Ayurveda: Oil Pulling

Oil pulling is an Ayurvedic remedy that has been used for hundreds of years.  It involves ‘swishing oil in the mouth’ and then spitting it out. Oil pulling can improve the condition of the gums and teeth by reducing dental bacteria, viruses and fungi – which in turn fosters overall health. Ayurveda practioners swear by it, claiming it can heal diseases from common colds to cancer. The theory behind this is bacteria such as Candida or  Streptococcus which is commonly found in the mouth, can multiply and secrete toxins into the bloodstream, thereby causing inflammatory disorders like heart disease.

Some benefits of Oil Pulling

• Brighter and whiter teeth
• Healthier gums
• Prevents bad breath
• Helps detoxify the body
• Migraine headache relief
•  Increased energy
• Clearer mind
• Reduces  allergies
• Clearer sinuses
• Aids in restful sleep
• Clearer skin
• Regulated menstrual cycles
• Supports kidney functions
• Improves vision
• Helps in recovering from a hangover
• Correcting hormone imbalances
• Improved lymphatic system
• Aids with gastro-enteritis
• Aids in the reduction of eczema

How to do Oil Pulling

Use one table spoon of cold pressed oil (preferably coconut oil, but sesame seed oil or sunflower oil is  effective too) and rinse mouth for 15 to 20 minutes. Ideally this should be done on an empty stomach in break-fast and then spat out. It is important not to gargle the oil in the throat. Once finishing, it is recommended to rinse the mouth with water and a bit of sea salt and then proceed to brushing teeth, flossing… whatever your morning routine.

I have been trying this on and off, but for the past week have done it every day religiously. I find my teeth are whiter, my skin is shinny and I have been sleeping better. This is such a cheap and harmless remedy, why wouldn’t you give it a go!? The results will speak for themselves.

Let me know how you go! Or if you have any experience of having done Oil Pulling please share, I would love to hear about it!

Love and light,
Lizette x

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