An antiseptic for wounds
In 420 BCE Hippocrates used vinegar medicinally to manage wounds, according to research from Arizona State University. And, in the 10th century, Sung Tse, the creator of forensic medicine, encouraged hand washing with sulfur and vinegar to avoid infection during autopsies.
The base to white vinegar is acetic acid, which gives vinegar its characteristic taste and smell. Acetic acid is a synthetic carboxylic acid with antibacterial and antifungal properties, suggests PubChem, which makes it an ideal antiseptic for treating wounds.
Weill Cornell Medical Hospital recommends treating wounds once daily with vinegar and water.
- Prepare a vinegar solution by mixing two tablespoons of white vinegar with two cups of water.
- Soak gauze with the vinegar solution and apply to the wound for five minutes.
- Remove the wet gauze.
- Store in the refrigerator and use for up to five days.
