Coconut Oil Pulling

Can you really remove toxins from your body through a mouthwash? Try it for yourself. Here we have the lowdown on the increasingly popular fad of coconut oil pulling.

 The snowballing popularity of coconut oil has highlighted some pretty impressive benefits and uses of the oil itself. From culinary features to shiny hair and savvy skin care potions. Body and Soul magazine also wrote an article featuring scientifically-backed studies linked to a potential of reducing weight, easing digestion and curbing sugar cravings through the use of coconut oil.

Oil pulling is one use of coconut oil that has seemingly not yet featured as prominently as the others. However, try it, and the benefits are said to be worth it.

 When our Bondi Beach Tea Co. team hears of something so good, it is in our instincts to delve further into it. So, without further ado let us introduce you to coconut oil pulling.

 What is coconut oil pulling?

 Coconut oil pulling is a method of using oil to clean your mouth and rid it of any bacteria. In the past, other oils such as sunflower oil and sesame oil have been used, but coconut oil is rumoured to be more effective through some of its health properties.

 How does coconut oil pulling get to work?

 Our mouth is home to thousands of tiny bacteria. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Microbiology ^[1], there are more than 700 actual types of bacterial species lingering in our mouth. Some of that bacteria have been linked with oral diseases and a number of the most common bacterial infections in humans, such as caries and periodontitis.

 One of the leading contenders for plaque and gingivitis is also found lurking in the depths of your oral cavity.

 Coconut oil pulling is undertaken to help rid your mouth of bacteria. The method involves swishing a small amount of oil around your mouth and spitting it out once you are done. This is said to encourage the bacteria, which hides away in the plaque in your mouth, to stick to the oil. The oil then dissolves it, and it is discarded when you dispose of the oil.

 Why is coconut oil among the best solutions to use?

 Aside from having a pleasant flavour, coconut oil contains a beneficial substance known as lauric acid. This medium-chain fatty acid is said to help get rid of organisms like bacteria, fungus and viruses. One study ^[2] conducted also showed lauric acid had a potential of being used as an alternative treatment for antibiotic therapy of acne vulgaris, which is the most common disorder of the human skin.

As we have mentioned in the past MCT oil which is derived from coconut oil has many benefits. Possibly from the antibacterial, antiviral properties. You can find out more here.

 What are benefits of coconut oil pulling?

 By undertaking the method of coconut oil pulling daily, detoxification is said to be among the benefits. The oil penetrates deep into the gums and pulls out the toxins that could be hiding away between the teeth as well.

 Typically, coconut oil pulling has been linked to:

 Helping to ward off gingivitis, which is a gum inflammation initiated when our body tries to fight off the bacteria settled within plaque

• Helping to hamper the build-up of plaque
• Helping to keep breath fresh – bad breath comes from a gassy, chemical smell from bacteria
• Coconut oil is a cheaper, healthier alternative to chemical mouthwashes
• It has a potential to boost your metabolism
• It is easy to use

 To benefit from coconut oil pulling, it is recommended that you undertake the cleaning regime daily.

 How to do coconut oil pulling

 There is not that much to the process, just a little bit of time and dedication each day.

 Allow at least 15 to 20 minutes daily

• It is recommended that you do the routine on an empty stomach in the morning. However, you can do it at night before you clean your teeth as well
• Using up to one tablespoon of the oil - swish it around your mouth and throughout your teeth. Aim for about 15 minutes of swishing
• When you have finished swishing the oil around you will need to spit it out
• Brush your teeth with any oil residue left in your mouth and then rinse well
• Complete the routine by brushing and cleaning your teeth as usual

 What are the side effects?

 You might notice some symptoms of coconut oil pulling if your body is harbouring any toxins. These symptoms could appear as pimples or breakouts, congestion, or a mild headache. Any symptoms caused by the routine will lessen over time as the toxins dissipate*.

 Those who have already discovered coconut oil pulling say their teeth feel cleaner and their breath fresher. However, the best way to find out how effective it might be is by giving it a go for yourself.

 For good oral health, it is important to follow a strict regime for cleaning your teeth. Brushing after meals and flossing at least once a day can help to keep bad bacteria away.

 Diet also plays an important role in managing bacteria. Gut-healthy foods like probiotics should be included in your diet. Avoid sugary or starchy foods especially if you don’t have access to your toothbrush.

 Need to fix a sugar craving?

 We can’t help with the sugar but we have plenty of tasty, all-natural herbal teas to enjoy instead of a quick-fix sugar snack. Bondi Beach Tea Co. tea blends are free of any added nasties and are packed with flavour. Check out the full range we have available online here.

 Moreover, for beautiful skin, try our new Organic Matcha Mint Body Scrub. It smells divine and makes your skin feel soft and smooth – order it here.

 * If you do experience any irregularities with your health, don’t just put it down to oil pulling. Be sure to consult a health practitioner for appropriate medical advice.

  References:

1. Defining the Normal Bacteria Flora of the Oral Cavity: J Clin Microbiol, v.43(11); 2005 Nov
2. Antimicrobial Property of Lauric Acid Against Propionibacterium acnes: Its Therapeutic Potential for Inflammatory Acne Vulgaris: J Invest Dermatol. Author manuscript; available in PMC 2009 Nov 3.