What is coconut oil?
Coconut oil is a type of healthy fat that is made primarily from the flesh and kernel of mature coconuts. It is unique because it is made up mostly of medium-chain triglycerides, which are fatty acids that are extremely healthy for you.
The many health benefits of coconut oil include improving cardiovascular health, boosting metabolism, balancing hormones, burning fat, preventing diabetes, and increasing the condition of skin and hair. However, it is also extremely good for your teeth, gums, and for detoxifying your body, which is why coconut oil pulling is now gaining significant popularity all over the world.
What is coconut oil pulling?
Oil pulling, also known as swishing therapy, is an ancient dental technique that involves swishing oil in your mouth for approximately 10-20 minutes. It is called ‘pulling’ because of its incredible ability to pull toxins and bacteria out of your teeth and gums, some studies even showing that it draws toxins out of your entire body.
While olive oil, sesame oil, and other types of natural oils can be used in the same way, there are few oils that are as beneficial for your health as coconut oil. It is naturally antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic, additionally leaving teeth whiter and brighter after each session.
How to oil pull with coconut oil?
Put 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it around your mouth for 10-20 minutes. Afterward, simply spit the liquid into a trash can, rinse your mouth with water, and brush as normal.
It is recommended first thing in the morning before any meals and should be done 3-4 times per week to maximize its effectiveness. Results are usually reported within 7 days.
Dr. Bruce Fife, the author of “Oil Pulling Therapy” says that timing is key and that a minimum of 10 minutes and a maximum of 20 minutes is recommended. This allows enough time for plaque to be broken down and bacteria and toxins to be drawn out but also protects the body from re-absorbing anything.
What are the benefits of coconut oil pulling?
Coconut oil destroys Streptococcus Mutans, which is one of the most common bacteria in the mouth that causes plaque build-up, tooth decay, and gum disease.
A study conducted on the effect of coconut oil pulling on 60 boys and girls aged 16-18 for 30 days showed that it reduced plaque build-up by as much as 50%, which prevented inflammation of the gum tissue, known as gingivitis. It also helped to prevent tooth decay while whitening teeth and freshening the breath of all participants.
In a separate study published in the Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, the authors said: “Oil pulling is a powerful detoxifying Ayurvedic technique that has recently become very popular as a CAM remedy for many different health ailments. Using this method, surgery or medication could be prevented for a number of chronic illnesses. The oil therapy is preventative as well as curative. The exciting aspect of this healing method is its simplicity.”
Are there any precautions or side effects?
This remedy needs to become part of your oral hygiene routine and should never replace brushing, flossing, and rinsing your teeth and gums.
Coconut oil is regarded as a safe, non-toxic oil to use for this remedy on a regular basis, with no known side effects. However, it is always a good idea to consult with your dentist before commencing this treatment just to be extra safe.
Sources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4382606/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3131773/
http://www.ada.org/en/science-research/science-in-the-news/the-practice-of-oil-pulling
