Oil pulling, a seemingly odd practice of swishing oil in your mouth, has been around for over 3,000 years. Originating in ancient Ayurvedic medicine, it’s now gaining popularity in the Western world, endorsed by celebrities and health experts. Although it might not sound appealing, swishing oil for up to 20 minutes daily is considered a great detoxification method.

Ayurveda claims that oil pulling purifies the entire system since different parts of the tongue are connected to various organs like the kidneys, lungs, liver, heart, and more, similar to Traditional Chinese Medicine and reflexology concepts. The initial unpleasant taste and jaw discomfort for beginners are quickly overlooked once the health benefits become evident.

10 Benefits of Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil

1. Improve Immunity:
Oil pulling is a highly effective detoxifying technique and immune booster. By swishing oil in your mouth, you cleanse areas between the teeth, underneath the gums, along the tongue, and on the tooth surfaces, pulling bacteria away. Spitting out the oil removes these microbes from your body, preventing them from reaching the gut, where 80% of our immune system is located. This method is so effective it’s featured in David Wolfe’s top health tips.

2. Boost Energy Levels:
When the immune system is overworked, it can cause sluggishness. Boosting immunity allows the body to direct its energy elsewhere, and regular oil pullers report feeling more energetic within two weeks.

3. Get Smooth & Glowing Skin:
Skin conditions like acne, rosacea, dermatitis, and psoriasis can be linked to gut health, known as the gut-skin axis. Balancing gut flora can help heal the skin, restoring its glow.

4. Cure Bad Breath:
Oil pulling improves oral hygiene and combats bad breath, often caused by bacteria. A 2011 study found oil pulling with sesame oil significantly reduced halitosis symptoms, comparable to conventional mouthwash. Further studies in 2014 confirmed these findings.

5. Reduce Tooth Decay:
According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, tooth decay is the most common chronic disease in both children and adults, but it’s largely preventable. Research shows oil pulling is an effective natural solution to prevent tooth decay and loss.

6. Prevent Gingivitis:
Gingivitis causes gum irritation, redness, and inflammation. Studies show that sesame oil pulling reduces plaque and gingivitis levels as effectively as mouthwash. Research also indicates that coconut oil significantly decreases plaque and gingivitis symptoms within just a week of use.

7. Say Goodbye to Sensitivity:
Oil pulling may reduce tooth sensitivity, a common problem caused by factors like tooth decay, gingivitis, plaque buildup, and inflammation. Regular oil pullers report less sensitivity over time.

8. Whiten Teeth:
Oil pulling can help whiten teeth by removing plaque, which causes discoloration. Although hard evidence is limited, many users report long-term whitening effects.

9. A Safer Alternative to Mouthwash:
Oil pulling can replace store-bought mouthwashes, which may contain alcohol linked to oral cancer. While not all studies confirm this link, reducing exposure to potential toxins is beneficial.

10. Help Your Heart:
Good oral hygiene is linked to a healthier heart. Inflammation from gum disease can contribute to heart problems. Treating gum disease has been shown to improve overall health, lower healthcare costs, and reduce hospitalizations for conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

Why Use Coconut Oil?

While sesame oil is traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, coconut oil offers additional benefits:
– Lower in inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids.
– Has antibacterial and antiviral properties.
– Effective against Candida, which causes oral thrush.
– Better flavor, especially in the morning.

A Beginner’s Guide to Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is simple and requires some of your time:
1. Take a spoonful of coconut oil and let it liquefy in your mouth.
2. Swish it around gently for up to 20 minutes, ideally before breakfast. Start with five minutes to avoid jaw pain.
3. Spit the oil into a bin, not the sink, to avoid clogging. The oil should be milky white.
4. Rinse your mouth with water, possibly mixed with baking soda or Himalayan pink salt.
5. Brush your teeth as usual.

For added benefits, consider adding essential oils like peppermint or lemon to the coconut oil. You can also make coconut oil pulling chews with activated charcoal for convenience. After a few weeks of oil pulling, you’ll likely be hooked on the habit!