This practice has immediate and tangible effect on conditions such as halitosis, gingivitis and dental plaque, but also various infections, heart disease and possibly contributes to cancer over the long term.
The Health Benefits of Oil Pulling
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves the swishing a pure food-based oil in the mouth to draw toxins from the mouth and body. This practice has immediate and tangible effect on conditions such as halitosis, gingivitis and dental plaque, but also various infections, heart disease and possibly contributes to cancer over the long term.
The Importance of Good Oral Hygiene:
The balance of microorganisms plays an enormous role in the health of the overall body. Numerous studies have shown a connection between periodontal disease and increased risk of stroke, cognitive decline and other illnesses as well. One of the major oral bacterial species is streptococcus mutans, - when left unchecked will multiply in the mouth that secrete toxins into the bloodstream.
These toxins can increase the inflammatory associated cytokine Interleukin-12 (IL-12) which is a strong contributor for the development of chronic disease. Elevated levels of IL-12 are particularly associated with endothelial (inner lining of the blood vessel) dysfunction which is correlated with heart disease, stroke and dementia.
Oil Pulling Goes Beyond Brushing & Flossing
Brushing and flossing are obviously important for oral hygiene but oil pulling has some additional and unique benefits. Oil pulling has been shown to bind, trap and eliminate microorganisms that invade deep pockets within the gums and dental roots, especially in the presence of root-canaled teeth.
Root canals are a constant breeding ground for bacteria since after removal of a dental root, the tooth often ‘dies’ and becomes a harbouring ground for pathogenic bacteria. One cannot brush or floss to get the infections resolved when in a root canaled tooth. Any infection, whether is was present before the root canal was placed or grows after the procedure, will hide in tiny open tubules within the tooth root that are nearly impossible to sanitize or clear. Therefore when someone has a serious immunological disease such as cancer, best is to consider removal of a root-canaled tooth to allow a remediation by the body to that existent infection.
But only 10 minutes of oil pulling 1-2 times a day can be extremely effective at minimizing infectious bacteria in the mouth and can help to resolve an infected root canal as well as the overall oral cavity.
How to Practice Oil Pulling:
There are many ways to practice oil pulling. Many people swear by one method but various other strategies will work well for you. Here are the most frequently asked questions that I get on a routine basis when it comes to the beautiful and effective practice of oil pulling.
What is the Best Type of Oil to Use?
Use a high-quality carrier oil such as organic coconut oil, organic sesame oil. Olive oil can be used but is less effective.
How Do You Oil Pull:
Take 1/2 tsp of carrier oil (coconut, sesame, olive, etc) and 1 drop of anti-microbial oil (tea tree/lemon, oregano, etc) and put in your mouth and swish around for 10-15 minutes.
Avoid gargling the oil but instead use slow pulling motions and be sure to get the oil to all reaches of the mouth. Most people find that the oil feels thinner after the 10-minute mark. Never swallow any of the oil as it is full of toxins and microbes.
After finishing the oil swishing, spit out the oil into the sink. Put a cap full of hydrogen peroxide or a teaspoon of Himalayan salt into some clean water and rinse the solution around your mouth to eliminate any of the toxic debris still in your mouth. Go ahead and brush your teeth well to help eliminate any other toxins that would still be in your mouth.
How Long Before I Notice Benefits?
Benefits can be felt and seen within the first few days of the practice.
What are the benefits I may experience?
The typical benefits most experience include whiter teeth, better breath, better body odour, less joint pain and improved energy. The long-term benefits are invaluable as this may be one of the best strategies for reducing chronic disease risk. This process is simple, easy and inexpensive.
Can I Oil Pull Even Though I Have Amalgam Fillings?
Fortunately, oil pulling does not induce a detox reaction or any reaction to metals, nor will it pull dental materials out of fillings or crowns.
Can Oil Pulling Cause Gum Bleeding?
There is nothing about the process of oil pulling that would cause the gums to bleed or any unwanted dental issue. However, some individuals have a sensitivity or even an allergy to a oil they are using. If this is the case, that oil will cause more inflammation in their body and could lead to gum bleeding. Additionally, if you use too much of the anti-microbial oils they could inflame your gum lining. Be sure to only use 1 very small drop (oregano or other essential oil that you added to the coconut or sesame oil) and never more. If you notice this or some other unwanted reaction that seems to consistently happen when you oil pull, try using a different company or different oil or discussing with your holistic health care practitioner.
Can my cat do oil pulling?
Yes, if he has a hard day at the office.
By: Dr Hasveni Chellamuthu - SOL Integrative Doctor