5 Science Backed Benefits of Oil Pulling for the Best Oral Care
Considered to be the oldest custom of India's medical system, Oil rinsing is a practice of rinsing your mouth with oil to kill bacteria and improve oral hygiene. Studies have shown that rinsing with oil can also treat a variety of ailments. It is given the name of ‘Oil Pulling’ because oil said to ‘pull’ bacteria from the mouth. Bacteria can also be reduced by moisturizing the gums and increasing saliva production using certain types of oil. These oils also have properties that naturally reduce inflammation and bacteria which is why it is majorly used for oil pulling process. This ancient procedure is not only backed by ancient psychology but also backed by science to promote oral health.
Let’s learn more about the science backed benefits of oil pulling.
1. Killing Harmful Bacteria in Mouth
There are about 700 types of bacteria living in the mouth, and up to 350 types of bacteria can be found in the mouth all at the same time. Certain types of harmful bacteria can cause problems such as tooth decay, bad breath and other periodontal diseases. Several studies have shown that oil washes off to reduce the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth. As compared to a chemical-based mouthwash, herbal oils have anti-microbial properties that is said to reduce harmful bacteria in saliva and plaque. Reducing bacteria in the mouth can help maintain good oral hygiene and prevent several diseases.
2. Reducing Bad Breath
Science has named bad breath ‘halitosis’ which is a disease that affects about 50% of the population. There are many causes of bad breath. The most common of these are infections, periodontal diseases, poor oral hygiene, tongue coated bacteria. Treatment of halitosis usually involves brushing or removing bacteria by using an antiseptic mouthwash named chlorhexidine. Interestingly, oil pulling was as effective as chlorhexidine in reducing bad breath. While more research is needed to confirm this theory, oil pulling can be used as a natural alternative for reducing bad breath and is just as effective as any conventional medicine developed by the scientist of the recent era.
3. Preventing Cavities
A cavity is a common problem caused by tooth decay. Poor oral hygiene, too much sugar, and a build-up of bacteria can cause holes in the tooth called cavities. Plaque can also cause tooth decay. Plaque forms a coating on the teeth and is made up of bacteria, saliva and food particles. The bacteria begin to break down food particles. And it destroys tooth enamel and forms decay-causing acids. Several studies have shown that gargling with oil can reduce harmful bacteria in saliva and plaque as effectively as a mouth rinse. By reducing these bacteria through oil pulling, you can prevent tooth decay and reduce the risk of cavities.
4. Improving Gum Health
Gingivitis is a type of gum disease characterized by redness, swelling and bleeding of the gums. Bacterial plague is a major cause of gingivitis as it can cause bleeding and inflammation of the gums. Several studies have shown that oil pulling can be an effective way to heal your gums and reduce inflammation. It works primarily by reducing plaque and harmful bacteria in the mouth that cause gum disease.
5. Whitening of Teeth
Some oils are antibacterial and washing your teeth with oil temporarily increases saliva production. This can kill any remaining bacteria in the mouth, usually in the form of plague. The less the plague on the teeth, the less staining of teeth happens. The low bacteria count in the mouth also improves breathing and reduces the risk of tooth decay and other periodontal diseases. Although there is anecdotal evidence that oil pulling is a natural way to whiten teeth, some people claim that they could remove stains from the surface of teeth that causes a whitening effect.
Oil pulling is an effective Ayurvedic detoxification method that has recently become very popular as a treatment for various periodontal diseases. This method can be used to prevent surgery and treat many chronic diseases. Oil therapy can be preventive and curative. The great thing about this healing method is its simplicity.
Herbostra 2 in 1 Oil Pulling Mouthwash is formulated with Sesame Oil and 25 potent herbs which help to cleanse the mouth cavity, strengthen the gums and teeth along with anti-microbial properties. It is a unique blend of ancient ingredients & modern technology which do not leave any smell or oiliness in the mouth. It is 100% natural with no synthetic flouride and triclosan.
