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Oil Pulling: All-Natural Healing Therapy or Another Health Craze?

olive oil for oil pulling therapy

Writer’s Note: Please consult your healthcare provider before attempting oil pulling therapy to ensure it’s safe for you.

The other day a friend asked if I’d given the latest trend of “oil pulling” a try. I smiled and said no, but I was really thinking, “What in world is she talking about?” After scouring the web, I learned this old world ritual is making a big comeback. Yahoo! reported earlier this month searches for information on oil pulling have spiked or increased nearly 1331%.

Oil pulling therapy originated in India over 5,000 years ago and is an ancient form of holistic Ayurvedic, or “science of life” medicine. It’s believed swishing oil in your mouth first thing in the morning will ‘pull’ or remove bacteria and toxins. The trend is quickly growing in popularity as oil pullers are claiming to have stronger, whiter teeth, less sensitivity and fresher breath—among other health benefits. Even more astonishing are the testimonies of oil pulling lessening symptoms of or healing physical illnesses.

World-renowned Dr. Karach introduced the therapy to the medical community in 1992 after having been “cured” of his chronic blood disorder and arthritis. Doctors since have noted patients’ experiencing instant relief from their ailments after trying oil pulling once, while others improved after weeks of continuous therapy. At this time there is scarce medical evidence supporting oil pulling’s healing qualities. Yet, oral hygiene is believed to be related to overall health. For instance, bacteria such as Candida and Streptococcus are commonly found in the mouth and have links to arthritis and heart disease. I think it’s fair assume by removing these germs we also would reduce our chances for developing more serious ailments.

As with all health trends you’ll have to decide if oil pulling is right for you. Continue reading for steps and tips to give this cleansing process a shot. You’ll only be risking the cost of oil and 20 minutes of your day.

Give Oil Pulling a Try in Four Easy Steps

  1. Try oil pulling first thing in the morning on an empty stomach before eating or drinking anything. (Sorry, your morning coffee will have to wait.) Bacteria and toxins are typically the highest in your body at this time of the day.
  2. Swish, not gargle, one tablespoon of oil in your mouth for up to 20 minutes. Don’t worry if you can’t swish the entire time at first; try doing a few minutes a day until you reach your goal. Try reading emails, doing dishes and choosing your outfit for the day to help pass the time. I’m sure you can think of more ideas. Tip: Sunflower and sesame oils are recommended for cleansing your mouth. Their antimicrobial agents make them highly effective in destroying bacteria and other microorganisms.
  3. Spit out the mixture into your toilet or sink as it’s now filled with toxins.
  4. Rinse your mouth with warm water and brush your teeth as you usually do. You can repeat this process up to three times a day, just make sure it is on an empty stomach.

Have you or someone you know tried oil pulling? If so, have you noticed any improvements to your health? I’d love to read about your experiences with this therapy!

Image credit: Monica Arellano-Ongpin via photopin cc

3 comments
  1. Talancia Pea

    Joshua, thanks for stopping by our site and sharing your insights on oil pulling! I’m glad to see this health practice is finally growing in popularity stateside as it’s been around for centuries in other regions of the world.

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