Health Benefits of Oil Pulling-Unproven!
Summary of eRumor:
Swishing oil around in your mouth for 20 minutes may reap some health benefits.
The Truth:
We have not found any evidence that this holistic treatment for gingivitis and other conditions of the mouth, gums, throat or the rest of the body is better than or equal to the methods used in modern medicine.
According to the Foodmatter.TV website, “Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic remedy for oral health and detoxification. It involves the use of pure oils as agents for pulling harmful bacteria, fungus, and other organisms out of the mouth, teeth, gums and even throat.” Ayurvedic is a traditional/alternative practice of medicine that comes from India and dates back to 5000 BCE.
This is what ancient health practitioners used before the discovery of antibiotics.
It is always sound advice to consult a medical professional before approaching alternative treatment for such conditions.
Also, this should not replace dentist office visits to remove accumulating plaque on teeth, which is the primary cause for the gum disease gingivitis. Seeing a dentist twice a year with a daily regiment of brushing, flossing and mouth washing with a mouthwash is still what dentists consider to be the best maintenance program for chronic sufferers of gum disease.
Posted 03/07/14