Five benefits of oil pulling

With oil pulling you basically swish oils like coconut and sesame oil around your mouth for about 10 minutes, before spitting it out and brushing [Shutterstock]

It's very interesting how with all this technology, we still preserve some of those ancient practices that existed thousands of years ago. We incorporate these practices into cooking processes, beauty routines and even hygiene regimens because they have shown to give results we can't easily get with modern tools and products.

One of those ancient routines that we still see today is oil pulling. With oil pulling you basically swish oils like coconut and sesame oil around your mouth for about 10 minutes, before spitting it out and brushing.

There are still some debates on whether oil pulling actually works but for sure, people who have tried it have seen some amazing benefits. There is also some scientific evidence to prove it works, and some of these perks are right here on this list.

Can help fight bad breath

Having bad breath can affect your life in so many ways. It prevents you from interacting freely with other people because you are worried that they will notice.

There are many remedies to help eliminate this problem, depending on what the root cause is, but one solution that has helped is oil pulling.

Oil pulling with the recommended oils works by reducing the harmful bacteria that can cause bad breath.

It can help prevent and treat gum disease

Gingivitis is a common gum problem that many people have dealt with. It causes your gums to feel irritated and inflamed.

A main cause of this disease is bacterial buildup. Oil pulling can help to eliminate those types of harmful bacteria for healthy gums.

Some studies have also discovered that oil pulling can help support healing in case you're already suffering from gingivitis. It kills some of those bacteria and reduces inflammation as well.

A good hygiene routine should include daily brushing and flossing [Freepik]

It helps prevent cavities

Cavities begin to form due to different causes including poor oral hygiene and an unhealthy diet that consists of sugary foods. And if you've ever had to deal with cavities before, you know how expensive they are to treat.

There is some evidence that proves how oil pulling can help reduce your risk of cavities by killing cavity causing bacteria like Streptococcus mutans.

It could reduce teeth stains

Most of us don't naturally have perfectly white teeth. We eat foods and consume drinks every day that end up staining our teeth.

Although some people claim that oil pulling can whiten your teeth, there is little evidence that supports that claim. However, it can help to reduce some of those stains that are already there, which then improves how your teeth look.

It complements your oral hygiene routine

A good hygiene routine should include daily brushing and flossing. This is the best way to maintain the health of your teeth and gums.

Although oil pulling alone cannot replace brushing and flossing, it can still be a beneficial addition to your regimen. It can boost your usual routine by fighting any harmful bacteria that may have been left behind, which can significantly reduce your risk of developing problems.