We’re well into fall, meaning that apple season is reaching its apex. And though the majority of your haul—whether harvested from the orchard or produce section—will likely end up in a delicious dessert, the potential for unused apple scraps is ever-present.

Instead of sending said waste straight to the landfill or your compost bin, why not get the most out of the fruit by making your own apple cider vinegar?

The Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar

With a bit of fermentation, sweet apple scraps are easily transformed into apple cider vinegar, a foodstuff-meets-wellness essential that comes with some serious benefits.

In addition to lowering blood sugar and aiding in weight loss, ACV’s antifungal and antibacterial properties make it an excellent topical treatment.

While some opt for shots of the acidic substance in the morning, take care: the vinegar can erode tooth enamel over time.

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar

There are many ways to use your apple cider vinegar that have nothing to do with vinaigrette (though that is a worthy option).

As an addition to your beauty routine, ACV exfoliates and balances pH, helping clarify skin, hair, and scalp alike. Experts recommend diluting the vinegar prior to topical use to avoid any unwanted reactivity. And if you have sensitive skin, be sure to spot-test first.

If the aesthetic and edible options weren’t enough, apple cider vinegar can even function as an all-purpose cleaner. Just mix 1/2 cup ACV with one cup of water and wipe the filth away.

Here, an impossibly simple recipe for apple cider vinegar that’s sure to become a seasonal staple.

How to Make Apple Cider Vinegar

Ingredients:

Apple scraps (enough cores, skins, and slices to fill one Mason jar)
3 Tbsp sugar
Warm water to fill

Instructions:

1. Add apple scraps, sugar, and water to a clean jar.

2. Cover and let sit for two weeks.

3. Remove scraps and let sit for another two weeks.

4. Enjoy!