(The following article was taken from the archives of my blog, Apassionata.)
Who here has ever
heard of oil pulling? If you have, you probably already know about the amazing
health benefits of this interesting practice. But for those of you, who, like
me, until about a year ago, had no clue about what it is, this post is for
you.
What is oil
pulling?
Oil pulling is an
ancient Ayurvedic remedy for oral health and detoxification. It involves the use
of pure oils as agents for pulling harmful bacteria, fungus, and other organisms
out of the mouth, teeth, gums and even throat. How this works? You take a
tablespoon of melted organic coconut oil (We get ours from
TropicalTraditions.com and highly recommend them) OR organic sesame seed oil and
swish it around in your mouth for anywhere from 10-20 minutes.
It may seem like a
while to hold the oil in your mouth. And in the beginning, it can certainly feel
that way. It is something you must get accustomed to doing. What I did is set
the timer for 20 minutes, and then try to go about my regular
business....chores, writing, school, etc. Maybe this could be your computer
time spell since time seems to go by quicker while on the internet. Just
remember to keep that oil moving inside your mouth. If you get tired of
swishing, use your tongue to push the oil around. Just don't swallow!
The oil is pulling toxins and bacteria from your gums, tongue, and roof
of your mouth, you don't want to reabsorb these toxins again by ingesting. Also,
do not lean your head back and gargle the oil.
If 20 minutes is
too long (or even 10 minutes, for that matter) and gets tiring for you, spit out
the oil in the toilet and get another fresh tablespoon. Swish it around for the
remainder of the time.
When you're done,
spit the oil into the toilet and rinse very thoroughly. Keep in mind all the
bacteria, germs and toxins which were just extracted, and this should cause you
to want to rinse very, very well. I like to even brush my teeth after a oil
pull. (I do it in the morning after breakfast which is convenient for the
teeth-brushing)
What are
the health benefits of oil pulling?
-
Overall strengthening of the teeth and gums and
jaws.
-
Prevention of diseases of the gums and mouth,
such as cavities and gingivitis.
-
Prevention for bad breath
-
Potential holistic remedy for bleeding
gums
-
Prevention of dryness of the lips, mouth and
throat.
-
Possible holistic treatment for TMJ and general
soreness in the jaw area.
-
Migraine headache relief
Correcting hormone imbalances
Reducing inflammation of arthritis
May help with gastro-enteritis
Aids in the reduction of eczema
May reduce symptoms of bronchitis
Helps support normal kidney function
May help reduce sinus congestion
Some people report improved vision
Helps reduce insomnia
Reduced hangover after alcohol consumption
Aids in reducing pain
Reduces the symptoms of allergies
Helps detoxify the body of harmful metals and organisms
Scientists believe that the lipids in the oil
both pull out bacteria, as well as stop bacterial from sticking to the walls of
the oral cavity. Oil pulling reduces the amount of S. mutans (germ) count in
both teeth plaque and mouth saliva.
In addition, oil pulling may also increase
saponification in the mouth, creating a soapy environment that cleanses the
mouth as vegetable fat is an emulsifier by nature. Oil pulling cleanses out
harmful bacteria, as well as reduces fungal overgrowth. These oils also possibly
help in cellular restructuring, and are related to the proper functioning of the
lymph nodes and other internal organs.
Oil pulling has been said to aid people in
weight loss. So if you're wanting to shed a couple pounds, add this routine to
your day and see what happens!
Blown away yet? I could go on. There is lots of
information which you can find further on oil pulling, I only gave you the
basics today.
Have you ever tried oil
pulling? Have any success stories? I'd love to hear about it!
