Oil Pulling
Gaṇḍūṣa / गण्डूष
Definition
The practice of swishing oil in the mouth, rooted in the classical Ayurvedic routines of gandusha and kavala, and done traditionally with sesame oil.
Key points
- Oil pulling is the practice of swishing oil in the mouth, then spitting it out
- It descends from gandusha (holding) and kavala (swishing) in the classical morning routine
- Sesame oil is the traditional choice, and the practice supplements, never replaces, brushing and dental care
What is oil pulling?
Oil pulling is the practice of taking a spoonful of oil into the mouth, swishing it slowly for several minutes, and spitting it out. The habit descends from two practices in the classical Ayurvedic texts, gandusha (holding liquid in the mouth) and kavala (swishing it), and reached the wider world under its modern English name.
Part of the morning routine
In the tradition, oil pulling belongs to the morning line-up of dinacharya, the daily routine, alongside tongue cleaning. The oil's moistening quality is said to relieve dryness of the mouth and throat, which places the practice among the routines that soothe Vata, the dosha of dryness. It is the oral cousin of abhyanga, the same logic of oil and warmth applied to a different part of the body.
How it is done
The traditional oil is untoasted sesame; coconut oil is the popular modern alternative. Take a scant tablespoon, swish gently so the oil reaches everywhere in the mouth, and continue for a few minutes up to ten or fifteen. Then spit it out, never swallow, and into a tissue rather than the sink, which will thank you for it.
Keeping it in its place
Oil pulling is a supplement to oral care, not a replacement for brushing, flossing or dental checkups. It is not suited to small children or to anyone who aspirates easily. If anything in the mouth feels wrong, or the practice causes discomfort, stop guessing and see a dentist.
This entry introduces a traditional system of thought and general information. It does not guarantee any specific effect and is not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any condition. For health concerns, please consult a qualified medical professional.
FAQFrequently asked questions
What is oil pulling?
Taking about a spoonful of oil into the mouth, swishing for several minutes, and spitting it out. It descends from the classical Ayurvedic practices of gandusha (holding liquid in the mouth) and kavala (swishing it), and spread worldwide under the modern name oil pulling.
What oil should I use?
Untoasted sesame oil is the traditional choice; coconut oil is a popular modern one. Do not swallow the used oil, and spit it into a tissue rather than the sink to spare the plumbing.
Does oil pulling replace brushing?
No. It is a supplementary habit and no substitute for brushing, flossing and regular dental checkups. See a dentist about any symptoms in the mouth.