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Oil Pulling has become quite the rage lately.  Although this tradition has been around for several years and practiced by many, it only recently became popular.  So if you want to jump on the bandwagon here are some great tips and suggestions.

My favorite oil to use for oil pulling is organic, unrefined coconut oil. You may also use sesame seed oil. Both of these oils have many antioxidants, are antibacterial and antiviral.    The purpose of oil pulling is to pull out toxins from your gums, teeth and mouth and cleanse the mouth of germs and bacteria. Studies done indicate that oil pulling has contributed in improving gum health, reducing plaque, tooth decay, foul breath and gingivitis.

*Please note oil pulling is to be used in addition to your normal dental routine including daily brushing and dental visits.

How to oil pull;

•  Do oil pulling this first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
•  Take 1 tablespoon of oil (if using coconut you can melt it in the microwave first) put it in your mouth.  Swish it around pulling it through your teeth for up to 20 minutes.  Do NOT gargle.
• Then spit it out in the garbage! DO NOT swallow it!  Spitting it into the sink may cause clogged sinks, so it is best to spit out in the garbage.
• Rinse your mouth out thoroughly with water.
• Brush your teeth.
• Continue to oil pull daily or as often as you can.

In the beginning this can be very difficult to do for 20 minutes.  You can start at 5 minutes and work your way up.  A lot of people do oil pulling while in the shower to have a distraction going on.  I like to oil pull while cleaning the kitchen or making lunches for the day. If you keep your mind on other things this will help a lot. You will get the urge to swallow at times, sometimes this is when you should spit it out. The oil now has the toxins from your mouth in it and swallowing this is not a good idea. When it is time to spit out the oil you will notice that the oil has a milky white color.

Oils NOT to use for oil pulling include the following; olive oil, cotton seed oil , peanut oil, corn oil, soy oil and canola oil or any oil you are allergic to.

*As always consult your doctor before oil pulling and if you experience any irritation or pain stop immediately.

The benefits of Oil Pulling;

• Strengthens the mouth and gums
• prevents gum bleeding
• prevents cavities, mouth disease and gingivitis
• prevents bad breath
• whiter and brighter teeth
• prevents formation of cavities
• helps prevent loose teeth
• removes plaque
• helps sooth sensitive teeth and gums
• reduces and prevents dryness of lips, throat and mouth
• relieves tooth ache
• prevents tooth yellowing

With all these great benefits why wouldn’t you want to try it?

Source=”Oil Pulling Therapy” kindle book by Jessica Robbins. Reviewed March 2015.