For optimal health and youthful, radiant and vibrant skin, it’s essential to take care of the inside of our bodies in addition to the outside. Detoxifying is an important part of this process.

The ancient Ayurvedic practice of oil pulling (called Kavala or Gandusha) has been used for over a thousand years for detoxification, oral health and promoting overall wellness. The best time to oil pull is in the morning prior to eating breakfast. It’s a simple process requiring nothing more than a daily swishing of a high quality organic oil around your mouth and through your teeth for 15 to 20 minutes, spitting out the oil (into the trash or disposable cup so as not to clog the pipes) and rinsing your mouth well to ensure no bacteria and/or toxins remain.

Oils commonly used for oil pulling are sesame, sunflower, olive and coconut (which is solid at room temperature but quickly liquifies in your mouth). Coconut oil is an excellent choice because it is high in lauric acid, which has powerful antimicrobial properties.

Some of the specific benefits attributed to oil pulling are: removing toxins and bacteria from the body, clearing the skin, reducing eczema, reducing sinus congestion, alleviating allergy symptoms, correcting hormone imbalances, increasing metabolism, strengthening the gums, reducing plaque and whitening teeth.

Oil pulling seems be of particular value in promoting good oral health. A 2008 clinical study published in the Journal of Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, concluded that oil pulling can be used and an effective preventive adjunct in maintaining and improving oral health. Results of the study revealed a significant reduction in bacteria count in plaque and saliva samples over the course of the study. A 2009 clinical study published in the Indian Journal of Dental Research concluded oil pulling therapy showed a significant reduction in the plaque index and gingival scores in adolescents with plaque induced gingivitis.

Incorporating oil pulling into your daily routine may be just the thing you need to boost yourself to a higher level of health, well being, and an even more beautiful smile - which wonderfully compliments your beautiful complexion!