What is Kavala Gandusha, and how is it different from oil pulling?

Question

I have been practicing oil pulling for a while now using coconut oil, but recently, I heard about Kavala Gandusha in Ayurveda. Some say it is a more advanced form of oil pulling, while others say it is completely different. What exactly is Kavala Gandusha, and how does it work?

I’ve read that Kavala Gandusha involves holding medicinal liquids in the mouth rather than swishing them around like oil pulling. But how does this difference impact its effectiveness? Does it provide deeper oral detoxification or better gum health benefits?

I also want to know what kind of oils or herbal decoctions are best for different issues. Should different formulations be used for bad breath, sensitive gums, or oral infections? Also, how long should Kavala Gandusha be practiced to see noticeable improvements?

If anyone has tried Kavala Gandusha, please share your experience. Did it make a significant difference in oral and overall health? Also, how often should it be done for the best results?

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Kavala Gandusha is similar to oil pulling but with key differences. Here's how it works:

Kavala Gandusha vs Oil Pulling:
Technique: Unlike oil pulling, where oil is swished around the mouth, Kavala Gandusha involves holding medicinal liquids or oils in the mouth for a longer period, typically 5-10 minutes, allowing the liquid to draw out toxins and improve oral health.
Purpose: It helps with deep oral detoxification, improving gum health, and can even help with bad breath, tooth sensitivity, and oral infections. The longer contact time with the mouth allows the liquid to penetrate deeper and act on the tissues.
Herbal Oils & Decoctions:
Coconut oil: Commonly used for bad breath and general oral health.
Sesame oil: Helps reduce gum inflammation and promotes oral hygiene.
Mustard oil: Often recommended for oral infections or tooth pain.
Herbal decoctions: Depending on the issue, decoctions like clove, turmeric, or neem can be used to treat gum infections or inflammation.
Frequency & Duration:
Daily practice of Kavala Gandusha (ideally in the morning) for 5-10 minutes can bring noticeable improvements in oral health within 1-2 weeks.
For long-term benefits, it’s recommended to practice it regularly.
Personal Experience:
If you’ve tried Kavala Gandusha, sharing your experience can help others:

Did you notice improvements in gum health, bad breath, or oral infections?
How long did it take to feel the effects?
Did you use specific oils or herbal decoctions for different concerns?
Kavala Gandusha offers deeper detoxification and oral care benefits, making it a great addition to your oral hygiene routine.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Answer

Kavala Gandusha is a therapeutic Ayurvedic practice similar to oil pulling but with key differences in technique and purpose. Unlike oil pulling, where the oil is swished around in the mouth, Kavala Gandusha involves holding the liquid, typically oil or a herbal decoction, in the mouth for a longer duration. This method is believed to enhance detoxification, improve gum health, and balance the oral microbiome more deeply. The specific choice of oil or decoction can vary depending on the condition being treated. For example, sesame oil is commonly used for its warming properties, while herbal decoctions like neem or triphala may be used for treating infections or bad breath. The effectiveness depends on the consistency of the practice—typically 5-10 minutes daily—and the type of liquid used. For best results, it should be done regularly, and over time, many people notice improvements in gum health, fresh breath, and overall oral hygiene. If you're dealing with specific issues, it is advisable to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for personalized recommendations.

What is Kavala Gandusha, and how is it different from oil pulling? - #12740

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