Have you heard of or tried Oil Pulling? I'll admit I was hesitant to even read about it at first. As I started hearing more about it, I eventually warmed up to the idea. Then, after I read this post from So Easy Being Green I immediately bought some Organic Coconut Oil and started swishing. It's not just me though, I'm seeing articles about oil pulling popping up everywhere it seems. There must be something to it, right?
Oil pulling has been in practice for centuries. In fact, it's an ancient Indian tradition where one swishes oil in their mouth to get rid of bacteria. It's been said to have many health benefits for your oral health and systemic health. Experts say that oil pulling is good for your teeth and gums, can whiten teeth, and can perhaps even improve your complexion. While there are many differing opinions on whether pulling oil is effective, there are both clinical studies and anecdotal evidence to show it does have positive outcomes so I thought I'd give it a try.
The act of pulling oil is really quite simple. You just swish a tablespoon of Coconut Oil (other oils like Sesame Oil can be used as well) in your mouth for 10-20 minutes, then discard the oil in the trash (not down the sink as it may end up building up and clogging your pipes). If you're a big consistency person you might be a little grossed out, but I didn't have any problem with this. The oil is slightly solidified when you start but it melts quickly and it's got a great, mild flavor. I usually try to do my oil pulling in the morning, but this can be a challenge when you have a toddler running around that often needs redirection.
I started oil pulling one week ago and I'm actually really enjoying it. Of course, I have a little "secret weapon" - dōTERRA Peppermint Oil. I received a dōTERRA Introductory Kit to review (at no cost) from Whole Wellness Coach a few weeks ago and it includes 3 bottles of dōTERRA essential oils - Lemon, Lavender, and Peppermint. I've started putting 1 drop of Peppermint Oil on top of my heaping tablespoon of coconut oil every few days and it's made such a wonderful difference. It's refreshing but not overpowering and the taste of the coconut and Peppermint is just lovely. I also hear you can use different dōTERRA essential oils like Rosemary or even blends so I may be trying this in the future.
Have you tried Oil Pulling? Do you use essential oils?
What has your experience been like?
Disclosure: I received the doTERRA oils at no cost to facilitate a review. Amazon links are affiliate links.
Lindsey G says
Thanks for the shout out, friend! I absolutely love the idea of using EOs with oil pulling! Thanks for sharing!
Linda Buzard-Moffitt says
What other oils can be used and does that affect the benefits if you use a different Oil??
jeani b says
i haven't tried it yet, but like you, i've noticed the articles popping up everywhere! i just joined doterra myself, and am wondering about trying this with their onguard blend. i'm interested in the idea that it can have an effect on complexion. thanks for this article!
Ruth V. says
It's really not that bad! The oil quickly melts to liquid, but you could always do a step-wise approach and start with 5 minutes and keep increasing your time 🙂
Brutus Duffy says
I had no idea this even existed until i read this post. Have you noticed any change from doing this?
Lisa Bertolini says
Yes, we do oil pulling. Not for 20 minutes though. More like 2-3 minutes and we have great results. My experience has been slicker teeth, elimination of bad breath, and whiter teeth. I also use the doTERRA peppermint with mine. But I don't use 1 drop as shown in your image. I made a mixture that I keep in the bathroom. 🙂 Bless you!
Abbey R. says
I'm intrigued! I think I will give it a try!
Diana S. says
I've never heard of this before. Seems interesting. Think I will look into this and research a bit more. I always have coconut oil around the house for my body and hair.