Have you ever heard of the term oil pulling? Do you know what it is or how it’s done? Do you have any idea why people are doing it? If you answered no to those questions, don't worry, because we've got you covered. But, first things first: it's got nothing to do with crude oil.

In this article, Coconuts Direct will discuss what oil pulling is, including a step-by-step guide on what you should and shouldn’t do.

What is oil pulling?

Oil pulling is the practice of swishing a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth on an empty stomach for 20 minutes to help keep your mouth clean. It is a natural, alternative way to boost your oral hygiene game and is considered one of the most impressive uses of coconut oil. It is an ancient dental technique known as “Kavala” or “Gundusha”. 

Step-by-step guide to oil pulling

1. Upon waking up, take a tablespoon of coconut oil. Then, place it in your mouth. Even if it's solid, there’s nothing to worry about. Quality coconut oil should quickly melt.
2. Swish the oil around your mouth as you would with a mouthwash.
3. Keep swirling it between your teeth and along your gums.
4. Repeat this process for about 20 minutes, then spit the oil into a trash bin.

Oil pulling: What you shouldn’t do

• Do not spit into the sink, so you won’t block your pipes with oil over time.
• Do not swallow any of the oil.

Potential benefits of oil pulling

Oil pulling is believed to offer potential benefits for oral hygiene by supporting:

• Oral cleanliness
• Access to tricky spots
• A brighter smile 
• Oral health naturally
• Breath improvement.

However, it is vital to note that results can vary from person to person as scientific evidence on this subject is limited.

Conclusion: Is oil pulling good for you?

While many people report positive experiences with oil pulling, it is essential to note that scientific evidence supporting its benefits is still limited. Additionally, oil pulling should not replace regular brushing and flossing, but can be used as a supplemental practice for maintaining oral hygiene. 

As with any health-related practice, it is always a good idea to consult a dentist or healthcare professional before incorporating oil into your routine, especially if you have any oral health concerns.

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References and resources

• Bedosky, L. (2023) - 4 Potential Health Benefits of Oil Pulling.
• Healthline (2022) - 6 Benefits of Oil Pulling — Plus How to Do It.
• Naseem, M. et al. (2017) - Oil pulling and importance of traditional medicine in oral health maintenance.
• Wallace, T. (2019) - Health Effects of Coconut Oil-A Narrative Review of Current Evidence.
• Woolley, J. et al. (2020) - The effect of oil pulling with coconut oil to improve dental hygiene and oral health: A systematic review.