Oil Pulling: What is it and what is the purpose of this popular practice among women?
That good habits are trending is an undeniable fact. That this is essential for living well is a fact, but far from being reserved for the privacy of each of us, it has become fashionable in Spain thanks to social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
In other words, taking care of yourself is in fashion, and content creators know this. That's why there's a huge boom in videos sharing daily tricks and routines . From getting out of bed to how they make their coffee or the exercises they do at the gym, users now want to see those little tricks to stay fit and healthier.
Among them, one as peculiar as oil pulling stands out. A term you may not be familiar with or familiar with, but one that you'll want to try from now on. Especially because it's a very simple technique that women do on an empty stomach every morning . We'll tell you more about what it is and its benefits below.
What is Oil Pulling?Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic oral hygiene technique that involves swishing oil (usually coconut, sesame, or sunflower) around in your mouth for 10-20 minutes before spitting it out. It's believed to help eliminate toxins, reduce bacteria, and improve overall oral health .
That is to say, despite the fact that it may seem like a modern term coined by Generation Z, the truth is that it's an ancient habit that has been revived to complement a proper oral hygiene routine. However, many oral health experts are skeptical about this practice. "There are no reliable scientific studies showing that oil pulling reduces cavities, whitens teeth, or improves oral health and well-being," The New York Times reported in an article discussing the rise of this trend.
Benefits of Oil PullingAlthough there aren't enough studies to confirm that oil pulling at home is good for dental health, many claim that practicing it offers some very striking benefits:
- Reduces bacteria: It can reduce the amount of bacteria in the mouth, especially those that cause cavities.
- Improves gum health: Can help reduce gum inflammation and bleeding.
- Fresher breath: Can combat bad breath by eliminating problem-causing bacteria.
- Natural whitening: Many who have tried it claim that it helps lighten the tone of their teeth over time.
However, beyond the benefits of these mouthwashes, many claim that oil pulling can strengthen the immune system , reduce inflammation, and even prevent cardiovascular disease. Although, as we said, this isn't a proven fact, but rather one of those trends that appears on social media and becomes the focus of attention.
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