How Oil Pulling Helps in Receding Gums & Other Oral Diseases

Abstract

Oil pulling, rooted in the ancient Ayurvedic practices of Gandusha and Kavala, is more than just a natural oral hygiene method; it is a holistic therapy aimed at balancing the body’s three fundamental energies or doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Particularly effective for managing receding gums, oil pulling promotes gum health by detoxifying the mouth, reducing inflammation, and enhancing tissue nourishment. This article explores the Ayurvedic foundation of oil pulling, its connection to dosha balance, and practical guidance for incorporating it into your daily wellness routine.

What is Oil Pulling?

Oil Pulling is an ancient practice, which involves swishing oil in your mouth to improve your dental health. It is rooted in Ayurvedic medicine and originated in India 2000 years ago. It has benefits both local as well as systemic. It is similar to the modern-day uses of mouthwashes and rinses. Oil Pulling fights with microorganisms and helps to maintain oral hygiene. It should ideally be done on an empty stomach before brushing your teeth in a sitting position with your chin up. It can be taken thrice a day before every meal to avoid any oral disease.

Oils that can be used

1. Coconut Oil

1. Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory
2. Contains lauric acid, effective against harmful oral bacteria like Streptococcus mutans

2. Sesame Oil

1. Traditional oil used in Ayurveda
2. Rich in antioxidants and vitamin E
3. Proven to reduce plaque and gingivitis

3. Sunflower Oil

1. Less common but still effective
2. Has mild antibacterial properties and is easily available

4. Olive Oil

1. High in antioxidants
2. Anti-inflammatory properties help soothe gum irritation

How to do Oil Pulling?

1. Vata Imbalance: Warm sesame oil
2. Pitta Imbalance: Cool coconut oil
3. Kapha Imbalance: Sesame oil or mustard oil
4. Use 1 tablespoon of the oil.
5. Swish gently in your mouth for 10–20 minutes, ensuring you do not swallow.
6. Spit out into a trash bin.
7. Rinse your mouth with warm water or herbal decoction (triphala kwath is ideal).
8. Brush your teeth with a natural or Ayurvedic toothpaste.
   

Best Time – Early morning on an empty stomach.

Mechanism of Action

1. Saponification:- When oil is swished in the mouth, it mixes with the saliva and forms an emulsion. And then the oil penetrates deep into the gums and teeth. The oil also bonds with the bacterial cell membrane, disrupting the structure, which can lead to the destruction of the harmful bacteria in the mouth.
2. Adhesion to the Toxins and Bacteria:- The oil has the natural ability to pull and adhere to fat-soluble substances, including bacteria, toxins, and plaque. These bacteria, when they are trapped in the fat-soluble oil, can be removed when the oil is spit out.
3. Salivation:- Oil Pulling increases saliva production which neutralizes the acid and breaks down the harmful substances, protecting the teeth and gums.
4. Reduction in bacterial load:- The primary use of Oil pulling is that it removes harmful bacteria (like Streptococcus mutans), and toxins, and reduces the chances of gingivitis, periodontitis, etc
5. Decrease the inflammation:- Oil has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties which reduce the inflammation around the gums and promote overall health.
6. Whitening effect:- Oil pulling is also believed to help with teeth whitening, as the oil may help remove surface stains from the teeth. While this effect is subtle, regular oil pulling may contribute to the maintenance of a cleaner, brighter smile.

Benefits of Oil Pulling

1.  Kill the harmful bacteria in the mouth.
2.  Helps to control the bad breath.
3.  Prevent the chances of tooth cavities.
4.  Helps to reduce inflammation and improve gum health.
5.  Helps in teeth whitening.
6.  Helps in the body’s detoxification.
7.  Improves the quality of sleep.
8.  Helps with acne and with other issues.
9.  Help with certain pain issues and hormonal imbalances.
10.   It may also relieve dry mouth, throat, and chapped lips.

Ayurvedic View on Oil Pulling

In Ayurveda, oil pulling is part of Gandusha and Kavala practices—used to support oral health and overall balance. Using oils like sesame or coconut helps calm Vata by reducing dryness, soothes Pitta by cooling inflammation, and balances Kapha by clearing mucus and aiding detox. It’s a simple daily habit with deep healing effects.

1. Gandusha

Gandusha has been explained by the great Ayurveda practitioners Sushruta and Vagbhata. In Gandusha oil or decoction is used for cleaning the oral cavity. The oil used is in a larger quantity, as used in larger quantities we cannot keep the oil in the mouth for a longer time as it is in quantity. There is no movement in the mouth and should be spitted out within a few seconds.

