Oil pulling is an ancient practice originating in Ayurvedic medicine that involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in the mouth for an extended period to support oral hygiene. This method is intended to cleanse the mouth and reduce harmful bacteria, contributing to better gum health and fresher breath. Olive oil is certainly an option for this practice, but its effectiveness must be measured against the properties of more commonly recommended oils.
Olive Oil Versus Traditional Pulling Oils
Olive oil can be used for oil pulling because it is a safe, edible oil containing beneficial compounds like antioxidants and monounsaturated fats. The primary fatty acid in olive oil is oleic acid, which makes up about 70% of its composition. While these components offer anti-inflammatory effects, olive oil is generally not the preferred choice for maximizing the potential antimicrobial benefits of oil pulling.
The standard recommendation for oil pulling is coconut oil, largely due to its high concentration of lauric acid. Lauric acid is a medium-chain triglyceride that possesses strong antimicrobial properties, making it particularly effective at potentially disrupting the cell membranes of bacteria in the mouth. A small study comparing the two oils in patients with mild to moderate gingivitis found that coconut oil resulted in a more significant decrease in plaque and gingival scores than olive oil.
The difference in fatty acid profiles suggests that coconut oil may provide a more potent effect against oral pathogens like Streptococcus mutans, a primary bacterium associated with tooth decay. The practical experience of oil pulling differs between the two oils. Olive oil has a distinct, sometimes strong flavor and a higher viscosity, which some users find less palatable. Compliance with the routine is often higher with coconut oil, which has a milder taste and a lower viscosity when warmed in the mouth.
Scientific Mechanism of Oil Pulling
The most straightforward mechanism is the mechanical action of swishing, where the viscous liquid physically loosens and dislodges debris, food particles, and plaque from the surfaces of teeth and gums. This constant motion forces the oil into all the crevices of the mouth, enhancing the physical removal of material that contributes to bad breath and gum irritation.
A second, more specific mechanism involves the principle of lipid attraction. Many oral bacteria are encased in a lipid (fatty) outer membrane, and they naturally adhere to the fat molecules in the swishing oil. As the oil is pulled through the teeth, these microorganisms are attracted to and trapped within the oil matrix, which is then spit out, effectively removing them from the oral cavity.
A third process that occurs during oil pulling is the emulsification and potential saponification of the oil. When the oil is agitated with saliva, it emulsifies, increasing its surface area. The alkaline components in saliva can also trigger a process called saponification, which is the alkaline hydrolysis of fat, essentially creating a soap-like substance that further enhances the cleansing action.
Practical Guide and Safety Considerations
To practice oil pulling, use one tablespoon of your chosen oil, ideally first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Place the oil in your mouth and gently swish it for a period between 10 and 20 minutes. Maintain a gentle action without straining the jaw or throat, as the goal is to draw the oil through the teeth.
The oil should never be swallowed, as it will contain the bacteria and debris that have been collected from the mouth, which could cause stomach upset. After completing the swishing time, the now milky and thinner oil must be spit directly into a trash receptacle. Spitting the oil into a sink or toilet is discouraged because the oil can solidify and cause significant plumbing clogs over time.
Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water after spitting out the oil before brushing and flossing. Oil pulling is considered a complementary therapy and should not be used as a replacement for daily brushing and flossing. The practice is not recommended for young children due to the risk of aspirating the oil into the lungs.