Oil Pulling for Optimum Health:
Looking for whiter teeth, fresher breath, and a simple habit that supports your entire body? You’ll love oil pulling! Oil Pulling is a time-tested Ayurvedic ritual that’s quickly becoming a staple in natural health routines.
In this post, I’ll share what oil pulling is, how to do it properly, and the wide range of benefits it can offer. You can also scroll down to watch my full video on oil pulling!
What Is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling is a practice that comes from Ayurvedic medicine. It involves swishing oil (usually coconut, olive, or sesame) in your mouth for several minutes to gently cleanse the teeth, gums, and tongue.
You swish the oil back and forth, making sure it moves between the teeth, around the gums, and across the tongue. It sounds simple — and it is — but the benefits are pretty incredible.
Benefits of Oil Pulling
- Fresher breath: Oil pulling helps remove the bacteria responsible for bad breath (halitosis). It’s a great alternative to conventional mouthwash.
- Healthier gums: It may reduce inflammation, plaque, and gingivitis by decreasing harmful oral bacteria.
- Whiter teeth: Many people report visibly brighter teeth after just a few weeks of daily oil pulling, without the sensitivity caused by whitening strips.
- Fewer cavities: Studies show oil pulling can reduce plaque and bacteria levels, potentially preventing cavities.
- Immune support: Since the mouth is one of the main gateways for toxins and pathogens, oil pulling helps reduce the microbial load and may support your immune system.
A healthy mouth = a healthier body. It’s a simple way to support your overall wellbeing through daily self-care.
How to Oil Pull
- Place 1 tablespoon of oil in your mouth (I use organic coconut oil).
- Swish it gently for 10–20 minutes, pulling it through your teeth.
- Spit it into the garbage (not the sink! it can clog drains).
- Rinse with warm water (or salt water).
- Brush your teeth if you haven’t already.
💡 I like to oil pull while I shower — it’s quiet time, and you’re not tempted to talk with a mouthful of oil!
Important: Never swallow the oil — it contains the toxins and bacteria you’ve just pulled from your mouth.
What Oil Should You Use?
- Coconut oil: My favorite. Antibacterial, antifungal, and has a pleasant taste.
- Sesame oil: Traditional in Ayurveda, warming and deeply nourishing.
- Olive oil: Another option if you don’t like coconut or sesame.
You can also add a few drops of essential oils for flavor and added benefits:
- Peppermint oil → freshens breath
- Oil of oregano → powerful antimicrobial
Oxygenated Oils: You can also use oxygenated coconut or olive oil, which are infused with activated oxygen (O₃). These oils are thought to have enhanced cleansing properties and may help deliver more oxygen to the gums and tissues in the mouth. I’ve noticed they leave my mouth feeling extra fresh and clean. You can find oxygenated oil pulling blends online or make your own using high-quality ozonated oils.
Or try a premade blend like GuruNanda Advanced Oil Pulling Mouthwash if you want something herbal and convenient.
DIY Oil Pulling Pastilles (Optional)
Want a ready-to-go version of your oil pulling routine? Make these little oil tablets for easy daily use.
How to Make Oil Pulling Pastilles:
- Melt organic coconut oil in a saucepan over low heat.
- Pour into silicone molds (fill all the way or halfway depending on your preferred portion).
- Add a drop of essential oil to each if desired.
- Cool in the fridge until solid.
- Store in a glass jar in the fridge.
Just pop one in your mouth, let it melt, and start swishing!
