Oil Pulling For Dental Health!
Let’s be honest we all are looking for ways to feel better, look better and improve our health without having to sacrifice lots of time, money, and effort. Oil pulling can be great for your dental health without taking too much of your time, money, and effort.
We are constantly bombarded by the next diet, the next detox trend, the next magic solution but oftentimes they fall short of our expectations with little results.
We all have a busy schedule and when we are asked to add “one more thing” to our routine, it can feel daunting and overwhelming.
I found one simple, easy and effective way to help my body detox on a daily basis with “Oil Pulling”. This technique not only helps to detoxify the body but also has added benefits that I will share with you below. In addition, it can be done while you get ready for work, return emails, or if you choose; it can be your own form of meditation.
What’s Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling is an Ayurvedic cleansing and rejuvenating technique that has been used for many years. It involves taking about 1 tsp to 1 tbs or 1 cap full of oil (usually sesame) and swish it around your mouth for about 20 minutes.
I know what you are thinking because I thought the same thing… “Yuck oil in my mouth for 20 minutes?” The answer is YES! Trust me when I say that it is easier than you think and those 20 minutes go by fast.
Why oil? Pretty simple, oil is considered a sticky substance, and bacteria and toxins in your mouth and lymphatic system will stick to the oil. In addition, any excess mucus and congestion get pulled by the oil providing you with a safe and quick relief.
10 more reasons to try oil pulling for dental health
- Improves overall health but especially dental health
- Can reduce bad breath
- Reduces plaque and gingivitis
- It clears acne leading to a healthy and glowing complexion
- It whitens teeth
- Relieves congestion and sinuses
- Can help with migraines
- Helps to detoxify the body
- Improves sleep
- Strengthens the immune system
Some people say it helps with hangovers… I‘m not sure about this one but you can give it a try!
Now that I got your attention you may be wondering… “How do I start?”
Getting Started
Oil pulling can be done any time during the day but I personally like to do oil pulling first thing in the morning.
I begin by scraping my tongue (another Ayurvedic thing) and then I get about 1 tbsp of coconut oil (preferably organic) into my mouth and swish it around for 20 minutes while I shower, get ready, etc making these 20 min fly by. Then I brush my teeth and start my day.
Traditionally sesame oil is used for oil pulling but I prefer coconut oil because of the taste and it’s antibacterial and anti- inflammatory properties.
After the 20 minutes have gone by I spit the oil into a plastic baggie or paper towel and throw it in the trash. DO NOT spit your oil in the sink because the oil will solidify and mess up your pipes… Be mindful not to swallow any of the oil since it is full of really YUCKY stuff!
I have been able to make this part of my ritual because I have experienced some of these benefits without really taking any additional time. More importantly, it also gives me that QUIET time to reflect and be mindful of my intention for the day.
Happy Oil Pulling! I can’t wait to hear how this works for you!
PS: This is the best organic coconut oil I found both for cooking and oil pulling
