I started using vinegar 34 days ago, and the spot is completely healed. I have been applying it to a wart, and that is almost gone, too. This is to encourage you to continue writing your column. I can’t tell you how happy this makes me because I do not have this unsightly spot on my face, and I don’t need a surgeon. Thank you.

DEAR READER: It never ceases to amaze me when remedies are often found in a kitchen cupboard. As with many medications, I am sure distilled vinegar will not work successfully for everyone in curing warts and a plethora of other conditions. However, I’m glad it did for you.

I mix one tablespoon of the vinegar, a teaspoon of honey and eight ounces of warm water. The “tea” is delicious and I also believe it helps to regulate high blood pressure. I also discovered it is very good for indigestion because of the enzymes it contains.

DEAR READER:
I have heard many praises over the years about apple cider vinegar and have received many letters from people who claim it cured their high blood pressure or stopped their gastro-esophageal reflux disease. Most say to drink it straight from a shot glass or to mix a small amount with two or four ounces of water.

Your recipe, on the other hand, involves only a small quantity of the vinegar which is then cut with a larger amount of water and sweetened with honey. Now, I am not sure that such a small amount will actually provide any benefits but it is harmless and worth a try.

So, readers, please write and tell me about your experiences with apple cider vinegar. Has it improved your sleep, blood pressure readings or even reduced your acid indigestion? Has it helped you in some other way?

I changed my diet to avoid foods containing high acids, to no avail. I was on a regular regimen of prescription medications that made me unhappy, so I explored another therapy for this ailment. A friend told me about apple cider vinegar, so I tried three tablespoons in a six ounce glass of water three times a day for five days. I dealt with the nasty taste of the vinegar and had some initial heartburn discomfort, but I didn’t take any OTC meds. I’ve been heartburn-free for over a month and have not taken an acid reducer since I began this therapy. The total cost has been about $2 for the vinegar.

Please pass this remedy along to your readers and patients.

DEAR READER:
I just did! Sometimes we find success in the places we least expect to. If you remain symptom free, you just struck gold. Stick with the regimen and thank your friend.

DEAR READER:
“Fungal” infections under and around nail beds can be caused by yeasts, molds and various fungi. Most are caused by the same type of yeast that causes athlete’s foot. The average healthy individual should not be affected by an infection, other than from an aesthetic view point. Problems arise for diabetics, those with weakened immune systems, and many individuals as they age.

According to many of my readers, Vicks or a store brand mentholated chest rub equivalent takes several months, but has shown promise in controlling fungus for many people. If you aren’t among those reporting success with this product, there are alternatives.

Speak with your primary care physician to determine if prescription medication might appropriate for you. Two better known anti-fungals he or she might prescribe are Lamisil and Penlac. Determine insurance coverage, since some medications can cost in excess of $10 per pill per day and must be taken for three months. This translates to more than $900 with no guarantee of success. A downside is the potential for side effects including skin rash and liver damage. Therefore, if you and your doctor determine prescription medication is appropriate for you, I urge you to have a liver test before beginning and on completion of the course of the drug. Should a rash develop, report to your physician.

Some people have had success with vinegar. There is no scientific or direct evidence that the infection will be eradicated, however, vinegar has been known to inhibit the growth of certain organisms. Experts suggest soaking the affected foot or feet in a mixture of one part vinegar to two parts warm water for 15-20 minutes. Rinse the feet and pat them dry. The process should be performed once or twice a week until the infection is under control.

Still another solution is Miranel Anti Fungal Treatment, a new product available over-the-counter, that kills fungus around and under nails. It is also recommended for control of athlete’s foot and ringworm. While similar to Vicks in that it contains camphor, eucalyptus and menthol, it also has the addition of tea tree oil and miconazole nitrate. This latter ingredient inhibits the growth and reproduction of fungal cells as well as being more easily absorbed through the damaged nail. Unlike standard over-the-counter remedies, Miranel uses natural properties that provide safe yet effective treatment for eradication of nail fungus. With no ingestion of medication, there is no worry of liver damage, and to the best of my knowledge, there have been no reports of skin rash.

While test studies report astonishing success, I again am asking my readers to report their findings with Miranel found at Wal-Mart, but understand it is available at most pharmacies. If it isn’t, ask your pharmacist to order it for you or visit www.MiranelBrands.com.

Since I have mentioned prescriptions and alternatives for control, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Dr. Gott’s Compelling Home Remedies”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.