Sinus Infections
Health Benefits

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar to Treat Sinus Infections Naturally

| Modified on Mar 17, 2024
Apple Cider Vinegar Remedy for Sinus Infections.

Sinus infections can be a painful and uncomfortable experience, but natural remedies can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

One such remedy is organic apple cider vinegar, which people have used worldwide for its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. When consumed, apple cider vinegar can help to thin the mucus in the sinuses, making it easier to clear out any harmful bacteria or irritants that may be causing the infection.

It's important to catch and treat a sinus infection as early as possible, typically at the onset of allergy, cold, or flu symptoms. By taking apple cider vinegar regularly as a daily tonic or at the first sign of symptoms like sinus headaches, stuffy nose, and watery eyes, you may be able to prevent a histamine response or allergic reaction and thin out the mucus in your sinuses.

In this article, we'll explore the mechanisms behind apple cider vinegar's effectiveness in treating sinus infections and different ways to use it as a natural remedy. We'll also discuss the best type of apple cider vinegar to use and provide tips on preventing and treating sinus infections effectively.

Apple Cider Vinegar for a Sinus Infection

Although many treatment options are available for sinus infections, many are ineffective. However, apple cider vinegar is a natural remedy that has been proven safe and effective in remedying a sinus infection and a range of other conditions.

The Mechanisms Behind Apple Cider Vinegar's Effectiveness in Treating Sinus Infections

Apple cider vinegar has potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it an effective natural remedy for sinus infections. When consumed, apple cider vinegar can help to thin the mucus in the sinuses, making it easier to clear out any harmful bacteria or irritants that may be causing the infection. As a result, you may notice that the color of your mucus changes as you consume apple cider vinegar, which is a sign of healing.

Additionally, apple cider vinegar is rich in acetic acid, which can help to kill off harmful bacteria and viruses in the sinuses. This can be particularly helpful in cases where the sinus infection is caused by a bacterial or viral infection.

Moreover, apple cider vinegar is known to boost the immune system, which can help your body fight off infection more effectively. It also helps to alkalize the body, which can help to reduce inflammation and relieve sinus pressure.

Overall, apple cider vinegar can be a powerful ally in the fight against sinus infections. Its numerous health benefits make it an effective and safe natural remedy for those looking to avoid the use of pharmaceuticals or antibiotics.

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar as a Natural Remedy for Sinus Infections

If you're looking to use apple cider vinegar to treat a sinus infection, there are a few different ways to go about it. One option is to create an ACV tonic for internal use. To do this, simply mix 1/8 to 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar into 16 ounces of water and sip the tonic throughout the day. This method allows you to gradually introduce apple cider vinegar into your system, which may be more comfortable for some people.

Another option is to take a more concentrated dose of apple cider vinegar simultaneously. Simply mix up to 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar into 8 ounces of water and gulp it down in one go. This method can be faster and more convenient but may be less tolerable for some people due to the strong taste of apple cider vinegar.

Either way, using apple cider vinegar as a natural remedy for sinus infections can be a safe and effective way to relieve symptoms and support healing.

How to Make an Apple Cider Vinegar Nasal Rinse for Sinus Infections

If you're looking for another way to use apple cider vinegar to treat a sinus infection, you can try making an ACV nasal rinse. To do this, simply add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of organic, raw apple cider vinegar to a cup of warm, filtered water and stir until thoroughly mixed.

Next, pour some of the mixture into your palm and snort it up one nostril at a time, using your other hand to plug the free nostril. Then, repeat the process on the other side. This method can help clear out mucus or irritants in your sinuses, providing fast and effective relief from sinus infection symptoms.

It's important to note that while ACV nasal rinses can be effective for some people, they may not be suitable for everyone. Always consult with your healthcare provider before trying a new remedy or treatment for your sinus infection, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns.

