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Home » Health Topics » Oil Pulling--Amazing Benefits, How to, & My Experience

Oil Pulling--Amazing Benefits, How to, & My Experience

by Adrienne 27 Comments Published April 3, 2018 Updated: Feb 23, 2021

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Today we're talking about Coconut Oil Pulling--what it is, oil pulling benefits, how to do oil pulling and my (fascinating) oil pulling experience. I didn't think I would ever write about this, but you will know why I chose to when you get to the end of this post!

Coconut Oil Pulling Benefits

So let me start by saying that I had heard about oil pulling a lot time before I finally tried it out. I guess I thought it was a silly thing and that there wouldn't be very many benefits of oil pulling, so why bother doing it?

Plus, oil pulling sounded messy to me.

Yes, I was an oil pulling skeptic.

Similarly, I used to be an essential oil skeptic, thought that the autism epidemic wasn't real (until it hit our home), and I also thought that food allergies were just a way for people to stay on a diet (yup, that one became a reality in our family too).

Now, once I tried essential oils when I was really sick, I changed my mind about those. And once I had a son with multiple life-threatening food allergies, and I also had my own intolerances, that thinking about food allergies had to go too.

And once you have a kid on the autistic spectrum and you see all of the kids around you who have it too and you think back to how few there were when you were younger, you know that autism is on the rise.

But the oil pulling thing? It kept nagging at me.

I wondered if I was missing something.

But I didn't know how to do it or what oil to choose or when on earth I would do this thing called coconut oil pulling when I am already way too busy.

This mama ain't got time to just sit around and swish oil in my mouth, you know?

Well, one day, for some reason, my curiosity go the best of me, and I thought it was worth a shot. I looked it up how to do oil pulling on multiple sites, figured out what oil I wanted to try, found a way to incorporate it into my morning routine, and went for it.

What is Oil Pulling?

Oil pulling is simply swishing an oil (typically sesame, sunflower, olive, or coconut oil) around in your mouth for approximately 20 minutes a day to improve oral (and possibly overall) health.

Oil pulling cleans or detoxifies the mouth. It seems odd, but it really works. There are even studies showing the effect of It literally sucks the dirt (toxins) out of your mouth and creates a clean, antiseptic oral environment that contributes to the proper flow of dental liquid that’s needed to prevent cavities and disease.

History of Oil Pulling

Oil pulling originated in India as part of Ayurvedic medicine, a tradition of holistic medicine from thousands of years ago. Other oral health practices from Ayurvedic traditions included chewing on sticks and eating herbs.

Ayurvedic practitioners prescribed oil pulling for inflammation of the mouth, dryness or other ailments.

The pulling of oil through ones teeth is often considered to be the oldest form of dental care. This is interesting since many of the studies that I cite below mentioned that they concluded that their work showed promise that this technique could be of help for those in developing nations where better dental care is often needed.

Coconut Oil Pulling Benefits

Coconut Oil Pulling Benefits

Oil pulling is a powerful Ayurvedic technique for detox that has recently become very popular as an alternative remedy for ailments. It has been used in India for many years and it has been claimed there, and elsewhere, that it has the following benefits.

Keep in mind, that there is no real proof that oil pulling actually treats anything outside of dental benefits, but this is what has been thought by some to be the case.

  1. Boost Immunity
  2. Eliminate Bad Breath
  3. Improves Dental Health (source, source, source)
  4. Clears Sinus and Throat Congestion
  5. Prevent Heart Issues
  6. Reduces Inflammation
  7. Whitens Teeth
  8. Soothes Dry Throat
  9. Heals Cracked Lips
  10. Can Help with Acne & other Skin Concerns
  11. Strengthens Teeth, Gums, and Jaws
  12. Fights candida (source)
  13. Helps as a Natural Allergy Remedy

 

At the same time, since oral health is linked to many of the above health issues, it makes sense that if oil pulling has beneficial effects on oral health, that the other health benefits should or could result as well.

Oil Pulling and Oral Health

There are some fascinating studies showing the benefits of oil pulling. I cited some above, but here is a summary of them so you can see the facts more readily.

Oil Pulling vs Chlorhexedine against Streptococcus Mutans

In this study of twenty teens, sesame oil pulling was shown to be comparable to a popular dental antibiotic in reducing Streptococcus mutans bacteria, which is a significant contributor to tooth decay. The authors of this study said that "Oil pulling can be used as an effective preventive adjunct in maintaining and improving oral health." (source)

Oil Pulling and Gingivitis

In this study, oil pulling was shown to be comparable to chlorhexedine for its effects on gingivitis amongst teens. (source)

Oil Pulling and Bad Breath

This study showed that again, vs chlorhexedine, oil pulling was just as effective in remedying bad breath. (source)

Wow. So the next time your dentist recommends chlorhexedine, maybe you should pull out a jar of coconut oil instead!!

