Heal and Detox with Oil Pulling: The What, Why and How

Monday, March 01, 2010 by: Elizabeth Walling
Tags: oil pulling, detoxification, health news

(NewsTarget) In a society riddled with complicated, expensive and even dangerous detoxification methods, oil pulling offers a technique that is refreshingly simple. Oil pulling is a practice taken from Ayurvedic medicine that involves swishing, or pulling, unrefined oil in your mouth for several minutes. The modern adaptation of oil pulling has only recently become popular in Western society, but already many are reporting amazing results from this unorthodox therapy.

Why should anyone practice oil pulling? What are the benefits?

The alleged benefits of oil pulling cover everything from curing gingivitis to facilitating weight loss. Some users even report a decrease in gray hair! However, since oil pulling is not a scientifically documented procedure, claims like these should probably be taken with a grain of salt. On the other hand, since oil pulling is such an easy and virtually harmless practice, it's certainly worth a try to see if some real benefits can be had. Here is a list of some of the benefits associated with oil pulling:

- Whiter, straighter teeth
- Healthy, pink gums
- Increased energy
- Decreased migraine headaches
- Clear sinuses
- Less severe asthma
- Decreased allergies
- Improved PMS symptoms
- Regulated menstrual cycles
- Better sleep
- Clear skin

Overall, oil pulling is known as a powerful method of detoxifying the body. Coconut oil expert Dr. Bruce Fife and author of Oil Pulling Therapy says, "Oil pulling is one of the most remarkable methods of detoxification and healing I have ever experienced in my career as a naturopathic physician."

How to Practice Oil Pulling:

Traditionally unrefined sunflower or sesame oil was used for oil pulling, but today many other oils are used as well. Unrefined olive or coconut oil come highly recommended if you don't want to use the traditional oils.

- Ideally oil pulling should be done first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
- About one tablespoon of oil should be used.
- A couple drops of essential oil or a healing oil like oregano can be added if desired.
- Swish the oil slowly and methodically, not vigorously.
- Try to make sure the oil reaches every region of your mouth.
- Be careful not to swallow the oil.
- Continue swishing the oil for at least 10 minutes, preferably more like 20 minutes.
- The oil will become very thin and foamy as you swish.
- Spit the oil out and rinse your mouth thoroughly with pure water.
- Brush with a natural toothpaste afterwards.

Oil pulling can be done as often as you like. Daily sessions are recommended if you have specific health problems you are trying to address with oil pulling. This traditional practice is also an excellent measure to add to your daily routine to facilitate detoxification and overall health.

For More Information:

http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/vi...

http://www.folkremediesforyou.com/oil-pullin...

http://www.coconutresearchcenter.org/article...

About the author

Elizabeth Walling is a freelance writer specializing in health and family nutrition. She is a strong believer in natural living as a way to improve health and prevent modern disease. She enjoys thinking outside of the box and challenging common myths about health and wellness. You can visit her blog to learn more:
www.livingthenourishedlife.com/2009/10/welco...