Using Apple Cider Vinegar Steam to Treat Nasal Congestion and Sinus Infections

When treating sinus infections, congestion, and headaches, many over-the-counter and home remedies offer temporary relief without addressing the underlying cause. However, steaming with apple cider vinegar is a safe and effective treatment option that can help to heal the sinus infection while relieving pain and making breathing easier.

To use this treatment, heat a pot of water until it steams (avoid boiling it) and add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Drape a towel over your neck and head with your face over the steaming pot, and breathe in the steam. Repeat throughout the day for maximum benefit.

The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar (typically 5-6%) works to eliminate the infection in the sinuses by preventing bacterial growth, while the vinegar's natural nutrients help to reduce inflammation. This makes steaming with apple cider vinegar a powerful and natural way to clear the nasal passages and treat sinus infections.

Overall, steaming with apple cider vinegar is a simple and effective way to alleviate the symptoms of sinus infections and promote healing. Give it a try and experience the benefits for yourself!

Choosing the Best Apple Cider Vinegar for Steaming and Treating Sinus Infections

When steaming with apple cider vinegar to relieve sinus congestion and treat sinus infections, it's important to use the right apple cider vinegar. Raw organic apple cider vinegar is the best option, containing the most living nutrients. Bragg apple cider vinegar is a popular and trusted brand that many people use for this purpose.

The steam and nutritional contents of apple cider vinegar work together to naturally and safely alleviate sinus congestion. This treatment can be used regularly to support immune system recovery and prevent further issues.

Possible Side Effects of Using Apple Cider Vinegar for Sinus Infections

While apple cider vinegar is generally considered safe for most people, there are some potential side effects that users should be aware of. These include:

  • Throat irritation: Due to its acidic nature, apple cider vinegar may cause irritation or a burning sensation in the throat, particularly if it is not diluted enough before consumption.
  • Tooth enamel erosion: Consuming apple cider vinegar regularly and in large quantities can weaken tooth enamel over time, potentially leading to tooth decay.
  • Skin burns: Direct application of undiluted apple cider vinegar to the skin can cause chemical burns, especially in people with sensitive skin.
  • Interaction with medications: Apple cider vinegar may interact with certain medications, such as diuretics and insulin, causing adverse effects or reducing their effectiveness.

It's important to note that these side effects are typically rare and mild and can be avoided by diluting apple cider vinegar properly and using it in moderation. Moreover, those who are experiencing any adverse effects or discomfort after using apple cider vinegar for sinus infections should discontinue use and consult with a healthcare provider for further advice.

While apple cider vinegar is generally safe and effective for treating sinus infections, it's important to use it cautiously.

Take Away

In summary, organic apple cider vinegar is an effective natural remedy for treating sinus infections due to its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It can help to thin the mucus in the sinuses, making it easier to clear out any harmful bacteria or irritants that may be causing the infection.

When used as a tonic or nasal rinse or steam, apple cider vinegar can quickly and effectively relieve sinus infection symptoms. It is important to catch and treat the infection as early as possible to achieve the best results. While apple cider vinegar is generally considered safe, it may cause side effects such as tooth enamel erosion, throat irritation, and stomach upset. Therefore, it's important to consult a healthcare provider before trying a new remedy or treatment for your sinus infection.

If you're interested in learning more about the effectiveness of apple cider vinegar in treating sinus infections, keep reading below for over 300 success stories from Earth Clinic readers who have given ACV 4 or 5 stars for its ability to help with their sinus infections. These personal accounts offer insight into the real-world experiences of others who have used apple cider vinegar as a natural remedy.

If you've tried this remedy for yourself, we encourage you to share your feedback with other readers. Your experience could help others find relief from their sinus infection symptoms and promote natural healing.

Related Links:

Effective Natural Remedies for Managing Sinus Polyps
Find Relief from Sinus Infections Naturally
Ice Cream and Sinus Infections: The Link to Artificial Flavorings
Natural Allergy Relief: Top 13 Home Remedies
Quick Sinus Relief: Natural Remedies for Congestion




305 User Reviews

5 star (258) 
  85%
4 star (19) 
  6%
3 star (2) 
  1%
1 star (16) 
  5%
(10) 
  3%

Posted by Terry Way (Winder, GA) on 02/01/2022
★★★★★

ACV Oh heavens yes, I used to work in the home construction trade here in GA and after a hot hard day's work, I often arrived home with leg cramps and a headache.

