What is Oil Pulling?
May 02, 2014 Written by Lauren Rae, Wellness Coach and CPT at TRYM Fitness It is currently trending on social media, but has been around since ancient times. One of those kind of creepy, but worth-the-crawling-skin remedies that you might just want to try. So what’s the big health secret that everyone is talking about? Oil pulling is an ancient tradition originating in Ayurvedic medicine that has made a comeback as more and more people are trying this interesting, chemical-free way to cleanse not only mouth but your whole body.As the movement towards functional holistic health becomes more mainstream, bloggers and pinners have been sharing this treatment and the reviews keep coming in on a positive note. If you avoid or suffer through the burning of commercial mouthwashes, oil pulling could be the keep-it-fresh remedy for you.Here are some of the potential benefits to jumping on the oil pulling train: Oil pulling is simply done by swishing 1 spoonful of oil (Sesame or Coconut) around in your mouth like you would with mouthwash for approximately 20 minutes. By pushing and pulling the oil through your teeth and around your mouth, the natural antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties of the oil search out bad bacteria and pull it from the lining of your mouth. Do not swallow! When the timer goes off, spit out the oil (in the garbage or outside! Spitting in the sink may clog your drains) and be sure to rinse your mouth out very well with filtered water.Meditate your way to a healthier body while you oil pull:Those who regularly practice oil pulling speak to not only the oral hygiene benefits, but the mental and spiritual gratification. Ancient Indian tradition also claims that incorporating this time into your day can help you to incorporate a routine meditation practice as you are required to not speak and can choose to be still for at least 20 minutes. That’s much longer than most of us go before talking either to ourselves or others! Practice clearing your mind and your to do list and just be where you are when you take the time out to oil pull. Quietly concentrate on the task at hand, appreciate your ability to create a better future for yourself, and acknowledge your desire and willingness to take care of and heal the body you’re in. Enjoy less headaches and better sleep after some quality time with your oil.While the jury is still out on whether this Ayurvedic treatment is the best or just a mess, do your own research and leave a comment below with your thoughts. If this DIY mouthwash isn’t for you, always look for all natural mouthwashes as most mouthwashes contain harmful chemicals that can set you back on the path to total health and wellness.
- Brighter & whiter teeth
- Healthier gums
- Removal of excess mucus
- Easy boost to the immune system
- Increase energy
- Having a clearer mind
- Decreasing headaches
- Clearing the sinuses
- Alleviating allergies
- Better sleep
- Clearer skin
- Decreasing inflammation
- Improving the lymphatic system