Have you heard of oil pulling?
I first learned about it 6 months ago, and frankly was a bit dubious. You swish oil around in your mouth and spit it out? Wha?
But, after talking to several other bloggers and good friends who swear by it, I decided to give it a try. And I'm totally hooked! There is not a morning that goes by where I don't stick a heaping tablespoon of coconut oil in my mouth. It's a game changer. Let me tell you why.
Oil pulling is based in ancient Ayurveda, with the basic concept that the oil pulls out any toxins present in your mouth and brings the body back into alignment.
It improves dental hygiene - whitening teeth and cleaning up gums. It also revs up your metabolism, clears the fog of a morning after too many glasses of wine, and gives you energy.
How do you do it?
First thing in the morning (preferably), put 1 tablespoon of oil (sesame or coconut) in your mouth and start swishing.
I will tell you that, the first several times I tried this, I had to get over the urge to swallow (don't!) or gag. So I quickly realized that I needed to get my mind off the oil by doing other things - washing dishes, making coffee, or doing a morning meditation.
The ideal time to keep the oil in your mouth is 15-20 minutes. Some days I can manage just 5-10, but the more the better.
Oil dabs is the correct term
So why do you do it? What’s different?
Hi Zosia – I do it because my mouth has never felt better. My teeth are whiter, breath is fresher, and I have more energy, I love it!
Does it matter if the coconut oil is refined or unrefined? Is one easier on the gag reflex than the other? Thanks!
Hi Laura, I use unrefined coconut oil.
Bought some super amazing coconut oil at the farmers market yesterday, I’m going to start giving it a “whirl” tomorrow, xo!
Awesome, Bailey! You were my inspo for this post 😉
OK, day 1 oil-pulling: Did it after yoga, while taking a shower, seemed to be good timing to take a moment of silence, haha….feeling pretty fresh and foxy!
fresh and foxy? GREAT words!
Hello, Love your blog btw. I am ALL ABOUT natural skincare stuff anyway, I am exited to start oil pulling. I have this coconut oil from Trader joes that I will use…stoked to see the results. How many days a week do you do it? Also…have you notice a difference in your mouth with gums and less pain?
Hey Jasmine! I do it at least 5 days a week right in the morning, and have definitely noticed huge improvements in both my gum health (they used to bleed all the time) and my breath (way fresher!). Go for it, and let me know how it goes.