied by Karen

Good for you. You may also want to try extra magnesium - there is one type specific for cardiac issues. Most of us are deficient in magnesium in the US and there is a direct link to high blood pressure if you don't have enough magnesium in your diet.

Replied by Meredithhww
New York

Great comment. I agree with you!

Replied by Leo
Melbourne, Australia

I know that when you mix baking soda (Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate) with ACV (acetic acid) you get a neutralisation reaction of water plus Sodium Acetate. How and/or what does the sodium acetate do to provide the benefits to the body that are being claimed here? Thanks.

Posted by Janelle (Brisbane, Australia) on 04/23/2007

After reading a lot of comments regarding this remedy, it seems that people are getting confused between Bicarb Soda and Baking Soda. They are two different products. Could you please make it clear to those people who are referring to Bicarb Soda. Thanks.

4/24/2007: Janelle writes again: "Hi, I wrote to you yesterday asking if you could advise people about the difference between Baking Soda and Bicarbonate Soda. It seems that it was actually my mistake. In Australia and England (it seems) we don't refer to a product called Baking Soda. We call it Bicarb Soda. I think some people outside the US are getting confused because we also have Baking Powder which is a different product, usually Wheat/Corn flour with added Mineral Salts. Bicarb Soda is definately Sodium Bicarbonate and is the correct product. Hope this clears things up. Thanks for the great website."

EC: Thank you for the clarification!

12/18/2008: Kira from Saratoga, NY replies: "Ted or anyone who can get to this, what exactly is 250 mg water? I've looked online all for a conversion but could not find one that helps me. Is this like half a cup? Thanks!"

EC: Ted must mean grams (not milligrams), which is approximately 8.82 ounces of water.

01/08/2009: Brian from Vancouver, BC Canada replies: "Conversions: For easy purposes, 250 ml is 1 cup. (240 is closer). UK oz are 1/25 larger than US oz., also. 250 ml is 1/4 liter, or about 1/4 US quart, 1/5 UK quart.

250 mg would be 1/4 gram, or 1/120 oz. Couldn't dissolve much in that!"

05/28/2009: eachu168 from North Hollywood, CA replies: "I agree, Ted most likely meant 250g of water which is equivalent to approximately a little over 8oz (glass of water). I just discovered this site a week ago (May 23, 2009) and since discovery, I've already been trying all the different things suggested for the various health concerns i have ~ from vertigo, sleep apnea, & high blood pressure that hit me at the same time way back 1999. This is now 2009 so you all could tell how long I've suffered. It was very stupid of me to rely solely on what the doctors prescribed, but now with new ailments (eye retina scarring from floaters,getting overweight) surfacing and childhood ailments (allergy and asthma)still plaguing, the threat of an eye operation is what really prompted me to research. Accidently and luckily, I stumbled upon this site which is a blessing as it offers so much information unbeknown to me all these years, except for a few like the benefits of baking soda. I'll be posting what these natural remedies are doing to me once I have a defined results.

The first thing I tried is taking the Apple Cider Vinegar. For a few days, I was taking it straight (1 tablespoon) which after reading some detailed feedbacks today, is not the proper way to do. Last night, I tried mixing it with a freshly squeezed orange juice and it blended well so the strong sour taste was a lot less felt. Today, i will try mixing it with baking soda to an 8 ounce of water and see what happens. Its too early to say as I only started last week though I have noticed a slight tummy flattening too. I need to shed as much as 40 lbs i gained overtime after 4 carpal tunner surgeries so there's a lot of work ahead.

To everyone that has been helped by this site and contributed their experience, thanks and lets keep it up. spread the word and help as much people as we can to good health. I will be one of you now."

06/23/2009: harleydiva from Montreal, Quebec Canada replies: "okay, so here i was searching for remedies since my better half suffers. i couldn't help but notice the conversation about measurements... let's get something straight. liquids are measured in ml, milliliters. the conversion from imperial to metric is: 1cup=250 ml 1 teaspoon=5 ml, 1 tablespoon=15 ml. i don't know if this still helps, but there you have it.

and finally, i will be trying this on my bf, and will DEFINATELY post comments. it makes sense and if it works, god bless whoever thought of trying it!!!"

06/26/2009: Barbie from Saint Louis, Missouri replies: "I love this site. I stumbled on it two weeks ago. My question is how many cups of water equals 250mg."

