• All Department
  • Home
  • Immune Support
  • Catalog
    Top Brands
    • True Cellular Formulas™
    • Systemic Formulas
    • DesBio
    • BodyHealth
    • Body Bio
    Support Products
    • CytoDetox®
    • Detoxification Support
    • Energy Support
    • Healthy Gut Support
    • Anti-Aging Support
    • Prenatal Support
    • Weight Loss Support
    • Testing & Test Kits
    Bestsellers
    • True Cellular Formulas
    • ION for Gut Health
    • Great Lakes Wellness
    • Beyond Fasting Book - Dr. Daniel Pompa
    Clearance Sale
  • Top 20
  • Keto & Fasting
  • Weight Loss
  • Detox Support
  • Blog
  • Pet Products
  • Cellular Healing
  • About
  • Login
  • 0 Wishlist
  • Checkout
 2853 Oxford Blvd, Ste 104, Allison Park, PA 15101
  • USD
    • USD
    • EUR
    • GBP
    • CAD
    • AUD
  • Register
Revelation Health LLC
0 Wishlist
USD
  • USD
  • EUR
  • GBP
  • CAD
  • AUD
Revelation Health LLC
    Customer Service / Support Call: + 1-888-600-0642
    0 item(s)
    • Home
    • Immune Support
    • Catalog
      Top Brands
      • True Cellular Formulas™
      • Systemic Formulas
      • DesBio
      • BodyHealth
      • Body Bio
      Support Products
      • CytoDetox®
      • Detoxification Support
      • Energy Support
      • Healthy Gut Support
      • Anti-Aging Support
      • Prenatal Support
      • Weight Loss Support
      • Testing & Test Kits
      Bestsellers
      • True Cellular Formulas
      • ION for Gut Health
      • Great Lakes Wellness
      • Beyond Fasting Book - Dr. Daniel Pompa
      Clearance Sale
    • Top 20
    • Keto & Fasting
    • Weight Loss
    • Detox Support
    • Blog
    • Pet Products
    • Cellular Healing
    • About
    • HomeHome
    • Blog
    • Benefits of Oil Pulling (And How To Do It)
    Access Denied
    IMPORTANT! If you’re a store owner, please make sure you have Customer accounts enabled in your Store Admin, as you have customer based locks set up with EasyLockdown app. Enable Customer Accounts

    Benefits of Oil Pulling (And How To Do It)

    By Kathryn Kos
    Tags 
    Posted Sep 10, 2021

    oil-pulling

    Medically Reviewed Label
    This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Charles Penick, MD Dr. Charles Penick

     

    Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic method of oral hygiene that affects much more than just your teeth. Today we explore all things oil pulling, including the benefits, how to oil pull, and why you should probably add it to your daily routine.


    What is Oil Pulling?

     

    Oil pulling is an ancient Indian Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil in your mouth. The practice is said to pull bacteria, pathogens, and other unwanted particles from your mouth, trapping them in the oil, which is then spat out and discarded 1. 

     

    Typically, the ritual is performed first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach. Oil pulling has a wide range of health benefits that are not limited to the mouth. The mouth is one of the first entry points to the body, so improving oral hygiene has a powerful impact on whole-body health, too 2.


     

    Although you can use any oil technically, coconut oil and sesame oil are the two most common types. We will explore the particular benefits of using high-quality coconut oil later on.


    5 Benefits of Oil Pulling

     

     

    1. Killing Harmful Mouth Bacteria

     

    The human mouth is full of bacteria, some good, and some not so good. Approximately 350 types of bacteria are found in your mouth at any given time, and managing the ratio of good-to-bad bacteria is vital for maintaining the health of your oral microbiome 3. 


    An imbalance in favor of harmful mouth bacteria is associated with many oral health problems, including gum disease, bad breath, and tooth decay 4-6.


    Although many people may think that this is what mouthwash is for, studies suggest that using oil pulling is much more effective than using a mouthwash product 7. 

     

    2. Help Prevent Cavities

     

    Tooth decay, also known as a cavity, is a widespread problem. Among American adults aged 20 and older, about 90% have had at least one cavity 8! Cavities are caused by various factors that make up a ‘perfect storm,’ including nutritional deficiencies, poor oral hygiene, consuming too much sugar, and a build-up of harmful bacteria in the mouth (plaque) 4. 


    Studies show that oil pulling can help reduce the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth, mainly by reducing one of the most common bacteria that leads to plaque buildup and dental decay: Streptococcus mutans. Oil pulling is more effective at lowering Strep bacteria than using mouthwash 7.