What Is the Best Oil for Oil Pulling--Is Coconut Oil Really Better?

Some say that sesame oil is the most effective oil to do oil pulling with, but technically you could pull olive oil, sesame seed oil, coconut oil, ghee, or almond oil.

Misinformation About Coconut Oil Benefits in Oil Pulling

There is some misinformation on the internet regarding the benefits of using coconut oil vs other oils. Some (I found one blogger at least) are saying that in a study at the Athlone Institute of Technology, researchers tested coconut oil, olive oil, and vegetable oil and that coconut oil was shown to be the most effective as it was shows to prevent Streptococcus mutans from binding to and damaging tooth enamel.

S. Mutans is an acid-producing bacterium that is a major cause of tooth decay. Also notable is that the modified coconut oil was effective against candida as well.

However, that's not the whole story. The study showed that ENZYME-MODIFIED COCONUT OIL (not regular coconut oil) was the most effective. And sorry, but I don't know where to buy that. In fact, I think you can't. Maybe the enzymes in your mouth can modify the coconut oil, but I'm not sure, so it might not matter at all what kind of oil you use until some scientist makes and sells enzyme-modified coconut oil, in which case then that is the one you want to buy. (source)

Sorry to be the bearer of bad coconut oil news. And really, so this study was back in 2012--so why hasn't anyone mass produced this yet?

Apparently sesame and coconut oil are somewhat more abrasive than other oils so those should therefore produce better cleaning action. At least I read that, but I couldn't find anything substantial to back it up.

How to Do Coconut Oil Pulling

  1. Put 1 tsp  - 1 Tbsp of oil in your mouth. I find about 1.5 - 2 tsp to be a good amount. Basically I just put some on a small spoon and put the oil in my mouth :).
  2. If you are using an oil that is solid at room temperature, let it soften for a moment or two.
  3. Swish the oil back and forth between your teeth for at least 15-20 minutes (Note that throughout history oil wasn't necessarily swished for this long.)
  4. Spit the oil out.

If you have to expel the oil before the the 15-20 minutes are up (due to mucous accumulating), just get more oil and continue pulling until the 15-20 minutes are up.

Added Benefits with Essential Oils

You can incorporate a drop of a tincture or essential oil into the mix to add benefits. For example, if you are having a bone issue, you could add Comfrey Tincture to the coconut oil. For added antibacterial action, add an antibacterial essential oil blend or some other essential oil with antibacterial qualities. The coconut oil is an excellent essential oil emulsifier.

Don't Clog Your Pipes!

Don't spit saturated fats down your sink drain or any other drain in your house, as it might lead to clogs. The trash is a better place for spitting :).

Does Coconut Oil Pulling Make You Gag?

Since originally publishing this post, I heard that some people gave up on oil pulling since they have a gag reflex. It might help for you to try to subdue your gag reflex by tipping your head a little bit forward when you oil pull. This stops the oil from coming in contact with the back of your throat. It might be more difficult to oil pull for a full 20 minutes in that position, but you can do whatever you are able.

My Experience with Coconut Oil Pulling

Over the course of several months, I did oil pulling. My morning routine would go as follows:

  • Wake up
  • Brush Mouth Guard
  • Walk Stumble to the Kitchen
  • Drink some warm water with fresh squeezed or bottled organic lemon juice.
  • Take my probiotic (depending on which one I am taking, I will either take it before or after swishing.
  • Put about 1 tsp of organic coconut oil into my mouth
  • Swish the coconut oil for about 15-30 minutes before eating
  • While swishing, start making my Homemade Coffee Substitute in my French Press Coffee Maker

I didn't notice any incredible results regarding my oral health, but I will say that sometimes I thought that my mouth felt pretty clean without even having brushed my teeth. Interesting.

At my next dental checkup, however, my hygienist commented that I didn't have much or any staining on my teeth. Hmmmm...

I mentioned to her that I had been oil pulling coconut oil, and she seemed intrigued.

Fast forward another 6 months.

I saw the same hygienist again. She commented again on how little staining my teeth had.

Fast forward another 6 months. Same hygienist.

This time, she said "So what's the oil thing you were talking about?"

