Coconut Oil Pulling: Oral Health the Natural Way
Coconut oil pulling has become more popular as a home remedy for dental health in recent years. This dental hygiene technique, which comes from ancient Ayurvedic practices, involves swishing coconut oil around in your mouth.
Let’s explore what coconut oil pulling is, why it works, how to do it, and if you should include it in your daily routine for dental health.
What is Coconut Oil Pulling?
Pulling coconut oil is a usual dental hygiene technique rooted in thousands of years of Ayurvedic medicine.
Using coconut oil in your mouth for 15 to 20 minutes is similar to using mouthwash, but it is free of harsh chemicals.
Benefits of Coconut Oil Pulling
1. Reducing Harmful Bacteria
Lauric acid, found in coconut oil, has antimicrobial qualities. By swishing coconut oil around your mouth, you may be able to lessen the quantity of dangerous bacteria, which could result in better oral health and breath.
2. Whitening Teeth
Pulling coconut oil is said by some to help whiten teeth by removing stains, but there is not much scientific proof to back up this claim.
3. Preventing Gum Disease
Coconut oil pulling may help prevent gum disease and promote healthier gums by lowering bacteria and inflammation in the mouth.
4. Moisturizing
For those who have dry mouth or irritation in their throat, coconut oil can help hydrate their mouth and throat.
Read: Building Strong Bones — Tips for Bone Health at Any Age
How to Do Coconut Oil Pulling?
1. Choose High-Quality Coconut Oil
Choose unrefined, organic coconut oil because it has more of its healthy qualities.
2. Start with a Small Amount
As you get used to the feeling, gradually increase the amount of coconut oil you use from about one teaspoon at first.
3. Swish, Don’t Swallow
Do not swallow the coconut oil; instead, swish it around in your mouth and pull it between your teeth.
After 15 to 20 minutes, dump the oil into the trash rather than the sink because it can solidify and clog drains.
4. Rinse and Brush
After giving your mouth a good rinse with water, brush your teeth as normal.
