Oil Pulling is a growing trend that you may have heard of and possibly considered trying. But is swishing coconut oil around in your mouth for 20min really worth it? According to Jessica T. Emery, DMD, recent studies have shown that the ancient oral therapy known as “oil pulling helps against gingivitis, plaque, and microorganisms that cause bad breath.” Not to mention the whitening effects that oil pulling fanatics everywhere have claimed.
Although you can use a few different oils for oil pulling, coconut oil comes the most recommended because it contains lauric acid, an anti-microbial agent that makes it the preferred choice. Recent studies have also shown that coconut oil may also prevent tooth decay. With all of those benefits you can be sure to count me in!
You don’t have to jump straight to swishing around the oil for 20min. You can work your way up in 5 minute increments. Just remember that the longer you pull, the more benefits you will reap.
How To Oil Pull:
- Put 1 tablespoon of coconut oil directly into your mouth
- Gently swish and squish the oil all around your teeth, tongue, gums, and in between your teeth for 5-20min depending on your tolerance
- Do not swallow the oil
- When time is up, spit the oil into the garbage can not down the sink as it may clog your drain
- Sit back and enjoy the benefits