Conclusion

So there's definitely something to this oil pulling thing. I personally think it really does help to clean your teeth and keep your gums healthy, but for sure it helps with staining.

So skip the toxic teeth whiteners (and maybe the toxic antibiotics, but of course, consult with your dentist first) and swish instead :)!

Have you ever oil pulled?
Would you try coconut oil pulling?

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About Adrienne

Adrienne Urban is the Founder and Owner of Whole New Mom. She has a background in research, journalism, insurance, employee benefits, financial markets, frugal living, and nutrition. Seeking a better life for herself and her family, she uses research and consults with many physicians and other practitioners to find solutions to the variety of issues they have dealt with including life-threatening food allergies and thyroid and adrenal concerns. WholeNewMom.com is the result of her experiences and knowledge gained throughout the process. Posts are reviewed and verified by the Whole New Mom team.

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  1. Sharon

    November 19, 2019 at 3:51 pm

    Does it matter which type of coconut oil to use for pulling? Like organic, virgin, etc.?

    Adding EO is interesting, I may try it since I have issue with bone loss.

    Reply
    • Adrienne

      November 19, 2019 at 4:12 pm

      Hi there. It is really up to you but I would choose quality products to avoid pesticides or toxins, as in I wouldn't want an oil w/ hexene residues swishing around in my mouth :).

      Reply
    • Adrienne

      November 19, 2019 at 4:12 pm

      Have you lost a lot of bone? Just asking since I have done some research into that. It's tough!

      Reply
      • Sharon

        November 19, 2019 at 4:27 pm

        Hi Adrienne

        Yes, have lost teeth as a result of that unfortunately. I would like to find out if there is a way to stop further loss.

        Reply
        • Adrienne

          November 19, 2019 at 4:37 pm

          I'm so sorry - I think it would depend on why the bone loss is happening. Autoimmune or bacteria, etc. Has anyone determined that?

          Reply
          • Sharon

            November 19, 2019 at 4:52 pm

            No, other than saying they believe it's bacteria and yet some others say it's in the genes. I'm basically just trying to find options to see what helps, but even that is difficult to know if anything is going to help.

            Reply
            • Adrienne

              November 19, 2019 at 4:53 pm

              I'm so sorry. It is very tough for sure.

              Reply
              • Adrienne

                November 19, 2019 at 4:57 pm

                I will add a few things that I found in my research / experience. One dentist told me that it's all autoimmune. Another was shocked to hear that he had said that and he said that he felt diet and absorption levels were crucial. Someone else had mentioned bacteria, etc. One dental practitioner said to make sure to clean toothbrushes, etc really well w/ peroxide, etc. And to rinse with diluted peroxide or some kind of really good antibacterial rinse. She also mentioned that monitoring vitamin D levels was important.

                Reply
  2. Kathy Farr

    May 10, 2018 at 8:24 pm

    So which essential oil is best in you opinion. I missed the name

    Reply
    • Adrienne

      May 10, 2018 at 8:28 pm

      This is the company that I went with: https://wholenewmom.com/health-concerns/natural-remedies/announcing-the-best-essential-oils-company-and-a-great-sale/

      Reply
  3. TribalMama

    April 17, 2018 at 1:19 pm

    Yes, I oil pull and like you thought it was a bunch of woo-woo when I first heard of it. But as skeptic as i am, I give a lot of things a try. In fact I tried it many years ago and couldn't quite get over the texture of all that oil in my mouth so I gave up on it. ...Until about 6 months ago. I have always had sensitive teeth and bleeding gums. But I was beginning to wake up with this gross taste in my mouth. So I recalled oil pulling. I'm already an avid essential oil user, formulating and retailing natural & nourishing personal care products so pairing the E.O.s with coconut oil made it palatable for me to work up to 20 minutes with no problem. (Note I couldn't go more than 3 minutes in the beginning...SO keep at it. :o)) Immediately my breath improved (even morning breath) and I felt like I didn't have to brush my teeth at all when I would oil pull. My gums barely bleed at all anymore (occasionally they will when flossing but not near as much) and this is going to sound strange but I actually feel better when I oil pull. I begin the day doing it first thing in the morning, while making my husband's lunch and then the bed and starting a load of wash. I usually use peppermint E.O. Sometimes I will use clove bud or wintergreen E.O. It just depends on what mood I'm in.

    Reply
    • Adrienne

      April 19, 2018 at 11:04 am

      Great to hear!!

