Oil pulling is an ancient folk remedy, rooted in the traditional Indian medical system of Ayurveda, that has found renewed popularity as a modern wellness trend. This practice involves rinsing the mouth with oil to promote oral health. While various oils like sesame and sunflower have historical use, coconut oil is now the most common choice due to its accessibility and mild flavor. This method prompts a closer look at the available scientific evidence to determine its true effectiveness as an oral hygiene aid.
The Traditional Practice and Proposed Mechanism
The practice of oil pulling, known in Ayurvedic texts as kavala or gandusha, dates back thousands of years. Traditionally, proponents claimed that swishing the oil could “pull” toxins and impurities from the body, strengthening the jaw and improving the voice.
Modern theories suggest a biochemical mechanism involving the oil’s interaction with saliva and oral microorganisms. The physical action of swishing creates an emulsion that disrupts plaque, the sticky bacterial film.
Coconut oil contains a high concentration of lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid with antimicrobial properties. When metabolized, lauric acid forms monolaurin, a compound known to interfere with the cell walls of various bacteria and fungi. This combination is the primary proposed mechanism for oil pulling’s effect on oral pathogens.
Scientific Assessment of Oral Health Benefits
Clinical studies have investigated oil pulling’s effects on specific markers of oral health, focusing particularly on plaque and gingivitis. Several trials show that daily coconut oil pulling leads to a statistically significant reduction in both Plaque Index and Gingival Index scores. Some studies observed a reduction in plaque and gum inflammation after two to four weeks of consistent use.
The effect of coconut oil pulling has also been compared to standard chemical rinses, like chlorhexidine mouthwash, on harmful bacteria. Research indicates that oil pulling significantly reduces the number of Streptococcus mutans bacteria in the saliva. S. mutans is a primary microbe responsible for dental decay and cavity formation.
While effective against some oral pathogens, oil pulling’s antimicrobial activity is often less pronounced than that of chlorhexidine mouthwash in comparisons. However, oil pulling offers an alternative without the side effects sometimes associated with chemical rinses, such as altered taste sensation or tooth staining. The lauric acid component contributes to this measurable reduction in microbial load.
Claims that oil pulling can whiten teeth or provide systemic detoxification are unsubstantiated by current scientific literature. The perceived whitening effect is likely due to the removal of surface stains and plaque, not true bleaching of the tooth enamel. There is no evidence that swishing oil can pull “toxins” from the bloodstream or other parts of the body. The scientific community views oil pulling as a supplementary oral hygiene practice, not a remedy for whole-body health issues.
Proper Technique and Safety Considerations
For individuals interested in trying the practice, the typical technique involves placing about one tablespoon of coconut oil into the mouth. It is recommended to use extra-virgin coconut oil, as it retains more of its natural compounds, including lauric acid. The oil should be gently swished and “pulled” between the teeth for 15 to 20 minutes. The process is best performed first thing in the morning on an empty stomach, before brushing one’s teeth.
After the swishing is complete, it is crucial to spit the oil into a trash receptacle, not down a sink or toilet drain. Coconut oil solidifies at room temperature and can cause significant plumbing clogs over time.
While considered generally safe, there are a few safety concerns. Swallowing the oil after swishing should be avoided, as it contains the bacteria and debris collected from the mouth and may cause stomach upset or diarrhea. People with a coconut allergy should not attempt the practice with coconut oil.
There have been rare case reports of lipoid pneumonia linked to the improper inhalation of oil droplets, which can occur if the oil is vigorously gargled or accidentally aspirated. Oil pulling must always be considered a supplemental part of an routine and not a replacement for regular brushing, flossing, or professional dental checkups.