OIL PULLING - HOLY GRAIL OR FAD?

Recently a friend posted a Facebook link to Oil Pulling. Originally a traditional method for keeping the mouth healthy it has, in recent times, become something of a phenomenon, sparking much debate online and within the natural health communities. 

So here I at 6am on a Monday morning about to try it for myself… Turns out I'm not a natural swiller and only last 5 minutes with the oil in my mouth before I spit it out - bleugh! My lips do feel beautifully moisturised though and the faint taste of Coconut is pleasant. I will endeavour to continue this routine once a day, building up to 20 minutes and report back on my findings.

What is Oil Pulling?

Swilling Organic Unrefined Coconut Oil around in your mouth for 20 minutes a day

What does it do?

Supposedly rids your mouth of bacteria to improve oral and overall health

Benefits of Oil Pulling?

• Whitens teeth

• Strengthens your teeth, gums and jaw and has been recommended for those with sensitised teeth.

• Prevents cavities & gingivitis.

• Clear Breathing and Reduced Allergies

• Reducing Skin Conditions such as Eczema and Psoriasis

• Aids in overall detox

• Prevents Bad Breath

• Remedy for General Pain and hormonal Imbalances

Does it really work?

There's a huge amount of discussion out there on the web about Oil Pulling...

My teeth are so so so much whiter (which is great cause I can’t do any sort of white strips- my teeth are too sensitive), I have been sleeping much easier which is a big feat for this insomniac, my teeth have been less sensitive to hot & cold, & the best result of all- MY JAW PAIN HAS DECREASED BIG TIME!!! I have major jaw issues & awful TMJ 

- Fashion Lush

Negatives?

Oil pulling’s positive effects are based entirely on anecdote and not at all on clinical research – because there’s been very little. Pubmed lists six clinical studies related to oil pulling, all performed in India, and their quality and results seem all over the map. Some do indicate mild improvement in gum health, comparable to mouthwash use. But they’re not well blinded, use very small sample sizes and involve oil pulling only as part of a proper oral hygiene regimen. So it’s impossible to tell what’s causing said improvement. 

- Skeptoid

Like it or loathe it? I would love to hear your thoughts and, of course, I will keep up with my efforts and report back if I notice any improvement on my overall health and general wellbeing.