Oil Pulling: An Ayurvedic Morning Ritual
Oil Pulling is a powerful Ayurvedic practice known for its myriad health benefits. As an integral part of Dinacharya (daily routine), it helps maintain oral hygiene, boosts overall health, and connects deeply with our mind-body wellness. Let's dive into the details of this ancient practice and its benefits.
When and Why to Perform Oil Pulling
Oil pulling should be performed in the morning on an empty stomach, ideally as part of your morning routine before consuming any food or drink. It's crucial to avoid oil pulling during times of emotional overwhelm, stress, and when there is Ama (undigested toxins) present in the body. Detox first, then oil pull to maximize benefits.
The Practice: Gandusha and Kavala Graha
Oil pulling consists of two main techniques:
Gandusha: Moving oil around the mouth.
Kavala Graha: Holding oil in the back of the mouth/throat.
These actions help detoxify the mouth, improve oral health, and offer various other health benefits.
How to Perform Oil Pulling
Choose the Right Oil: Use 1-2 tablespoons of warmed oil pulling oil, typically sesame oil. There are specially made oils that you can use, or simply use plain untoasted sesame oil. Avoid using coconut oil as it’s generally not recommended for this practice.
Swish and Hold: Swish the oil around your mouth, making sure to move it between your teeth and gums. Hold the oil in the back of your mouth, ensuring it reaches every part.
Duration: Continue the process for 10-20 minutes.
Spit It Out: Do not swallow the oil. Spit it out into a trash can (not the sink to avoid clogging).
Follow-Up: After oil pulling, brush your teeth and scrape your tongue. Wait for at least 30 minutes before consuming any food or drink. Then you can drink warm water (Ushna Pana Chikitsa) to further cleanse and hydrate.
Contraindications
Do Not Oil Pull: During times of emotional overwhelm and stress, presence of Ama, cough, cold, or flu. Do amapachana during these times.
Timing: Always avoid oil pulling in the evening or after meals, sticking to the morning regime instead.
Additional Benefits and Tips
Sublingual Absorption: Herbs in the oil enter the body sublingually (under the tongue), offering a direct pathway to Ojas (vital essence) and the mind. This makes oil pulling beneficial for more than just oral health.
For Receding Gums: Mahanarayana oil helps rebuild tissue and rejuvenates gums.
For Sensitive Teeth: Mahanarayana oil is beneficial.
For Bleeding Gums: Use Mahanarayana oil and a Triphala decoction on alternate days.
For Insomnia, Focus, Brain Health, Tinnitus, and PMS: Brahmi Amla oil is highly recommended.
Optional Pre-Rinse: You can rinse your mouth with warm water before oil pulling, but do not drink anything.
Ayurvedic Wisdom
Performing oil pulling in the morning aligns with the Ayurvedic clock. The time between 2-6 AM is the light Vata time, ideal for movement and elimination. As Kapha time (6-10 AM) begins, it’s a perfect period for cleansing and grounding practices. The crossover between these times, typically 5:30-7:30 AM, is ideal for your morning routine. It’s essential to tailor your practices to individual needs, so consulting your local Ayurvedic practitioner is advised.
Embrace this Ayurvedic ritual to enhance your overall well-being and maintain a balanced, healthy life.
STEPS:
First Oil Pull: Use 1-2 tablespoons of warmed sesame or suggested herbal sesame oil.
Brush Teeth: Follow up by brushing your teeth.
Scrape Tongue: Use a tongue scraper to remove toxins from the tongue.
Wait 30 Minutes: No food or drink for 30 minutes.
Drink Water: After 30 minutes, you can drink water or do Ushna Pana Chikitsa (warm water flush).