It might not be as well-known (yet) as Dr. Oz’s 48-hour cleanse or the master cleanse, but oil pulling is every bit as effective—if not more.
Oil pulling is a form of detoxification with origins dating back to India more than 1,000 years ago. In 1992, the practice was introduced in the United States. Since then, the practice has been growing in popularity among people looking for everything from increased energy to healthier mouths to a better night’s sleep.
What to do
The actual process of oil pulling is relatively easy. All it requires is a single tablespoon of raw vegetable oil and about 20 minutes of dedicated time in the morning.
First thing in the morning, crawl out of bed and drink a couple of glasses of water. This will get your saliva flowing. Then, put the raw vegetable oil in your mouth and swish for about 20 minutes. You can use any raw vegetable oil, including cold-pressed sunflower oil, sesame oil, and coconut oil. All work extremely well for oil pulling.
After between five and 15 minutes, spit the oil into the trash (not the sink, oil clogs sinks). Then continue on with your day knowing that you’re reaping the benefits of oil pulling.
What it does
The list of benefits people get from oil pulling is extensive:
- whiter teeth
- stronger gum tissue
- enhanced immune system
- reduced body aches and pain
- increased energy
- better sleep
- clearer sinuses
- better breath
- balanced hormones.
It’s also been shown to promote an overall detoxification of the body, which can lead to improved skin quality, a reduction in the number and length of migraines and an overall improved quality of life.
How it works
The act of swishing raw vegetable oil around in your mouth will activate enzymes that detoxify the entire body. The enzymes pull a lot of bad stuff—bacteria, toxins, fungus—out of the body and help clean the bloodstream.
Oil pulling is not as well known or as widely practiced as many other detoxification practices, but it’s equally (if not more) effective.