History

• The Auyurvedic tradition has continued to use oil pulling as one of the ways practitioners detoxify their body and rebalance their systems. Many other cultures around the globe have employed similar methods with the purest form of the most indigenous oil available to their region. In Auyurveda, sesame oil is the most common oil used.
  
  

Technique

• All cultures perform oil pulling in a similarly basic way. Each morning before breakfast, the practitioner will put one tablespoon of oil into his mouth. The oil is then swished and sloshed around the mouth, much like you would swish with mouthwash, for approximately 15 to 20 minutes. By keeping it in your mouth and sloshing it around, you activate the natural enzymes in your saliva and the detoxification process begins. Once finished, the oil is spat out and the teeth are brushed in the regular manner. This procedure is sometimes performed up to three times per day on an empty stomach.
  
  

Expected Outcomes

• Oil pulling is said to have healed or cured a number of conditions and diseases over the ages it has been practiced. Many of the problems originate in the head and neck; bronchitis, sore throats, tooth pain, migraines and gum disease. Other conditions said to benefit are gastrointestinal, lung and heart, arthritis, blood disease and hormonal imbalances.
  
  

Possible Side Effects

• The side effects of oil pulling are similar to those of any detoxification treatment. A practitioner may experience acne eruptions, sluggishness and a general feeling of being unwell. These side effects show that toxins are being released into the blood and lymphatic systems on their way to being eliminated, and may be considered a good sign that the treatment is working.
  
  

Ways to Enhance the Procedure

• Practitioners of oil pulling should drink a significant amount of water to aid the body in flushing disease and toxins. Flushing the body's systems will increase the effect that oil pulling can provide. Another way to enhance the experience is to add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to the oil in the mouth. This refreshing addition will leave the practitioner feeling cool and refreshed both physically and mentally.