Oil Pulling: The Ancient Remedy for Oral and Total Body Wellness
In a world increasingly drawn to natural health solutions and preventative maintenance of health, as opposed to pharmaceutical intervention when our health suddenly goes into decline, oil pulling has made a surprising comeback. This ancient Ayurvedic practice, which involves swishing oil in the mouth, has become popular among those seeking holistic ways to improve their oral and overall health. Yet, while many swear by its benefits, critics dismiss it as mere “pseudoscience.” But what does the science say? Could this ancient technique offer more than meets the eye?
Although oil pulling should never replace traditional oral hygiene practices like brushing and flossing, especially in individuals who regularly eat processed foods, soft drinks, and other high-glycolic (sugar) products, recent studies are shedding light on the health benefits of this simple, cost-effective practice. From improving oral hygiene to influencing conditions like gum disease, cardiovascular health, and even mental well-being, oil pulling might be worth incorporating into your wellness routine.
Origins of Oil Pulling: Ancient Wisdom for Modern Health
Dating back over 3,000 years, oil pulling has its roots in Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine originating in India. In Ayurveda, health is understood as a delicate balance of the body, mind, and spirit. Even modern medicine in complete contrast to their approach to disease, teaches ALL disease is in fact imbalance in the body; a disequilibrium or loss of homeostasis/balance. And yet the medical industry prescribes pharmaceuticals that only address symptoms, never the root cause, and keep the body in a constant state of imbalance by blocking natural functions of the body to mitigate and mask symptoms, while an individual’s health continues its decline. This happens because the lifestyle choices creating the problem are never address and therefore never change. Within the cause, lies the cure!
Oil pulling was designed not just to clean the mouth but to support the health of the entire body.
The traditional method involved using sesame oil, a staple in Indian Ayurvedic practice. Today, coconut oil has gained popularity, prized for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The technique is simple but powerful—swishing a tablespoon of oil around the mouth for 15 to 20 minutes before spitting it out. This ancient practice has been shown to draw toxins from the body, support oral health, and improve overall well-being.
Modern practitioners recommend oil pulling as a complement to regular brushing, flossing, and tongue scraping—a holistic approach to oral hygiene that also acknowledges the mouth’s role as the gateway to our overall health.
The Science Behind Oral Health: More Than Just Teeth
Our mouths are home to a vibrant ecosystem—over 700 species of bacteria and fungi that help maintain balance within the oral cavity. This microbiome is essential for good health, but when disrupted, it can lead to serious problems beyond just cavities or gum disease.
The connection between oral and systemic health is very well-documented. Researchers have found that the health of your mouth can directly affect conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and even mental health. When harmful bacteria in the mouth enter the bloodstream, they can travel to other parts of the body, causing inflammation and contributing to chronic conditions.
For example, Studies have shown that individuals with gum disease are up to 25% more likely to suffer from heart attack or stroke compared to those with healthy gums (Source: American Academy of Periodontology).
Meanwhile, emerging research suggests that individuals with gum disease are up to 40% more likely to suffer from mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. Additionally, poor oral health has been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease, as oral bacteria may contribute to neuroinflammation and cognitive decline. (Source: Journal of Clinical Periodontology).
The Benefits of Oil Pulling: What Does Science Say?
While oil pulling has its skeptics, a growing body of research suggests that this ancient practice offers real health benefits. Studies have found that oil pulling can:
Reduce harmful bacteria: Oil pulling is particularly effective against Streptococcus mutans, one of the main culprits behind tooth decay.
Inhibit plaque formation: Regular oil pulling can help reduce plaque buildup, a key factor in preventing gum disease.
Strengthen gums and teeth: By reducing inflammation and harmful bacteria, oil pulling supports healthy gums and strengthens teeth.
Combat bad breath: Known as halitosis, bad breath often stems from bacteria in the mouth. Oil pulling can significantly reduce the microbial load responsible for foul odors.
Whiten teeth: Although anecdotal, many practitioners report whiter teeth after regular oil pulling due to the removal of surface stains.
Coconut oil, in particular, contains lauric acid, which has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. One study showed that oil pulling with coconut oil can be just as effective as chlorhexidine, a common mouthwash, in reducing plaque and gingivitis over time—without the unpleasant side effects like taste alteration or tooth staining. (Source: Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research).
