Hey, you’re really diving deep into the world of Ayurvedic oral care - that’s pretty cool! So, the whole concept of “swishing in mouth” or what we often call oil pulling is super rooted in Ayurveda and it’s quite different from your regular mouth rinse, like commercially available ones.
The idea is, you take about a tablespoon of oil—coconut or sesame, usually—and gently move it around your mouth for up to 15–20 minutes, then spit it out. It’s not about aggressive swirling, just a gentle move-around. What you’re doing is facilitating detoxification. Oils, especially like sesame oil, have this unique property to pull and hold onto oils and fat-soluble toxins, which includes bacteria and any kind of residue that tends to hide in the nooks of your mouth. It’s pretty amazing how it improves gum health, helps with breath, even whitens the teeth.
Many people vouch that it also cuts down the incidence of cavities! But yeah, it takes commitment.
You were spot on mentioning herbs, Tripahala and such. These herbal rinses work too, they both balance oral doshas (yep, they apply there too) and kill bacteria. Saltwater is another classic, it soothes swollen gums, with anti-inflammatory benefits.
As for comparing it to mouthwash, it’s not necessarily better or worse, just different. Mouthwash might kill bacteria faster but oil pulling is about a long-term, holistic encouragement of oral health. Some folks do both, depending on their needs.
Other than the time investment, no huge munchkins to worry about. Just start slow, say 5-10mins, build up your swishing endurance, and do it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach for the best results.
It’s not really a replacement for modern dental care, more like a complementary practice. But who doesn’t like something that leaves you feeling a bit fresher and more vibrant? Just make sure you don’t swallow the oil or ditch visiting your dentist, safety and regular dental check-ups come first.
