Coconut oil is famous for its internal and external benefits. This versatile oil can be used all over the skin, on the hair, and as cooking oil.
However, many people are unaware of coconut oil’s potential to improve oral hygiene through a simple technique called oil pulling.
This cheap yet highly effective technique improves oral health in several fascinating ways. The benefits of coconut oil pulling are well worth the effort.
1. Removes oral candida
A pink tongue signifies good health, but a white coating on the tongue can indicate oral candida, a parasite that can lead to a yeast infection called thrush. Coconut oil is a natural antifungal that can help eliminate the parasite from the body. To get the benefits, simply swish and “pull” a tablespoon or two of coconut oil around in the mouth for 10-15 minutes a day. Remember to spit it out in the trash afterward, as it can clog the drain!
2. Freshens breath
Freshen your breath with a natural alternative. Coconut oil contains properties that eliminate the general bacteria and other germs that cause bad breath. The oil creates an environment inhospitable to bad bacteria, giving good bacteria a chance to thrive and eliminating that unpleasant smell.
3. Boosts immunity
Experts say at least 80% of our health starts within the gut. This means everything you put in your mouth will either boost your health or impair it. It follows, then, that if your mouth isn’t healthy, you are not healthy. Maintaining proper hygiene is vital to keeping bad bacteria in the mouth from reaching the gut. Swishing coconut oil around in your mouth both forces these negative elements out of your palate and prevents them from reaching the gut after swallowing.
4. Fights gingivitis
Healthy gums are as important as clean teeth and tongue. Although brushing your teeth helps the gums as well, sometimes spots can be missed. Gingivitis is a disease that causes irritation, redness, and inflammation of the gums. Researchers found oil pulling for just ten days reduced the risk of gingivitis, as well as plaque.
5. Whitens teeth
Everyone wants whiter teeth, professional services are expensive, and some people prefer a more natural approach. Coconut oil pulling is a cheap and effective way to brighten your smile. When plaque begins to build up on your teeth, often due to poor oral hygiene or diet, teeth become yellow and dull. Coconut oil can remove plaque and reveal a clean, bright, whiter smile.
6. Acts as a mouthwash
Not only do most mouthwashes contain chemicals, but sometimes the taste can be harsh, as well. Virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil lacks both chemicals and that intense taste, and can clean the mouth naturally and effectively.
7. Aids in detoxing the body
Detoxing is carried out by certain organs in the body and can be helped along through healthy eating and other healthy practices. Our mouths are one of the many gateways where bad bacteria enter the body and infiltrate the gut, but the latter is also a good place to begin the exodus of this bad bacteria. When you use coconut oil to remove germs from the mouth and prevent germs from spreading to the gut, you increase immunity and facilitate detoxification.
How to do oil pulling
Sit upright and swish the coconut oil around the mouth for 15–20 minutes. People who have difficulty keeping the coconut oil in their mouth for this length of time can start with 5 or 10 minutes and slowly increase the duration. It is essential to keep swishing and to breathe through the nose.
Once done, spit the oil in the garbage. Avoid spitting into the sink or toilet, as it can lead to clogging. Do not swallow the coconut oil. Before eating or drinking anything rinse your mouth with warm water.
