Oil Pulling: Ayurveda’s Ancient Secret for Oral Health

Updated and adapted by Andrée Noye. Originally published by Paavani Ayurveda, our Ayurvedic tools supplier (5 Mar 2021). Reading Time: 4-5 minutes You might have heard about oil pulling as a wellness trend, but did you know that this practice has deep roots in Ayurveda? Known in Sanskrit as Kavala Graha or Gandusha, oil pulling involves swishing warm oil through the mouth to support oral hygiene and overall well-being.

Practicing tranquility, a woman engages in the Ayurvedic ritual of oil pulling, seated peacefully on her bed, towel wrapped around her head, and a bottle of oil in hand. Photo: Paavani Ayurveda

Why Oil Pulling?

Ayurveda teaches that oral health is closely linked to bodhaka kapha, the moisture balance in the mouth that supports digestion and prevents bacteria buildup. When properly maintained, bodhaka kapha helps keep teeth strong, gums nourished, and breath fresh. Oil pulling serves as a powerful tool in this process by:

✅ Drawing out toxins (ama)

✅ Strengthening gums

✅ Removing plaque buildup

✅ Supporting enamel repair

✅ Brightening teeth naturally

✅ Eliminating harmful bacteria

✅ Reducing inflammation

✅ Enhancing jaw relaxation (TMJ relief)

Choosing the Right Oil

Ayurveda recommends using oils with antibacterial and nourishing properties. While coconut oil is widely embraced for its pleasant taste and antifungal benefits, sesame oil has been traditionally preferred for its deeply rejuvenating effects.

Sesame Oil

This rich, warming oil is considered the “King of Oils” in Ayurveda, widely used to nourish gums, teeth, and the nervous system. Its antibacterial properties help maintain a clean, healthy oral environment, making it a staple for oil pulling.

Coconut Oil

Revered as the “Tree of Life”, coconut oil aids in calcium absorption, supports strong teeth, and helps prevent decay due to its antimicrobial action. With lauric acid, it effectively eliminates harmful bacteria and freshens breath.

Herbal Enhancements

Infusing oil with Ayurvedic herbs enhances its potency. Ingredients such as turmeric, amalaki, and clove provide additional antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative benefits:

🌿 Turmeric – Supports gum health, reduces plaque, and naturally whitens teeth.

🌿 Amalaki (Amla) – Rich in vitamin C, strengthens immunity, and promotes gum tissue regeneration.

🌿 Clove – Balances oral bacteria, soothes discomfort, and combats inflammation.

How to Oil Pull

💧 Take 1-2 teaspoons of oil and swish vigorously through the mouth.

⏳ Continue for 5 to 20 minutes, ensuring the oil reaches between the teeth.

🚫 Do not swallow—spit the oil into the trash (not the sink, as it can clog pipes).

🦷 Follow up with brushing and flossing to complete your oral care ritual.

Incorporating Oil Pulling Into Your Routine

Ayurveda recommends oil pulling daily for best results, ideally in the morning after tongue cleaning. If twenty minutes feels too long, multitasking can help—try oil pulling while preparing breakfast, making your bed, or showering.

This simple practice supports oral health, enhances detoxification, and strengthens your commitment to self-care. Give it a try and experience the Ayurvedic path to a brighter smile and balanced well-being. 🌿

Why Massage the Gums with Oil?

Gum massage isn’t just soothing—it offers multiple benefits:

✅ Increases circulation for better nutrient delivery

✅ Helps fight bacteria by oxygenating the gums

✅ Strengthens gum tissue to prevent infections

✅ Removes debris that brushing and flossing may miss

Best Oil for Gum Massage

Ayurveda highly recommends sesame oil for gum massage, thanks to its antibacterial, nourishing, and strengthening properties. It supports oral health by deeply conditioning the gum line, making it a valuable addition to your routine.

How to Perform Gum Massage

1️⃣ Apply a few drops of warm sesame oil to your clean fingertip.

2️⃣ Starting at the upper left molars, use firm, circular motions to massage the gum line.

3️⃣ Slowly work your way across the top gums, then repeat on the lower gums.

4️⃣ Spit out the excess oil and rinse with warm water to complete the practice.

Ayurvedic Alternatives for Oral Care

If a toothbrush isn’t available, Ayurveda suggests chew sticks—a practice dating back to 200 BCE. Research supports chew sticks for plaque control and antibacterial benefits, with some herbal-infused toothpicks offering an additional antimicrobial boost.

Stay Hydrated for Gum & Oral Health

Adequate hydration helps maintain bodhaka kapha, the moisture balance needed for a healthy mouth, smooth digestion, and strong gums. To improve hydration, consider:

💦 Drinking plenty of water throughout the day

🌿 Infusing herbal teas with demulcent herbs like licorice, marshmallow, or cinnamon

🌱 Adding chia seeds to water for enhanced electrolyte retention

Evening Oral Care: Dinacharya for a Healthy Mouth

Ayurveda emphasizes dinacharya—daily self-care rituals that promote well-being. As part of your nighttime oral care routine, always:

🦷 Brush and floss to eliminate food particles and bacteria buildup.

💧 Rinse the mouth with warm water after brushing.

For added cleansing, consider a Triphala rinse—an Ayurvedic blend of three fruits (haritaki, amalaki, and bibhitaki) known for their ability to:

✨ Balance the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha)

✨ Draw toxins (ama) out of the tissues

✨ Support digestion and colon health

✨ Provide a natural dose of vitamin C for immune function

How to Use a Triphala Churna Rinse

💡 Mix Triphala powder with warm or room-temperature water.

⏳ Let it sit for 8-12 hours (or for at least a minute if you're in a hurry).

🍃 Use the rinse to cleanse the mouth, then swallow for digestive benefits.