Oil Pulling
Health Benefits

Oil Pulling - Editor's Choice

Over the years, Earth Clinic readers have sent us many reports about their treatments for Oil Pulling. The editors at Earth Clinic consider the below posts to be some of the most helpful and informative and have named them 'Editor's Choice'. We hope that you will find this useful.

Lung Debris Expulsion

Posted by Bruco (Washington) on 06/30/2024
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I used Coconut oil pulling and one of my fillings fell out after 6 days. After 9 days of CO pulling 3 times a day at 20 minutes each time I woke up coughing one morning, and hacked out 3 tar chunks about the size of a Tootsie Roll. They each had a little blood on them as they were adhered to the side of my lungs. When I got home that day my wife told me "you look good, your skin looks pinker more healthy" I showed the picture of the 3 tar balls which if rolled up together would have been just a bit bigger than a golf ball. I used to smoke, and also smoked marijuana. True story.


Insights and Theories

Posted by David W. (Near Waterloo, Ontario, Canada) on 09/14/2021
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Check out Dr. Andreas Moritz's site. He recommends only a couple of minutes of OP. Longer recontaminates your blood system as the toxins that are pulled from around the gums will be absorbed into your blood system. Repeating the OP process an additional 1-2 times for just a couple of minutes is highly beneficial in reducing bacteria concentrations in the mouth. Also, Dr. Joseph Mercola has some insight into the benefits of OP. I have backed up this protocol by having swabbed my gums and checking a live culture Electron Microscope platelet and repeating the OP an extra couple of times show a benefit. This all depends on the health condition of your teeth and gums. I suspect that after a month of OP, your gums should be healthier and one OP per day would be enough. Just before going to bed seems to work the best for me. I was amazed at how much bacteria was present in my mouth, and researching how dangerous these are and the health disorders that they cause. Keeping our mouth analytically clean is paramount in keeping our Gut healthy and reducing many health disorders.


Broad Benefits

Posted by North Cascadian (Portland, Oregon) on 01/13/2017
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I have been doing oil pulling since 2009, eight years. I began with Sesame Oil, but now use Organic Coconut oil. All of the drama of oil pulling happens at the beginning, when I started my sinuses had been clogged for most of my life, basically unable to breath through my nose. When I started op I coughed up so much phlegm! I basically stopped going to the dentist once I started op, my overall health and resilience is quite high. I feel it when I have to skip op for any reason. My technique is once in the morning, before my partner gets up for 15 to 30 minutes. After spitting it out in the toilet I take a glass of warm/hot water with about a teaspoon of salt and a teaspoon of baking soda mix and then alternate between swishing and gargling until I have gone through the glass, this part often takes 5 minutes.

This one health approach can help so many people! Please try it.


Allergies, Vocal Issues

Posted by Amy J (Oregon, US) on 01/26/2015
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I have no negatives when it comes to oil pulling.

I have been doing it with coconut oil for nearly one month, and while I do not have any miraculous things going on, there are a few major differences I noticed after a couple weeks of doing it, and if I miss a day, I notice things start to regress in some areas.

Being that I am a singer, the biggest change I have noticed, though I didn't realise until a few days ago it was related, was the regaining the lowest parts of my low register. I lost it some time ago due to allergies, occasionally I'd get glimpses of it, but it never quite came back for good.

Over the last few weeks, I noticed my voice deepening a lot. Now, I have a huge vocal range spanning close to 4 octaves, but I lost a good octave due to the allergies, maybe more than that. I still haven't regained the highest parts of my upper register, but we'll see if over time, oil pulling helps that as well.

It has certainly helped with gum inflammation, I had some inflamed areas, and they are now normal and my gums don't look red anymore either, but healthy and pink. :)

I got frequent sinus infections, and while I may get some sinus pressure every now and then, for the most part, my sinuses are pretty cleared up and I don't get massive sinus headaches anymore.

For me, those 3 things are enough to keep oil pulling, even if I never see any new benefits down the road.

God Bless ~Amy


Broad Benefits

Posted by K Hagan (New Jersey, US) on 12/01/2014 1 posts
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I read about oil pulling about six years ago. At that time, I oil pulled with sesame oil for a few weeks but stopped because I read somewhere that it messes up your tooth enamel. I had a post nasal drip. It cleared my nasal passage and I coughed up mucus. About four months ago, I started experiencing joint pain in my hips. I considered going to the doctors but decided to explore earth clinic once again. I have been oil pulling for the past two months with organic coconut oil. My nasal passage is clear, I coughed up mucus, (my mucus went from green to clear in color), fresher breath, whiter teeth, gums are not as sensitive, joint pain in my hips is 90% better and I less back pain too. I plan to continue oil pulling and try different oils. I am so thankful for this website. It has saved me and my children money and time spent at the doctors office.


Broad Benefits
Posted by Sam (Uk) on 04/15/2014
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I wanted to write in with my own personal experience of oil pulling used in combination with my home made toothpaste which I have been doing for about 12 months now. I found the basis of my toothpaste here on earthclinic and from other research I did on the internet.

I can personally attest to the benefits of oil pulling. Definitely whiter teeth, at least two shades whiter and the oil removed the majority of stains within the first two months of use from a past history of having smoked for many years. No tartar ever since I started. The other thing it definitely does is remove particles of food which become lodged at the back of the mouth and tongue which can be missed when brushing the teeth and tongue .. oil pulling can also dislodge tonsil stones which you never knew you had. All these things can be missed and contribute to bad breath. Other things to note, while oil pulling, it will bring up phlegm which can also contribute to bad breath.

If oil pulling is done regularly and consistently with diligence .. properly .. swishing around the mouth for at least 15 - 20 minutes every night before bed you never wake up with bad breath in the morning. Gums are definitely healthier and pinker and has relieved mild tooth pain every single time.

My oil pulling regime has been done while I shower in an evening before bed and every morning when I wake up. Alongside oil pulling I have been using my homemade toothpaste. Sometimes I take my home made toothpaste and add it to my swishing mixture in my mouth which further adds to my oral hygiene routine. I am sure there are other things which have improved or that I have benefited from since I have been oil pulling which I have forgotten to add, for now this is my year long experience.