Then I was reminded that my grandmother would serve my grandfather and me, a drink she called "Switchel" 3 Tbs Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey to taste, for 1. it is a great thirst quencher and 2. for it helps replace electrolytes lost to excessive sweating. I started preparing a gal of this each day and the cramps and headaches stoped.

Replied by Blaine
(Stone Mountain, Ga)
06/06/2022
★★★★★

Just took 2 tbsp of Apple Cider Vinegar and some water, Man I feel so much better within 15 minutes. I'm gonna try drinking this 1 a day to ward off sinus problems. Thank you so much!

Replied by Rehema
(Kajiado county)
08/08/2022

Can it help to treat dandruff or dry scalp?

Lisa
(CO)
12/27/2022
★★★★★

My son had dandruff until he took some ACV with him in the shower. He scrubbed his whole scalp with it, rinsed then shampooed. He had to do this again a couple of days later. It really helped!


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Margs (Sussex) on 04/03/2019
★★★★★

I've used apple cider vinegar many times over the years to cure a sinus infection. I am glad to see so many other people have used it too and had success. I put a few drops of organic acv in my neti pot filled with warm, distilled water. I also drink a teaspoon in water a day and two times during allergy season. It is a potent, lifesaving remedy.


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Raphael C. (Sealy TX) on 02/03/2019
★★★★★

Use 6 drops ACV to 8 oz water in a Neti pot for sinus infections. Works well.


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Drdavid (Arlington, Tx) on 11/21/2018
★★★★★

Follow the instructions!

It is very important that you dilute the ACV! Start off weaker and then slowly progress to stronger concentrations, if desired..

Most people that are commenting with adverse effects of using the ACV are clearly indicating that they are using too strong of a concentration.

Remember that 3 teaspoons equals one tablespoon which equals 15 mL or grams.. 2 tablespoons is 1 oz or approximately 30 ml.. When using a dropper, approximately 100 drops equals 1 teaspoon, or 5 ml.. this means a half a teaspoon is 50 drops.

So to form the nose rinse, the instructions call for 50 drops, or half a teaspoon into 8 oz of water (240 ml).. some people who use the neti pot have stated that this is too strong for them and have only used 4 to 6 drops with success.. so if you will use the neti pot, START with this and SLOWLY add more if you decide that stronger is needed..

The same with drinking.. 1 or 2 tablespoons in 8 oz of water, or more.. that's only 1/2oz to 1oz of ACV in 8oz of water.. I find that adding stevia makes it quite palatable, even tasty.. and if you want to have it bubbly you use plain carbonated water.. check the label to make sure it has nothing but carbonation and water (I use the Kroger generic cans that come in a 12 pack). You can add the ACV to the carbonated water with the stevia, and even add a squirt of lemon/lime juice. Whatever to taste preference..

I hope this helps people to safely formulate their exact concentrations.


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Reikiabundance (Butler, Nj) on 04/10/2018
★★★★★

Love this site as well as all the suggestions listed in this thread. For those of you who have issues with the taste of ACV, add a tsp. of honey and mix both with a cup of your favorite tea. The taste of the ACV is almost indiscernible.


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Sbcmj (Sc) on 02/09/2018
★★★★★

I came down with the worst sinus infection I've ever had. Pretty sure it was some virus + sinus combination because not only did I have massive sinus pressure / blockage, but I also had minor aches and chills. I have always avoided ACV because it smells like nasty feet.

So long story short I finally caved. I hit up google for recipes for an ACV sinus rinse and found this website. I used the listed tonic as well as the sinus rinse, and by-golly within 24 hours I was 80% better, and within 48 hours I was 100% better. That's the fastest I have ever gotten over a sinus infection. To top it off this was the worst one to date ... ACV really showed its ability to defeat the nasty.

