Apple cider vinegar shouldn’t be used as a substitute for rheumatoid arthritis medications, but it may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, more research is needed.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that could be important for RA symptom management.

Researchers believe that compounds called polyphenols may contribute to ACV’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capabilities. A 2021 literature review found they may help alleviate RA-related joint damage, swelling, and pain.

However, studies that explicitly link ACV’s polyphenols to reductions in RA swelling and pain are needed.

There’s not sufficient research to establish that ACV is effective at preventing, treating, or curing RA or any of its symptoms, including pain.

Applying ACV topically to affected areas may not have significant health benefits. Inappropriate use on the skin could actually cause irritation, worsen inflammation, and result in damage.

In addition, the Arthritis Foundation lists cider vinegar as a common arthritis food myth for the management of pain and inflammation.

Drinking ACV or adding it to foods is commonly recommended to people who want to take a nutritional approach to RA symptom management.

The dose most often linked to health benefits is 15 to 30 mL per day, mixed in water or other beverages. There’s no scientific evidence to suggest there’s an ideal daily dose of ACV to consume when treating RA or managing its symptoms.

Also, vinegar is highly acidic. Before ingesting it, you may want to try diluting it with water to prevent damage to your teeth.

If you notice an adverse reaction after ingesting, topically applying, or soaking in an ACV mixture, stop using it immediately.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), several other nutritional and topical complementary approaches for RA symptom relief are available.

Nutritional approaches for RA include:

Some topical therapies to consider include herbal oils and capsaicin cream.

For many of these natural remedies for RA, only a small amount of research has been done in limited study populations. More work is needed to fully understand how they help with RA.

NCCIH also does not recommend substituting other approaches, including complementary therapies, for treatments prescribed by a doctor.

Other uses of ACV

While it may not be proven that ACV can help RA, it may be a good natural remedy to try if you’re interested in:

These other benefits may be important as if you have RA, you may be at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Learn more about the uses of ACV.

ACV may be an affordable home remedy that seems like it has less significant side effects than more traditional RA therapies. It may not be helpful or effective for some people, though.

ACV isn’t a replacement for traditional RA medications. Taking medication, if prescribed by a doctor, is an important part of managing RA.

Consuming too much ACV or using it improperly also has several well-established side effects. If you begin to experience unusual side effects or your condition worsens while using ACV, get immediate medical attention.

Before pursuing alternative treatments or combining traditional RA therapies with complementary approaches, talk with a doctor about what an appropriate treatment plan may look like for you.