Note .. tongue brushing must be included in oral hygiene routines for good oral and dental health.

Thank you also earthclinic for having such a wonderfully diverse and informative site which helped me immensely in my journey towards better health.


Broad Benefits
Posted by Jenn (Toronto, Ontario Canada) on 03/28/2012
★★★★★

BETTER BUT WITH SIDE EFFECTS

Editor's Choice

Thanks to all who contribute to this wonderful site and for giving me the gift of oil pulling. I originally started oil pulling to rid myself of a sinus infection. I am a bit wary of antibiotic overuse and big pharma in general (my family thinks I am a conspiracy theorist, LOL! ). After reading testimonials and instructions I decided to use one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil with two drops of tea tree oil for about 5-10 minutes. I was ill and didn't have cocunut oil in the house and didn't feel like going out to source it. Within two treatments I noticed teeth whitening and what seemed to be what I can only describe as pinkening and tightening of the gums. I had been diagnosed with gingivitis for many years by my dentist. My sinus condition seemed to worsen with more and more discharge and swelling. I smoked cigarettes for about 30 years, and I suddenly had an aversion to smoking. I then developed a terrible cough with lots of mucous, difficulty breathing, terrible headaches, fatigue, body aches, sticky eyes, pimples and a gum infection from heck! The gum infection was raging and I tried all the home remedies on Earth Clinic and only seemed to worsen it. I became very scared and my friends convinced me to stop oil pulling go to the hospital. I got two kinds of antibiotics and used multiple pain killers for one week. They seemed to suppress the symptoms but after I finished the doses the gum infection came back even worse than before with swelling on my cheek and lip. A lot of people told me to go an get a root canal or tooth extraction, neither of which seemed to fit with my idea that gums and teeth can heal like broken bones. There were sores and pimple like outbreaks on both my gums and cheeks. I realized that I was going through some type of cleansing/healing crisis and I needed to let it run its course, although others around me thought I would eventually expire from a septic type infection. Interestingly, the site of the gum infection was a previously identified weaker spot.

I didn't restart oil pulling immediately, as I now know that EVOO and Tea Tree Oil mixes (probably the same for other oil and oregano etc mixes) are very potent at drawing out infection and impurities. I used salt/alum poultice, baking soda/salt poultices (use with cotton balls for about 20 minutes, more and your skin will get raw) and rinses, I also got rid of regular toothpaste and started using hydrogen peroxide/baking soda/salt paste. I alternated this with raw garlic clove rubbings and garlic clove/water rinses.

Don't kid yourselves, these remedies hurt worse than childbirth but I felt that this was a bad infection that needed a multi prong approach. If you can, use aspirin rather than ibuprofen or tylenol, I tried all three but something in the aspirin seems to help the healing process. I also used tea bags between the cheek and gum to absorb any pus and blood that came out of the sore area. Use the black bags, they are more effective than other types, I tried peppermint, chai, green tea but found the old fashioned black to be best. As soon as I felt some improvement in the level of swelling, it took about one week, I resumed oil pulling with EVOO and tea tree and took epsom salt baths (rinse afterward).

One more week later, I can say that my gum infection is almost completely gone, my teeth are whiter, stronger and my gums seem to have regenerated. My sinuses and chest are clear and I feel that my energy is greater than before all of this happened. I have taken the tea tree out of my oil pulling regime (twice a day) as I feel it's probably more like an antibiotic. I also think that Ted's simple alkalizing formula (baking soda, lemon juice) will help me avoid many infections in the future so I started that process as well. I also haven't had any cigarettes since I started oil pulling one month ago. OP has the potential for unleashing the remnants of all of your previous ailments and big pharma treatments so if I had to do it again I would not start with EVOO and no Tea Tree, I would get the coconut, and backing off the pulling when the body becomes a bit overwhelmed is perfectly fine. Sorry for the long post, just wanted everyone to know that sometimes the healing crisis is very terrible and you will feel sick and lonely, but it is well worth it to go through to the other side. Thanks Again.


Oral Lichen Planus

Posted by Jtk (Independence, Missouri) on 02/22/2011
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I have been pulling oil for about six weeks & though I'm not cured, my condition is dramatically better than on any previous day over the past 10 years.

I first heard of oil pulling in Dr Ott's column in our local newspaper, I then looked it up on the web. I bought a bottle of sesame oil at the grocery that tasted awful as it was pure but toasted. I misremembered what I'd quickly read/scanned on the web and bought a big bottle of safflower oil at a local health food store and started using it. I immediately began to see results and within a week or so my mouth was mostly healed up. The first time in over ten years without constant pain.

Enjoying such remarkable results I started reading more about oil pulling and realized that sunflower not safflower was the preferred oil. The next time I visited the health food store I picked up big bottles of sesame and sunflower and a bottle of hemp oil. I began pulling three times a day, with the very delicious hemp mid-day, in a couple of days I suddenly had day long diarrhea every 30-40 minutes followed by a half day of the same. I quit the hemp oil and my stool firmed up. I continued twice a day alternating between the sesame and sunflower, then I went to once a day first with sesame for a few days then sunflower for a few days all the while my old symptoms were resurfacing though not nearly so virulently. I then decided to revert to the safflower oil that seemed to have done so much good at first and my mouth seems better by the day; not perfect but lots better. Once a day seems sufficient though I sometimes pull at bedtime as well as morning.

My point here is that different oils definitely do different things and those things may differ with the individual. There is no question in my mind as to the power of oil pulling.

To give some idea of my condition:

I have had clinically diagnosed (biopsy) oral lichen planus which has persisted and worsened for more than 10 years. Modern medical science can only offer steroids to lessen symptoms (and the one med- pack I took didn't help at all) or oral steroid ointments, that also did no good. Alternative medicine offers three basic cures that list different countries of origin but all mail out of Pakistan, modest benefit if any. Limiting spicy and acidic foods helped slightly. Various homeopathic, vitamin, colloidal silver and nutritional protocols weren't helpful. A tea tree oil mouthwash did about as much as anything. For much of the time brushing my teeth was out of the question.

