Oil Pulling In Ayurveda – 2 Best Methods

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Oil pulling

INTRODUCTION

Ever wondered if Oil pulling really works? There is a lot of hype surrounding this topic and most of the influencers swear by this method to improve their dental hygiene. Lets look at this topic from the point of view of Ayurveda and some Researches about the oil Pulling method.

Stay tuned for the up-coming post about the Oil Pulling!

OIL PULLING IN AYURVEDA

Is oil pulling really mentioned in Ayurveda?

The answer is Yes! indeed they have and there are two methods for Oil pulling mentioned. 

First method is known as ‘Gandusha’, the term used for explaining Oil pulling. 

The Second method is known as ‘Kavala’ which is more like a mouthwash gargle.

WHAT IS GANDUSHA AND KAVALA?

Gandusha- involves holding a substantial amount of oil in the mouth without swishing. The mouth is kept full, and the liquid is held for a specific period before being spat out.

Kavala– involves taking a smaller amount of oil or Medicinal liquid in the mouth and actively swishing it around for a few minutes before spitting it out.

REFERENCES

These practices are extensively mentioned in classical Ayurvedic texts like the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.

Charaka Samhita: In Sutrasthana (Chapter 5), the importance of daily oral hygiene through Gandusha and Kavala is emphasized. 

  • Charaka details different types of oils and decoctions for various oral health benefits.

Sushruta Samhita: Sushruta describes Gandusha and Kavala in detail, highlighting their role in maintaining dental health and treating oral diseases.

Kavala and Gandusha

HOW TO PERFORM OIL PULLING?

Gandusha – Holding method:

  1. Choose an oil or liquid suitable for your needs. Commonly used oils include sesame oil, coconut oil, or herbal decoctions. Any edible oil is okay.
  2. Warm the oil slightly to a comfortable temperature. Be Careful not to make it too hot.
  3. Sit comfortably, preferably in the morning before eating or drinking.
  4. Fill your mouth completely with the oil or liquid.
  5. Hold the liquid in your mouth for about 5-10 minutes without swishing.
  6. Spit out the oil and rinse your mouth with warm water.

Kavala – Swishing method:

  1. Take a small amount of oil or liquid, about one tablespoon.
  2. Warm it slightly if desired.
  3. Sit comfortably, preferably in the morning before eating or drinking.
  4. Swish the oil around in your mouth, moving it between your teeth and across your gums.
  5. Continue swishing for 2-5 minutes.
  6. Spit out the oil and rinse your mouth with warm water.
Oil pulling infographics

BENEFITS AND RESEARCHES

Benefits According to Ayurvedic Texts and Modern Science are:

  1. Oral Health:
  • Prevents Dental Caries: Regular practice of Gandusha and Kavala can reduce the risk of cavities and tooth decay. Ayurvedic texts suggest that these practices help remove food particles and bacteria from the mouth.
    • Scientific Evidence: Studies have shown that oil pulling with sesame oil, a common oil used in Gandusha, can reduce the number of Streptococcus mutans bacteria in the mouth, which are responsible for tooth decay .
  • Strengthens Teeth and Gums: Both Gandusha and Kavala help strengthen the teeth and gums, preventing gum diseases and tooth loss.
    • Scientific Evidence: Research indicates that oil pulling can significantly reduce plaque formation and gingivitis, leading to healthier gums and stronger teeth .
  1. Detoxification:
  • Removes Toxins: The oil pulls toxins and bacteria from the mouth, aiding in the overall detoxification of the body.
    • Scientific Evidence: Studies suggest that oil pulling can help reduce the overall microbial load in the mouth, contributing to better oral hygiene and overall health .
  • Freshens Breath: It helps in maintaining fresh breath by removing harmful bacteria that cause bad breath.
    • Scientific Evidence: Research has demonstrated that oil pulling can be as effective as chlorhexidine, a commonly used antimicrobial mouthwash, in reducing halitosis (bad breath).
  1. Enhances Digestion:
  • Stimulates Salivary Secretions: These practices stimulate saliva production, which aids in digestion and enhances overall oral health.
    • Scientific Evidence: Increased saliva production helps in the initial digestion of food and maintains oral pH, preventing harmful bacterial growth .
  1. Promotes General Health:
  • Boosts Immunity: By removing toxins and improving oral hygiene, these practices can boost the immune system.
    • Scientific Evidence: Improved oral health can lead to better overall health, as oral infections and inflammation are linked to systemic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
  • Balances Doshas: Gandusha and Kavala help balance the doshas, particularly Kapha, which is associated with the mouth and throat.
    • Scientific Evidence: While the concept of doshas is unique to Ayurveda, the overall health benefits of these practices align with the scientific understanding of maintaining homeostasis and preventing disease through good oral hygiene .

DO'S AND DON'TS IN OIL PULLING

Dos:

  • Do it on an Empty Stomach: Perform Gandusha or Kavala in the morning before eating or drinking.
  • Use High-Quality Oil: Use organic, cold-pressed and edible oils for the best results.
  • Maintain Consistency: Practice daily for optimal benefits.
  • Listen to Your Body: If you experience any discomfort, stop the practice and consult a healthcare professional.
  • Follow Up with Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth after the practice to ensure complete oral hygiene.
 Don’ts:
  • Don’t Swallow the Oil: The oil contains toxins and bacteria after the practice, so avoid swallowing it.
  • Don’t Overdo It: Holding or swishing the oil for too long can cause jaw fatigue or discomfort.
  • Don’t Use Unfiltered Oils: Ensure the oil is pure and free from additives.
  • Don’t Use Cold Oil: Using oil that is too cold can be uncomfortable and less effective.
DO'S AND DON'TS

Research references:

  1. Asokan S, et al. (2008). Effect of oil pulling on Streptococcus mutans count in plaque and saliva. Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry.
  2. Amith HV, et al. (2007). Effect of oil pulling on plaque induced gingivitis. Indian Journal of Dental Research.
  3. Peedikayil FC, et al. (2015). Oil pulling for maintaining oral hygiene – A review. Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine.
  4. Asokan S, et al. (2009). Effect of oil pulling on halitosis and microorganisms causing halitosis: A randomized controlled pilot trial. Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry.
  5. Singh A, et al. (2014). Effect of oil pulling on oral health. International Journal of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry.
  6. Van Dyke TE. (2020). The link between periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease: How far have we come in the past 25 years? Journal of Clinical Periodontology.
  7. Narayan R. (2021). Ayurveda: A Comprehensive Guide to Traditional Indian Medicine for the West.

1 thought on “Oil Pulling In Ayurveda – 2 Best Methods”

  1. enthusiastic_ayush

    This is very informative for me since many people I know have oral cavities. This will surely be helpful for them

    Reply

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