Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic technique which has long been used to detox the body. In recent times, it has experienced a huge revival all over the world. It is an inexpensive way to remove toxins and bacteria from the body. It also enhances the overall strengthening of the teeth and gums and works as an excellent tooth whitener.

It can also be used as part of an anti-candida treatment, which I did many years ago. I used organic sunflower oil back then, which does the job perfectly. However, after I discovered the wonderful workings of coconut oil, I found I much prefer to use this oil. I also like the taste a lot better!

Removing harmful bacteria

In general, our oral cavity is filled with lots of bacteria, which is eliminated by our body in a most natural way. Nevertheless, if we expose ourselves to an excess of toxins, they tend to get stacked in the body, which can be harmful to our health and generate a multitude of illnesses. This is particularly the case with our current food habits, especially when combined with poor oral hygiene. The intake of many sugars is piling up harmful bacteria in our mouth, which not only cause damage to the teeth but also to our body and well- being.

Oil pulling is a wonderful way to help remove these bacteria. By pushing and pulling the oil through the mouth, our metabolism is activated and mingles the toxins and bacteria of the oral cavity with the spittle and oil. These are then removed from the body when we spit them out, together with the oil.

How to apply oil pulling?

It is not difficult, but it requires some perseverance. Use first thing in the morning, or 3 hours after your last meal. Take about 1 tsp or 5 ml. of oil in your mouth. If you use coconut oil which is not yet fluid, you may need to let it melt in your mouth first, which may take about a minute. Push and pull the oil throughout your mouth and between the teeth, but do not overdo or gargle with this oil.

The best results are gained after about 20 minutes, which is the most challenging part. If new to you, you can build it up. However, when used to it, it becomes easier, and you will find different kinds of activities to do during your ‘oil-gargle time.’ Perhaps taking a shower, doing some cleaning up, or checking your emails.

In any case, be careful not to swallow the oil, as it is filled with the bacteria from the mouth. If you happen to swallow the oil accidentally, it will not harm your body, but the effectiveness is nullified, and you might feel nauseous for a while.

After the 20 minutes, the oil can spit out in a piece of paper which you can toss in the bin. It’s preferable not to spit the oil into the sink or toilet as it can block your drain.

It is important to rinse your mouth well with lukewarm water, as the spit contains a lot of bacteria. Optionally, add salt to the rinse water, because of its purifying qualities. You can also brush your teeth and tongue clean, with some toothpaste or baking soda. Also, drink plenty of water for a better discharge of toxins and waste out of your body.

Benefits

Ailments can reduce or disappear within one to two weeks. Sometimes the oil pulling needs to be sustained for several months, especially if you have a severe bacterial infection, like candida. When you feel better, you can apply the oil pulling preventively about two or three times a week. Besides the amazing health benefits, your teeth will look whiter and brighter, too. It also helps to cure and prevent oral inflammation and bleeding.

Oil pulling is relatively cheap. Your only expense is the oil. It is easy to use compared to other forms of detoxification and is completely harmless. Almost anyone can do it, regardless of your level of health.

Sometimes the simplest procedures produce the greatest results!!