My condition has been a never ending series of almost healing for a few days followed by blisters that cover the inside of the cheeks and over the gums which burst and then peel in layers for days & weeks on end keeping the inside of my mouth raw to the point it hurt to drink water and it hurt even more when eating. As I write this I can still find sore spots in my mouth, but I have to seek them out. I am noticing other changes like smelling things I haven't smelled in years.

I am only 6 weeks into this we'll see how it is in 12. JTK


Broad Benefits

Posted by Karen (Sydney, Nsw) on 10/02/2010
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I have been oil pulling for 6 months now. I have experienced quite a few things. Firstly, the rash on the skin but it went away after awhile ( a few weeks). Perhaps it is removing toxins through the skin also. I have bridge work and was getting a gap between the gum and bridge. After a week, the gap closed, the dark discoloration disappeared and any plaque on my teeth is long gone. I usually rinse my mouth with warm water afterwards. I haven't had a flu or any sickness since oil pulling. I use olive oil and have used sesame seed oil but I prefer the olive oil. My breath is fresh and clean. No morning breath smell. My jawline is more chiseled (had a bit of a double chin before).

My best advice is to keep oil pulling until any side effects leave and they will. I have old metal fillings and if anything, the area around the fillings is cleaner. I originally had a sore gum when I started and eating made it worse. After the first oil pull, the inflammation went away. Oil pulling is the best thing you can do for your body. I have my kids oil pull now and the dentist couldn't believe how clean and plaque free my kids teeth were.. I oil pull usually in the morning before breakfast and then rinse my mouth out with warm water or rinse it with ACV I have in a bottle of water. Somedays I oil pull for the full twenty minutes, some days 10 minutes and 10 minutes later in the day. I only do it once a day. I usually eat or drink after pulling, about 30 minutes later. If it hurts your jaw, pull relax, pull relax, or keep your head down to take the pressure off the jaw. This is Gods miracle cure along with Castor oil. I couldn't live without either. All the best to everyone trying it for the first time. Keep at it and you will soon enough realise how wonderful oil pulling is. God Bless you


Hives

Posted by Janet6 (Brooklyn, Ny) on 09/18/2010
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I have been doing OP with virgin olive oil for over four years. This has now become part of my morning routine. The first week I started, I experienced a clean palate which I think resulted in my new experience of foods. I now enjoy my foods and eat with more gusto. My other observance was that I slept more soundly and felt more refreshed and energized upon waking. Each day I eagerly started my morning doing O/P and then a thorough brush with my regular tooth-paste and baking soda and salt. My breath definitely improved during the day. However, the most important and startling feature of this new practice for me was that it cured my hives. I suffered with this allergic reaction for more than 20 years and all I got from my doctors was temporary relief. I had been using Benadryl, Allegra, Zyrtec, Prednisone among many but when I started O/P, it cured my allergies, which came out in the form of hives (raised irregular shapes all over my body which were crazily itchy and ugly). I could not even talk about them, I felt like they were listening and would re-visit me. After four years of O/p I think this is the most amazing thing that could happen to someone with allergies. I feel that anyone with allergies can benefit if I can. I have been passing on by word of mouth to all my friends and family and those who try it tell me the wonderful results they too are having. I believe this has even helped me with whatever pain I have had in my shoulders and knees. I have experienced expelling a lot of phlegm which I am amazed is in my body as I never seem to have a cold or cough. Over the years, my face has gotten smoother than when I was younger. No one believes how old I am and I will not tell. I have used sesame oil and sunflower oil and I like olive oil the best.


Broad Benefits

Posted by Nicole (New Jersey) on 06/25/2010
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

This really works - sunflower and sesame oils tried!

I found this site just a week ago after coming home from the dentist extremely frustrated (on top of having a 1/2 numb face for the next two hours). Over the last few months I've been drawn to natural cures actually for my spouse, not myself, to help cure her polymyositis and fibromyalgia (off topic, but magnet therapy is helping). Anyway, after that trip to the dentist I said, "there HAS to be a better way!" Briefly, I'll state my history as having struggled with gum disease for at least the last ten years. It has gotten much worse in the last year. Unfortunately, I had an accident last fall that further irritated two of my teeth that were already slightly loose. When I went to the dentist last Thursday to see what could be done I was really upset that 1) my insurance wouldn't cover a deep cleaning because I'd had one within the last three years 2) I needed to get that cleaning (I agreed) to help keep my teeth clean and 3) that it would cost me ~$500 for just ONE side of my mouth ~ and the total would have been ~$1,600 out of pocket (includes injecting antibiotics directly into eight teeth/gum areas at ~$40/tooth)! Because I thought I *needed it,* I bit the bullet and got one side done but when I got home I was determined to find another way. It was too much discomfort and I didn't want to pay for it if I didn't have to. That's when I stumbled upon oil pulling. I thought it sounded absolutely too good to be true but with all of the testimonials and the fact that it had very little risk why not try it? Well, last Friday morning, 6/18/2010, I started with Sunflower oil. I lasted about 12 minutes. I thought it taste rather bland so I switched to organic, virgin sesame oil the next day and have been using that up until today, Friday, 6/24/2010. My results are as follows:

1-After day one I immediately noticed that my teeth became a little whiter
2-After day two I became really congested and had to blow my nose a LOT. I also had a couple of pimples pop up, which have since cleared. I think the sunflower was better for whitening quickly.
3-After day three I noticed that I was sleeping a lot deeper and had a ton of energy during the day
4-As of last night I noticed that both of my loose teeth are secured. I would say that one is 95% while the other is trailing at 90%!
5-My skin seems a little clearer.

I am ASTOUNDED by these results as I'm 29 years old and was worried to death about losing them. My own sibling who is a dentist in another state told me that something drastic needed to be done or I would lose them. :( Also, a dentist that I was going to every three months up until earlier this year (I've recently relocated) wanted to do a LASER procedure to penetrate the gums and fix the problem. I'm SO glad I didn't do that! The only reason I didn't do it is because the timing was bad with me preparing to relocate and that procedure would have also been ~$1,600 out of pocket. (My sister did tell me not to do laser because it was too invasive and not necessary).

