So, one day I was talking to my best friend about my wisdom tooth that insists on NOT coming out. It’s been 2 years. Most of the time I have no problems, and have been in very little pain considering (touch wood), but the area can get very irritated at times, and I rather not go to the dentist just yet for something so seemingly minor. She mentioned “Coconut Oil Pulling” for oral health. The more she started to explain about it, the more skeptical I became. I know coconut oil is pretty much good for everything, but to take a tablespoon of coconut oil and swish it around the mouth for 20 MINUTES? Uhh, no thank you! She told me about how it draws the toxins out, and therefor improves the overall oral health, but it also has other benefits (listed in the photo attached)
This is what the internet has to say about Oil Pulling:
OIL PULLING - also known as "kavala" or "gundusha," is an ancient Ayurvedic dental technique that involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in your mouth on an empty stomach for around 20 minutes. This action supposedly draws out toxins in your body, primarily to improve oral health but also to improve your overall health.
So, I tried it for the first time today. It was weird. I started with a teaspoon, for 10 minutes while I was showering and getting dressed (you’re supposed to do the oil pulling FIRST THING in the morning, before you eat or drink or brush your teeth!) The oil doubled in size in my mouth (apparently the toxins coming out) - and I tried my hardest not to swallow (you’re NOT supposed to swallow even the smallest amount - you’re essentially swallowing the toxins you just drew out if you do!). It tasted pretty good though, I like anything coconut-y (especially coconut rum!). When you spit out, you’re not supposed to spit out in the basin, sink or toilet as the oil may solidify and therefor cause blockage. So, spit it out in a trash can/rubbish bin, then rinse your mouth with water - salt water preferably.
As it was my first day of trying it, the only thing I noticed was that my mouth felt particularly clean. It wasn’t half as disgusting as I initially imagined it, but I’m gonna attempt to do this every morning now, to see if the hype is real and to see if I notice any other benefits. Apparently this old school ritual is also known to cure hangovers and headaches - which would be perfect for those who enjoy several tipples per day, like myself.
I’ll report back, another time.