07/15/2009: flipit1830 from Newmarket, Ontario, Canada replies: "eh! Since Ted's not in America he should know metric measure for liquid are fractions of a litre and grams define solids, sometimes what we know and what the fingers produce on the keyboard are like night and day this minor blip has caused much confusion.

The contributor from Quebec corrected description to assist our American friends who haven't converted to metric. Perhaps someone should consider posting a conversion chart on the home page because this must be an ongoing communication issue."

01/04/2010: Lori from New York, New York replies: "Hi Ted, I had read honey was also good so I was drinking honey and ACV in warm water in the a.m. Before bed, I was drinking the baking soda and water plain. I just tried all three together 1st thing in a.m. Based on your remedy of drinking the ACV and Baking Soda together, will the honey mixed in be doing me any good or will it have any negative effect?"

08/08/2010: Dlee from Indiana replies: "Hate to weigh in on such a seemingly minor matter - AKA the reference to 250mg of water. Ted probably meant 250ml of water, since the liter (and therefore the milliliter) are units of liquid measurement. As memory serves me, the metric system was originally based on the physical properties of water, so 250ml of water also weighs 250grams and occupies 250cc (cubic centimeters) of volume. So there is the math/metric lesson for today."

10/19/2010: Kleemarti from Tampa, Florida replies: "O.K. I get all the directions but after taking this on an empty stomach when can you eat?"

12/22/2010: Cheryl from Morayfield, Qld Australia replies: "Hi I have read much information on how adding honey to bicarb and ACV helps cancer patients as the honey becomes the carrier (cancer which is a fungus) as it is high in sugar and takes the bicarb straight to the cancer cells. Having had bowel cancer surgery I am currently taking this, I am off cholesterol and High Blood Pressure tablets now. This is working for ME! I am not advising this for anyone else. Search out for yourself. Treating cancer and destroying tumors with bakingsoda. There is much about this on you tube I typed in benifits of drinking bicarbonate soda. Get well"

12/26/2010: Bo from Birmingham, Uk replies: "Regarding ACV & Baking Soda, I used it for approximately a month with a few breaks in between. On the plus side, I noticed my monthly cycle was easier and my skin became clearer eventually... However, I then got the worst cold virus I've had in years which after almost 3 weeks & severe pain in my throat drove me to the doctor. I'm wondering if this was symptomatic of my body cleansing itself... Or was I using this treatment incorrectly. I was taking 1/2 teaspoon bakin soda and 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar in 8ozs water."

02/19/2011: Zarka Almas from Dubai replies: "Regarding ACV & Baking Soda, I used it for approximately a month with a few breaks in between. On the plus side, I noticed my monthly cycle was easier and my skin became clearer eventually... However, I then got the worst cold virus, stomach pain, I've had in years which after almost 4 weeks & severe pain in my throat drove me to the doctor. I'm wondering if this was symptomatic of my body cleansing itself... Or was I using this treatment incorrectly. I was taking 1/2 teaspoon bakin soda and 2 tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar in a big glass water in the evening or bed time."

04/17/2011: Chris from Heathmont, Victoria, Australia replies: "apple cider vinegar should have 'the mother' in it (such as braggs). two teaspoons (10 ml) of acv and two teaspoons of honey topped up with hot water to make 250ml approx. should be taken three times a day for general health & wellbeing. will now try it with 1/4 teaspoon of bicarb. soda also."

05/06/2011: Katyayani from Hertfordshire, Uk replies: "Hi - Just want to chip in about Ted's comment that he uses vingegar instead of ACV because it's cheaper in Thailand. It's REALLY not the same things at all. Regular vinegar is acid forming, whereas the wonderful ACV is not. Godda spend the money Ted.

Replied by Victoriaa
Hong Kong, China

I'm already taking ACV with honey (in a cup of water) daily; I plan to add baking soda in the mixture, is this a good idea? Was reading through the posts and can't find if anyone has tried this mixture, just the usual ACV honey or ACV baking soda. Thanks!

Replied by Emaderton3
Nashville, Tn

I have been doing a lot of reading about using ACV as a remedy for acid reflux. So which is it--the ACV adds acid to the stomach so it doesn't overproduce when you eat (the cause actually being a lack of acid) or does the ACV somehow add alkalinity?

I tried 1 tablespoon in water with honey last night after I ate and before I went to bed, and I had even worse reflux during the night that woke me up. Today, my throat is sore and my stomach is upset.

