After a bit of a slow start, oil pulling has finally made its splash in the U.S.! This ancient practice, especially when using coconut oil, is beneficial for your mouth, helping to reduce bacteria and enhance your dental health.
It has even been found to be more effective than flossing! Explore the origins, benefits, and how to get started with this oral health practice.
What’s the Buzz About Oil Pulling?
Primarily rooted in Ayurvedic medicine, oil pulling—known as gandusha—is a detox ritual where you swish a tablespoon of oil (like coconut, olive, or sesame) around in your mouth for 10 to 20 minutes. This technique cleanses the oral cavity, removing toxins and creating a fresh environment that helps prevent cavities and gum disease.
A Glimpse into History
Before modern dental care, our ancestors maintained their oral health without toothpaste or toothbrushes. Surprisingly, the nylon bristle toothbrush didn’t appear in America until the late 1930s, and many people still skip flossing.
So, what was their secret?
They consumed real, unprocessed foods, avoiding sugary snacks that damage enamel.
They utilized natural tools like chew sticks, found in Egyptian tombs dating back to 3000 B.C.
Many cultures practiced oil pulling as well.
Why Oil Pulling is Effective
Though there are only about 30 to 40 studies on oil pulling, interest is growing as researchers uncover its health benefits. The Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine has highlighted its effectiveness in preventing tooth decay and promoting overall oral health.
It's a detox technique that not only cleans your mouth but could also help avoid surgeries or medications for various health issues. Here are five studies showcasing how sesame or coconut oil pulling can address various oral health challenges:
Research from Tamil Nadu, India, found that oil pulling significantly reduces Streptococcus mutans bacteria, a major contributor to tooth decay.
A study from Chennai revealed that oil pulling reduces microorganisms in plaque among children with gingivitis.
These researchers noted that oil pulling is as effective as mouthwash for freshening breath.
A study in the Nigerian Medical Journal showed that coconut oil pulling can decrease plaque in individuals with gingivitis.
Lastly, oil pulling with sesame oil is as effective as chlorhexidine in combating bad breath and its associated microbes.
Why Choose Coconut Oil?
While sesame oil is a traditional favorite in India, coconut oil has its own advantages:
Balances hormones.
Fights off candida.
Improves digestion.
Moisturizes skin.
Helps reduce cellulite.
Diminishes wrinkles and age spots.
Stabilizes blood sugar and boosts energy.
Raises HDL cholesterol while lowering LDL cholesterol.
With its excellent absorbability, you can gain these benefits through oil pulling, as long as you use unrefined coconut oil to avoid additives.
How to Get Started with Oil Pulling
Ready to try coconut oil pulling? Here’s a straightforward method:
Start your day with oil pulling before brushing your teeth or drinking anything.
Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 10–15 minutes, being careful not to swallow any.
Spit the oil into the trash (not the sink) and rinse your mouth with warm water.
Brush your teeth as usual.
You're done!
For best results, aim to oil pull three to four times a week. You can enhance it by adding essential oils!
Enhancing Oil Pulling with Essential Oils
Essential oils have potent antibacterial and antifungal properties, making them great additions to your oil pulling routine. Here are two ways to incorporate them:
Add three drops of wild orange, lemon, or peppermint to one tablespoon of coconut oil for a daily boost.
If you're feeling unwell, mix in clove oil, cinnamon oil, or tea tree oil for additional benefits.
Is Oil Pulling Safe?
Let’s address some common questions about oil pulling:
1. What age is appropriate for oil pulling?
Oil pulling is safe for all ages! Just use a smaller amount, like half a teaspoon, for comfort.
2. Can I oil pull if I have fillings?
According to the Coconut Research Center, oil pulling won’t loosen properly placed crowns or fillings unless the tooth underneath is decayed.
3. Why oil pull in the morning?
Morning is ideal on an empty stomach, but you can try it at other times too!
4. Why the long swishing time?
Swishing for 15 minutes allows the oil to become milky and effective. Using enough oil is essential for thorough cleaning.
5. When will I see results?
Most people notice a cleaner mouth and fresher breath within a week, with healthier gums in about a month!
6. Any side effects?
Everyone is different! Some may experience mucus release or jaw soreness. If so, try swishing more gently or reducing the time until you adjust.
7. Can I oil pull while pregnant?
Yes! It’s a gentle way to clean your teeth, especially if you have gum sensitivity.
Wrapping It Up
Coconut oil pulling is a beneficial practice that can help prevent tooth decay, freshen breath, and heal bleeding gums.
Coconut oil is an excellent choice due to its lauric acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Consider adding essential oils for an extra boost!
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