Day 8: Pulling Out the Toxins

​Oil pulling (Kandava or Gundusha) is another ancient technique that works deep within the tissues to loosen and dislodge toxins that build up all throughout the physiology (and mind). In Ayurvedva we believe in oleation inside and out!  In Western culture (which is thankfully changing), oil and fat has been the enemy.  Since oil contains more calories, it is incorrectly labeled as something that can cause us to be fat.  Nothing could be further from the Truth. Oils have so many benefits that are too numerous to mention here, but a few related to oil pulling are anti-microbial properties, lubrication, whiter teeth, healthier gums, relief of bad breath and other conditions related to dryness, and healthier skin, hair and bones.  
How to do it: Upon awakening and on an empty stomach after brushing your teeth and tongue, take about 1 Tbs of coconut or sesame oil and gently swish it in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes.  (If you are new to the process, start with 1 teaspoon and try 5 minutes as it might take some getting used to.)  If that seems like a lot of time, again, start with a few minutes and work up to it.  I find that doing it first thing in the morning while I am in the kitchen boiling the water for lemon-ginger water, cutting up fruit for breakfast or making a smoothie, feeding my pets, getting my things ready to go out the door, 20 minutes goes pretty fast. Do not swallow any of the oil as you will be putting the toxins back that you just pulled out. The oil has a chelating effect of bonding to toxins so that they can be eliminated from the body. Discard the oil (and the toxins) into the trash (not the sink) and rinse your mouth. Observe how your mouth feels and watch the results over time.  Whiter teeth, healthier gums, glowing skin and perhaps even some greater benefits like fewer colds, clear sinuses, relief of jaw pain and inflammation, softer skin, better complexion, and better health overall! Wouldn’t you rather put this in your mouth than the chemicals found in mouthwash?  Give it a try and see for yourself! 

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