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AllAyurvedics
Oral care10 min

Oil pulling (gandusha) for a fresh mouth

Swishing oil around the mouth first thing in the morning is an old Ayurvedic practice described for oral hygiene. It can leave the mouth feeling clean and fresh as part of a good routine.

Illustrated still life with sesame seeds, ice.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon cold-pressed sesame or coconut oil

How to prepare

  1. Nothing to prepare — use oil at room temperature.

How to use

  • On an empty stomach, swish the oil gently around your mouth and between your teeth for 5–10 minutes.
  • Spit it into a bin (not the sink, which it can clog), rinse with warm water, then brush as usual.

Precautions

  • Do not swallow the oil.
  • Not for young children, who may swallow or choke.
  • Oil pulling does not replace brushing, flossing or dental check-ups. See a dentist for pain, bleeding gums or sensitivity.