I'm officially a believer now and make drinking the stinky tonic part of my morning routine. As the saying goes "if it tastes bad, then it must be good for you", in this instance its the smell more than the taste but its all the same.

Side note I only did the sinus rinse ONCE! I mixed as stated in the article and added two packets of neilmed saline packets.


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Anne (Pennsylvania) on 12/27/2017
★★★★★

Organic ACV, is the best. Feeling bad with my sinus infection, I just drank 1 teaspoon of organic ACV, 1 teaspoon organic wild crafted honey, 1 teaspoon Sri Lanka cinnamon in 8 oz`s warmed distilled H2o. amazing results! This should be an everyday tonic must! ;-)


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Sandra (Honolulu ) on 11/24/2017
★★★★★

I can breathe! Thank you to this site I found the way to attack my sinus infection.

Drinking ACV tonic three times a day (2 teaspoonful Apple Cider Vinegar w 8oz water)

Steaming daily (1/2 cup ACV w 1/2 cup water) for ten minutes.


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Ep0101 (Wisconsin) on 08/03/2017
★★★★★

Apple Cider Vinegar for Sinus Infection... Wonderful!

I tried the rinse for the first time and although I didn't expect it to sting a little, it did clear my sinuses. I also try and drink the ACV tonic daily as I have asthma and allergies! I also know that ACV with the Mother, alkalizes in the body which is a good thing considering most of what we eat is acidic, so ACV has some amazing things that it does and its too bad Dr's don't try natural things first instead of throwing meds that usually creates other problems, but then again, if they tried natural stuff first, they wouldn't make as much money I suppose.


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Steve G (Nashville, Tn) on 05/23/2017
★★★★★

I remember my saintly grandmother using Apple Cider Vinegar for several different healing remedies... this year I fought 'the crud', worse than ever - taken everything I could take - even antibiotic, but to no avail... tried apple cider vinegar and I can honestly say, it worked and I feel so much better - I drink it in water and flush nostrils as well... thanks a million for the article and help...

Replied by Taylor
(Nj)
10/11/2017

Can I use the apple cider vinegar rinse every day? Is it safe every day? Thanx.

David
(Texas)
11/21/2018

Yes.. It's sufficiently diluted you can use ACV rinse daily.

If you have a problem you are using too strong of a concentration..

Once you are breathing clearly, you don't need to use daily.. just use on a maintenance schedule that you can determine by how quickly symptoms return.. then, you can fine-tune exactly how often you do it by direct observation of your needs.. once breathing/sinuses seems normal, daily, you can attempt to decrease the concentration to a minimum level that works for you..


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Jason (San Jose, Ca) on 01/12/2017
★★★★★

Steaming ACV worked for me! I came down with a bad cold two weeks ago and it turned into a sinus infection - sinus was bloated, mucus was thick and brownish, and pressure around the nose. Netipot and rest didn't make it better and I was getting desperate. Tried steaming vinegar (didn't have ACV) two nights ago and the next day felt a lot better. Did it again yesterday and now I'm almost completely well.

Thanks a lot to those who posted this remedy!


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Marilyn (Missouri) on 12/23/2016
★★★★★

I had sinus surgery 3 years ago, and had not had a sinus infection since. On Thanksgiving woke up with a horrible sinus infection. I'd had symptoms for a couple weeks, like achiness, fatigue, Went to dr next day took 10 days of amoxicillin, did not help at all. Saw your article on ACV, could stand the taste, so tried steaming 1/2 cup water and 1/2 cup ACV. Wow! End of lst day, I felt much better, but was coughing up and blowing my nose a lot.The next morning I felt like a new woman. I passed this on to my brother, his results were great also.

Replied by Earwax Sg
(Singapore)
01/10/2017
★★★★★

Yes it worked for me too. Exact same symptoms going to the end of antibiotics treatment but it didnt cure it so I tried this and it worked just few hours later!