      Reply
  4. Tami

    April 10, 2018 at 3:16 pm

    I have found your blogs very interesting and informative and very well researched. Thank you for honest, good information.
    There is not enough time in the day for me to research all the things I want and it's great to find a place that has done so much of it for me!!! You are awesome !

    Reply
    • Adrienne

      April 10, 2018 at 7:11 pm

      Wow - thank you so much, Tami!! Bless you! 2 more heavy-research posts are in the works. One should be up tomorrow :).

      Reply
  5. Holly

    April 7, 2018 at 11:13 am

    Thank you so much for this post! It gave me enough great info to give oil pulling another shot. I tried it once a few years ago and felt like I was going to gag. But after reading your article I tried it again and it wasn't that bad. I couldn't believe how clean my teeth felt afterward!!!! The benefits outweigh the minor uncomfortableness of it. I just made sure I kept myself busy during the 20 minutes and the time went faster than I thought it would. I am going to try doing this on a regular basis now!!!

    Reply
    • Adrienne

      April 7, 2018 at 11:15 am

      Wow Holly - that is so great!!! I know, it really isn't that bad when you are doing something else. Thanks for coming back to share and so nice to hear from you again! Hope you are well.

      Reply
  6. Sara

    April 6, 2018 at 3:00 pm

    Are there any tips for those of us with sensitive gag reflexes - and a real dislike for oily textures in the mouth?? I've unsuccessfully tried oil pulling but end up gagging. Is there hope for me?

    Reply
    • Adrienne

      April 6, 2018 at 3:38 pm

      Hi Sara! Glad you asked b/c someone on my Facebook page mentioned the same thing. I'm adding a tip to the post not - thanks again and I so hope it works!

      Reply
  7. Olympia Habib

    April 5, 2018 at 11:39 pm

    Would like to receive healthy recipes and all kind of healthy tips for mature skin like for age spots sagging dark circles or wrinkles thank you

    Reply
    • Adrienne

      April 13, 2018 at 4:10 am

      Hi there. You can sign up for updates here: https://wholenewmom.com/10-things-you-need-to-know-about-essential-oils-before-you-buy/ I do really like this skincare: https://wholenewmom.com/beautycounter/ and some of their products supposedly help w/ dark spots - the toner pads is one of them. I personally love these Face Exercises (this is an affiliate link and if you make a purchase I will make a commission). https://www.carolynsfacialfitness.com/?ref=183 It really works!

      Thanks for reading!

      Reply
  8. Patty Zicko

    April 5, 2018 at 5:03 pm

    does it have to be in the morning? also i am assuming that you are using non flouride toothpaste

    Reply
    • Adrienne

      April 5, 2018 at 5:14 pm

      No, I don't think it does. I do use non fluoride toothpaste. Sometimes I use a DIY tooth powder. I have this post on my site but I hope to update it in a new post. https://wholenewmom.com/health-concerns/why-i-stopped-using-toothpaste/

      Reply
  9. Jody Hann

    April 5, 2018 at 4:10 pm

    I’ve been doing oil pulling for 4 years. I go to the dentist twice per year as I should and he says that he’s never seen a healthier mouth than mine. I highly recommend it to anyone. On the up side, I am very rarely sick anymore and my face isn’t near as dry!!! I love this!

    Reply
    • Adrienne

      April 5, 2018 at 4:11 pm

      No way - how amazing!! The face benefits really amaze me. I guess you are absorbing it?

      Reply
      • Jody Hann

        April 5, 2018 at 4:16 pm

        Well, it specifically removes toxins from your mouth and does get absorbed. It’s suppose to help with teeth sensitivity but I’ll have to defer to someone else for that. I don’t have any teeth sensitivity at all. They could drill in mine and I’d never feel it (which is why it’s mandatory that I visit the dentist twice per year because I’ll never know if I have teeth problems). My cousin has reported a big decrease in headaches as well since she started oil pulling. So, all in all, I think it’s a wonderful practice and has health benefits too. My dentist highly recommends it.

        Reply
        • Adrienne

          April 5, 2018 at 4:18 pm

          Wow again about your teeth! That is fascinating about your cousin! I think the research in the post on the bacteria vs the antibiotics is amazing.

          Reply
          • Jody Hann

            April 6, 2018 at 3:16 am

            I completely agree!

            Reply
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Hi there! I'm Adrienne, your "Healthy Living Doesn't Have to Be So Hard" Guide! I love sharing basically everything you need to make healthy living easy & balanced flexible recipes, tips for clean beauty and a natural home, essential oils, easy gardening tips, and more. Learn more about me here.

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