Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around in your mouth for 10-20 minutes before spitting it out. The most commonly used oils for oil pulling are coconut oil, sesame oil, and sunflower oil.
The idea behind oil pulling is that the oil will pull harmful bacteria, toxins, and other debris from your mouth and help improve oral hygiene. Some people also claim that oil pulling can help with overall health and wellness, including reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and even whitening teeth.
While there is limited scientific evidence to support many of the claims made about oil pulling, some studies have suggested that it may be effective in reducing harmful bacteria in the mouth and improving overall oral hygiene. However, it is important to note that oil pulling should not be used as a replacement for traditional oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing.
Benefits of oil pulling
While the scientific evidence on the benefits of oil pulling is limited, some people believe that it can have a range of potential benefits, including:
- Improved oral hygiene: Oil pulling may help reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth and improve overall oral health, including reducing plaque and gingivitis.
- Fresher breath: Swishing oil in the mouth can help remove bacteria that can cause bad breath.
- Potential whitening effect: Some people claim that oil pulling can help whiten teeth, although more research is needed to confirm this.
- Reduced inflammation: Some studies have suggested that oil pulling may help reduce inflammation in the body, particularly in the mouth and gums.
- Improved digestion: There is some anecdotal evidence to suggest that oil pulling may help improve digestion and support overall digestive health.
However, it is important to note that more research is needed to confirm these potential benefits, and oil pulling should not be used as a replacement for traditional oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing.
Best oil for oil pulling
The most commonly used oils for oil pulling are coconut oil, sesame oil, and sunflower oil.
Coconut oil is often the preferred choice because it has a pleasant taste and is rich in lauric acid, which has antibacterial properties. Sesame oil is also commonly used and has been found to help reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth. Sunflower oil is another option that is rich in antioxidants and may also help reduce bacteria in the mouth.
Ultimately, the best oil for oil pulling depends on personal preference. Some people find that certain oils work better for them than others. It is also important to choose a high-quality, organic oil that is free of additives and chemicals.
How to do oil pulling
Here are the steps to perform oil pulling:
- Choose your oil: The most common oils used for oil pulling are coconut, sesame, and sunflower oil. You can use any of these oils, depending on your preference.
- Measure out one tablespoon of oil: Start with one tablespoon of oil, and gradually increase the amount as you get used to the practice.
- Swish the oil in your mouth: Put the oil in your mouth, and swish it around for 10-20 minutes. Be sure to swish the oil thoroughly around your teeth and gums, and try not to swallow the oil.
- Spit the oil out: After 10-20 minutes of swishing, spit the oil into the trash can. Do not spit the oil into the sink or toilet, as it may cause clogs over time.
- Rinse your mouth: Rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water, and brush your teeth as usual.
- Repeat daily: For best results, practice oil pulling daily.
It is important to note that oil pulling should not be used as a replacement for traditional oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing. Instead, it should be used as a supplement to your regular dental routine. If you experience any discomfort or adverse effects while oil pulling, stop the practice and consult with a healthcare professional.
Best time for oil pulling
The best time to do oil pulling is in the morning before eating or drinking anything. This is because while you sleep, bacteria and toxins accumulate in your mouth, and oil pulling can help remove them.
To perform oil pulling, simply put one tablespoon of oil in your mouth, swish it around for 10-20 minutes, and then spit it out. After oil pulling, rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water and brush your teeth as usual.
While oil pulling can be done at any time of day, some people find that it is most effective when done in the morning. However, it is important to choose a time that works best for you and fits into your daily routine
