Oil Pulling - Transforms Your Oral/Overall Health
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic remedy for oral health and detoxification. It uses pure oils as agents for pulling harmful bacteria, fungus, and other organisms out of the mouth, teeth, gums, and even throat.
Oil pulling is proving to be one of the most effective holistic approaches to oral health. Showing us once again, that not all ancient remedies should be left in the past. Try it for yourself!
Here are the 4 simple steps to do oil pulling:
1. Measure one tablespoon of sesame oil, preferably wood-pressed.
2. Swish it around in your mouth for 15–20 minutes, simply start with shorter time. While swishing, gently pull and push the liquid in and out between your teeth, making sure to coat your entire mouth. For best results, practice oil pulling after you wake up in the morning, before brushing your teeth,
3. When finished, spit the oil out into a trashcan, rinse with water and brush your teeth. As you swish, the oil will be collecting toxins, bacteria and parasites. Because of this, swallowing the oil is absolutely not recommended.
4. Rinse your mouth well using water before eating or drinking anything.
Oil pulling with sesame oil provides many advantages for oral health.
Oil-Pulling Reduces the amount Of Harmful Bacteria in the Mouth
Oil pulling removes harmful bacteria, parasites and toxins from your mouth. An unhealthy balance of bacteria in the mouth contributes to tooth decay, bad breath, and destroys supporting bone and gums, leading to gum disease and eventually tooth loss.
In Ayurveda, Sesame oil has got a lot of recognition and was used as a base in several medicines. Its antibacterial qualities help control oral problems like gingival plaque. Also, the presence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties heals swelling and bleeding gum.
According to clinical trials, oil pulling with sesame oil reduces Streptococcus mutans, a significant contributor to poor oral health. Studies have shown that swishing with sesame oil is equally as effective as chlorhexidine (the gold standard of medicinal mouth washes)
Take a look at all of the benefits that come with reducing the amount of harmful bacteria in the mouth.
Protection from diseases of the gums and supporting bone, such as gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Protection from tooth decay.
Strengthening of the teeth, gums and jaw.
Reduces bad breath.
Protection from dry lips, mouth and throat.
It is important to note that almost all of the studies showing beneficial results with oil pulling used sesame oil as the oil of choice.
Oil-Pulling Therapy Likely Benefits Overall Health
The mouth is the gateway to the rest of the body and there is no denying that poor oral hygiene is linked to other health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Therefore, treating the underlying cause of poor oral health may also help with the management and prevention of other chronic conditions.
References
Asokan, S., Rathan, J., Muthu, M. S., Rathna, P. V., & Emmadi, P. (2008). Effect of oil pulling on Streptococcus mutans count in plaque and saliva using Dentocult SM Strip mutans test: a randomized, controlled, triple-blind study. Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, 26(1), 12.
Singh, A., & Purohit, B. (2011). Tooth brushing, oil pulling and tissue regeneration: A review of holistic approaches to oral health. Journal of Ayurveda and integrative medicine, 2(2), 64.
Demmer RT, Desvarieux M. Periodontal infections and cardiovascular disease: The heart of the matter. JADA October 2006;137(Supplement 2):14S-20S. Accessed September 20, 2011. (PDF)
2. Mealey BL. Periodontal disease and diabetes: A two-way street. JADA October 2006;137(Supplement 2):26S-31S. Accessed September 26, 2011. (PDF)