At any rate, that's my report after a full seven days. I'm grateful to not lose my appetite like some others here because I'm underweight and am consuming a lot in order try and gain 10 pounds. That is another journey in itself, but it's coming along now that I'm tracking my caloric intake. OP has made junk food less appealing, which is a good thing. My process is to brush and floss as usual, OP for 5-10 minutes, spit, rinse, brush with water and baking soda and rinse one more time. It sounds like a lot but it's not that bad. Fifteen minutes go by quickly if you just fill it by checking your email. Besides, 15 minutes a day to save thousands of dollars and unnecessary pain is worth it! Oh, I also cut down on sodas tremendously over the last week. I had about three rather than one a day. I drank mostly water - had no desire for soda.

I'm so excited about this I want to tell my family and friends but I'm going to wait until 30 days go by. I know they're going to be skeptical, especially the dentist, but if she can get a hold of my dental records then there will be proof! My wife has now decided to try it. Yesterday was her first day and not more than ten minutes after doing it she felt "different" and had to release phlegm. This morning she woke up with me at 5:00 as chipper as ever, very energetic without the aid of coffee, an energy drink or Adderall. We're both amazed. I do worry that her healing process may be unbearable as she's been struggling with chronic illnesses for at least eight years, but it would worth it if she no longer had to deal with them or prescription drugs with horrific side effects.

Sorry, this post is a lot longer than I intended it to be.


Leukemia, Sinus Infections

Posted by Sue (Orangevale, Ca) on 03/04/2010
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Sesame Seed Oil pulling cured my leukemia and sinus infection

Sesame Seed Oil pulling with 5 drops of Oregano oil in a tablespoon. From reading info from your web site I started Oil Pulling about two months ago. I had a severe cronic sinus infection for nine months. Leukemia set in my sinus. I had severe nose bleeds every day. I had almost immediate results from oil pulling. They first day I did not have to take the 800 mil ibpropens that I had been taking for nine months. I had 3 different nasal surgeries for the sinus infection to continue with all the nose bleeds. When I had done Oil Pulling for about 1 week the nose bleeds went away. At first I did not know if it was the prayers that was being made or the blood transfusions that I had, but when I quit the oil pulling it all came back. Now I do oil pulling for 15 minutes the first thing every morning. The sinus infection went away. My blood count is now back to normal. I think the oil pulling is a miracle. I know it is pulling something because by the end of the fifteen minutes the oil gets very bitter. Thank you for your web site and information.


Dental Issues

Posted by Mike (Edmonton, Alberta, Canada) on 01/05/2010
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Cure for the dentist!

I've been oil pulling off and on for over a year with sesame/sunflower oil. Extreme tooth sensitivity (hot, cold, and warm) completely gone, toothaches from 1 troublesome tooth completely gone, teeth ridiculously clean smooth (stains tartar are gone). I dont think im ever going to the dentist again! I use in combination with a few drops of oil of oregano as i no longer use toothpaste (tried every brand/type of toothpaste, they all aggravated sensitivity and toothache and don't do squat for healthy teeth (in my opinion)).


Back Pain, Severe

Posted by Toomuchswagger (Atlanta, Ga) on 10/12/2009
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Benefits of using Sesame Oil for Oil Pulling Therapy

I tried Sesame Oil after experiencing severe back pain from a tramatic injury to my tailbone and my coccyx bone became misaligned, which caused severe pain when I'm sitting down. I also have chronic knee pain, stomach pains, occasional headaches and an infection on the right side of my mouth. I began the oil pulling therapy on July 21, 2009 and after 3-4 weeks I saw a noticeable decrease in my back pain. I used to have difficulty being seated for periods longer than one hour and had horrible pain after riding in a car or driving for long distances. I have experienced such remarkable improvements in my results that I was able to drive from Georgia to Maryland with no pain in my back or my knee, 5 weeks after I began oil pulling therapy. I no longer have headaches or pain in my stomach. I have also noticed that the pain in my mouth is gone because the infection has obviously disappeared!! I feel absolutely wonderful that I am now pain-free and I have accomplished this without surgery or chemical drugs and medication. I am happy to say that my girlfriend and family members have now begun oil pulling therapy.


Dental Issues

Posted by Hadessah (Charlotte, Nc) on 09/08/2009
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I use 1 teaspoon extra virgin Olive Oil for 15 minutes every morning, first thing.

Oil Pulling has made my teeth stronger and whiter and it is healing a disorder I was going to doctors for nearly 20 years. I've tried all kinds of antibiotics to cure sinusitis. Now after oil-pulling, I feel the pressure in my upper gum, above where a tooth was extracted. Above the bony part of the gum. So I 've had an abcess for two decades. No wonder people stepped back when talking to me. My breath smelled like 20 year old decay.

I developed tinnitis and oil-pulling may eventually clear up all the abcess right at the base of my maxillary sinus, BUT actually above the bony part of my gum where a tooth was extracted in the 80s.


Healing Implants With Bone Grafts

Posted by Tanya (Pittsburgh, PA) on 05/20/2009
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Oil Pulling Healing Implants With Bone Grafts

It's been 3 weeks since I had 5 implants with bone grafts installed and I am healing fast. It looks as though I will be able to get my crowns 2 months sooner. After the implant surgery I waited 2 days and then I started my oil pull with 1 tablespoon of black seed cold-pressed oil (black cumin seed oil) for 20 minutes each morning. I could feel mucus coming down the back of my throat and would have to spit. I've used other oils, sesame seed, olive, and safflower oils and I like the black cumin seed the best.


