From the Guidelines
Oil pulling with sesame oil, as part of a polyherbal product like Arimedadi oil, may offer oral health benefits, including reducing plaque and gingivitis, as shown in a recent 3-arm randomized controlled clinical trial 1. When considering oil pulling for oral health, it is essential to note that the evidence is limited, but some studies suggest potential benefits.
- The most recent and highest quality study, a 3-arm randomized controlled clinical trial, found that Arimedadi oil, which includes sesame oil, had comparable effects to chlorhexidine in reducing plaque and gingival inflammation 1.
- Other polyherbal products, including those with sesame oil, have also shown promise in reducing gingivitis, plaque, and bleeding on probing indices, with effects comparable to chlorhexidine products and superior to a negative control 1.
- However, it is crucial to remember that oil pulling should not replace regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups. To try oil pulling, swish 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes daily, ideally in the morning before eating, and then spit it out and rinse with warm water.
- Start with shorter sessions if 15-20 minutes is difficult, and be aware that oil pulling can cause jaw soreness or trigger the gag reflex in some people.
- Stop if you experience any adverse effects, and consult with a healthcare professional before starting oil pulling, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions. Some claim that oil pulling can whiten teeth and improve overall health, but more research is needed to confirm these effects 1. Overall, while the evidence is limited, oil pulling with sesame oil, as part of a polyherbal product, may be a useful adjunct to traditional oral hygiene practices, but it should not be relied upon as the sole means of maintaining oral health.
From the Research
Benefits of Oil Pulling for Oral Health
- Reduction in salivary bacterial colony count: Studies have shown that oil pulling can significantly reduce the salivary bacterial colony count, with a mean difference of 17.55 [ 2 ].
- Reduction in plaque index score: Oil pulling has been shown to reduce plaque index scores, with significant differences demonstrated in some studies [ 3, 4, 5 ].
- Reduction in gingival index score: Some studies have also shown a reduction in gingival index scores after oil pulling [ 4, 5 ].
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Oil pulling may have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce gingivitis and improve oral health [ 4, 5 ].
Benefits of Oil Pulling for Overall Well-being
- Traditional folk remedy: Oil pulling is a traditional folk remedy that has been practiced for centuries, and is believed to cure more than thirty systemic diseases [ 6 ].
- Complementary practice: Oil pulling can be used as a complementary practice to modern oral hygiene products, and may have beneficial effects on overall health [ 6 ].
- Reduction in side effects: Oil pulling may be a useful alternative to modern oral hygiene products, which can have side effects [ 6 ].
- Easy to practice: Oil pulling is a simple and easy to practice technique, that can be done at home with minimal equipment [ 3, 4, 5 ].