Whiter Teeth, Stronger Gums and Headache Cures: Here’s Why You Should Try Oil Pulling

It might not sounds like the most obvious method of improving your oral health, but oil pulling has long been touted as the most natural way to improve your health. The ancient holistic process asks you to swish oil around in your mouth for 15 minutes before spitting it out. Benefits include whiter teeth, stronger gums, as well as acting as a preventative measure for other conditions. Favoured by celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Shailene Woodley, the oil works to clean out harmful bacteria in your mouth which could lead to fungal overgrowth. Speaking to Marie Claire, Dr Sohère Roked explained: “First, the oils mix with the saliva, turning it into a thin, white liquid. Lipids in the oils begin to pull out toxins from the saliva. As the oil is swished around the mouth, teeth, gums and tongue, the oil continues to absorb toxins, and usually ends up turning thick and viscous and white. Once the oil has reached this consistency, it is spit out before the toxins are reabsorbed.” With improved oral hygiene, it’s not surprising that oil pulling prevents cavities, gingivitis and bad breath. Suffering with a migraine, insomnia or bronchitis? The oil is believed to help the lymphatic system of the body – and the mouth swirl could be the trick to easing symptoms of discomfort or pain. The best part? There’s no expensive oils required. Whether you want to use sesame, oil or coconut, just time yourself for 15 mins to reap the full rewards of this treatment.