Best Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling: A Complete Guide

Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil in the mouth to promote oral health.

In this guide, we’ll explore what makes coconut oil ideal for oil pulling, how to choose the best coconut oil, and a breakdown of the top coconut oil brands on the market.

What is Oil Pulling?

The purpose is to “pull” out harmful bacteria, toxins, and debris from the mouth, helping to improve oral health.

Oil pulling is believed to:

• Reduce bad breath (halitosis)
• Improve gum health and reduce inflammation
• Remove harmful bacteria and plaque
• Promote teeth whitening
• Help with overall detoxification

While you can use oils like sesame or sunflower oil, coconut oil stands out because of its antimicrobial properties, thanks to the presence of lauric acid, which is effective against harmful bacteria like Streptococcus mutans—one of the main culprits of tooth decay and gum disease.

Benefits of Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling

1. Antimicrobial Properties: Coconut oil contains lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid with proven antibacterial and antiviral properties. This makes it effective in reducing the harmful bacteria in your mouth that contribute to bad breath, gum disease, and tooth decay.
2. Gentle and Tolerable Taste: Coconut oil has a mild, pleasant taste compared to other oils like sesame or sunflower, making it easier to swish for the recommended 15-20 minutes.
3. Teeth Whitening: Regular oil pulling with coconut oil can lead to a gradual whitening of the teeth by reducing surface stains and improving overall oral cleanliness.
4. Supports Gum Health: Coconut oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce gum inflammation and support overall gum health.
5. Natural and Safe: Coconut oil is a natural, chemical-free alternative to many conventional mouthwashes, which often contain alcohol and other harsh ingredients.

What to Look for in the Best Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling

Not all coconut oils are created equal.

1. Virgin vs. Refined

• Virgin (Unrefined) Coconut Oil: This is coconut oil in its purest form, extracted without heat or chemical solvents. It retains most of its nutrients and lauric acid, making it ideal for oil pulling.
• Refined Coconut Oil: This is processed coconut oil that undergoes heat and filtering, often losing some of its beneficial properties.

2. Organic Certification

Organic coconut oil is free from harmful pesticides and chemicals, ensuring you’re swishing a pure and natural product.

3. Cold-Pressed

Cold-pressed coconut oil is extracted without heat, preserving the beneficial nutrients and fatty acids. This is the best method for maintaining the oil’s quality and is preferred for oil pulling.

4. Raw

Raw coconut oil has not been heated or processed, meaning it retains all its natural enzymes and nutrients. This is an excellent choice for oil pulling as it ensures maximum effectiveness.

5. Non-GMO

Non-GMO certification means that the coconut oil does not contain genetically modified organisms, ensuring a natural product.

6. Packaging

Look for coconut oil stored in glass jars, as plastic packaging can leach harmful chemicals into the oil, especially if stored in warm environments.

Top Coconut Oils for Oil Pulling

To help you find the best coconut oil for oil pulling, we’ve researched and compiled a list of high-quality products based on purity, user reviews, and effectiveness.

1. Viva Naturals Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil

It is made from fresh, organically grown coconuts and is free from harmful chemicals and additives.

• Key Features: Organic, cold-pressed, non-GMO, extra virgin
• Pros: Mild taste, effective antimicrobial properties, versatile
• Cons: May solidify in cooler temperatures

2. Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

Nutiva offers a high-quality, organic, and cold-pressed coconut oil. This product is known for its smooth texture and light coconut flavor, which many users find pleasant for oil pulling. It’s sourced from fresh coconuts, ensuring that you get all the health benefits coconut oil has to offer.

• Key Features: Organic, virgin, cold-pressed, non-GMO
• Pros: Great taste, versatile for cooking and oil pulling, affordable
• Cons: May be too fragrant for some users

3. Garden of Life Raw Extra Virgin Coconut Oil

Garden of Life’s coconut oil is a premium choice, made from raw, cold-pressed coconuts. It’s unrefined and retains all the beneficial nutrients and enzymes, making it a powerful option for oil pulling.

• Key Features: Raw, organic, cold-pressed, non-GMO
• Pros: High-quality, raw, pleasant taste
• Cons: Higher price point compared to others

4. Dr. Bronner’s Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

Dr. Bronner’s is a well-known brand in the natural health world, and their coconut oil is no exception. It’s fair trade, organic, and unrefined, making it an excellent option for oil pulling. Its ethical sourcing and commitment to quality make it stand out among other coconut oils.

• Key Features: Fair trade, organic, unrefined, non-GMO
• Pros: Ethical sourcing, high-quality, pleasant taste
• Cons: May be a bit pricey

5. Kirkland Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

It comes in large jars, making it a great option if you’re looking for an affordable yet effective product.

• Key Features: Organic, virgin, cold-pressed, non-GMO
• Pros: Affordable, large quantity, high quality
• Cons: Some users may find it has a stronger coconut flavor

How to Use Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling

1. Choose Your Oil: Select a high-quality, virgin coconut oil for the best results.
2. Take One Tablespoon: Scoop out about one tablespoon of coconut oil. If it’s solid, it will melt in your mouth within a few seconds.
3. Swish for 15-20 Minutes: Swish the oil around your mouth, ensuring it reaches all areas, including between your teeth. Do not swallow the oil.
4. Spit It Out: Spit the oil into a trash bin (avoid spitting it into the sink to prevent clogging).
5. Rinse and Brush: Rinse your mouth with warm water and brush your teeth as usual.

Conclusion

Oil pulling with coconut oil is a simple and effective way to support your oral health. Choosing the right coconut oil is essential to maximize the benefits of this ancient practice. By opting for high-quality, organic, cold-pressed, and virgin coconut oil, you can ensure you’re getting the most out of your oil pulling routine. The products listed above are some of the best available, offering a range of options to suit different needs and preferences. Happy swishing!