For the last month, one product has made its way into my daily routine: coconut oil. Instead of residing in my kitchen, it has now taken up residence in my bathroom. The reason? I recently began practicing oil pulling each morning. I’ve come across numerous discussions about the advantages of oil pulling and, as a beauty editor, I felt it was time to try it out myself. To ensure I was on the right track, I consulted Dr. Katharina Broos, a dentist from Munich, who clarified one pivotal question: How effective is oil pulling?
What is oil pulling?
While it’s trendy on social media right now, oil pulling is actually an age-old practice. “Oil pulling is rooted in traditional Ayurvedic medicine,” Dr. Broos explains.
Ayurvedic beliefs hold that oral health is intricately connected to overall body health. Thus, oil pulling is thought to not only freshen breath and promote gum health but also enhance your overall well-being. The practice involves placing edible oil—typically sesame or coconut oil—into your mouth and swishing it between your teeth. “The goal is to bind the bacteria that has built up on the teeth and mucous membranes overnight to the oil for disposal,” Dr. Broos notes.
What are the benefits of oil pulling for oral and dental health?
Given the limited scientific research on oil pulling compared to modern dental practices, skepticism abounds. Nevertheless, Dr. Broos identifies some benefits: “Oil pulling can help decrease plaque and bacteria, ease gum issues, and enhance breath. Many patients have even reported slightly whiter teeth and a fresher mouth feel overall.”
She points out that some studies indicate a reduction in plaque and bacteria, especially when using coconut or sesame oil. “Oil pulling shouldn’t replace traditional dental care; rather, it should complement it,” she advises.
How to perform oil pulling
Dr. Broos recommends conducting oil pulling right after waking up. A solid morning routine might look like this:
- Place a tablespoon of oil in your mouth.
- Swish the oil, ensuring it moves through the spaces between your teeth, allowing it to cleanse them. The oil will mix with your saliva, making it easier to maneuver in your mouth. Aim to do this for ten to twenty minutes.
- Afterward, be sure to spit out the oil—do not swallow it. Since the oil can solidify in plumbing, causing clogs and potentially harming the sewage system, it’s best to dispose of it in the trash rather than the sink.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
- Conclude by brushing your teeth as usual and using a tongue scraper.
My one-month experience with oil pulling
Initially, oil pulling felt a bit awkward. I needed a few days to refine my technique for swishing the oil properly. However, it has become a delightful ritual that refreshes me right after waking up, leaving my mouth feeling clean and pleasant all day long.
