Oil Pulling is definitely trending right now.
And for good reason.
It seems like every blog I come across is talking about oil pulling. Even fashion blogs! That’s why I want to give you some basic science and facts about this ancient practice so you can feel confident to give it a try! For a complete guide to oil pulling and all the incredible health benefits, read “Oil Pulling Therapy”.
Benefits of Oil Pulling
- Strengthens the immune system
- Alleviates bad breath
- Whitens teeth naturally
- Detoxifies and removes bacteria
- Can help prevent cavities and alleviates the pain caused by cavities
- Enhances flavor of foods and makes kissing better
- Helps keep gums healthy and helps heal bleeding gums
- Helps balance the health of the entire body
- Can even help clear up acne
What you need to know
- DO NOT swallow any of the mixture in your mouth
- You must spit and brush immediately after gargling
- If you can spit out side or in the trash this will prevent your pipes from clogging over time
- Turmeric will not turn your teeth yellow if you follow these guidelines
- You can do this twice daily, daily or weekly
- You can add in peppermint oil or oil of oregano for extra health benefits and flavor
- Pull anywhere from 10 – 20 minutes while showering or light stretching
- Best done first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, but can also be done at night
- I do not recommend oil pulling while you have braces
- May have slight pain and other symptoms after oil pulling; this is normal due to the detoxifying effects so stay with it
Recommended Oils
- Coconut – Anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties
- Sesame – Rich in calcium
- Olive – High in antioxidants and anti-bacterial
- Sunflower – More flavorful
- Almond – Full of healthy collagen
NOTE: All oils must be of the highest quality. Buy organic, first cold-pressed, extra virgin oils. Avoid refined, cooked or hydrogenated oils.
How this works
- Bacteria and micro-organism are lipophilic, meaning they bind easily with fat (oil)
- Oil acts as a magnet and “pulls” the toxins out of the blood
Bonus Dental Hygiene tips
- Baking soda and coconut oil make a great toothpaste
- Flossing can cause tiny cuts in unhealthy gums where bacteria can enter; be gentle while flossing
- Educate your self on the use of fluoride in your dental products; switch to fluoride free toothpaste
- Another Ayurvedic technique used is the tongue scrapper, which can reduce bad breath and enhance kissing
How to Oil Pull
- Start with 1 – 2 tablespoons of oil
- First thing in the morning on an empty stomach, swish and pull oil through teeth for 10 – 20 minutes
- Add a few drops of peppermint or tea tree oil to freshen breath and make this process more enjoyable
