In the modern world, where we hear about a new superfood, a new pill for all ailments, or an expensive cosmetic product for radiant skin every other day, we are sometimes too quick to forget that the answers are often much simpler - and much cheaper.

What actually happens when we chew oil?

When we put a spoon of quality oil - be it coconut, sesame, sunflower, or olive oil - in our mouth in the morning and swish it around for ten, fifteen, or even better twenty minutes, something interesting happens. The oil begins to bind bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other impurities from the oral cavity. It's somewhat like using a vacuum cleaner to clean corners where a brush cannot reach. During this process, the oral cavity is not just superficially cleaned, but the overall immune response of the body gradually improves.

The reason for this is that the mouth is actually the "gateway to the body". More than 700 different types of bacteria live in the mouth - as confirmed by a study from 2016 published in the scientific journal Journal of Oral Microbiology. Among these bacteria, some are completely harmless, while others cause inflammation, tooth decay, bad breath, and even digestive and heart problems.

When we "chew" this oil for some time, it becomes cloudy, white, and much more fluid - indicating that it has absorbed all those substances the body wants to eliminate. Therefore, it is crucial to spit it out after use (in the trash, not in the sink, as the oil can solidify in the pipes) and then rinse your mouth thoroughly.

Why oil specifically?

Oil, especially coconut and sesame oil, have natural antibacterial properties. Coconut oil contains lauric acid - one of those fatty acids that has a strong antibacterial and antiviral effect. According to a study from 2015 published in the journal African Journal of Microbiology Research, coconut oil kills the bacteria Streptococcus mutans, known as the main culprit for tooth decay.

Sesame oil is known for its ability to penetrate deep into tissues and help in toxin elimination - which is why it is so popular in Ayurveda. It also contains antioxidants, such as sesamol and sesamin, which inhibit cell aging.

What do studies say?

Let's look at some data that help us understand why this practice is back in trend. In a study conducted in 2017 at a university in India (Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice), a group that chewed coconut oil every day was compared with those who did not. After two weeks, a 50% reduction in oral bacteria was observed in the first group.

In another study from 2016 (Nigerian Medical Journal), it was found that people who regularly practice oil pulling experience improved gum health - less bleeding, fewer inflammations, and even less tartar build-up.

What can be improved?

They say that health starts in the mouth - and this is not just an empty saying. Regular oil pulling can affect various areas. These include:

• Teeth: become whiter. Not because of whitening agents, but because deposits and plaques are removed.
  
  
• Gums: become stronger, with reduced bleeding.
  
  
• Bad breath: improves as the bacteria causing the unpleasant odor are reduced.
  
  
• Skin: gets cleansed as inflammations and liver burdens decrease.
  
  
• Energy: increases because the body spends less energy fighting hidden inflammations.
  
  
• Headaches: may become less frequent, as they are often related to toxins in the body.
  
  
• Sleep: becomes deeper, and the body regenerates easier.

An interesting fact comes from a study from 2020, published in Medical Hypotheses, where researchers linked regular mouth cleansing with oil to a decreased risk of heart diseases. The reason? Fewer inflammatory substances in the body.

How to start?

It is best to put a spoon of oil in your mouth in the morning - before the first sip of water or coffee. We prefer using coconut oil, due to its pleasant taste and smell, but sesame oil is also excellent, albeit slightly earthier in taste.

Chew it slowly, effortlessly. If you have a gag reflex (quickly triggers vomiting), start with a teaspoon and gradually increase the amount. After about 10-20 minutes, spit out the oil. It is important not to swallow it - not because it's toxic, but because it's full of impurities that the body wants to eliminate.

After spitting it out, rinse your mouth with lukewarm water and then brush your teeth as usual.

How often?

Ideally, every day, once in the morning. But if you have the time and willingness, you can also do it twice a day - in the morning and evening, before meals. This way, you can further alleviate the body.

In Ayurvedic sources, it is even mentioned that this practice affects hormonal balance - women report a more regular menstrual cycle, reduced PMS symptoms, and increased vitality.

Does it really work?

Herbalists recommend that oil pulling helps maintain clean teeth, a clear tongue, and a sharp mind. In the ancient notes of Slovenian folk healers, we find advice that oil is a bridge between the mouth and the liver - figuratively meaning that everything happening in the mouth influences the internal organs.

What to watch out for?

Some may wonder if this practice can be harmful. If you have dental or jaw issues, it is good to start gradually. Never swallow oil. And if you feel your breath worsen after the first oil pulling - don't worry. It's a sign that substances the body doesn't need are being eliminated.

Lastly, it's worth noting that a practice costing less than a euro per week, with no side effects, and taking 15 minutes a day, is worth a try - if nothing else, for the feeling of freshness in the mouth and a little more energy in the morning. And who knows - perhaps because of it, you'll say: Ever since I started oil pulling, I feel like my body is finally cleansing itself. And we will say - may it benefit you, to the bottom of the spoon!