     

    3. Reduce Bad Breath

     

    Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is another prevalent condition affecting about half of Americans 9. Common causes of bad breath include tongue coating (caused by a bacterial build-up), oral infections, poor oral hygiene, and gum disease. 


    Although the most common intervention is a mouthwash treatment that uses harsh ingredients like chlorhexidine, studies show that oil pulling has more success than mouthwash at reducing the types of bacteria that cause breath 10.  


    Not only is it more effective than using conventional mouthwash, but it is also safer. Mouthwash that contains antibacterial agents (like chlorhexidine or alcohol) can harm the good bacteria in the mouth and cause a microbial imbalance in the oral biome that can lead to many issues, including persistent bad breath 11. 

     

    4. Improve Gum Health

     

    Gum inflammation, also known as gingivitis, is marked by swollen, tender, and bleeding gums. One of the significant causes of gingivitis is a build-up of bacterial plaque on the teeth 4.  


    Oil pulling is an effective remedy to gingivitis, especially when coconut oil is used. Coconut oil is a natural anti-inflammatory and gentle antibacterial agent. Studies highlight that you can notice the benefits of oil pulling in reducing gingivitis in as little as one week 12!

     

     

    5. Whitening Teeth

     

    Although there are currently no studies “proving” that oil pulling whitens teeth, it is one of the most commonly reported side-effects of this daily habit. Like all of the benefits mentioned above, it does require making oil pulling a routine and sticking to it at least four times per week. 


    With so many benefits, it seems like oil pulling is a no-brainer habit to add to your morning or evening routine. Plus, this habit is extremely cheap and easy to do!

     

     

    How to Oil Pull

     

    Oil pulling is a straightforward and affordable healthy habit. All you need is your oil, and about 20 minutes. The four simple steps to follow are: 13


    1. Pour or scoop out approximately one tablespoon of oil and place it in your mouth.
    2. Swish it in your mouth for about 20 minutes, “pulling” the oil in between your teeth and all-around your mouth (being mindful not to swallow any). The oil should turn from viscous to a much thinner, milky white substance (as it traps bacteria).
    3. Spit the oil into the trash or a special jar that you eventually discard properly.
    4. Rinse your mouth with warm salt water, or simply brush your teeth.

     

    Oil pulling can be done every single day. In Ayurveda, it can be prescribed up to three times a day to help manage the symptoms of some illnesses. If you are new to oil pulling, you could start with less time and increase to 20 minutes over time (it can be quite the jaw workout!).


     

    Oil pulling can also be performed by all ages, so long as the individual appropriately swishes without swallowing the oil. For this reason, it is not recommended for those under the age of five.

     

     

    Does the Kind of Oil Matter?

     

    Although technically, any oil could be used to oil pull, because all fat traps bacterial particles, not all oils are created equal. In Ayurvedic practices, the two most common oils used are sesame and coconut oil. Due to its potent anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, immunomodulating, and anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil is a crowd favorite 14.


    Using an essential oil can add extra benefit to your oil pulling session. Peppermint, for example, adds antibacterial properties and helps relieve pain 15. The peppermint flavor can also make the oil pulling much more palatable.


    Our favorite oil for pulling is The Skinny Coconut Peppermint Oil.

     

    Summary

     

     

    Oil pulling is an ancient Indian technique that can help reduce the harmful bacteria in your mouth. As a result, many benefits include preventing cavities, reducing bad breath, and improving gum health. Many also report whiter teeth. The key is a consistent practice of about 20 minutes of daily swishing, the first thing on an empty stomach. Although you can use many kinds of oils, coconut oil is one of the best due to its added anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties!

     

    Medical Disclaimer: This article is based upon the opinions of Revelation Health. The information on this website is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Revelation Health and associates. This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Charles Penick, MD for accuracy of the information provided, but Revelation Health encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional.


    References

     

     

    1 Shanbhag, Vagish Kumar L. “Oil pulling for maintaining oral hygiene - A review.” Journal of traditional and complementary medicine vol. 7,1 106-109. 6 Jun. 2016, doi:10.1016/j.jtcme.2016.05.004


    2 “Oral Health: A Window to Your Overall Health.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 4 June 2019, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/dental/art-20047475.


    3 Palmer, Robert J Jr. “Composition and development of oral bacterial communities.” Periodontology 2000 vol. 64,1 (2014): 20-39. doi:10.1111/j.1600-0757.2012.00453.x


    4 “Tooth Decay: Overview.” InformedHealth.org [Internet]., U.S. National Library of Medicine, 27 Feb. 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279514/.