Replied by Denise
(Mosta)
01/11/2017

Hi, can you explain exactly what you did please. Does steaming involve just breathing in the vapour with head covered with a towel? Thanks so much, Denise


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Mary G (Appleton, Wi) on 11/30/2016
★★★★★

I have Irritable bowel syndrome (Spastic colon) and I get sinus infections at least once a year.

My doc always prescribes antibiotics for my SI's and every time I take them, I spend too much time in the bathroom. I recently came across your site and tried the ACV for my sinus infection:

I am using three-four drops of ACV, 1/2 tsp of baking soda (to take the edge off of the ACV) and warm water in my neti pot. I do this three times a day and I am planning to do this for five days.

The first day was harsh, but the second day of treatments was less harsh. I am now on my third day of treatments. I am not a 100% better, but I am feeling more better than I did before when I was on antibiotics. This is more effective and faster than antibiotics. I plan to do the ACV health drink after my SI's is over with. Thanks for this helpful information, You saved me a trip to the doctor, lots of bathroom time and some money. Thanks again.

Replied by Kaveh
(Iran)
12/18/2016

What about your sense of smell? I just tried ACV and water saline, I must say I added almost 50% Apple Cider Vinegar and 50%water. And now, I can't smell anything.

David
(Texas)
11/21/2018

If you use 50% ACV, then you burned the nerve endings in your nose that control the sense of smell. That's why the instructions tell you to dilute it.. it has 5% acetic acid.. and instead of using only 2.5 to 5 ml in 8 oz of water, you used the equivalent of 120+ ml per 8oz!!! Of course it burn your smell receptors... Fortunately they will grow back in a couple weeks or so.

Follow the instructions.. And if you decide to go stronger start from the most diluted form and slowly add.. it's not too intelligent to Simply ignore the instructions and go to a crazy ratio with no idea of how it's going to impact you.. Common Sense tells you to start off easy before you go stronger (and certainly not 30 to 60 times stronger!!! )..

Kelly
(Seattle)
07/31/2021

With all due respect to David, listing measurements in ML's (milliters) is just pointless here in the USA. It would be better if you'd describe them as a fraction of a teaspoon, or just as drops.

Replied by Mary
(Wisconsin)
12/22/2016

My sense of my smell smelled weird during these treatments. It smelled like vinegar most of the time. I am not a medical doctor, so you may want to consult with your doctor on this one.

Replied by Kinney
(North Carolina)
06/04/2017

50/50 sounds like too much ACV. Most recommendations I see say 1t. or 1T. ACV to 1 cup of water.

Replied by Pamela S
(Washington State, Usa)
07/24/2017

I have also lost my sense of smell (and taste) after using a more dilute version of apple cider vinegar and distilled water. Please share...Did you ever recover your sense of smell? I'm very concerned about this side effect.

Replied by Pamela
(Washington State)
07/28/2017

Happy to report that my sense of smell has almost completely returned after about two weeks. Given the experience however, I doubt if I would recommend using apple cider vinegar as a sinus rinse in a neti pot or otherwise.

Replied by Michael
(New Zealand)
07/29/2017

Hi Pamela,

As I reported earlier, in a previous post, my wife's tummy pains have mostly disappeared some time ago, largely as a result of going (strictly) gluten free! It is now three months and she is reporting that her sense of smell has returned after years of having no (sense of! ) smell at all! She is now able to smell some of the stronger smells that she had almost forgotten about. She's a happy chappy, as she felt she had been missing out all these years on an important aspect of life.

Michael

Replied by Brazjion
(The World)
10/13/2017

I think maybe steaming a good dilution is better due to the fact you can stop if it becomes irritating.

Replied by Brazjion
(The World)
10/13/2017

I am pretty sure you just used tooooo much ACV. The instructions were 1/2 to 1 TEASPOON of ACV. More is not always better...and just because it is natural....doesnt mean it can be used in excess. Be gentle with yourself and your care....your total sense of smell will return. Blessings

Replied by David
(Texas)
11/21/2018

You should not add the baking soda to the ACV to adjust the "harshness." To adjust the harshness, you simply adjust the concentration by increasing the dilution with water. Adding baking soda to the ACV adversely affects its beneficial properties..

