The Benefits of Oil Pulling: An Ancient Ayurvedic Ritual for Oral Health
Known in Sanskrit as Kavala or Gandusha, oil pulling works on the basis that our tongue is linked to vital organs that are impacted by this daily practice. According to Ayurveda detoxing the mouth has a flow on positive effect on heart health, kidneys, lungs and your digestive system.
So… What is Oil Pulling?
It involves placing a tablespoon of natural oil (such as coconut or sesame - depending on your doshic balance) on the tongue and swirling this around the mouth. Traditionally this is done for 15 to 20 minutes, but getting started with 5 minutes is fine too. Make sure to practice on an empty stomach. The oil acts like a magnet for toxins, bacteria and impurities, drawing them out through the mouth and reducing the toxic load on the body.
Going beyond oral health, gandusha is a technique applied in Ayurvedic dinacarya (daily routines) that foster a preventative approach to wellbeing management. This is the Ayurvedic way to overall wellness and disease prevention.
The ideal time for oil pulling is early in the morning, before consuming any food or drinks. This is when the body is naturally releasing toxins, and oil pulling helps amplify that detoxification process. Different oils can be used depending on your dosha or health goals:
Coconut Oil: Cooling and antibacterial, ideal for Pitta types.
Black Sesame Oil: Traditional choice, warming and grounding — great for Vata balance.
Sunflower Oil: Neutral and light, suitable for both Pitta and Kapha.
Mustard Oil: Strong, stimulating oil ideal for Kapha imbalances.
Ghee: Soothing and nourishing, good for inflammation and ulcers in the mouth.
The Ayurvedic Perspective on Balancing Doshas
Vata: Sesame oil to reduce dryness and promote calm.
Pitta: Coconut or sunflower oil to cool heat and inflammation.
Kapha: Mustard or sesame oil to energize and reduce congestion.
Key Benefits
Improved oral hygiene: Reduces plaque, bacteria, and bad breath.
Healthier gums: Helps reduce inflammation and bleeding gums.
Fewer stains, whiter teeth: Over time, oil pulling can help reduce surface stains naturally.
Detoxification: Removes toxins (ama) from the body, especially those that accumulate overnight.
Improved digestion: By preventing harmful bacteria from entering the gut.
Stronger immunity: As a result of reduced bacterial load and inflammation.
How to Practice Oil Pulling:
Choose your oil (see suitable types below).
Measure 1 tablespoon of the oil.
Swish gently in the mouth for 10–20 minutes. Do not swallow or gargle.
Spit it out into a bin (not the sink as this can clog up the piping)
Rinse with warm water.
Brush your teeth as normal