Oil pulling is the simple act of swishing oil around the mouth. Along with brightening and whitening your teeth naturally, this practice brings benefits to the whole body including the immune system.
This ancient therapy has been around for thousands of years and has its roots in Ayurveda. I’ve been hooked on oil pulling for the last few years because I’ve noticed the benefits to my teeth and gums. My teeth look whiter and brighter, my gums no longer bleed when I eat spicy food or brush my teeth, and I notice the boost it gives my immune system.
Oil pulling is so effective at removing bad bacteria from our mouth because the coating on bacteria is attracted to the fat in the oil. When we oil pull we are literally removing or ‘pulling’ the disease causing bacteria from between the teeth, around the gums, from the roof of the mouth and under the tongue. By cleansing the mouth this way we are preventing oral bacteria seeping into the bloodstream and causing inflammation in the body.
Our bodies are constantly accumulating toxins. We live in a society that is becoming more and more polluted, through the air we breathe, chemicals in our foods, environmental pollutants and even in cosmetics. Oil pulling is a simple, natural and effective practice that reduces the toxic load on our bodies and doesn’t harm the environment.
To achieve the benefits of oil pulling you need to practice regularly, once a day is ideal. The recommended time to swish the oil around the mouth is 15-20min. The best time of day is in the morning, 15-20min may sound like a long time but you can use this time to take your shower or prepare for your day.
Traditionally sesame oil (a warming oil) is used but you can also use coconut oil (a cooling oil). Personally I prefer coconut oil because I like the taste. […]
