• ENG

Select Language

Oil Pulling: Should You Be Trying It?

The practice involves swishing oil inside the mouth just like a mouthwash for 15 to 20 minutes.

Written by Kashish Sharma | Published : May 15, 2023 9:40 PM IST

Traditional Remedy

Oil pulling is a traditional remedy recommended for good gum and oral health. It involves swishing oil all around the mouth. While not much clinical evidence is there to validate the recommendation but the growing popularity of the practice has caused more and more people to take it up as part of their morning routine. According to the experts practising traditional medicine, the benefits of oil pulling are not limited to oral health. It has also been associated with overall health benefits.

Good For Oral Health

The practice involves swishing oil inside the mouth just like a mouthwash for 15 to 20 minutes. The practice has been associated with reducing the bad bacteria in the mouth, preventing bad odour and cavities. It is also known to prevent gum disease and inflammation. Some experts have said that the routine can also positively affect the gut microbiome. Also Read - Probiotics For Cardiovascular Health: Can Good Bacteria Improve Heart Function?

Study Claims Benefits In 15 Days

As per studies, after 15 days of doing the practice, both mouthwash and oil pulling were found to significantly reduce the bad bacteria in the saliva and the plaque deposited, thus improving gum health.

Use Good-quality Edible Oil

While starting with the practice, a good idea would be to use a good-quality edible oil. Among all oils, coconut oil is recommended the most. The oil is easily absorbable and edible, so it poses no danger for oral use. As per traditional medicine, it is important not to swallow the oil after use as it might contain toxins. Also Read - Personal Genomics For Cardiovascular Diseases: Understanding What Your Heart Needs

Spit It Out After Swishing

The way to practice oil pulling is to take a tablespoon of any edible oil such as coconut oil or olive oil, put it inside the mouth, swish it all around the oral cavity for 15 to 20 minutes and then spit it out in the garbage. Opinions stand contradicted on whether one must brush teeth immediately after it or allow some retention of the good bacteria.