Additionally, there is no reason to wait to drink the diluted ACV. In fact, the nose rinse, and the drinking of the ACV work together. People with digestive problems may actually find that it helped us as well..


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Kay (Texas) on 11/07/2016

I added 1 tsp of ACV to my neti pot and did this twice on Saturday. I noticed that I felt dizzy for a few seconds afterward but then I was ok and sinus congestion was clear. But on Sunday I began having severe dizziness - like the room was spinning - and it's now Monday morning and it hasn't gone away. Not sure but I think it must have been the ACV added to my neti pot rinse. Don't know why it took 18 hours for this severe dizziness to show up but I know that has to be it.

I'm about to do a regular saline neti pot rinse to see if it can flush away any residue that may still be there lingering. I'll post a follow up. But please be very careful about adding anything to a sinus rinse!

Replied by Kelly
(Seattle)
04/30/2023

Vinegar is astringent, hence it could possibly constrict blood vessels (which is one of the reasons it helps diarrhea). That may have accounted for your dizziness, but it's just a guess.


Apple Cider Vinegar
Posted by Alice (Portland, Or) on 11/07/2016
★★★★★

Thanks for this advice! I only added 6 drops of apple cider vinegar to a nasal rinse of warm distilled water the first time and it did sting a little. The next time, I added 6 drops to the rinse with a saline packet and it was AMAZING! No pain at all, drained well, and I am much less congested! I also started to drink a diluted ACV tonic of warm tap water with 1/2 tsp 2x a day. Had severe congestion for two weeks and took pseudophedrine and decongestant spray constantly. I was going to give in and go to the doctor for antibiotics but am so glad I tried this instead. It's only been 24 hours and I feel much better. Will also try a few drops of melted coconut oil in the nostrils since people on here say that is an amazing cure as well. Thanks for the posts everyone!!

Replied by Jihane
(Florida)
11/19/2016

Would the vinegar rinse help if I have a maxillary sinus retention cyst?

Replied by Bill
(Massachusetts)
03/23/2018

Hi I have currently Retention cyst in my right mAx Sinus. I also have itching different placed in my body that comes and goes. I also have inflammation areopathy near ears, but MRI shows no other issues.

The pain in the sinuses and itching I got almost exactly the same time last year and then it went away and now have it again but this time I have the tmj without grinding of the teeth. Anyway I am looking for answers too. Got off the honey today thinking that might be the problem. My glucose is 102 slightly high. Might be allergies..Doctors provide no real answers so here I am again doing my research.

DD
(LA)
01/30/2022

Sounds like you have"Leaky Gut" is it "Hives?" Your body is overloaded with yeast! Cause that's what your symptoms sound like. No doctor will diagnose you right. They're trained to suppress your malady, not cure it. Totally eliminate white processed sugar from your diet (Go natural) Add banana, or apple to your green veggie smoothies to give you the sweetness. Add Agave. Used bone broth as a soup. remember many natural spices come with their own anti-oxidants and anti-viral properties (Garlic, oregano, Turmeric, etc) there are many recipes on the internet. It will take 3-6 months for your body's yeast to balance out.

Replied by Lisa
(Jax)
03/25/2018

I had itching over my body also when I was detoxing from a yeast overgrowth. I also had plenty of sinus problems with the yeast issue. It improved greatly with apple cider vinegar and getting off sugar. 2 tbsp acv, with 1/2 tps baking soda. Let it fizz down and drink, follow with water. You can do this up to 4 x a day.

Replied by Lisa
(Jax)
03/25/2018

PS Bill - hot, epsom salt baths helped with the itching. 2 cups of epsom salt, stay in the water 20 minutes, as hot as you can stand it. It will detox your body, especially the skin. You can add a cup of Apple cider vinegar too.



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