Oil pulling has exploded in popularity as a natural health trend, but there’s a lot of misinformation floating around about what oil pulling can and can’t do for your health. Let’s separate the myths from the facts and dig into the science behind this traditional remedy.
What is Oil Pulling?
Oil pulling comes from the ancient Indian medical practice of Ayurveda. It involves swishing oil around in your mouth for 10-20 minutes then spitting it out. Traditionally sesame or coconut oils are used for their proposed oral health benefits.
Oil pulling dates back over 3,000 years to ancient Ayurvedic texts which recommended oil gargling for oral hygiene and detoxification. While the origins are ancient, oil pulling has seen a resurgence in modern holistic health circles.
Myth: Oil Pulling Detoxifies the Entire Body
A common claim is that oil pulling draws toxins out of the blood and organs, detoxifying the whole body. However, there’s no scientific proof oil held briefly in the mouth can pull toxins from the gut, liver, kidneys or other parts of the body. Saliva does absorb some components of oil, but not on a scale that enables full body detoxification.
Fact: Oil Pulling May Improve Oral Health
On the other hand, some research suggests oil pulling can benefit oral health in certain ways. The oils are believed to act as cleansers, helping pull out bacteria, plaque, and toxins from teeth and gums.
One study in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine found sesame oil pulling reduced plaque and gingivitis as effectively as a chlorhexidine mouthwash after 10 days of use. Another study showed a significant reduction in dental caries-causing bacteria after 45 days of oil pulling with coconut oil.
The mechanical swishing action also helps remove stains on teeth, possibly aiding whitening. However, more rigorous studies on large diverse samples are still needed to confirm effects.
Myth: Oil Pulling Cures Serious Diseases
You may come across claims that oil pulling can cure major ailments like cancer, arthritis, hormonal disorders and more. There is no scientific proof that this folk remedy can cure or prevent any serious disease. Always view sweeping health claims with skepticism.
Fact: Anti-Inflammatory Effects Possible
Early research does indicate that oil pulling may have anti-inflammatory effects in the mouth. One study found that oil pulling 5 days/week for 2 weeks significantly reduced inflammatory markers in saliva.
The anti-inflammatory mechanisms likely involve compounds in oils like coconut oil. Lauric acid and other constituents may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties when swished around the oral tissues. The swishing action also stimulates the enzymes and immune cells in saliva which may further reduce inflammation.
Myth: Oil Pulling Necessary for Good Health
Some sources portray oil pulling as an ancient, essential practice for detoxing the body and maintaining good health. In reality, oil pulling is an optional supplementary practice with limited health impacts. Proper diet, exercise, sleep and other lifestyle factors are far more important for overall health and wellness.
Potential Side Effects
When done carefully, oil pulling is unlikely to cause harm for most people. Here are potential side effects to keep in mind:
- Nausea if the oil is swallowed – Make sure to spit out the oil.
- Allergic reactions – Use a different oil if you have a known coconut or sesame allergy.
- Lipoid pneumonia if oil gets into lungs – Avoid aggressive swishing motions.
- Medication interference – Oil affects absorption of medications taken by mouth.
The Verdict
Current research suggests oil pulling may provide some benefits for dental hygiene as part of a regular oral care routine. However, claims that it detoxifies the full body or cures diseases require much more rigorous proof. While generally safe, oil pulling is no substitute for professional dental care. Talk to your dentist to weigh the potential pros and cons before starting.
