Oil Pulling — What is That All About?
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic remedy for oral health and detoxification. It involves the use of pure oils as agents for pulling harmful bacteria, fungus, and other organisms out of the mouth, teeth, gums and even throat.
Place about one tablespoon of cold pressed organic sesame seed into the mouth. Swish it around for about 15 minutes. As the oil is swished around in the mouth, teeth, gums and tongue it starts to draw toxins out of the saliva and then the tissues. Once the oil turns thick, viscous and white it is ready to be spit out before the toxins are reabsorbed.
Multiple scientific studies show that this practice with sesame oil helps to reduce the germ count in both teeth plaque and saliva. Scientists believe that the lipids in the oil pull out the bacteria and prevent it from sticking to the walls of the oral cavity.
Other oils such as extra virgin cold pressed coconut, sunflower and olive oil have been used, although sesame oil is considered one of the best oils for this practice. It is recommended to alternate oils every couple of days to get the full benefit.
Benefits include:
- Strengthening of teeth and gums
- Prevention of cavities, gingivitis
- Reduction of bad breath-often from bacteria
- Helpful for bleeding gums
- Prevents dry lips, mouth and throat
- Give it a try and see what you notice!
But, for those of you who do not have an extra 15 minutes for this process, I have seen it suggested that you take 1 tbsp organic coconut oil and swish it around in the mouth, for as long as you can, and spit it out – but not into the plumbing of your sink!
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