Oil pulling is a traditional Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around in your mouth to improve oral health. While coconut oil is the most commonly used oil for oil pulling due to its antimicrobial properties, avocado oil is another oil that some people use for oil pulling. Avocado oil is rich in healthy fats and nutrients, making it a popular choice for cooking and skincare. But can you oil pull with avocado oil? Let’s explore whether avocado oil is a suitable alternative for oil pulling and how to do it effectively.
Benefits of Avocado Oil
Avocado oil is derived from the pulp of avocados and is known for its numerous health benefits. It is packed with monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy fats that can help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels. Avocado oil also contains vitamins E and K, which are essential for skin health and wound healing.
Using Avocado Oil for Oil Pulling
If you want to try oil pulling with avocado oil, here’s how you can do it:
- Start by choosing a high-quality, cold-pressed avocado oil. Organic avocado oil is preferable to ensure that you are using a pure and natural product.
- Take one tablespoon of avocado oil and put it in your mouth. You can do this in the morning on an empty stomach for about 15-20 minutes.
- Swish the oil around in your mouth, making sure to pull it through your teeth and around your gums. Do not swallow the oil, as it will be full of toxins and bacteria that you want to remove from your mouth.
- After 15-20 minutes, spit the oil out into a trash can. Do not spit it into the sink as it can clog the drains.
- Rinse your mouth with water and then brush your teeth as usual.
It is recommended to oil pull with avocado oil 2-3 times a week to see the best results. As with any new health practice, it’s best to consult with your dentist or healthcare provider before starting oil pulling with avocado oil, especially if you have any existing dental conditions.
Effectiveness of Avocado Oil for Oil Pulling
While coconut oil is the most popular choice for oil pulling due to its antimicrobial properties, avocado oil also has some benefits for oral health. Avocado oil contains vitamin E, which has antioxidant properties that can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy gums.
However, avocado oil may not be as effective as coconut oil for oil pulling due to its lower lauric acid content, which is known for its antimicrobial properties. Lauric acid can help kill harmful bacteria in the mouth and improve overall oral health.
If you decide to use avocado oil for oil pulling, you may still experience some benefits such as fresher breath, reduced plaque, and healthier gums. Some people also find avocado oil to be gentler on the taste buds compared to coconut oil, which can have a strong flavor.
Conclusion
Oil pulling with avocado oil is a possible alternative to using coconut oil for those who prefer the taste or have allergies to coconut. While avocado oil may not have the same level of antimicrobial properties as coconut oil, it still offers some benefits for oral health due to its vitamin E content.
As with any health practice, consistency is key. If you decide to try oil pulling with avocado oil, make sure to do it regularly and complement it with a good oral hygiene routine that includes brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups.
Remember to always consult with your dentist or healthcare provider before starting any new oral health practices to ensure that they are safe and suitable for you.