    5 Porter, S R, and C Scully. “Oral malodour (halitosis).” BMJ (Clinical research ed.) vol. 333,7569 (2006): 632-5. doi:10.1136/bmj.38954.631968.AE


    6 Page, R C. “Gingivitis.” Journal of clinical periodontology vol. 13,5 (1986): 345-59. doi:10.1111/j.1600-051x.1986.tb01471.x


    7 Asokan, S et al. “Effect of oil pulling on Streptococcus mutans count in plaque and saliva using Dentocult SM Strip mutans test: a randomized, controlled, triple-blind study.” Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry vol. 26,1 (2008): 12-7. doi:10.4103/0970-4388.40315


    8 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Oral Health Surveillance Report: Trends in Dental Caries and Sealants, Tooth Retention, and Edentulism, United States, 1999–2004 to 2011–2016. Atlanta, GA: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, US Dept of Health and Human Services; 2019. https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/publications/OHSR-2019-index.html


    9 Aylıkcı, Bahadır Uğur, and Hakan Colak. “Halitosis: From diagnosis to management.” Journal of natural science, biology, and medicine vol. 4,1 (2013): 14-23. doi:10.4103/0976-9668.107255


    10 Asokan, Sharath et al. “Effect of oil pulling on halitosis and microorganisms causing halitosis: a randomized controlled pilot trial.” Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry vol. 29,2 (2011): 90-4. doi:10.4103/0970-4388.84678


    11 Lin, Steven. Through ancestral nutrition, et al. “Does Mouthwash Kill Good Bacteria? – Dr. Steve Lin.” Dr Steven Lin, 20 July 2018, www.drstevenlin.com/mouthwash-kills-good-bacteria/.


    12 Peedikayil, Faizal C et al. “Effect of coconut oil in plaque related gingivitis - A preliminary report.” Nigerian medical journal : journal of the Nigeria Medical Association vol. 56,2 (2015): 143-7. doi:10.4103/0300-1652.153406


    13 Shanbhag, Vagish Kumar L. “Oil pulling for maintaining oral hygiene - A review.” Journal of traditional and complementary medicine vol. 7,1 106-109. 6 Jun. 2016, doi:10.1016/j.jtcme.2016.05.004


    14 Widianingrum, Desy Cahya et al. “Antibacterial and immunomodulatory activities of virgin coconut oil (VCO) against Staphylococcus aureus.” Heliyon vol. 5,10 e02612. 20 Oct. 2019, doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e02612


    15 Borhani Haghighi, A et al. “Cutaneous application of menthol 10% solution as an abortive treatment of migraine without aura: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover study.” International journal of clinical practice vol. 64,4 (2010): 451-6. doi:10.1111/j.1742-1241.2009.02215.x

    Shares

    Site Search

    Recent Posts

    Mom Fatigue - 5 Ways to Overcome it
    Mom Fatigue - 5 Ways to Overcome it Mar 21, 2023
    (0)
    Celiac Awareness in 2023
    Celiac Awareness in 2023 Mar 20, 2023
    (0)
    Systemic Formulas: Better Than the Rest
    Systemic Formulas: Better Than the Rest Mar 08, 2023
    (0)

    Tags Cloud

    • All
    • 50 Ways to Women's Wellness
    • best supplements
    • Blog
    • detox
    • fasting
    • focus
    • Ketogenic diet
    • Ketosis
    • leaky gut syndrome
    • Weight loss
    • Women's Health
    • Women's Wellness
    Invalid password
    Enter

    Our Brands

    Visit Shop
    Visit Shop
    Visit Shop
    Visit Shop
    Visit Shop
    Visit Shop
    Visit Shop

    Let’s Connect:

    Who We Are

    • Revelation Health LLC
    • 888-600-0642
    • support@revelationhealth.com
    • 2853 Oxford Blvd, Suite 104

    Additional Links

    • About Revelation Health
    • International Shipping Information
    • Revelation Health Shipping
    • Product Questions
    • Revelation Health Gift Cards
    • Returns - Terms & Conditions
    • Revelation Health Privacy Policy
    • Revelation Health Opt-In Disclosure

    Information

    Customer Service / Support Call: + 1-888-600-0642
    Customer Support Check our documentation
    Gift Cards Gift the gift of health...

    Subscribe to our Newsletter

    Subscribe to our newsletter and receive weekly store specials!

    2023 © Revelation Health LLC. All Rights Reserved

    Sample Product

    Product successfully added to your Shopping Cart

    Continue Shopping
    Proceed to Checkout
    Features
    ___product_title___
    ___product_title___
    ___product_old_price______product_price___
    View
    Availability ___product_availability___
    Options ___product_options___
    Vendor ___product_vendor___
    Collection ___product_collection___
    Rating ___product_rating___