Benefits of Gandusha

1. Gandusha is believed to help reduce plaque buildup, kill harmful bacteria, and promote healthier gums and teeth.
2.  It can also help with bad breath (halitosis) by reducing the bacteria responsible for it.
3. The practice is thought to draw out toxins from the body, a process known as oil pulling, through the mucous membranes in the mouth, promoting overall detoxification.
4.  Some people report clearer skin as a result of oil pulling, likely due to the detoxification effect, as toxins are drawn out through the mouth.
5.  Reducing the toxic load in the body may support a stronger immune system and enhance the body’s ability to fight off infections.
6. The act of swishing oil in the mouth can help strengthen the jaw muscles and reduce tension, which may be helpful for those suffering from TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders.

2. Kavala

Another legendary Ayurvedic expert Charaka, has termed the oil pulling as kavala. In Kavala, both oil and decoction can be used. Oil is used in smaller quantities, so it should be kept in the mouth for at least 15-20 minutes before spitting it out. It is a single procedure and can be done at home.

Benefits of Kavala

1.  Regular Kavala practice helps eliminate the bacteria responsible for bad breath, leaving the mouth feeling fresh and clean.
2.  Kavala can improve gum health by reducing inflammation, bleeding, and irritation of the gums, which helps prevent conditions like gingivitis.
3.  Gargling with herbal decoctions or medicated oils, such as those containing anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial properties, can soothe a sore throat and help with mouth infections like ulcers and throat infections.
4.   It helps maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the mouth, preventing the overgrowth of harmful microbes that could lead to oral health issues like cavities or gum problems.
5.   Kavala is believed to draw out toxins from the mouth and throat. This is why it’s seen as a way to detoxify the body, supporting overall health.
6.  Some practitioners believe that the detoxification effect of oil pulling can have positive effects on the skin, potentially reducing acne or skin inflammation.

How Does Oil Pulling Help In Receding Gums?

Oil pulling helps promote oral health by helping to remove bacteria, reduce plaque, and improve gum health. When it comes to receding gums, oil pulling can offer a few potential benefits:

1. Reduces Bacteria:-  Oil pulling may help reduce the bacterial load in the mouth, especially harmful bacteria that contribute to gum disease. Fewer bacteria mean lower chances of inflammation, which can prevent further gum recession.
2. Improves Gum Health:- Swishing oil can improve circulation in the gums, which may help to nourish and strengthen the tissue. While it may not reverse receding gums, it could help prevent further damage and support overall gum health.
3. Reduces Plaque and Tartar:-   Plaque buildup is one of the leading causes of gum disease and recession. Oil pulling can help reduce plaque by binding to it and making it easier to remove when rinsed out, thus lowering the risk of gum issues.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Property:- Coconut oil, in particular, has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe the irritation and inflammation often associated with receding gums. This could help reduce the discomfort that comes with gum recession.
5. Supports Healing:- Some proponents believe oil pulling can speed up the healing process by promoting the regeneration of gum tissue. While this is not clinically proven to reverse severe gum recession, it could support the overall health and function of the gums.

How Does Oil Pulling Help In Other Diseases?

1. Detoxification:- Oil pulling is believed to help remove toxins from the body. The idea is that the oil pulls toxins from the bloodstream through the mucous membranes in the mouth. While there isn’t strong scientific evidence to support this, it is a common claim among those who practice it.
2.  Headaches and Migraine:-  There are claims that oil pulling can help reduce headaches and migraines, possibly by decreasing inflammation or promoting better circulation. Still, these claims have not been widely studied in clinical trials.
3. Sinus Issues:-  Some individuals find relief from sinus congestion or sinus infections through oil pulling. This may be due to the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of oils like coconut oil. Oil pulling is thought to help clear mucus and alleviate symptoms of sinus problems, though more research is needed.
4. Joint and Arthritis Pain:- Oil pulling can have an anti-inflammatory effect on joints and help with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. This is thought to happen due to the potential systemic effects of reducing inflammation in the body.
5. Stress Reduction:- The oil-pulling report enhanced mental clarity and a sense of calm. While this is more likely related to the mindfulness aspect of the practice (taking a moment to relax and focus), it might also be linked to improved oral health, which can indirectly influence overall well-being.

Conclusion

In this article, we read about how oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic technique, can support the healing of receding gums. By reducing harmful bacteria, inflammation, and plaque buildup, major contributors to gum recession, oil pulling strengthens gum tissues and enhances overall oral hygiene. Regular use of oils like sesame or coconut oil promotes natural healing, making it an effective complementary remedy for maintaining gum health. For more details, you can visit our site, which is www. www.PlanetAyurveda.com