Replied by Mc
Sacramento, Ca.

Try the ACV with 1/4 tsp of baking soda in water. It helped my silent reflux.

Replied by Emaderton3
Nashville, Tn

I have reduced it to 1 teaspoon in 8 oz of water. Not sure if it is doing anything. I am afraid to go up to the 2 tablespoons even with the baking soda in case it is too much for my system.

I know everyone is worried about ACV hurting their enamel because it is so acidic. I know it is pH ~2 or so. Most sodas are pH 2-3 (and are known to hurt teeth as well). But, if you are diluting tablespoons or teaspoons in water which is typically pH ~6-7, then shouldn't the risk to your teeth be minimized or not even an issue?

Replied by Nettie
Mackay, Qld Australia

Hi I am really confused now. Are you able to give me the recipe for this in Australia terms please.

Replied by Shannon
Minneapolis, Minnesota

I don't understand this at all. If apple cider vinegar is an acid and baking soda alkaline, wouldn't taking them together effectively cancel out their benefits? What is the point of taking either of these if they are going to be neutralized before ingestion? If someone could explain the science on this, I would be very grateful.


I read that it's the acidity of cider vinegar that kills any bacteria in your gut and bowel, so mixing it with baking soda would not make the cider vinegar effective in that respect.

Replied by Wendy
Columbus, Oh

Here's an EC link that talks about ACV and Ph, and acidity vs. alkalinity:

Replied by Victor
Houston, TX

It is interesting to note that human cells are slightly alkaline and plant cells are slightly acidic, though plant cells leave an alkaline “ash” after being digested. If the human body remains in an acidic state for too long, human cells become, like plant cells, acidic–creating a more receptive atmosphere for the initiation and promotion of cancer cell colonies.

Not all acidic foods, however, increase acidity inside your body. Lemon juice and apple cider vinegar, for example, are extremely acidic with a pH of 3.5 because of their citric acid content. But during digestion the citric acid breaks apart, and the potassium and magnesium form alkaline ions called potassium or magnesium citrate that actually increases alkalinity.

Replied by Mark

Have you tried maringa / malunggay in powder forum. I am #2 diabetic and it has worked wonders for me, off my meds for 4 months. The baking soda is also working very well , my fasting glucose in the morning is 104 from 139 4 months ago. Read up on mulunggay

Replied by Maria P.
Canberra, Australia


Reflux in the night is my penalty for consuming any fat/ starch combination such as fries or cake. Fortunately these days I wake up in time to sit up straight so that the acid doesn't shoot out of my nose as it used to do.

I then go straight to the honey jar, eat one teaspoonful and back to bed. Works straight away. (Have never tried taking a teaspoonful before going to bed. Must try that.)

Maria P Canberra

Replied by K

Hi if you are treating acide reflux nothing is better, easier, quicker, safer or cheaper than a tsp or 2 of baking soda in a glass of water--this is a very old home acv. Now if you are looking for a preventative and an aid to digestion..and want to use the mix w Apple Cider Vinegar as you mentioned I would think you'd need to take that BEFORE you eat at least an hour before....that is prob why you had the bad reaction

Replied by Jean
Nackawic, Canada

sodium free baking-soda i'd simply like to know where i can buy "sodium free baking-soda". i looked all weekend and couldn't find it anywhere. thanks.


Posted by Frank (Devon, Uk) on 10/12/2018
5 out of 5 stars

Apple Cider Vinegar and Sodium Bi-Carbonate

I used a quarter teaspoon of BiCarb and 40mm of ACV three times a day for a week and can report a reduction in arthritic pain in my knees, such that I can defend stairs in the morning without much thought or backwards. I still use the tonic once a day with 5000iu Vit D3. Bit like weak lemonade, it stills hunger pains too so I eat less and move more. I am 71 today.

Posted by Micky (Anaheim, California) on 09/02/2015 1 posts
5 out of 5 stars

I tried ACV for months. It tasted so terrible that I added Baking Soda to my concoction and it took 90 percent of the bad taste away. Not unpleasant at all to drink now. My concoction is:

  • 2 oz ACV
  • 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
  • 8 to 16 oz. of a beverage
  • I also add occasionally 1 oz. of Glusomine/Condrotin

Put the beverage in glass first or it will foam up and run out of glass and all over the counter. The beverage dilutes the fizzing when ACV and BS is added.