Beyond the Mouth: The Connection Between Oral and Overall Health
The health of your mouth doesn’t just stop at your gums and teeth. One needs to remember, every aspect of your body is tied together by a complex network of blood vessels and lymphatics that are delivering nutrients and removing waste all day, every day. Issues in one part of the body can lead to issues in other organ systems. The oral-systemic connection is one of the most compelling reasons to take your oral hygiene seriously.
Consider this: poor oral hygiene has been linked to a range of systemic diseases. Gum disease, in particular, has been found to increase the risk of conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even respiratory infections like pneumonia. Bacteria from the mouth can travel through the bloodstream, where they contribute to systemic inflammation—in recent years discovered to be the root cause of all chronic diseases.
Researchers have also found surprising links between oral health and mental well-being. A 2022 study published in Periodontology 2000 indicated that individuals with gum disease are more likely to experience anxiety and depression. Furthermore, oral bacteria may be involved in the development of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, entering the brain through the bloodstream and causing inflammation. (Source: Periodontology 2000, 2022).
This makes practices like oil pulling, which support both oral and overall health, more important than ever. By reducing harmful bacteria and inflammation, oil pulling can play a role in protecting not just your mouth but your entire body.
Why Choose Oil Pulling Over Conventional Mouthwash?
If oil pulling is so effective, why don’t more people do it? One reason might be that it takes longer than simply swishing mouthwash for 30 seconds. But for those willing to invest the time, oil pulling offers a range of advantages over conventional mouthwashes.
For starters, oil pulling is completely natural. Coconut oil, sesame oil, and sunflower oil are common choices, and they don’t contain the harsh chemicals found in many mouthwashes. Studies have shown that popular mouthwashes, especially those containing chlorhexidine, can have a range of side effects, including:
Taste alteration
Staining of the teeth
Dry mouth (xerostomia)
Mouth pain or numbness
In contrast, oil pulling has no side effects, is safe for people with sensitive mouths, and doesn’t contribute to bacterial resistance. It’s also safe for pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions, making it an accessible option for a wide range of people.
Plus, oil pulling is cost-effective. Most people have coconut or sesame oil in their kitchens already, making this an affordable addition to your daily routine. It requires no prescription, and you won’t need to buy multiple bottles of mouthwash each month.
How to Incorporate Oil Pulling Into Your Routine
If you’re ready to try oil pulling, here’s a step-by-step guide to getting started:
Choose your oil: Coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil are great options. Coconut oil is especially popular for its pleasant taste and antibacterial properties.
Measure it out: Use about one tablespoon of oil.
Swish: Swish the oil around your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes. I do it in the shower. Make sure to move the oil between your teeth and gums, but avoid swallowing it.
Spit it out: Once you're done, spit the oil into the trash or toilet (not the sink, to avoid clogging).
Finish with brushing: Follow oil pulling with your usual brushing, flossing, and tongue scraping routine.
You can do oil pulling first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. For those battling illness, it can even be done up to three times a day.
Addressing the Critics: Why the Skepticism?
Despite its long history and growing body of research, oil pulling remains a controversial topic. Organizations like the American Dental Association (ADA) do not endorse the practice, citing a lack of comprehensive scientific evidence. Imagine that.
However, many of the criticisms of oil pulling stem from a misunderstanding of its benefits. Critics often argue that oil pulling is simply “just fat” and cannot work to remove bacteria or improve oral health. But a study undertaken among 40 dental students and published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research showed coconut oil contains 92% saturated acids, (approximately 50% of which is lauric acid) proven to have antibacterial and antifungal effects. Evidence showed that coconut oil has significant antimicrobial activity against Escherichia vulneris, Enterobacter spp., Helicobacter pylori, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida spp., including C. albicans, C. glabrata, C. tropicalis, C. parapsilosis, C. stellatoidea and C. krusei (J Clin Diagn Res. 2017 Sep; 11(9): ZC08–ZC11).
While more large-scale, long-term studies are needed to fully understand its potential, oil pulling is a safe and natural practice with enough positive results to make it worth considering as part of a comprehensive oral hygiene routine.
