Since I have a cold, I figured it would be the perfect time to try it. I'm secretly convinced I have a sinus infection and I should really be staying away from antibiotics at all costs. Oil pulling seemed like the best solution. I have to admit, initially it was pretty gross. I used 100% organic extra virgin coconut oil, (although other oils may be used) which is solid until heated- in this case, by the temperature inside my mouth. Trying to push/pull solid coconut oil through my teeth until it turned to liquid was nauseating to say the least. This is part of the reason why it's best to oil pull on an empty stomach. I swished the coconut oil through my teeth for a total of 20 minutes. When I was finished, I rinsed my mouth with warm salt water. The time went by fast because I distracted myself by researching all the wonderful things that were occurring in my mouth at that point in time.
Oil pulling has so many awesome benefits:
* Whiter/brighter teeth & gums
* Overall improvement in oral health- heals tooth and gum decay, receding gums, tooth aches, oral infections, and gum disease (gingivitis)
* Treats/prevents bad breath
* Prevents cavities
* Strengthens teeth
* Heals joint pain
* Heals chronic sinusitis
* Helps PMS, migraine headaches, asthma, allergies, chronic fatigue, arthritis, and diabetes
* Helps heal chronic skin problems- acne, eczema, & psoriasis
* Makes skin soft and smooth
* Heals inflammation in the body
* Strengthens/supports immune system health
* Heals bleeding gums
You will notice that when the 20 minutes is up, the oil will take on a white-ish color from all the grossies it has collected. If this is not the case, you haven't pulled long enough. Also be aware that because you have to pull for 20 minutes, the process should be slow and effortless. If your jaw starts to hurt, you're not doing it correctly (Fife, 2012). Some websites say 10-20 minutes, but if you're looking for results you're going to pull for 20 regularly. However, if the oil pulling process is difficult for you, it may be best to pull for 10 minutes and increase the duration of your pulling as you get used to it overtime. Generally, most people report that oil pulling is gross the first few times, but that it's very easy to get used to the process.
I will admit that some of the research I did AFTER my first oil pulling experience explained that the oil should NOT be spit out into the sink. Oops. It's best to spit it into a trash can or toilet, as it can solidify and clog the drain in your sink. My b. Anyways, overall I'm very pleased with my first oil pulling experience. I don't have as much sinus pressure and I could feel my sinuses beginning to clear as I was pulling. So, it's not just a bunch of bull I promise! Check out the links below for additional information on oil pulling. If you try it, be sure to comment on this post and share if it was effective for you! Happy healing, all :]
Coconut Research Center
Oil Pulling- a wonderful therapy
Oil pulling- authority nutrition
Integrative Nutrition- blog post on oil pulling
Fife, Bruce. "Oil Pulling for a Brighter Smile and Better Health." Coconut Research Center. N.p., 2012. Web. 26 May 2013. <http://www.coconutresearchcenter.org/article%20oil%20pulling.htm>.