Oil Pulling: An Age-Old Ayurvedic Practice
Oil pulling, or Kavala Gandusha, is an Ayurvedic practice that dates back thousands of years in India. This simple yet powerful technique involves swishing oil in the mouth for several minutes to promote oral hygiene and overall wellness. With growing interest in holistic health, oil pulling has regained popularity as a natural complement to modern dental care.
Recent studies and Ayurvedic texts suggest that oil pulling offers benefits beyond just fresher breath. It may support healthier gums, reduce harmful bacteria, and even impact systemic health by improving the oral microbiome.
What Is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling is typically performed first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. The process involves:
Taking 1 tablespoon of oil (commonly sesame, coconut, or sunflower oil)
Swishing or “pulling” the oil through the teeth for 5–20 minutes
Spitting it out into a trash bin (to avoid clogging drains)
Rinsing the mouth with warm water
Brushing teeth afterward for added cleanliness
According to Ayurvedic principles, this practice draws toxins from the mouth, lubricates the oral tissues, and promotes balance in the body.
Common Oils Used in Oil Pulling
Sesame Oil
Traditionally preferred in Ayurveda, sesame oil is rich in antioxidants and has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Coconut Oil
Cold-pressed coconut oil is a popular modern alternative due to its pleasant taste and antimicrobial effects. A study published in the Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice found that adolescents who used coconut oil daily for 30 days experienced a significant reduction in plaque and gingivitis (Peedikayil et al., 2015).
Sunflower Oil
Another Ayurvedic option, sunflower oil is lightweight and has been shown to reduce bacteria that contribute to gum disease.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Oil Pulling
Several clinical studies have evaluated the effectiveness of oil pulling as a supplementary oral hygiene practice:
Coconut Oil Study (2015): A group of 60 adolescents who practiced daily oil pulling showed a statistically significant decrease in plaque and gingival inflammation after 30 days (Peedikayil et al., 2015).
Sesame Oil Study (2008): In a study published in the Indian Journal of Dental Research, participants who performed oil pulling with sesame oil for 40 days saw a 20% reduction in oral bacterial count (Durai et al., 2008).
These findings support the traditional belief that oil pulling can improve oral health by reducing bacterial load and supporting gum tissue health.
Is Oil Pulling Safe?
Oil pulling is generally considered safe for most people when performed correctly. However, here are a few tips:
Avoid swallowing the oil, as it may contain toxins and bacteria.
Don’t use oil pulling as a replacement for brushing and flossing.
Start with 5–10 minutes and work up to 20 minutes gradually.
Always spit oil into a trash can, not the sink, to avoid plumbing issues.
Pregnant individuals or those with certain medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider before beginning any new oral hygiene regimen.
Should You Try Oil Pulling?
While oil pulling is not a replacement for professional dental care, it can be a helpful addition to your daily wellness routine. Its low cost, ease of use, and natural ingredients make it an appealing choice for those looking to support oral hygiene and overall health in a holistic way.
References
Durai Anand, T., Pothiraj, C., R.M. Gopinath, & Kayalvizhi, B. (2008). Effect of oil-pulling on dental caries causing bacteria. African Journal of Microbiology Research, 2. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.5897/AJMR.9000257
Peedikayil, F., Sreenivasan, P., & Narayanan, A. (2015). Effect of coconut oil in plaque related gingivitis - A preliminary report. Nigerian Medical Journal, 56(2). https://doi.org/10.4103/0300-1652.153406
Shanbhag, V. K. (2017). Oil pulling for maintaining oral hygiene – A Review. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jtcme.2016.05.004
