I previously mentioned the Vinegar of the Four Thieves when discussing natural alternatives to bug sprays, but its benefits extend far beyond that. This versatile herbal tincture is easy to make and serves many purposes, which I’ll explain in a bit. We use it both internally to combat illness and externally as a natural insect repellent.
You might be curious about the origin of its name. According to legend, the Vinegar of Four Thieves was created from a specific blend of herbs used by four thieves during the Bubonic Plague. The story tells of these thieves, one being an herbalist, who looted the homes of those who succumbed to the plague. When they were eventually caught and put on trial, they were granted freedom in exchange for the recipe of the tonic they claimed protected them from the plague. As a result, both the thieves and the recipe survived through history.
While we fortunately won’t need this remedy for anything as severe as the plague, it remains a valuable solution for various illnesses and is an effective disinfectant and bug spray. The recipe includes herbs renowned for their antibacterial, antiviral, antiseptic, and antifungal properties—a fact supported by science. All you need to do is mix them with apple cider vinegar and allow the mixture to sit until it reaches its full potency.
Here are some of the ways I use it:
Fair warning: the Vinegar of the Four Thieves has a strong smell and a taste to match, but it’s highly effective against multiple ailments. Even though my kids might grumble a bit about it, they know it helps them feel better quickly!
Here’s a list of my must-haves that I make myself and keep readily available:
Consider adding this uniquely named vinegar remedy to your collection and enjoy its powerful benefits!
This article was reviewed by Dr. Lauren Jefferis, a board-certified expert in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. Remember, this is not personal medical advice. It’s best to consult your doctor or work with a doctor through a service like SteadyMD.
What’s your favorite natural health remedy? Are you thinking of trying this herbal vinegar? Feel free to share your thoughts!