Mental Health

Posted by Nic (Athens, Greece) on 04/27/2009
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

After seeing how successful are most of the home remedies I've found here, I decided to try this one as well out of curiosity. Oil pulling started more than a week ago, first with olive oil, which I thought would be the best, then bought excellent sesame oil for the first time in my life. Sesame oil was an amazing discovery, Greeks love olive oil and I was a big fan of this national product, avoiding all other oils, but in my case oil pulling was disgusting when using olive oil, and it was a big unpleasant surprise for me since I love the taste of olive oil. Although I suspect olive oil is extremely powerful, more than sesame oil and other oils, it was the latter that worked. I read someone's feedback that he managed to feel less depressed or something like that while oil pulling. I have always been against anti-depressants but many a time before I nearly tried to find a decent doctor to prescribe me some mild ones, as I felt very low for a very long period despite the fact nothing that serious or bad was happening in my life. First of all, negativity has vanished entirely from my way of thinking, dark thoughts were eliminated in just two days. I had no problem focusing so far but I never thought my ability to focus could become so good, excellent! Colours became more vivid especially red green and blue. Confident and more pragmatic than ever, I find it no more difficult to decide and evaluate almost everything. Oil pulling is a great tool if you are trying to become serene and positive. And yes, oil pulling with sesame oil doesn't taste horrible, is easier and you can swish more efficiently, cures not only the body, but also the mind, betters your psychological condition. I am so glad I never found a decent doctor for those 'happy' pills. The answer is oil pulling. I just wish I knew about turmeric powder, ACV+honey, good old garlic and onion, warm compresses etc, earlier, as I would have never taken so many antibiotics. Thank you very Earth Clinic Team and all of you who send your feedback!

Cheers


Gum Disease

Posted by Ari (Roswell, GA) on 04/23/2009
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I'm so so excited. I posted a few months ago and want to provide an update. I had a sever case of gum disease. NO MORE! I started oil pulling a few months ago, daily. I use Sunflower oil and Coconut oil.

I went to the dentist today and I was told my pockets are normal, except for a few and my gums look great! He told me I didn't need deep scaling and a simple cleaning was all I needed! I'm over joyed.

I also use coconut oil in my hair, it looks great. I use it all over my body and I simply feel terrific. I have told tons of people about this site and will continue to do so.

Lots of Love, Ari


Broad Benefits

Posted by Francesca (Merseyside, UK) on 03/03/2009
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

hi everyone came about your site by accident. Began op about 5 days ago. I used ordinary extra virgin olive oil pulled for 20mins in the morning yet oil still remained yellow when i spat out yet the next morning when i woke up the first thing i noticed was i felt energised, a totally different person who is normally lethargic upon waking. I had a lot more mental clarity . On the second day my cracked heels which were sore every time i walked were healed and soft. My hair which was dry felt softer and my skin feels softer too. I have stopped coughing as well. I have suffered from bad chest infections since i was a child yet op has stopped the wheeze and the cough dead in its tracks. Every morning - wake now i feel i am being propelled in the right way towards super health thankyou so much for this site i will report back with more news


Broad Benefits
Posted by Anne (Los Angeles, CA) on 02/24/2009
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I've been pulling about two months, using various oils but most frequently coconut and sesame. The main benefit I've noticed is that my teeth feel wonderful! The first time I pulled I noticed my teeth felt as if they had been individually polished! It was delightful! The first few days of OPing I kept running my tongue over my teeth just to enjoy the sensation!

Now I'm accustomed to the polished feeling but it's still great!

The first two weeks of OPing I tried several different oils and noticed each had different effects on me. Unfortunately, they don't have those effects any more but I'll list them here in case anyone else has the same reaction.

Sesame seed (cold-pressed): this oil made my teeth the "happiest" and smoothest.

Coconut oil (extra virgin, cold-pressed): I felt resonance with this oil. It was as if my personal vibration and the vibration of the oil were the same. Using that oil just felt correct for me. I know that sounds ridiculous but there it is, I cannot explain it better than that. Also, the coconut oil did not make my teeth as polished-feeling as the sesame.

Flax seed (cold-pressed): I loved this one. After pulling I felt very, very calm and peaceful. It was like taking a dose of Zen.

Olive oil (EVO): this gave me a mood boost. After pulling I felt joyous and buoyant.

For the last two weeks I've been exclusively using coconut oil. I'm going to switch next week and see if the olive oil still gives me an emotional boost.

Good luck to you oil pullers!


Broad Benefits
Posted by Burton (Portland, Oregon) on 01/25/2009
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I read about oil pulling on this site and decided to try it, though i wasn't aware of any real health problems. I only had olive oil in the house so I went with that for 3 or 4 days and did the neti pot nasal flush afterward each time. I used a tablespoon of oil and swished for 15 minutes, rinsing afterward with 1/2 tsp. salt and 1/2 tsp. baking soda in warm water. Throughout the course of those four days I noticed a startling mood elevation and mental clarity that I hadn't had in a very long time. I also noticed alot of sinus drainage and my ability to smell increased. Also my eyes stopped feeling itchy or dry. I switched over to sesame oil because it was recommended, but have since switched back to olive oil and experienced the same mood elevation and mental clarity. This has made me wonder if I was suffering from low-grade depression the whole time. I feel much calmer and focussed, less confused and find alot more reasons to laugh during the day. I also have a TON more energy and work much harder. This energy caused me to have some problems sleeping for the first few days. One last thing is that my beard seems to have gotten much thicker and softer. I'm excited about such a cheap and simple remedy and would recommend it to everyone.


Insights and Theories

Posted by Molly (San Francisco, CA USA) on 03/28/2008
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I've OPed for about three years now. And I've followed endless discussions about what it does and does not do. I now have a theory.

I don't think that OP "pulls" anything out of the system. What it does seem to do is infuse your body with EFA's sublingually (under your tongue) which enters the bloodstream bypassing gastric juices. I found a patent that uses oil as a transporter of medication for a sublingual medication. From what I read, Oleic Acid is commonly used for this transport.

It makes sense why some people have skin conditions clear up with OP. They are being dose with good oil.

Secondly, there is now no doubt that the health of your mouth is directly linked to your organ health. A well-known biologist, a friend of my Dad, said he thinks that the bacteria in the mouth, the really bad stuff that forms plague, is very attracted to the acids in the oil. So the oil melts this bad stuff, and then you spit it out. That's why your teeth get much cleaner than by conventional means, like alcohol-based rinses.

And so, when you melt this bad stuff, you simply spit it out..buh bye.

Now, I think this is the major link to why people experience healing while OP. As your mouth is populating with all this nasty bacteria (or worse, infections), you are swallowing the stuff. That bacteria is attacking you internally. That is why some people have had heart attacks after a dental procedure, like a root canal, that infuses their body with nasty stuff. Yes, it can attack the heart and other vital organs.

