Oil pulling sounds like a bit of a weird thing. The name isn't all that descriptive as to what it is, however I'm not sure swishing-oil-about your-mouth-for-up-to-20-minutes-to-pull-out-toxins-and-cleanse-your-mouth-and-gums really rolls off the tongue all that well. And whilst it may seem like a load of crock, I challenge you to give it a go and tell me you don't notice any of the benefits I mention below.
In more detail than my previous mention of oil pulling here, it is an ancient Ayurvedic (alternative Indian medicine) ritual where you place high quality vegetable oil in your mouth and swish it around for up to 20 minutes. It is believed that this simple practice can help to rid the body of toxins, improve dental health and hygiene, and has been thought to cure and prevent a variety of illnesses, diseases, and hormonal disorders.
Some of the other amazing benefits you can notice by including this simple little routine include:
•Brighter and whiter teeth
•Healthier gums
•Prevents bad breath, and strengthens the jaw
•Clearer skin Weight Loss
•Detoxification aid
•Improves the lymphatic system
•Increased energy
•Better sleep
•A clearer mind and thought processes
•Clearer sinuses and helps to alleviate allergies and headaches
•Regulated menstrual cycles and an improvement in PMS symptoms
•Prevents dryness of the mouth, throat, and lips
The easiest way to start oil pulling is by taking about one tablespoon of high quality (cold-pressed and organic if possible) oil in your mouth and swish, push, and pull it around your mouth and teeth for up to 20 minutes to get the maximal effect.
The first time I tried this I was all guns blazing, full steam ahead, I'm gonna kick 20 minutes arse, and by about minute seven my jaw was aching and I had to stop. So it is easiest to gradually build it up from a few minutes, to five, to ten, to eventually 20 minutes.
I also normally use coconut oil as it has the most pleasant taste and also has extra beneficial anti-bacterial properties (also adding a couple drops of 100% essential oregano oil or peppermint oil provides anti-bacterial properties and improves the taste, respectively). However other oils to try include olive oil, macadamia, avocado, and sesame.
Whilst some of you may find this too time constricting to just sit down and do some good old oil pulling, then it's time to get your multi-tasking pants on. Have a read, have a shower, journal, make your lunch or brekkie, or just do whatever you like to pass some time.
The best time to do oil pulling is first thing of a morning on an empty stomach.
It is also important to note that you must always spit out the oil when you are finished as it is full of nasty toxins and gunk after the swishing process.
Also, if you use coconut oil make sure you get rid of it into the bin or as if you put it down the drain it may cause the oil to solidify (which it does at below 18 degrees) and cause blockages. Also, give your teeth a good brush afterwards to remove any remaining toxins and rinse your mouth with water to have teeth that are feeling super fresh to take on the day of chomping ahead.
Are you a frequent Oil Puller or keen to start? Leave me a comment or head over to my Facebook page or website