Hey Everyone,
Have you heard of oil pulling? When I describe it to you, you’re probably going to cringe a little, but just keep reading because I promise it gets better! It’s actually pretty cool and I have a feeling you’ll reconsider and rock out with me on this for two weeks. I say two weeks because that’s how long I’m committing to this oil pulling experiment. However, I’ll probably do it longer, and if it makes a noticeable difference, then I think I’ll try to make it part of my lifestyle.
I started this on Dec 1st, and to be totally honest, it’s not that bad at all. I’ve been getting a lot of questions about the process, so I wanted to just take a second and explain what oil pulling is about, and answer all of your questions.
I’m not an expert on this, but I always do a lot of research before I jump into a project like this, and I ask a lot of questions myself, so I feel confident that I have a decent gathering of good information for all of you. If there are any oil pulling experts out there, I’m counting on you to share your knowledge in the comment section below!
Oil Pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic therapy used to improve dental health, remove toxins and bacteria from the mouth and the bloodstream, and has a number of proposed whole body health benefits. Claims have been made for it’s ability to detoxify the deep tissues from heavy metals and other environmental toxins, whiten teeth over time as it breaks down “biofilm” created by bacteria on the teeth, help to increase movement of the lymphatic system, balance out hormones, create clearer skin and even reduce brain fog. Source Here
Here are just a few of the benefits of Oil Pulling:
Whitening of teeth
Balance in hormones
Clears up Acne
Healthy Gums & Teeth
Increased Energy
Relief of headache or migraines
Relief of allergies and sinus congestion
Clear thinking
Here I am with oil in my mouth!
How To Oil Pull:
- Oil Pulling should always be done first thing in the morning before eating and brushing your teeth.
- Use with 1 tablespoon of coconut or sesame oil and swish around for 20 minutes. You can also use the daily swish made specifically for oil pulling!
- Spit the oil out in the trash can to avoid clogging your drain
- Rinse with salt water or just warm water to remove any bacteria left over in the mouth
- Brush your teeth and you’re done! Hooray!
From: 123fr stock photo – Thanks
What kind of oil do I use?
It’s recommended to use coconut or sesame oil that is pure and unrefined. It’s important that the oil (sesame or coconut) is as natural as possible. Find an oil with a few of these terms: organic, expeller pressed, unrefined, pure, natural, extra virgin.
I am using The Daily Swish, which is AWESOME!
How much oil should I use?
The recommended dose is 1 tablespoon
Do I have to do it for the full 20 minutes? I want to gag and my mouth hurts!
If you have trouble with this because your jaw hurts, or you’re gagging, then just start small. Start with 5 minutes and work your way up to twenty minutes. No problem!
If your problem is because of patience, then find an activity. Once I start swishing, I’ll jump in the shower. After that, I’ll get ready for work. Usually the 20 minutes is over before I know it. It’s also okay to stop swishing for a few seconds if your jaw hurts. Just take a break and start back up again.
What happens if I swallow some oil?
You’re trying to avoid swallowing it because it contains bacteria, but you might just end up with a small stomachache or a weird feeling of oil going down your throat for a few minutes. If you’re just starting out, you might just have a strong reflex to swallow, so it’s just an adjustment period, but don’t give up. Just remember to start out with 5-10 minutes a day to get used to it.
Can I spit it out in the sink?
Nope! It can clog the pipes, so spit in the trash if you can. If you do this often and spit in the sink, then make sure you have a process to clean and unclog the drain a few times a month.
What is the best time of day to oil pull?
Always in the morning before anything else goes into your body. It should be done on an empty stomach and even before you brush your teeth.
How often should I do it?
I have heard different things from different sources, but the consensus is that if it’s done as a regular part of your lifestyle, then 3-4 times a week. However, I am doing this everyday as a two week detox, and to cultivate the habit (which also seems to be the consensus).
I’ve been tracking a daily log of how it’s been going, which includes my appetite, energy, and anything else that could be related to oil pulling.
After three days I have noticed some changes, but I am aware this may not be related to the oil pulling because there are other aspects always effecting changes in my system. I’ll just have to wait and see if there are any patterns and noticeable changes over a longer period of time.
That being said, here are the changes I have noticed:
- Increased energy
- Less of an appetite
- Healthy Food Cravings
- Skin seems clearer
- More cheerful than usual (which is crazy because my nature is already happy and cheerful)
Here’s a link to the The Daily Swish if you’re interested. I order mine directly from Banyan Botanicals.
Are you new or regular to oil pulling? What have your experiences been? This is new territory for me, so let’s learn from each other! I’m counting on you to ask and comment away!
Happy Oil Pulling!
Love, Monica
PS. Interested more in Ayurveda? Check out this link (or click picture below) for a quick test on your personal constitution! Super cool!