OP simply removes it so that it cannot go anywhere else. Dr. Karach talked about curing a long time blood disease. Perhaps his dental health was very bad.

Add a drop of Oil of Oregano to your oil pulling for about a week every 3 or so months, and you have a powerful anti-bacterial agent to kill all this stuff. Oregano Oil is natures anti-biotic, so it should not be abused, and used just like you would a pharmaceutical anti-biotic.

All these theories I have come from a long time listening and discussing this modality.

OP is very gentle. It's just food for goodness sake! And I believe that it should be a common morning occurrence, just like brushing your teeth.

I've actually used it to get rid of sinus infections and lung infections. It has cut down on the time I am sick, but darn if I've hardly gotten sick since I've started OP. Also, my long time seasonal allergies are gone. If I do have any lung complaints, I OP back to back until I don't cough anything up anymore.

I have used (always unrefined and organic) Sesame, Sunflower, Walnut, Macadamia, coconut, Udo's Oil, Total EFA Oil....amongst others. My personal all time favorite is Sesame, hand's down. I have noticed that if you change your oil about ever two months, it's like a renewed therapy. Don't know why, perhaps your body is getting used to that particular EFA formula. But I have noticed that when I change, my teeth get whiter even more.

Thought I'd weigh in since I haven't been here for awhile. Actually, it was myself and Ms Kitty from Oregon that turned Earth clinic onto this some years back. I'm so pleased to see that this is still being discovered and that people are having such good results.

OP is a no-brainer. It's not dangerous, it can't pull stuff out of your body, like medication, it's simply swishing some "food" around your mouth. But what it does do is invaluable.

Keep Swishing!!


Broad Benefits

Posted by Sorenna (Fort Bragg, North Carolina) on 10/10/2007
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I had immediate relief from a tooth injury from a bad dentist. I can't really explain how it works, but I also sleep better, too. I used extra virgin olive oil first and then sesame seed oil. When I first did it, the tooth pain stopped. I had a terrible taste of metal in my mouth which is one of the reasons I really knew this was pulling toxins out. I also fell very weak and run down for the first two days and then very energetic! I believe it is very helpful and don't know why I did not hear of this sooner as I am very much into the alternative health. Thank you for posting about this!


Agent Orange Poisoning

Posted by Kendra Rose (Haiku, Hawaii) on 08/24/2007
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I have now been oil pulling for two months both morning and night. Twenty-eight years ago I was exposed to agent orange here in Hawaii from the pineapple fields. It had gotten into the water supply. I have been ill ever since, I especially suffered from migraines. To make things worse I have heavy metal poisoning that is off the charts.

Two friends put their grandmother's rosaries on me and prayed for me by my request... as I had been feeling so terrible.. kept telling my friends that my blood feels poisoned. That night I found EarthClinic and my prayer was answered. My life has been restored to me. Glory be to Buddha, Marys, Christ, angels and all the Saints! HO!

I have consistent energy. I no longer feel poisoned, my blood feels joyous! I am sleeping so deeply from the very first day I tried it. Now that I feel so good, I understand how deeply sick I've been all this time. My body feels so relieved not to start the day with a toxic overload. A new acquaintance of mine said that since she's known me she can't believe the quality of my skin...

I have tried for over 28 years many modalities, herbal medicines, prescription medicines.. nothing helped me.. I began to feel I was the only person on earth who could not heal... and I'm a healer... I am healing and everyday I am amazed, startled, surprised, delighted that I wake up feeling grrreat! Blessed Be!


Broad Benefits

Posted by Catalina (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico) on 05/05/2007
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

I thought I was too young for arthritis, but my shoulders, hips, knees, feet and neck were getting achey in the joints. After two months of oil pulling, all aches are gone and have not returned six months later. Also, my keratosis pilaris is cleared up, skin is softer, facial wrinkles have markedly decreased. My teeth are whiter, tongue cleaner and pinker, gums pink, dark circles under eyes have lessened, less gray hairs. Yes, it's true. Both my husband and I have noticed a 50% decrease in gray hair, with brown hair returning. I'm sleeping more soundly, have more energy, and generally feel better all around. I know this all sounds too good to be true, but after 9 months of oil pulling, I don't see how this can by attributed to a placebo affect. Something is working, either by pulling toxins out and/or allowing oil nutrients in. Whatever is happening, I will never stop oil pulling. I alternate coconut oil with olive and avocado oil, changing about once a month, pulling for 20 minutes at at time once a day. I urge everyone to try this. Give it 30 days and you will see results.


Neck Pain

Posted by August (Fallbook, Calif) on 04/16/2007
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

oil pulling- I am 71 years old, neck hurt since I was 12 yr. havent slept with a pillow for 31 years. the first week my neck stopped hurting, and slept with a pillow, second week i gave up my heating pad that i used for 40 years.


Broad Benefits

Posted by Karthik (Mumbai, India) on 02/07/2007
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Though i come from the country where Ayurveda was invented and popular, thanx to Earth Cinic in giving me insight on Oil pulling therapy. I started with sesame oil the first week did for 10mts, now 20mts starting from mid jan2007. It helped me with totally arresting from bleeding gums and black circles under my eyes dissapeared. I used to get sleep only at 5am and now i sleep by maximum 10.30. So far I have benefited gums cure/dark circles and good night sleep. Therefore I recommend to all. It is win win situation any which way. No side effects, cheaper remedy and simple too.


Migraines

Posted by Kelli (Silver City, NM) on 01/11/2007
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Sesame oil 20 minute pulling with a teaspoon has cured headaches, and raised energy levels. I had OP sent to me in an email and gave it to my mom who is in her early 60's. She called me one morning and said that she woke up with a terrible headache, as she was going to the medicine cabinet she stopped and thought about trying the OP, she said that she sat down and swished for 20 min and before the time was up her headache was completely gone. Also she lives a ways out of town and rarely comes down without goog reason, she has been useing OP for over a week and has gone out with friends and made shopping trips. This may not sound like much, but to me I have my mom back, she is happier and more youthful than she has been in years. It is also helping with age spots she has recently gotten, they are fading at a visual rate. I highly recommend this to anyone who has tried healing on the outside, but may have negleted the inside. She also has said that her mouth feels fresher than ever. I started yesturday and look forward to any results as they seem to differ with different people.


