Dry mouth, formally known as xerostomia, causes discomfort and negatively affects a person’s quality of life. This persistent oral dryness happens when the salivary glands do not produce enough saliva to keep the mouth adequately moist. Coconut oil frequently emerges as a popular home remedy for managing these symptoms. This article evaluates the properties of coconut oil and its practical application to determine its potential role in managing xerostomia.
Understanding Dry Mouth
Xerostomia is characterized by a reduced or absent flow of saliva. Saliva is a natural defense mechanism, helping to lubricate the mouth, aid in digestion, and neutralize acids to protect tooth enamel from decay. When saliva production is compromised, patients often experience difficulty speaking, chewing, and swallowing, which can also diminish the sense of taste.
The lack of natural salivary flow creates an environment where harmful bacteria and fungi can thrive. Chronic dry mouth significantly increases the risk of developing severe dental decay, gum disease, and oral infections like candidiasis, or oral thrush. The underlying causes of xerostomia are wide-ranging, with the most common being a side effect of hundreds of prescription and over-the-counter medications, including antihistamines and antidepressants.
Dry mouth can also be a symptom of systemic health conditions, such as diabetes and autoimmune disorders like Sjögren’s syndrome, where the immune system attacks moisture-producing glands. Radiation therapy for head and neck cancer is another frequent cause, often leading to permanent salivary gland damage. For any individual experiencing persistent dry mouth, addressing the underlying cause is the primary goal of treatment.
Properties of Coconut Oil Relevant to Oral Health
Coconut oil is considered a remedy for dry mouth due to its physical structure and chemical makeup. The oil is a fat that is solid at room temperature but quickly melts in the mouth, creating a thin coating on the oral tissues. This oily layer can act as a lubricant, providing an immediate, palliative effect by mimicking the moisturizing action of natural saliva.
Chemically, the oil is rich in Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), which are fatty acids metabolized differently than long-chain fats. Approximately 50% of these MCTs are Lauric Acid (C12), which is especially relevant for oral health. When metabolized, lauric acid converts into a compound called monolaurin, which has been shown to possess antimicrobial properties.
This antimicrobial action is theorized to help manage secondary oral issues associated with xerostomia, such as an increased microbial load and fungal overgrowth. Lauric acid is effective against various pathogens, including bacteria that contribute to tooth decay and the fungi responsible for oral thrush. Therefore, coconut oil may not only moisturize the mouth but also contribute to a healthier oral microbiome.
Application Methods and Practical Efficacy
Coconut oil can be used to manage dry mouth symptoms through two primary methods, both focusing on maximizing the oil’s contact time with the mucosal surfaces.
Direct Application
The first is a simple, direct application, where a small amount of oil, perhaps 5 milliliters, is swabbed or gently rubbed onto the tongue and inner cheeks. This method is often used before meals or just before sleep to provide a quick, localized moisturizing effect.
Oil Pulling
The second method is oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing a tablespoon of liquid coconut oil around the mouth for about 10 to 20 minutes. The oil should be “pulled” and pushed through the teeth before being spit out, not swallowed. This duration allows the oil to thoroughly coat all surfaces, offering a more sustained lubricating effect.
Current research suggests that coconut oil acts primarily as a temporary lubricant and moisturizer for symptom relief rather than a cure for the underlying cause of xerostomia. One feasibility study involving head and neck cancer patients with radiation-induced dry mouth found that while the oil was safe and inexpensive to use, there was no statistically significant improvement in quality-of-life scores related to dry mouth. However, a notable portion of participants chose to continue using the oil beyond the trial period, suggesting they found some individual benefit. The consensus remains that while anecdotal evidence is common and the oil is biologically plausible as a palliative treatment, large-scale clinical trials specifically validating coconut oil’s efficacy for xerostomia are still limited.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While coconut oil is a safe, feasible, and low-cost option for managing the immediate discomfort of dry mouth, it is not a substitute for professional medical care. Persistent dry mouth is often a sign of an underlying medical issue, such as an undiagnosed systemic disease or a side effect from a necessary medication. If symptoms are frequent, severe, or cause discomfort despite using home remedies like coconut oil and drinking water, a consultation with a dentist or physician is necessary.
Medical professionals can identify the root cause of the xerostomia and recommend established treatments that may be more effective. These options include prescription medications that stimulate the salivary glands, or specialized saliva substitutes designed to mimic the properties of natural saliva. If you notice signs of oral infection, such as painful white patches, or if the dry mouth makes chewing or speaking difficult, seek prompt medical attention. Do not stop taking any prescribed medication without first consulting the prescribing doctor.