02/12/2026
Oil pulling has been my go to for many years for oral health!
With oil pulling gaining so much attention lately, I wanted to break down the what, why & how — and share exactly how I do it.
🌿 WHAT IS OIL PULLING?
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice used to support oral health and gentle detoxification.
The idea is that oil binds to bacteria, plaque and toxins in the mouth, helping reduce harmful microbes and support a healthier oral environment.
For oil pulling, virgin, cold-pressed coconut oil is my first choice because it contains lauric acid, known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
💛 WHY OIL PULLING?
Reported oral benefits include:
✨ Stronger teeth, gums and jaw
✨ Fresher breath
✨ Support for gum health
✨ Reduced dryness of the mouth and throat
✨ Brighter-looking teeth
Many people also report benefits beyond the mouth, such as:
🌿 Reduced inflammation
🌿 Better sinus and respiratory support
🌿 Improved digestion
🌿 Fewer headaches
✔️ When:
First thing in the morning, right after getting out of bed — before brushing your teeth or drinking anything.
(Pro tip: it’s easy to do in the shower.)
✔️ Steps:
1️⃣ Gently swish 1 tablespoon of virgin coconut oil around your mouth and between your teeth for 10–15 minutes
👉 Keep it gentle so you don’t tire your jaw
👉 Do not swallow
2️⃣ Spit the oil into the trash (not the sink — ask me how I know 😅)
3️⃣ Rinse your mouth with warm water
➕ Add a pinch of salt for extra antimicrobial support
4️⃣ Brush your teeth as normal (fluoride-free if possible)
✨ Simple and effective.
🌱 ESSENTIAL OILS I ADD
(1 drop is plenty — quality matters)
• Peppermint – fresh breath, clarity, energising
• Myrrh – soothes and supports gum healing while helping defend against oral threats
• Clove – rich in eugenol; powerful antibacterial support, helps relieve discomfort and ease inflammation
👉 Use only high-quality, food-safe essential oils.
🧴 A NOTE ON FRACTIONATED COCONUT OIL
You can use doTERRA Fractionated Coconut Oil if you prefer a liquid oil, but it doesn’t contain lauric acid, so it’s less effective for oil pulling.
I recommend virgin coconut oil whenever possible.