Asthma

Posted by Shakti (Chicago, IL) on 11/06/2006
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Please post this where asthma sufferers can view it, this is important because I had a hard time finding a cure for asthma on your site but thank God I did. I began a regimen of oil pulling shortly after a lingering cold went to my lungs, I just couldn't get rid of the mucus. I prayed for relief. It got even worse after a chemical pesticide was sprayed in my home for pest control. The next day after the extermination I had the worst attack of my life, I couldn't stand it anymore, so after 10 years of not having to put any poison into my lungs I had to once again use an inhaler to control the attacks. After the second night of waking up feeling side effects of nervousness anxiety and panic I decided enough was enough. I went to the computer in the middle of the night and began hours of research to find a natural cure. That's how I found this miracle of a web site. The next day I went out a purchased some sesame oil and took one table spoon 3x a day at the onset of my asthma attack and Immediately after the very first dose the mucus expelled out of my longs, and within 10 minutes what had plagued me for over 10 years was no more. Since then If I have any tightening in my chest or shortness of breath I IMMEDIATELY do the oil pulling and the problem subsides in 10 minutes or less. ~~~Oh I'd be remiss if I did not mention the side effect, I took oil pulling for Bronchial Asthma but as a result I got a dazzling white smile, sinus relief, not to mention it remarkably helped to subside my symptoms PMS all unexpected but welcomed side effects. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! P.S. thanks my husband thanks you too, lol.


Broad Benefits

Posted by T. (USA) on 09/18/2006
★★★★★

Editor's Choice

Oil Pulling

I have used this for years and have given it to many people. I used it for arthritis which has never returned as I used this method regularly. I have seen it cure snoring and many sinus issues. I have a friend who worked in a copper smelter and has emphesema and he swears by it. When I am exposed to pesticides and toxins or am experiencing die off from clenses I use this treatment. I am worried however that there is no information listed in your swish about toxins in the mouth after and the need to brush and gargle as well as snorting with baking soda and salt in warm water after so I am including the email I received years ago with the instructions I have as I would hate anyone to get sick or CA of the mouth due to not cleaning out the toxins right after swishing.

Oil swish for getting rid of toxins When I first learned of this, I did it several times a day. Now, I just do it when I feel something coming on, nip it in the bud that way. I probably should do it every day. I got this back in 1992 in a handout a friend of mine brought back from Germany. She got it from a Yoga teacher there. I copied it. All I can do is give you the information I have. It says it was taken from an article that was published in a German magazine, Fortschritt fur alle (Progress for All). I have never researched it out any further than what I am giving to you, because I personally followed the instructions that follow and I KNOW that it WORKS for me. So, I don't feel the need to get validity from outside sources. You have to decide for yourself. By the way, the testimonies are not mine; they were on the handout too. If I were to write one, it would be very similar to testimony # five. Folk Remedy Oil Therapy According to Dr. Karach F. Karach, M.D., presented a paper before the All-Ukrainian Association. The meeting was attended by oncologists and bacteriologists belonging to that Academy of Science of the USSR. Dr. Karach explained an unusual simple healing process using cold- pressed oils. The results of this therapy invoked astonishment and doubt concerning the contents of his report. However, after further examining the workings of the oil therapy, one has but to then test it on oneself to prove its validity and effectiveness. It is most astonishing that such results can be affected with this absolutely harmless biological healing method. This simple method makes it possible to effectively treat the most varied diseases, in some cases enabling one to avoid surgical intervention and the taking of medications that can have harmful side effects. The exciting factor of this healing method is its simplicity. It consists of swishing cold-pressed vegetable oil in the mouth. The healing process is accomplished by the human organism on its own. In this way it is possible to heal cells, tissue and all organs simultaneously; the body rids itself of toxic waste without disturbing the healthy microflora. Dr. Karach says human beings are living only half their life span. They could potentially live to be 140 to 150 years old. He claims that the following illnesses can be effectively healed with the application of oil therapy: headaches, bronchitis, lung and liver conditions, toothache, thrombosis, blood diseases, arthrosis, paralysis, eczema, gastric ulcers, intestinal disorders, heart and kidney ailments, encephalitis, nervous conditions and female disorders. The oil therapy is preventative as well as curative. Dr. Karach says: "With the oil therapy, I healed my chronic blood disease of fifteen years. With the use of this therapy, I was healed within three days of an acute arthrosis that had forced me to lie in bed."

If you can get it, the best oil to use is Hain Sunflower Oil or Spectrum Natural Peanut Oil. In the morning before breakfast on an empty stomach you take one tablespoon in the mouth but do not swallow it. The oil is slowly swished in the mouth and drawn through the teeth for fifteen to twenty minutes. It is thoroughly chewed and mixed with saliva as it is done in the Mayr cure. Chewing activates the enzymes and the enzymes draw toxins out of the blood. thus, the oil must not be swallowed, for it has become toxic. As the chewing process continues, the oil gets thinner and white. It is then spit from the mouth into the toilet bowl. If the oil is still yellow, it has not been masticated thoroughly or long enough. After the oil has been removed from the mouth, the oral cavity must be thoroughly rinsed several times. It is preferable to use a cup of pure warm water to which has been added one-half teaspoon of salt and on-half teaspoon of baking soda. The teeth, gums and tongue must be brushed carefully. It is recommended that salt and soda be applied directly to the brush. After rinsing, gargle with the warm salt-soda water. You can add cooler water to what remains in the cup, thereby diluting its strength. Then tip the cup under the nose and gently sniff up the water to clean the nasal passages. Gently blow the nos. The sink must be cleaned because the spittle contains harmful bacteria and toxic bodily waste. If one were to see one drop of this liquid magnified 600 times under a microscope, one would see microbes in their first stage of development. It is important to understand that during the oil-swishing process one's metabolism is intensified. This leads to improved health. One of the most striking results of this process is the fastening of loose teeth, the elimination of bleeding gums and the visible whitening of the teeth. The oil swishing is done best before breakfast.