I don't know if it is a coincidence or not but my arthritic knees are much better after 6 months of taking drink. Getting out of low chairs was impossible without using my arms. Now I can get up from sitting on curb of street without using my arms. I would say my knees are 80 percent better.

Since everyone is different I don't know if this would work for other people or not. I sip the drink for several hours during the day.

Posted by RC (Southern, Arkansas) on 02/27/2009
3 out of 5 stars

Better But With Side Effects

Can anyone please tell me, What is GSE? I have an ongoing sinus issue as well, muscle tightness (always, always) in my shoulders (since my teen years), lower back pain (sacroiliac?) poppint joints, and some recently acquired arthritis pains in my hands. Found this site, quit ALL meds, started 2T of ACV with 1tsp honey and 1/2 tsp baking soda. After 1 week, substantial relief in my hands, some relief with sinus, but now I have achiness all over... joint popping and low back pain continue to come and go. Thinking I have a yeast issue and am looking for answers on this site... help?! I believe the ACV treatment is working for me so far! I enjoy this site and everyone's input. I'm listening to the catpurr as I type. :O)

EC: GSE - Grapefruit Seed Extract

Replied by Arletta
Tucson, Arizona

Regarding: "now I have achiness all over... Joint popping and low back pain continue to come and go. Thinking I have a yeast issue and am looking for answers on this site... help?! "

Hello. If you do have yeast overgrowth, that could be the reason you are feeling achy all over. It's one of those things where, at least temporarily, the cure often feels worse than the problem. ACV helps with yeast overgrowth - at least it does for me. That means the nasty bacterias are dying off, and they release poisons as they die off, temporarily making you feel worse.

It helps to keep track of what you are eating, when, etc. Then, to do purposeful things, when you can, such as eating a good portion of jalapenos, garlic or some other food known for killing bad bacteria in your body. If, after you eat it, you feel much worse (all the way to being extremely gassy, breaking out with rashes, having diarrhea, feeling vomitious) and then, a few hours later, you feel better than you did before, it is a good indication that yeast overgrowth is your problem.

I read that in one of those books like The Yeast Connection. I tried it. It proved true for me.

Also, the joint popping and pain could be a result of your body having reduced stress upon it after an extended period of suffering.

When I was going through my divorce, so I was even more stressed out than usual, I actually lost height due to muscular tension, and when my health began to approve, I had lots of joint popping. In fact, one time, my chest cracked so loud it sounded like someone shot a gun!

You have to keep paying attention to your overall experience, take notes to help you remember, and try different things, such as purposeful stretching. If your back pops more after the stretching, then, a release of tension is probably the cause.

I found Callanetics to be incredibly helpful, when I can get time to do it. That was what I was doing, around the time when my body really started popping and I gained my height back.

Of course, it's always best to have a doctor and consult with them; but, if you feel better, most of the way, these are probably just side effects of getting better.

GSE (grapefruit seed extract) is, by the way, a great thing to add, in liquid form, to liquid soaps and shampoos, to help with dandruff and rashes that might result from yeast overgrowth. Also helps if you have that "just can't get clean" feeling. You want to use a very small amount, as too much might irritate nerve endings. A small amount mixed with toothpaste or baking soda/hydrogen peroxide can help get rid of bad breath and thrush, too.

GSE in liquid form is best for mouth, throat, external applications. In capsule form, it is more useful in the belly. In pill form, it works better for the intestines. Just eating grapefruit, especially if you eat the bitter white part that clings to the fruit and the seeds, can be very beneficial in the process of rebalancing your body, though.

Posted by Davey D (Victoria, BC Canada) on 07/30/2008
5 out of 5 stars

I would just like to say how wonderful the site is. About a year ago I started to search for natural cures for arthritis because my hips were giving me terrible pain and some pain in my knuckles as well. I am a male of 60 years with Muscular Dystrophy. I started taking 2 tbs apple cider vinegar with 1/2 tsp of backing soda twice a day for 5 days on and 2 days off. I can say that today I am almost pain free. I have found that the Omega 369 has taken care of my suicidal depression, but one a day is all I can afford because our Government will not help me. Your simple affordable remedy has saved my life because I can live more comfortably now. There was a story of a man of 53 found dead in his truck on day from carbon monoxide poisoning and I had been contemplating this method before I found Earth Clinic. Maybe if he had of known he would still be alive. No cuddo's for our gov.
God Bless you Ted.
Thank you so much for your help.
Davey D.

