Oil pulling is an Ayurvedic practice used for oral health. By swishing oil around in the mouth for at least 5 minutes, the oil is thought to “pull” and capture microbes and toxins from the oral cavity which then can be spat out. Oil pulling is intended to prevent tooth decay, bad breath, and gingivitis and to reduce dry mouth.[1]
What is oil pulling?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Oil pulling is an Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil in the mouth for at least 5 minutes to remove microbes and toxins, thus promoting oral health. It aims to prevent tooth decay, bad breath, gingivitis, and reduce dry mouth.