Yes. Swish Swish – Oral Health Ideas for Families.
So the longer I stay in India, the more it seems I’m exposed to natural medicine and the benefits of it. Yes, you hear about oil pulling in the Western world as well but it initially began in the East.
One of the biggest oral hygiene trends is oil pulling. I do this once in a while but definitely not often enough to reap all the benefits of it. This is definitely something I would like to continue trying to implement in my life.
Oil Pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic method that has grown to become regarded as a home remedy and alternative to mouthwash. Some say it can even be a replacement to brushing teeth! Let me know if any of you have used it in that way? It is a way to enhance the effectiveness of teeth cleaning and uphold the principles of oral hygiene, oil pulling has it’s own method. It includes swishing around a spoonful of oil in your mouth on an empty stomach for approximately 20 minutes, and then spitting it out. This helps in removing toxins from our mouths and bodies, proving beneficial not only for oral health but for the entire body.
Many different oils can be used for this process, plant-based oils being the favorable ones. The choice of oil varies across individuals ranging from sesame and sunflower, to olive, coconut and more. Oil pulling initially began with sesame oil however for those of you that have used sesame oil it is definitely pungent. Coconut oil then became the second oil of choice as it has a nicer flavour, especially when you’re swishing for 20 minutes! Coconut oil is a popular choice not only because it tastes better but it also has beneficial properties – similar to that of sesame oil. It has fatty acids containing high Lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties. Basically, it helps fight off unwanted bacteria, while also aiding in the reduction of mutants. Thus preventing tooth decay and plaque build-up. Tasty and healthy, a win-win situation! But remember; do NOT swallow the oil you’ve been swishing around.
What I like to do is that if I feel tooth sensitivity or a cavity coming on I usually add in a drop of clove essential oil (therapeutic grade) and swish that. Or if I feel like I want a fresher mouth I will do a drop of peppermint or cinnamon oil. If you’re looking for some tooth whitening add in a pinch of turmeric. Contrary to the yellow colouring it actually acts as a natural whitener.
Oil Pulling emerges as a healthier alternative to mouth wash. These plant-based oils can be found in any household. So if you manage not to use them to clean your teeth, there is always the alternative use in the kitchen. Oil Pulling does not take away from the already in place hygiene routine, but usually adds to it instead. This minor increment to the teeth-cleaning routine gives you a better smile by strengthening and whitening your teeth while refreshing your breath. It also removes bacteria and gingivitis, making gums healthier and the jaw stronger.
Double chin? You can also use your swishing time as a way to strengthen your jaw line while providing your mouth with a better environment. Way to kill two birds with one stone! Stronger teeth and a killer jawline await you.
xo, Zarine
