What Oil to Use in Oil Pulling?
Sesame seed oil, sunflower oil, and coconut oil are the three commonly used oils in pulling. Among the three, Coconut Oil is the one mostly preferred by people due to its several benefits. Coconut oil is found to be effective in fighting against Streptococcus bacteria which is the primary cause of cavities, gingivitis and more. It also contains Lauric acid which is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial effects.How does it work?
Oil pulling detoxifies the mouth by drawing the toxins out of your mouth. Most microorganisms present in our oral cavity consist of a single cell, which are coated with a lipid, fatty membrane. These single cells naturally adheres to the oil during oil pulling. That is why this method is an effective way of keeping your mouth clean and healthy.How to Oil Pull?
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- Oil pulling is preferred to be in first thing in the morning. Right after you get out of bed or before you brush your teeth or drink anything.
- First, put 1–2 tablespoons of coconut oil in your mouth. Gently swish the oil between your teeth to avoid wearing out your jaw and cheeks.
- Then, swish for 15-20 minutes. This is long enough to break through plaque and bacteria but not long enough that the body starts re-absorbing the toxins and bacteria. Make sure that you don’t swallow any of the oil as it contains bacteria and plaques.
- Next, spit out the oil in the trash can. Do not spit in the sink. The oil gets thicker and can clog your sink.
- After that, rinse your mouth with warm water. You may use salt water which maybe more effective due to added antimicrobial properties.
- Finally, brush your teeth well to remove the remaining bacteria in your mouth.
Watch Video
Video Highlight:
0:28 Benefits of Oil Pulling
1:40 Steps on Oil Pulling
3:20 Tips on Oil Pulling
What are the Benefits of Coconut Oil Pulling?
1. Yellowing of teeth is due to poor dental hygiene and inadequate brushing and flossing, but oil pulling can whiten discolored teeth again. Lauric acid, a medium chain fatty acid present in coconut oil, helps in getting rid of bacteria and plaque which are the significant contributors to yellow teeth. Consistent practice of oil pulling would surely bring out positive results. 
2. Oil pulling is great for oral health since it removes harmful bacteria, Streptococcus mutans, which is responsible for tooth cavities/decay. Instances of plaque-induced gingivitis are reduced as the toxins are washed out from the oral cavity. 3. Oil pulling is has been proven to have the same result as mouthwash in eliminating bad breath and reducing bacteria in the mouth. Oil pulling is equally effective as Chlorhexidine, an antibacterial commonly used in mouthwash. 4. It boosts our immune system and energy levels. Clearing out toxins from our body may overwork our immune system which drains our energy and makes us sluggish. By reducing/removing the harmful bacteria, the body can direct its energy to other functions. 5. Accumulation of bacteria in the digestive system can cause variety of skin problems such as dermatitis, rashes, psoriasis, and others. Keeping the oral cavity clean and healthy can avoid the occurrence of such skin conditions. Oil pulling clears out the toxins and prevents from entering the bloodstream which may cause skin impurities. Therefore, oil pulling is a big factor to have a radiant and glowing skin. 
2. Oil pulling is great for oral health since it removes harmful bacteria, Streptococcus mutans, which is responsible for tooth cavities/decay. Instances of plaque-induced gingivitis are reduced as the toxins are washed out from the oral cavity. 3. Oil pulling is has been proven to have the same result as mouthwash in eliminating bad breath and reducing bacteria in the mouth. Oil pulling is equally effective as Chlorhexidine, an antibacterial commonly used in mouthwash. 4. It boosts our immune system and energy levels. Clearing out toxins from our body may overwork our immune system which drains our energy and makes us sluggish. By reducing/removing the harmful bacteria, the body can direct its energy to other functions. 5. Accumulation of bacteria in the digestive system can cause variety of skin problems such as dermatitis, rashes, psoriasis, and others. Keeping the oral cavity clean and healthy can avoid the occurrence of such skin conditions. Oil pulling clears out the toxins and prevents from entering the bloodstream which may cause skin impurities. Therefore, oil pulling is a big factor to have a radiant and glowing skin.
Watch Video
Video Highlight:
1:09 What is Oil Pulling
1:14 How to Oil Pull
2:30 Benefits of Coconut Oil Pulling
Coconut Oil Pulling TIPS:
- Do not gargle the oil. It is intended to be swished gently around your teeth and gums.
- Oil Pulling is not an acceptable replacement for brushing of the teeth. It is still recommended to brush your teeth at least twice a day and visit your dentist regularly.
- Do not swallow the oil, as it already contains a lot toxins and bacteria. Spit out immediately after swishing for 20 minutes.
- Avoid using oil you are sensitive to. If you're allergic to coconut, you may use other alternative oils such as sesame or sunflower.
- Do not allow children under 5 years old to practice oil pulling. It is not recommended for them as they may frequently swallow the oil while performing oil pulling.
