How does Kabalam help with oral health and detoxification?

Question

Lately, I’ve been dealing with bad breath, occasional gum swelling, and a strange white coating on my tongue. Even though I brush twice a day and use mouthwash, the problem keeps coming back. A few days ago, I came across kabalam in an Ayurveda discussion, and it seems like it could help with oral health and detoxification.

From what I understand, kabalam involves holding medicinal liquids in the mouth, but I’m not sure how different it is from regular oil pulling. Does it work the same way, or is it more intense? Also, what kind of oils or decoctions are used in kabalam? Are there specific ingredients that work better for oral issues like bad breath and gum problems?

Another concern I have is whether kabalam is safe to do daily. Can it cause any side effects like dryness or sensitivity? And how long should I hold the liquid in my mouth for maximum benefits?

If anyone here has tried kabalam, please share your experience. Did it help with oral health, and how long did it take to see improvements? Also, is there a specific time of day that works best for it?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Kabalam is not a widely recognized term in modern scientific or medical literature, so it may be a regional or traditional name for a practice, herb, or method. However, if you’re referring to something related to oral health and detoxification, it's possible you might mean a specific plant or remedy from a particular culture or tradition.

For instance, many cultures use herbs, oils, or methods like oil pulling (a traditional Ayurvedic practice) to promote oral health and detoxification. If "Kabalam" is related to a specific plant or practice, it might be beneficial for oral health due to antimicrobial properties, detoxifying effects, or by promoting general wellness through cleansing the mouth and body.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Kabalam, similar to oil pulling, involves holding medicinal liquids (such as oils or decoctions) in the mouth to promote oral health, detoxify, and balance the doshas. Unlike regular oil pulling, kabalam often uses herbal decoctions or oils, which may be more potent due to their medicinal properties. For oral issues like bad breath and gum swelling, oils such as sesame oil or coconut oil are commonly used, or decoctions made from herbs like triphala, licorice, or neem can be beneficial for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Kabalam can be done daily, but it’s important not to overdo it, as holding liquids for extended periods may cause dryness or sensitivity in some people. It’s generally recommended to hold the liquid in the mouth for around 5 to 10 minutes. The best time to perform kabalam is in the morning, before eating or drinking, to allow maximum absorption and detoxification. Most people notice improvements in their oral health within a few days to weeks, especially when combined with proper oral hygiene.

How does Kabalam help with oral health and detoxification? - #12709

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