Oil Pulling is a popular remedy for a multitude of problems, but oil pulling is not without side effects. Earth Clinic readers have reported problems ranging from headaches to gastrointestinal problems. Other readers have reported trouble with the following: increase in intestinal gas, increase in blood pressure, increase in mucous, increase in sweating, chest pain, burning sensation in the stomach, sore throat, and swelling in the hands or feet.
Oil pulling is commonly used for dental problems, detoxification, and general health. It has been used for thousands of years in some cultures, though in the West its use only measures in the decades. And yet, even the most safe and simple remedy can cause side effects for some people.
Side Effects from Oil Pulling
Jenny from Atlanta, Georgia, shares the following: "Hi. I have been oil pulling for a week with sunflower oil. Is fever a usual side effect? I've had a low grade (99-100 degrees) fever off and on for a few days. I've noticed in general after oil pulling in the morning I get dizzy and really hungry and then a burst of energy in the afternoon and then unbelievable sleepiness sets in. Anxiety levels are heightened as well." ...
Oil Pulling is a popular remedy for a multitude of problems, but oil pulling is not without side effects. Earth Clinic readers have reported problems ranging from headaches to gastrointestinal problems. Other readers have reported trouble with the following: increase in intestinal gas, increase in blood pressure, increase in mucous, increase in sweating, chest pain, burning sensation in the stomach, sore throat, and swelling in the hands or feet.
Oil pulling is commonly used for dental problems, detoxification, and general health. It has been used for thousands of years in some cultures, though in the West its use only measures in the decades. And yet, even the most safe and simple remedy can cause side effects for some people.
Side Effects from Oil Pulling
Jenny from Atlanta, Georgia, shares the following: "Hi. I have been oil pulling for a week with sunflower oil. Is fever a usual side effect? I've had a low grade (99-100 degrees) fever off and on for a few days. I've noticed in general after oil pulling in the morning I get dizzy and really hungry and then a burst of energy in the afternoon and then unbelievable sleepiness sets in. Anxiety levels are heightened as well."
Bella from the UK had side effects even when she tried to switch oils. "I've been oil-pulling with sunflower oil for three weeks and then changed to olive oil. Both oils have made my mouth really dry. I don't understand how oil pulling has dried my mouth out so much! The insides of my cheeks stick to my teeth. I've never had this problem before. I am drinking loads of water, about 2 liters a day in constant sips, but it doesn't help."
Some readers find that they have mixed results. Genia from Wisconsin, experienced swelling in her gums and a swollen lymph node. At the same time, she found that her skin looked better than ever!
Possible Causes of Side Effects
Earth Clinic readers offer a variety of suggestions to those who have side effects from oil pulling. Trying a different oil, using less oil, or oil pulling for a shorter amount of time in each session. Readers also suggest that often the side effects are a "healing crisis" or "Herxheimer effect."
Please read on to see what side effects Earth Clinic readers have experienced. If you have had side effects from oil pulling, please be sure to leave us feedback!
