Everything I read from bloggers (and at least one person on Facebook) says it will whiten your teeth, help with bad breath, and generally help the health of your teeth. Some people seem to think it can cure disease processes.
Because I'm a Human Guinea Pig, I decided to try it. It's not so bad, but when coconut oil first hits your mouth, it's still solid. That's a strange texture to get used to-half-liquid and half-solid.
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| Coconut Oil |
People who are into Ayurvedic medicine (an ancient Indian 'culture of healing') explain that "oil gargling" can purify the entire system. They believe that each "section of the tongue is connected to different organ such as to the kidneys, lungs, liver, heart, small intestines, stomach, colon, and spine..." which is why oil-pulling would be curative.
Dr. Weil takes a more moderate stance: "...I have been able to find only one scientific study on oil pulling. The study was designed to evaluate the effect of oil pulling on bacteria (Streptococcus mutans) in plaque and saliva of children, and to compare its antiseptic power with that of using a conventional mouthwash containing chlorhexidine. The researchers found a reduction in the bacteria count in the plaque and saliva samples in both the study and the control groups and concluded that oil pulling can help maintain oral health. The study was published in an Indian dental journal.
Bottom line: Oil pulling won't hurt you, but I wouldn't depend on it to help you improve your overall health or treat significant medical problems."
So, until I hear that it's bad for us, I'll give it a try! Results pending.
*A 16 Candles reference. You should probably have already seen this fantastic 80s movie.
