Many people swear by a simple morning ritual: oil pulling. This healing method, which has been known in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, is as simple as it is effective. But what is oil pulling, and what special features should be observed?
What is oil pulling?
In many holistic medicine traditions, the mouth is considered to be a mirror of the general health of the entire organism. The oral cavity contains billions of microorganisms. We need most of the bacteria found there for our health , as they are important for maintaining our immune system and protecting us from infections. Other bacteria in the oral flora, however, are harmful and can cause tooth decay or periodontitis. In Germany, almost twelve million people suffer from chronic inflammation of the periodontal tissue. And it is known that periodontitis is a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. So it is a fact: Oral health and general health are linked.
And this is exactly where oil pulling comes in: When used, the oil is applied to the teeth and gums, preventing bacteria from sticking and plaque from forming. In addition, viruses and bacteria that cause tooth decay, periodontitis or bad breath are transferred to the oil and removed from the oral cavity. In order for this to work, it is very important that the oil is not swallowed at the end, but rather spit out!
By the way, oil pulling is not only a popular home remedy for healthy teeth but is also often used in this country to clear the throat, nose, and pharynx and to detoxify the body.
Effects of oil pulling.
Anyone who has started using this healing method in the morning will quickly appreciate the positive effects. People who regularly do oil pulling report a fresh feeling in their mouth without bad breath. But it is not just oral hygiene that is improved: oil pulling is also said to help with numerous other complaints. Colds, coughs, sore throats, and even headaches are said to be relieved. The healing method is also said to help with loss of taste or loss of appetite. In Ayurveda, it is believed that more than 30 diseases can be cured this way. And in Ukraine and Belarus, oil pulling is also a well-known home remedy and is used for various acute and chronic diseases.
How does oil pulling work?
As the name suggests, oil pulling involves pulling oil back and forth in your mouth. In principle, the healing method works like a mouthwash: you put a tablespoon of oil in your mouth and begin to sway the liquid back and forth with calm movements for 5 to 20 minutes. At the same time, pull it through your teeth and “chew” it every now and then. The color and consistency of the oil change over time – from initially yellow and viscous, the oil becomes white and milky. After the time has elapsed, be sure to spit out the oil and be careful not to swallow anything, as it now contains numerous toxins. Finally, rinse your mouth with warm water and brush your teeth.
Important: Do not spit the oil into the sink; rather, spit it into an absorbent tissue and then throw it in the trash. This will prevent the toxins from entering the water cycle.
It is best to do oil pulling first thing in the morning after getting up and before breakfast. This is because the body tries to rid itself of toxins overnight. Ideally, oil pulling should last 20 minutes, as this is how long it takes for the oil to seep into the gaps between the teeth and destroy the bacteria there.
Oil pulling can be practiced up to one to three times a day, every day or as a treatment lasting two weeks to three months.