Posted by Steve (Victoria BC, Canada) on 12/06/2007
5 out of 5 stars

Hi everyone at earthclinic! I am a 60 year male. I found your site after a search for arthritis and natural cures. I started taking the ACV and BS two months ago. It has significantly reduced the pain and swelling between my knuckles. My hips and knee pain are getting better and the food taste better as well. My energy has increased and I am not napping as much. I don't feel as cold anymore and no more shivers in bed. It has also helped my wife with her knees. I can't thank you enough for your wonderful natural cure. I almost got sold on the Swedish joint pain formula but I found your site and I am now saving my much needed money. Now I am going to start using the H202 inhalation method and I will let you know how that turns out.You are on my 649 list and you can hold me to that.

Posted by Tanya (Vancouver, Canada) on 07/22/2007
5 out of 5 stars

I've been taking ACV to help reduce my body acidity. It helped relax my shoulder muscles somewhat. However, real improvements occurred when I tried out Ted's ACV backing soda recipe! I had started on Glucosamine to help reduce my squeaky/crackling joints in the neck, shoulders, hips, and back, not realizing that the problem is (possibly) acid-related. The baking soda absolutely helped, within days! I can still crack my neck some, but the rest of me is fine. Amazing. We seriously should set up a Donation Box for Ted. He's contributed so much and has really made this site stand out from the others!

Replied by Becky

I've been reading a lot of comments but I'm still confused on what kind of baking soda to use aluminum free or just regular house baking soda?

EC: Hi Becky,

All brands of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) are aluminum free. It is baking powder that contains aluminum. However, a company came out a few years ago and called their baking soda "Aluminum Free Baking Soda" for marketing purposes, leading to much consumer confusion.

Brands like Arm & Hammer are indeed aluminum free. In fact, one of Earth Clinic's readers verified this with the company in 2008. You can find the post in our baking soda section!

Posted by Florence on 12/15/2006
4 out of 5 stars

I am taking Apple Cider vinegar, baking soda and Manuka Honey for arthritis. I am in the early stages and I feel it is easing the pain. I also want to lose weight, approximately 7 lbs.

Replied by Michael Fernandez
New York

A study published by The Bioscience, Biotechnology and Biochemistry Journal said that drinking apple cider vinegar for three months causes a significant decline in body weight, abdominal fat, waist circumference, and triglycerides. This can be consumed with baking soda. But it would start showing results over time and is no quick fix.

Asthma and Allergies

Posted by David (Redding, USA) on 01/15/2007
5 out of 5 stars

ACV and Baking Soda: This really works! I have twin boys both with asthma and allergies. Both on Asthma allergy medications. Also getting allergy shots. I put them on ACV and baking soda with lemon. Over a short period of time we were able to take them off all meds and shots! They have caught less colds and when they do they are short lived compared to the past. We have been drinking this mixture 2 times per day now for about a year and we are doing great. Thanks for this great site and all those who share. Warmest Regards, David

Replied by Jen
West Covina, Ca

Do you have measurements of how much ACV and baking soda to mix together?

Replied by Chi
Nashville, US

Hi Can you let me know how old are your boys? I have a 3 year old girl who has persistent cough and constipation.I am thinking this may help her.

Bladder Infection

Posted by Zel (Liberty , MO) on 10/24/2008
5 out of 5 stars

I had a very uncomfortable UTI today. I used apple cider mixed with water and baking soda. In less than hour after taking it and drinking a lot of water the pain was gone and I did not have to go every few minutes. This really works I have suffered from UTI for years and this is the first home remedy I have tried that worked.

Replied by Key
Denham Springs, Louisiana
0 out of 5 stars

Not sure if I mixed correctly.. 3Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar with 1Tbsp baking soda.. It fizzed a lot.. Added a lil honey.. I only got a few sips down.. Then my heart raced and pounded strongly.. Is this normal?.. Did I mix correctly?

Replied by Key
Denham Springs, Louisiana

Is it safe to mix apple cider vinegar and Baking soda with water and lemon juice?

Replied by Kt

Try two teaspoons of ACV and 1/2 tsp of BS to 6 or 8 oz of water.

