Discover the Benefits of Oil Pulling with Avocado Oil for Oral Health

The Benefits of Oil Pulling with Avocado Oil

Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic oral health technique that has recently gained popularity in the wellness world. It involves swishing oil around in your mouth to draw out toxins and improve oral and whole-body health. Avocado oil is one of the best oils to use for oil pulling due to its numerous benefits.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore how oil pulling with avocado oil works, its proven health benefits, how to do it properly, and more.

What is Oil Pulling?

Oil pulling involves placing one to two tablespoons of oil in your mouth, then swishing and pulling it through your teeth for 10-20 minutes before spitting it out. Most sources recommend doing this first thing in the morning on an empty stomach before eating or drinking.

This technique is said to draw out toxins, help remove plaque, reduce bad breath, and improve oral and overall health. Oils like coconut oil, sesame oil, and olive oil are commonly used. But avocado oil has emerged as one of the best options.

Benefits of Oil Pulling with Avocado Oil

Research shows that oil pulling with various oils can provide these health perks:

• Lower plaque, gingivitis, and oral bacteria
• Reduce bad breath
• Whiten teeth
• Improve oral hygiene
• Prevent cavities and tooth decay
• Treat bleeding gums, dry mouth, cracked lips
• Potentially improve headache, migraine, and sinus issues

Avocado oil provides additional benefits beyond basic oil pulling thanks to its unique nutritional profile. Here’s why it’s one of the best oils for oil pulling:

• Rich in antioxidants - Avocado oil contains antioxidants like chlorophyll, carotenoids, vitamin E, and vitamin K that reduce oxidative stress and fight free radical damage in the mouth.
• High smoke point - The very high smoke point (over 500°F) prevents the oil from becoming rancid during swishing.
• Neutral taste - The mild flavor makes avocado oil more palatable for the long swishing session.
• Anti-inflammatory - Avocado oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce gum inflammation.
• Antimicrobial effects - Compounds in avocado oil have antimicrobial activity against certain oral pathogens.
• Moisturizing - The monounsaturated fatty acids moisturize the gums and mucous membranes in the mouth.

Avocado oil delivers significant oral health benefits while also being safe and pleasant to use. It might just become your new go-to oil for oil pulling!

How to Oil Pull with Avocado Oil

Oil pulling with avocado oil is simple. Follow these steps:

1. Measure out 1-2 tablespoons of avocado oil first thing in the morning.
2. Swish the oil thoroughly around your entire mouth for 10-20 minutes.
3. Spit the oil out (don't swallow) and rinse out your mouth.
4. Brush your teeth as normal.
5. Wash out the sink to prevent buildup.
6. Repeat daily.

Make sure to oil pull on an empty stomach before eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth. Many sources recommend doing so first thing in the morning. Swish and pull the oil between your teeth and along your gums vigorously to draw out toxins.

It's normal for the oil to turn thicker and milky as you pull. Simply spit it out after 10-20 minutes. You can work your way up to longer sessions. Then rinse with water and brush as usual to remove any remaining oil.

Tips for the Best Results

Follow these tips for maximum benefits when oil pulling with avocado oil:

• Always use pure, high-quality, unrefined, organic avocado oil.
• Aim for 10-20 minutes swishing time.
• Do not swallow the oil after pulling.
• Try to pull daily or several times a week for best results.
• Rinse your mouth and brush after to remove oil residue.
• Stick with it for a month or longer to allow its benefits.
• See your dentist regularly for exams and cleanings.

High oral health standards like brushing and flossing are still essential. But adding in avocado oil pulling can provide great supplemental benefits. Be patient and consistent to see the best outcomes.

Is Avocado Oil Safe for Oil Pulling?

Avocado oil is generally very safe for oil pulling. However, introduce it slowly if you have sensitivities.

Stop pulling immediately if you experience any irritation, nausea, or vomiting. Extremely high doses may have blood thinning effects, so talk to your doctor about any interactions.

Provided you use reasonable amounts for oral health purposes, avocado oil is very safe. Still, pregnant women, young children, and anyone with health conditions should exercise caution and consult their doctor first.

The Best Avocado Oils for Oil Pulling

Look for these qualities in an avocado oil for optimal safety and effectiveness:

• Cold-pressed - Cold pressing preserves nutrients and flavor.
• Unrefined - Refined oils remove beneficial compounds like antioxidants that enhance oil pulling benefits.
• Organic - Organic farming avoids pesticides and chemicals.
• Dark tinted bottle - Dark bottles prevent oxidation from light exposure.
• High smoke point - A smoke point over 500°F prevents rancidity.
• Pleasant taste - A mild, inoffensive flavor makes oil pulling more pleasant.

Choosing a high-quality, virgin, unrefined, organic avocado oil will provide you with maximum health benefits as well as safety. Test for a fresh, mild flavor.

Potential Side Effects of Avocado Oil Pulling

When used correctly, avocado oil pulling poses a very low risk of side effects. However, some people may experience:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Allergic reactions
• Upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• Throat irritation
• Mouth sores

These side effects are quite uncommon for avocado oil pulling. Starting slowly allows you to check for any sensitivities. Stop immediately if any discomfort develops.

Additionally, accidentally swallowing large amounts could act as a laxative. Always spit the oil out after swishing. Seek medical help for severe side effects.

Who Should Not Oil Pull with Avocado Oil?

These individuals should exercise caution or avoid avocado oil pulling:

• Children under age 5
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• People with avocado allergies or sensitivities
• Those taking blood thinners or cholesterol medication
• Individuals with upcoming dental work or oral surgery
• People with digestive disorders

Discuss oil pulling with your doctor first if you have any medical conditions or take medications. Start very slowly and discontinue use if any reactions develop.

How Long Does it Take to See Results?

Many people notice fresher breath immediately after avocado oil pulling. However, the full benefits take consistent, long-term practice.

It can take at least one month of regular oil pulling to see noticeable improvements in oral health. Many sources recommend doing it for three months or longer to allow its cleansing and healing effects to accrue.

Pulling occasionally will only provide temporary breath freshening. You need to stick with the practice to experience lasting benefits for your teeth, gums, and oral hygiene.

Conclusion

Oil pulling with avocado oil is an easy, safe, and beneficial supplement to your dental care routine. The antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and other beneficial compounds in avocado oil enhance its ability to improve oral health. Just remember to use high-quality oil and be consistent.

Along with good oral hygiene habits like brushing and flossing, oil pulling with avocado oil can help minimize toxins, bacteria, and inflammation in your mouth. Whiter teeth, fresher breath, healthier gums, and reduced plaque buildup are possible benefits. Give it a try and see the oil pulling difference.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.