To accelerate the healing process, it can be repeated three times a day, but always before meals on an empty stomach. The therapy is not harmful if it is repeated several times a day. Repetition hastens the healing process and renders it more effective. How long? This therapy should be repeated until one has returned to his original vitality and his sleep has been returned to a peaceful state. One who practices this therapy faithfully will awaken refreshed in the morning with no bags under the eyes. Normal appetite and improved memory are additional benefits.

Healing symptoms: Patients who suffer from chronic conditions may appear to get worse in the beginning. Dr. Karach emphasizes that a worsening of your condition may be a sign that the disease is in the healing process. It may even happen that your temperature increases. A word of caution: Whereas the oil therapy can be very helpful to people, it is not a substitute for ongoing care by a qualified health practitioner. Any serious symptoms that develop during the course of this treatment should be reported to your doctor to determine whether they are due to the healing process or to a worsening of your condition, which may require immediate medical treatment.

How often? Questions as to the repetition and duration of therapy can only be answered on an individual basis. Acute conditions oftentimes improve quickly, within two to three days. Chronic conditions usually need longer therapy, sometimes up to a year. Never give up!!!

Testimony 1

For fifteen months I had been having pain in my liver. It seemed to become more intense and frequent as the weeks went on. I had tried all the different remedies I knew - special teas, vitamins. Swedish Bitters, ginger compresses, and so on--but the pain did not go away. After I prayed to Mother Mary for help regarding this problem, a friend handed me a piece of paper describing an oil therapy from Dr. F. Karach. I decided to try it since nothing else had worked for me thus far. Each morning before breakfast, I took one tablespoon of sunflower oil and slowly swished it in my mouth for fifteen to twenty minutes. I repeated the procedure each night before going to bed. After spitting out the oil, I found it helpful to use my Water Pik to thoroughly cleanse the tongue and gums. Three days after I had started the treatment, the pain disappeared completely! One week when I was extremely busy, I could only do the treatment in the morning and not at night. During that time, I noticed the recurrence of a slight pain in my liver, which disappeared again when I resumed the practice twice a day. I have now been using the treatment regularly for 1 1/2 to 2 months. I am very grateful to Mother Mary for making me aware of this therapy and hope that it will be helpful to all of you in treating whatever health problems you might have.

Testimony 2

I had been on chemotherapy for a whole year, which had left me weak and tired and very depleted. In October 1991, I started the oil treatment and noticed an immediate improvement in how I felt. My energy began to return and I was able to go back to work full-time plus overtime. I do not have a strong immune system and I feel this treatment is helping me in that area, even though I usually only have time to use the treatment once a day. Everyone around me has been coming down with the flu, but I have not had it. My housemate has tried the treatment, too. Every time she feels a sore throat coming on, she swishes the cold-pressed oil in her mouth and the sore throat disappears!

Testimony 3

I want to tell you about my exciting experience in using Dr. Karach's oil therapy. About forty-five years ago, I tested oil products in a laboratory for the Esso Standard Oil Company. Recently, I had a doctor test me for any residue that might be remaining in my body from this type of work. Since the tests indicated that I had a considerable amount of the residue in my body, he recommended that I take a supplement to remove it. I ordered the supplement but, interestingly, the order was lost. In the meantime, I learned of the oil therapy. So, I tried it for about a week (one to two times a day). Before reordering my supplement, I thought I should have my doctor test me again. Miraculously, he said, "There's not a trace of the residue left in you. It's all gone!" To say the least, I was thrilled! I have continued to use the oil therapy for its many other benefits, and as a preventative as well as a curative. I have noticed that I have not had any colds or coughs, unlike so many others around me.

Testimony 4

I started the oil therapy one night when my teeth and upper and lower jaws were extremely sore--so much so that I feared my teeth were shifting and that I might have to have an extraction. I actually thought I might have to go to an oral surgeon. I followed the instructions and repeated the therapy the next morning and next night. When I awoke the following day, me teeth and jaws were very comfortable and the soreness never returned.

Testimony 5

The idea of a simple, inexpensive, effective health therapy has always captured my interest. When I learned of the oil therapy, I started swishing immediately, experimenting with different oils. I had been to the dentist for a checkup after five years. Although I didn't have any cavities, I had serious deterioration in my gums. I had tried the usual remedies of baking soda and sea salt. My gums would improve somewhat but the condition would never clear up completely. For years I have also had postnasal drip and a film on my teeth in the morning as well as a heavy feeling in my mouth. Severe colds, flu and bronchitis have been a yearly experience. In general, I have had a difficult health history but have been on a good diet and work constantly on my health. I don't do things half way, so I enthusiastically started the oil- swishing therapy three times a day. In the evening, I would often swish for twenty minutes and follow up with an additional twenty minutes while reading or exercising. To my great joy, I immediately began to experience a clean feeling in my mouth each morning. My teeth felt like velvet and have become whiter. The gum condition cleared up in seven days! During the swishing, I experience mush drainage from my sinuses. I have slept more soundly than I have in years. j I have noticed little troubles clear up and my energy has been good. It takes concentration to keep the oil moving in the mouth, but this is necessary because the action of chewing and swishing activates the microorganisms out of the bloodstream into the saliva. The scarping of the tongue with a spoon is something I have practiced for years. I feel it is an important part of the cleansing of the mouth from bacteria. I am delighted with the therapy and looking forward to further changes in my body.

Testimony 6

I learned about the oil therapy from a friend. It made sense and seemed simple and inexpensive, so I immediately decided to give it a try. I have been doing this therapy twice a day for about two months now. I feel it is one of the main reasons I have escaped getting the flu while so many others around me have been sick, including my husband. I think it is also quite effective in clearing toxins and purifying the blood. I have observed that a blood condition that had been making me very tired and keeping me awake at night has improved a great deal. I certainly intend to continue doing the oil therapy on a long term basis. I have little to lose and, I think, lots to gain! Testimony 7 I must admit that I was a bit skeptical upon hearing about the oil swishing treatment. But it sounded so simple, and the possibility of improving my health stimulated my desire to try it for a while. After using this treatment for the last two months, I can truly say that I feel stronger and less vulnerable to the latest illness going around the neighborhood. I have also noticed that my digestion has improved. I can eat less and yet not feel famished before my next meal. It's a great little remedy.