What is Oil Pulling, and Does it Even Work?

When Gwyneth and her team of lifestyle gurus at Goop give a trend their seal of approval, the rest of the world is quick to jump on the bandwagon. Goop always has its finger on the pulse of practices, treatments and products that we have never heard of, never knew we needed and suddenly can't live without. One such trend is the Ayurvedic method of oil pulling.

Goop's senior director of science and research, Gerda Endemann, has gone so far as to list Keeko's morning mint oil-pulling sachets as one of her 12 medicine-cabinet staples. And, well, if it's good enough for Gerda (and Gwyneth), then it's good enough for me.

But What is Oil Pulling?

Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice, referred to in ancient texts as 'Kavala Graha' or 'Kavala Gandoosha'. During this practice, coconut, sesame, olive or other organic oils are swished or held in the mouth for around 20 minutes before being spat out.

What are the benefits?

While research on oil pulling is relatively limited, the practice is purported to have a wide range of benefits, from killing bacteria to reducing inflammation.

Other supposed benefits include:

Toxin Absorption

If you are concerned about what will be pulled exactly, then fear not - this 'pulling' refers to the drawing or pulling out of toxins from the body. Some studies suggest that "Oil pulling activates salivary enzymes which absorb toxins such as chemical toxins, bacterial toxins and environmental toxins from the blood."

Kills Bacteria

There are approximately 350 types of bacteria found in your mouth at any given moment, with some of these contributing to a range of oral health issues such as tooth decay, gum disease and the biggest killer of all – bad breath. Studies have shown that oil pulling can help reduce the number of harmful bacteria found in saliva.

Whitens Teeth

There are claims that oil pulling can bring stains to the surface, resulting in a whitening effect. Some also argue that the oil helps to absorb plaque, composed of bacteria, which can help produce whiter looking teeth.

What Are the Best Products for Oil Pulling?

Oil-pulling products have come a long way. You no longer need to reach inside your kitchen pantry for your jar of coconut oil as there is now a range of deluxe oil-pulling products on the market.

Keeko Coconut Oil Pulling Sachets (Morning Mint)

keeko oil puling satchets — keeko, coconut oil pulling sachets ($39)

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While Goop does not yet ship to Australia, we managed to track down one of their favoured brands, Keeko. The 14-day set of toxin-free sachets are made of cold-pressed coconut oil to reduce bacteria and plaque, chamomile to soothe gums, lemon oil to strengthen gums and clean teeth and peppermint oil to reduce bacteria and leave the mouth feeling fresh.

Dr Tung's Oil Pulling Concentrate

This Eco Excellence awards finalist is made with an ancient Ayurvedic formula using 24 botanical ingredients and herbalized sesame oil. If used daily, the unique formula promises to detoxify, treat gum conditions and balance oral flora.

Terra & Co Brilliant Black Oil Pulling

terra and co black oil pulling — terra & co, Brilliant Black Oil Pulling ($36)

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This vegan oil pulling product is made with coconut oil and activated charcoal, which can help trap bacteria, remove stains, cleanse and whiten teeth. The oil is fluoride-free and contains peppermint oil to combat bad breath and vitamin E to relieve inflammation.

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