Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice involving swishing an edible oil, typically coconut or sesame oil, in the mouth for an extended period to improve oral hygiene. The practice is intended to draw out impurities and requires spitting the oil out, not swallowing it. Accidental ingestion is a common concern for those new to the routine.
The Composition of Swished Oil
The primary reason practitioners are advised not to swallow the oil is due to what it accumulates during the swishing process. After 15 to 20 minutes of swishing, the oil transforms from a clear, viscous state into a thinner, milky-white liquid. This change indicates the oil has emulsified with saliva and bonded with oral debris.
The used oil contains a concentrated mixture of microorganisms, including bacteria like Streptococcus mutans, microbial plaque, and other organic matter from the mouth. The oil’s hydrophobic properties allow it to effectively bind to the fatty membranes of these microbes and other impurities. Ingesting this oil means introducing a concentrated load of these expelled substances directly into the digestive tract.
Immediate Gastrointestinal Reactions
If a small amount of the used oil is accidentally swallowed, effects are usually limited to the gastrointestinal system. Ingestion of a substance containing a high bacterial load and microbial debris can lead to temporary digestive upset. Common symptoms include mild nausea and stomach discomfort or indigestion.
The oil may also act as a mild laxative, potentially causing loose stools or temporary diarrhea. The body’s digestive system, particularly stomach acid, is effective at neutralizing the small amount of bacteria ingested. Any discomfort is typically short-lived and resolves as the body processes the oil.
Evaluating Risk Based on Volume Swallowed
The consequences of swallowing oil pulling oil are proportional to the volume ingested. Swallowing a small sip or a few drops accidentally is unlikely to cause effects beyond mild, temporary stomach upset. The digestive system can process the minimal volume of oil without significant distress.
Swallowing a large volume, such as an entire tablespoon of used oil, significantly increases the risk of pronounced symptoms like severe nausea, abdominal cramping, or vomiting. The digestive system is overwhelmed by the sheer volume of the oil and the microbial load it contains. A more serious, though extremely rare, risk is lipoid pneumonia, which occurs if the oil is aspirated (inhaled into the lungs). This risk is greatest for individuals who have difficulty swallowing or who cough while performing the practice.
What to Do If Swallowing Occurs
If you accidentally swallow some of the oil, immediately spit out any remaining oil and thoroughly rinse your mouth with clean water. This action helps remove residual contaminants. To help the digestive system recover, focus on clear fluids and rest the stomach for an hour or two.
If symptoms progress beyond mild nausea or a single episode of loose stools, medical attention should be considered. Seek professional advice if you experience persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, a fever, or difficulty breathing, as these may be signs of a more significant reaction or aspiration. To prevent future accidental swallowing, swish the oil gently and avoid tilting your head back or gargling during the procedure.