Does apple cider vinegar draw out infection?

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a type of vinegar made from apple must or apple cider that has undergone fermentation to convert the sugars into acetic acid. There are claims that ACV has antimicrobial properties and can be used to draw out infections from the skin. But what does the science actually say? Let’s take a closer look.

Table of Contents

What are the proposed mechanisms behind ACV and infection?

There are a few proposed ways that ACV could potentially help draw out infection:

ACV is acidic with a pH of around 2-3. This acidic environment makes it harder for bacteria and other microbes to survive.
ACV contains acetic acid which acts as a mild antibacterial and antifungal agent. Acetic acid can inhibit microbial growth and kill some pathogens.
The acetic acid in ACV helps to break down biofilms formed by bacteria. Biofilms act as a protective barrier for bacteria and make them harder to destroy.

When used topically, ACV may help to dry out skin lesions and increase drainage which can draw out pus and infectious material.

So in theory, the acidic and antibacterial properties of ACV could help draw out infections. But it’s important to look at what the scientific evidence says.

Studies on ACV and infection

There have been some scientific studies investigating the antimicrobial effects of ACV:

A study found ACV was effective at inhibiting the growth of Candida albicans, a yeast responsible for various fungal infections.¹
Research has shown ACV can kill Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria in laboratory tests.^2,3
One study found ACV was able to reduce Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria in a wound infection model in mice.⁴

Applying ACV to wounds infected with carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii decreased bacterial counts in one report.⁵

So there is some evidence that ACV has antimicrobial properties in lab tests. However, few robust clinical studies have been done looking specifically at ACV for drawing out infections.

ACV case reports for wound infections

There are some case reports where topical ACV improved infected wounds:

In one case, using cotton balls soaked in ACV on a wound infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa helped clear the infection. The acidity and acetic acid were thought to contribute.⁶
Repeated application of diluted ACV helped heal an infected wound on the foot infected with multidrug resistant bacteria.⁷
Using an ACV soak helped resolve an infected finger ulcer. The acetic acid is thought to have prevented Pseudomonas growth.⁸

However, these are individual cases. Larger scale studies are needed to truly determine effectiveness.

Using ACV for drawing out infections

Based on the limited evidence, here are some ways ACV could potentially be used to help draw out infections:

As a soak – Soaking the infected area in diluted ACV may help draw out infection. Typically a ratio of 1 part ACV to 5 parts water is used.

Compress – Soaking a cloth in diluted ACV and applying it to the infected area as a compress for 20-30 minutes.
Wound wash – Using diluted ACV to gently wash and clean infected wounds and sores.
Foot soak – For foot infections like athlete’s foot, soaking feet in ACV can draw out the infection.

Drawing salve – Mixing ACV with herbs like plantain or oregano to make a paste to apply to infected areas.

ACV should always be diluted before applying to skin as the acidity can cause irritation. It is also important to keep the infected area clean when using ACV.

Considerations before using ACV for infections

There are some important factors to consider before using ACV to treat an infection:

ACV is not a proven cure-all and scientific support is limited – don’t use it as a replacement for medical care.
Only use ACV externally – consuming ACV will not treat skin infections.
Do not use on open wounds or damaged skin – the acidity can cause irritation.

See a doctor for infections that don’t improve, are widespread, or have other concerning symptoms – ACV should not replace medical treatment.
Do not use ACV on children’s skin due to potential sensitivity.
Stop use if skin becomes more inflamed or irritated.

Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.

It’s best to consult a doctor before using ACV if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have diabetes, take medication, or have chronic health conditions.

Is ACV safe and effective for drawing out infections?

The limited scientific evidence suggests ACV has some antimicrobial properties that could aid in drawing out minor infections when applied to the skin. However, research is lacking to conclusively determine if ACV is effective and safe for infections.

Based on current research:

ACV shows some promise for superficial skin infections based on lab research and limited cases.
But quality clinical studies in humans are needed to truly gauge effectiveness and safety.

ACV should not replace conventional antibiotic or antifungal treatment prescribed by a healthcare professional.
Do not rely on ACV for severe, widespread, or worsening infections – seek medical care.
Use ACV as an adjunct treatment and stop if skin becomes irritated.

More research is needed to assess if ACV can be recommended as an evidence-based treatment.

The bottom line

Here is a summary of the key points:

ACV has antimicrobial properties due to its acidity and acetic acid content.

Lab research and limited cases suggest ACV may help draw out minor infections when used topically.
But definitive clinical evidence in humans is lacking to recommend use for infections.
See a doctor for serious infections and do not use ACV as a replacement for prescribed treatment.

Only use ACV externally and stop if skin becomes irritated.
More research is still needed to establish ACV as an effective and safe remedy.
ACV should be viewed as a complementary therapy for minor infections, not a cure.

While ACV shows some potential for aiding minor infections, individuals should temper expectations and use caution until more rigorous research is available. Always consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment of infections, especially severe or worsening ones. With the limited evidence, ACV is not a miracle cure for infection, but it may provide some benefit when used appropriately under guidance from a healthcare professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of infections could ACV help with?

Based on limited evidence, ACV may provide some benefit for minor skin infections like:

Fungal infections – athlete’s foot, ringworm, jock itch

Bacterial infections – minor cuts, wounds, boils, cellulitis
Nail infections – fungal nail infections, paronychia
Acne and pimples

But more research is still needed to confirm efficacy and safety for these uses.

How often can ACV be used on an infection?

There are no definitive guidelines, but general recommendations are:

Soaks/compresses – 15-30 minutes, 2-3 times per day

Wound wash – Once or twice daily
Foot soak – 30 minutes, 1-2 times per week

But discontinue use if skin becomes irritated. Seek medical advice on appropriate frequency of use.

Is ingesting ACV effective for internal infections?

There is no evidence that drinking ACV can treat internal infections. ACV is only potentially helpful when applied topically to the skin. Oral ACV should not be used as a treatment for infections in the body.

Can ACV be used for severe infections like MRSA?

No, ACV should not be relied upon to treat severe, systemic, or antibiotic-resistant infections like MRSA. These types of infections require proper medical treatment. ACV may be used as an adjunct treatment but not as a replacement for conventional antibiotics or antifungals.

Is ACV antimicrobial properties better than other vinegars?

There is no research showing ACV has superior antimicrobial properties over other vinegars. Any vinegar will have some antibacterial and antifungal action due to its acidity. But overall, few studies compare the antimicrobial effects of different types of vinegars.

The takeaway

Apple cider vinegar shows some promise for aiding minor topical infections, but should not replace medical treatment. While the antimicrobial properties provide a theoretical mechanism, more clinical research is still needed. Speak to a doctor before using ACV for infections and discontinue use if irritation develops.