Day Eight: Oil Pulling

Today we are going to keep the self-care train rolling! When you think of it, just about everything we are doing for our health is the ultimate form of self-care. I hope you learn it’s not all about bubble baths (well, except yesterday’s challenge) and roses, but taking the time to focus on YOU.

The challenge today comes from an old Ayurvedic practice called oil pulling, known as gandusha in Ayurveda. It specifically benefits our oral health and helps to whiten teeth. You take about a tablespoon of coconut oil and swish it around in your mouth, pulling it through your teeth. You’ll want to aim for 10-20 minutes, but often times that timeframe needs to be something you work up to. Try to get as close to that ten minute mark today. You’ll then spit out the oil once you’re done and brush your teeth.

What are the health benefits of oil pulling?

Although we do have published studies on the benefits of oil pulling, science is slow to catch up and it is said that it still needs to be studied more extensively. However, the health benefits is IS known for are:

• Whitens teeth naturally.

• Removes toxins and bacteria from the mouth.

• Helps to strengthen facial muscles.

• Strengthens gums.

• Helps to reduce bad breath.

Oil pulling is something that can be done every day. I like to aim for 3 or 4 times a week, but you’ll find over time you’ll really love how it makes your teeth look and feel.

Wellness tip: I like to add a drop of peppermint oil or the OnGuard protective blend to the coconut oil before oil pulling. You get the added benefits of the essential oils and makes the flavor so much better!