By Michael Rehme, DDS, CCN
(Certified Clinical Nutritionist)
Many of my patients over the years have asked me questions about the therapeutic effects of oil pulling. Although I was familiar with this treatment, I never really examined the holistic benefits of this age old Ayurvedic process until now.
My research indicates that oil pulling not only can improve my patients’ dental health but also can provide systemic support for numerous aliments and nagging chronic conditions.
How does it work? It’s actually quite simple. You swish a tablespoon of oil in your mouth for 15 minutes, allowing it to pick up harmful bacteria, virus, fungi, and protozoa. Sunflower, sesame, and coconut oil seem to be the most effective oils to use in oil pulling. Cold pressed oil is considered the best source to use. If this is not available then use refined oil.
Oil pulling makes the oil thoroughly mix with saliva. Swishing activates the enzymes and the enzymes draw toxins out through the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, and throat, and ultimately from the bloodstream.
As the process continues, the oil gradually becomes thinner and looks white. If the oil is still yellow, it has not been pulled long enough. Do not swallow the oil for it has become toxic. Once the therapy is completed, spit the oil out of your mouth. Then rinse the oral cavity thoroughly with water to eliminate the toxins from your mouth.
Oil pulling should be done at least once daily for two months to give sufficient time to see noticeable results.
The most obvious results of oil pulling are observed in the improved condition of one’s dental health. Teeth become whiter, gums are pinker and healthier looking, and the breath is fresher. However, the systemic improvements are even more astounding.
In Dr. Bruce Fife’s books, Oil Pulling Therapy and The Coconut Oil Miracle, he provides medical documentation and more than 80 peer-reviewed medical journal articles that reveal oil pulling to promote weight loss, protect against heart disease, cancer, diabetes, arthritis, bronchitis, migraine headaches, and many other degenerative diseases, prevent premature aging of the skin, strengthen the immune system, and improve digestion.
Another advantage of oil pulling is that it’s completely harmless and inexpensive, unlike most medical treatments. The cost is the price of a daily spoonful of vegetable oil and 15 minutes per day for two months. That’s all it takes. It may sound too good to be true but quite honestly you have nothing to lose and everything to gain by trying it.
If you are interested in oil pulling for yourself, let us know when you’ve completed your treatment and how well you did. For educational purposes, I would be very interested in receiving your testimonials and then download these results to our website for future reference. This will allow us to provide current and accurate information to our readers about oil pulling and evaluate its effectiveness for one’s overall health and wellness.
Dr. Michael Rehme, DDS, CCN is one of the few Dentists in the U.S. that are Certified Clinical Nutritionists (CCN). He practices Biological Dentistry that includes mercury free, tooth colored fillings; healthy dental materials; balancing body chemistry; and nutritional therapy. For articles and information about Biological Dentistry and patient success stories visit www.ToothBody.com or call his office 314-997-2550. Attend a free monthly presentation and discussion by Dr. Rehme on Biological Dentistry the third Tuesday each month at 6:30 pm. Please call to verify the date and reserve your space.