Oil Pulling and Its Benefits

Oil Pulling is an ancient Indian practice, in which oil is swished around in the mouth to kill bacteria and also improve oral health. The oil used for the purpose is either coconut oil, sesame oil or olive oil. This remedy is gaining extreme popularity amongst westerners. It can help in whitening your teeth and freshening your breath as well. Some studies claim that it can also treat several other diseases.    

Following are the benefits of oil pulling:

There are different types of harmful bacteria in your mouth, which can lead to dental problems like tooth decay, bad breath, or gum disease. With oil pulling, the growth of harmful bacteria can be reduced. 

Halitosis, also called bad breath, is seen in about 50% of the population. It occurs due to specific reasons, such as infection, gum disease, poor oral hygiene, or tongue coating (bacteria accumulate and trap on tongue). These bacteria can be removed through brushing or with the help of an antiseptic mouthwash. Interestingly, oil pulling has proven to be an effective way to reduce bad breath, just like mouthwash.

Cavities come from tooth decay, which occurs due to poor oral hygiene, overconsumption of sugar, or bacteria buildup. Building up of plaque can also end up causing cavities. With oil pulling, the growth of the harmful bacteria in saliva and plaque can be reduced and hence, prevent tooth decay.

Gingivitis is a kind of gum disease that makes your gums red, swollen, and also bleed easily. The harmful bacteria found in plaque lead to gingivitis. Oil pulling can help reduce the growth of those bacteria, which improves your gum health and reduce inflammation. 

It possibly gives relief from inflammation. Some anecdotal evidence state that it helps in whitening your teeth by pulling stains from its surface.

You don’t have to spend money on the oil, as it is already an ingredient used in your kitchen.

For oil pulling follow the steps below: