Oil Pulling

Are you familiar with oil pulling? If not, this post is for you. Oil pulling is a type of Ayurvedic medicine that dates back thousands of years ago. Oil pulling involves swishing or "pulling" oil through your teeth for 15-20 minutes. The oils that are most commonly recommended are sesame and coconut(virgin). Coconut oil has the added benefit of lauric acid, which is well-known for it's anti-microbial agents. Which makes it more effective! It is said that the best time to "oil pull" is first thing in the morning, before you eat. Once you are done, spit it out into the trash can (not the sink-the coconut oil can clog your pipes) and brush your teeth. Do not swallow what you have just swished!! There are a TON of bacteria in your mouth now just waiting to be spat out. Now brush your teeth.

Now you're wondering.....just what are the benefits of oil pulling?  Here's a list, but this is a condensed list only.........

Whitens teeth
Strengthens teeth, gums & jaws
Helps with teeth sensitivities
Clearer skin
Clears sinuses
Detoxifies the body
Helps you sleep better
Digests headaches
Digests halitosis
Helps cavities & gingivitis
and much more........

I'll just run you through my morning oil pulling routine. I have a small mason jar of extra virgin coconut oil (I buy from VitaCost) mixed with several drops of Thieves essential oil. I keep it on the counter in the kitchen, close to the silverware drawer. Anyway, first thing after my shower I get a heaping teaspoon of the coconut oil and set a timer for 20 min. I start swishing and pulling through my teeth. Once the timer goes off I spit it in a paper dixie cup and put a couple squares of toilet paper in it to absorb the liquid. (*Note-Make sure the liquid you spit out is foamy/milky looking. If it is not, you didn't pull long enough.) I brush my teeth and go about my day.

I have noticed that my teeth are less sensitive, I don't have to use sensitive toothpaste any longer. They are getting whiter too. My mouth feels really clean after oil pulling, like I've been to the dentist. It doesn't take the place of brushing, flossing or going to the dentist. Just one more way to keep our mouths HAPPY!

Happy Oil Pulling!