Conclusion: Is Oil Pulling Worth It?
Incorporating oil pulling into your routine may be one of the easiest, most affordable ways to support not only your oral health but your overall well-being. It can complement brushing, flossing, and tongue scraping to create a more holistic approach to hygiene. Whether you're seeking to whiten teeth, reduce bacteria, or explore natural ways to boost your health, oil pulling offers a low-risk, high-reward option.
I would love to hear from you and have you share your thoughts and/or questions in the comment section below. I look forward to hearing your perspectives.
An Invitation:
To truly transform your health and overcome chronic fatigue, chronic disease, and other challenges, it's crucial to uncover advanced health strategies and adopt new, healthy lifestyle habits. Imagine making conscious nutritional choices, creating a chemical-free, non-toxic household for your loved ones, and finding companies that provide products with certifiably safe ingredients. Picture yourself with a structured daily fitness regimen (suitable for all levels of fitness), experiencing deep restorative sleep, and effectively managing stress.
I want to personally invite you to explore the SHIFT ETHOS WELLNESS PATHWAYS PROCESS (Tab at the top of this page or link provided below) – a journey back to true health. Dive deeper into these essential elements and experience a comprehensive approach to wellness by enrolling in this revitalizing process, transforming your life, and embracing a healthier you!
Click here: SHIFT ETHOS WELLNESS PATHWAYS PROCESS, to learn more and consider taking the first step towards revitalizing your health. Schedule a free consult by pressing the blue button at the bottom of the WELLNESS PATHWAYS page.
References:
Oil Pulling Origins and Ayurveda:
“Ayurveda: The Science of Life” (Indian Medical Heritage)
Fife, Bruce. Oil Pulling Therapy: Detoxifying and Healing the Body Through Oral Cleansing. Piccadilly Books, Ltd.
Scientific Studies on Oral Health:
The Journal of Oral Rehabilitation (Swedish review on salivary secretion and its importance for oral health)
International Journal of Molecular Science (Review on the relationship between periodontal disease and cardiovascular health)
Journal of Clinical Periodontology (Study linking gum disease with mental health disorders like anxiety and depression)
Periodontology 2000 (Review article on the oral microbiome and its connections to brain health)
Studies on Oil Pulling Benefits:
Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine (Study illustrating the effects of oil pulling on reducing dental caries and improving oral hygiene)
Journal of Dental Hygiene (2023 systematic review and meta-analysis on oil pulling and gingival health)
Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry (Study comparing oil pulling with sesame oil to chlorhexidine mouthwash in reducing Streptococcus mutans and plaque)
Oral-Systemic Health Connections:
The Journal of Clinical Periodontology (Meta-analysis on the connection between gum disease and mental health)
International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (Article on the link between poor oral hygiene and pneumonia)
International Journal of Molecular Sciences (Review on periodontal disease and cardiovascular risk)
Semantic Scholar (Study on the antimicrobial effects of coconut oil against S. mutans and Candida albicans)
Comparison to Chlorhexidine Mouthwash:
International Dental Journal (2022 review on the adverse effects of chlorhexidine mouthwash)
Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research (Study debunking the “just fat” claim of oil pulling with coconut oil)
Additional Sources on Oil Pulling Techniques:
Healthcare Journal (2022 study on the effectiveness of oil pulling with sesame or coconut oil in reducing oral bacterial counts)
Disclaimer:
I am not a medical doctor or a medical practitioner. I am not legally permitted to claim I treat, cure, or heal disease. I can, however, provide educational content with respect to building/restoring and maintaining optimal health through nutrition, diet, sleep support, and exercise, which can reverse health conditions.Any information provided on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this web site.This website summarizes information on the role of nutrition, diet, and exercise in health, disease and wellness. Readers should be aware that knowledge of nutrition and medicine is constantly evolving. They are encouraged to frequently check the most current information available on preventive and therapeutic measures. It is your designated clinician’s responsibility, relying on their experience and knowledge of the patient, to determine the best course of action in providing care and your choice to follow it or not. The author, editor, and publisher of information on this website accepts no liability for any injury arising out of the use of material contained herein, and makes no warranty, express or implied, with respect to the contents of this online publication, or from the contents of sites or articles we provide links to. 