Oil pulling is an ancient practice that has recently gained popularity for its impressive oral health benefits. By swishing oil around in your mouth, you can help keep harmful bacteria at bay, promote gum health, and improve your smile. If you are wondering how to get started, you are in the right place! Let us explore into the details of oil pulling with coconut oil and why it is a practice worth trying.
What Is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling involves swishing a tablespoon of oil like coconut oil around in your mouth for about 20 minutes. The oil acts as a natural cleanser, pulling out harmful bacteria and toxins from your mouth. Many people prefer to do this on an empty stomach to maximize the benefits, as it allows the oil to target bacteria without interference from food or drink.
Why Use Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling?
While you can use various oils for oil pulling, such as sesame oil, coconut oil is a top choice due to its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which is known to combat harmful bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, a bacteria commonly associated with tooth decay and gum disease.
The Benefits of Oil Pulling
- Fights Harmful Bacteria: Oil pulling with coconut oil helps to reduce harmful bacteria in your mouth, including Streptococcus mutans, which can lead to cavities and gum disease. Swishing oil around for 20 minutes is enough to reduce the amount of these bacteria
- Deals with Plaque and Gum Disease: Regular oil pulling can help remove plaque, which is a leading cause of gum disease. Studies have shown that oil pulling with coconut oil can be just as effective as using chlorhexidine mouthwash, a common oral disinfectant
- Supporting Oral Hygiene: Oil pulling can assist in freshening your breath and supporting a cleaner mouth. It is a great addition to brushing and flossing, but it should never replace these essential oral care practices.
- Helps with Oral Inflammation: Swishing oil regularly can tackle inflammation in the gums and help soothe irritated oral tissues, contributing to overall oral health.
How to Do Oil Pulling with Coconut Oil?
- Start with a tablespoon of coconut oil: Use virgin coconut oil, as it retains its beneficial properties.
- Swish the oil around in your mouth: Move the oil between your teeth, around your gums, and through your entire mouth. Try to do this for at least 10-20 minutes, but even 5 minutes can offer benefits.
- Spit the oil out: After swishing, spit the oil into a trash can. The oil will have turned a milky color as it has pulled bacteria and toxins from your mouth.
- Rinse your mouth: After spitting, rinse your mouth with warm water to remove any leftover oil.
- Brush your teeth: Finally, brush and floss your teeth as usual to complete your oral hygiene routine.
Conclusion
Oil pulling with coconut oil is a simple, natural way to support your oral health. It can help reduce harmful bacteria, fight gum disease, and freshen your breath - perfect for maintaining a healthy mouth. If you want to take your oral hygiene routine to the next level, give oil pulling a try! Just be sure to continue brushing and flossing regularly for optimal results.