Posted by John (Medford, Oregon) on 05/28/2008
5 out of 5 stars

Since birth I have been a medical case that doctors have now concluded that they don't know what to do with me thus being handed around in an effort to get rid of me. In the end all that is prescribed are drugs that leave you in a state of lifelong vegetation and perhaps enough chemicals to embalm. It is ever more clear that a patient must conduct their own unbound exhaustive study. The amount of available and changing research is so infinite that I have been updating my personal doctor, who has no ability to focus on just one patient.
Yet after years of study I fell on this most simple remedy:
ACV and Baking Soda.
Bladder infection is an unmistakable experience that needs little diagnosis that you get slammed with.
Mixing ACV and BS is best not taken individually. You've seen those elementary classroom demonstrations of a volcano?
Anyways, every few hours I had a glass of the nasty stuff along with water...And, no week-long side effects requiring unproductive hours on the couch! Within 12 hours I was cured. All Gone!!

Blood Pressure

Posted by Albert (Ottawa, Ontario) on 10/21/2008
5 out of 5 stars

After reading so many positive comments I decided to give it a try. I am a slim and healthy engineer who started taking Prozac for anxiety a few months ago. My blood pressure went up from normal levels to about 138-145/87-95. Given that I am 48 years old my doctor told me that it may also be related to my age and that perhaps I may need to go into medication for it. I started searching and found this website and the comments on ACV. I thought that I had nothing to lose by trying it. I even like vinegar with olive oil in my salads. Given the various options for taking the ACV I opted for one that seemed more sensible for me. Half a glass of water with two tbs of ACV and 1/4 tbs of baking soda. I am taking this three times a day. Early in the morning before breakfast about 1 hour after lunch and 1 hour after dinner. I reasoned that perhaps on an empty or semi-empty stomach would be better. Some people may not like the taste but I am used to it and don't mind it at all. Let me tell you that the results in 10 days of doing this have been very impressive. I have been taking my pressure some times twice a day. My blood pressure started coming down. I have had only one spike one day around the 4th day. I have been 120-125/70-75 in the last five days. So, what can I tell you? Try it out, you may be happily surprised by the results.

Replied by Kate

I did take Apple Cider Vinegar for awhile my BP it's down but I researched that Apple Cider Vinegar long-term may give the bone problem. the Apple Cider Vinegar & potassium. what you think?

Replied by Natalia
Mn, Usa

Organic ACV at 1-3 Tblsp daily for life will never cause bone problems, but will provide many benefits. There is a lot involved in elevated BP and knowing nothing of your health profile, I can't comment on anything involving cardiac status, etc. It is a well-researched and documented fact that K+ (potassium) serves to lower BP. Adult recommended dose is approx 4500 mg daily, but you need to balance this with increased salt intake. Look into adding Magnesium and the overall balancing of your mineral profile (plenty of info on the web) as well as improving diet, lowering stress, doing some self-care to bring your body into balance. Best to you.

Posted by Beth (Fox Cities, Wisconsin) on 07/09/2008
5 out of 5 stars

I was quite amazed today when I went into the doctor. My blood pressure was 150/80 a few months ago and now it's 130/80! A drop of 20 in a few months I think is quite amazing. The only thing that I've been doing different is taking 2 tablespoons of ACV and 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda. I also eat a few peanuts or some peanut butter to help with the taste if it's getting to me one day.

Posted by Renee (El Dorado, Kansas) on 06/10/2007
5 out of 5 stars

3 weeks ago my BP was 146/92 after sitting still for over an hour. I have been taking ACV with baking soda ever since. BP is 128/77 today after sitting 5 minutes. I've still got to watch it as after a brisk, but brief, walk, the BP was 150/80. Began inhaling hydrogen peroxide (regular stuff) today in an attempt for further improvement.

Replied by Renee

Whoops... I have been taking 2 Tbls ACV with 1/8 tsp baking soda two to three times a day. A side benefit that I've noticed has been that my vision has improved. I often have bouts of seeing light distortion, very similar to how the heat coming off hot pavement looks. This makes it very hard to see and gives me a slight eye headache. Must have been BP related.

Replied by Gayle
North Dakota
3 posts

Your blood pressure is going to go up when you exercise. Blood pressure changes all the time. Your true blood pressure is when you wake up in the morning and have yet to get out of bed. If you are angry, excited, exercising etc. your blood pressure is going to go up. That is why stress reduction and trying to avoid inflammation in the body helps keep your blood pressure in the normal range.