Does Oil Pulling Offer Real Health Benefits?

Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurveda practice that has gained popularity in the U.S over the past couple of years. This method involves placing a tablespoon of oil into your mouth, swishing it around and pulling it through your teeth and gums for 20 minutes. Oil pulling claims to remove unwanted bacteria, plaque and toxins from your mouth.

Many people are touting the health benefits of oil pulling, claiming it treats conditions like diabetes, asthma, acne, migraines, and allergies. Oil pulling has also been shown to help with gingivitis and bad breath.

But what is the real scoop on this ancient practice? Is it really some kind of a "cure-all" as it's claimed to be?

According to studies found on the National Institutes of Health Database, oil pulling was equally effective as prescription mouth rinses and fighting bad breath.

What oils are the best to use and at what time of day should you do it?

It is recommended to swish the oil around in your mouth in the morning on an empty stomach, with cold pressed oils. These include sesame, coconut and sunflower oil.

What about the other conditions oil pulling is claimed to help fight against?

Dr. Mike discusses this latest trend in oral health care, the benefits and if YOU should be participating in this ancient practice.