What’s the Best Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling?
Introduction: Understanding Oil Pulling and Its Benefits
Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil in your mouth for a specific period (usually 10-20 minutes) to promote oral health and detoxify the body. This practice has gained popularity in recent years, with advocates claiming benefits such as whiter teeth, fresher breath, reduced gum inflammation, and even overall detoxification of the body.
Among the various oils that can be used for oil pulling, coconut oil is often touted as the best due to its antimicrobial properties and pleasant taste. But with so many types and brands of coconut oil available on the market, choosing the best coconut oil for oil pulling can be a daunting task. This article will explore what makes coconut oil suitable for oil pulling, what to look for when choosing the best product, and how to make the most of your oil-pulling routine.
Why Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling?
Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid that has powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. Lauric acid is particularly effective at killing harmful bacteria in the mouth, especially Streptococcus mutans, which is a primary cause of tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Beyond its antimicrobial properties, coconut oil is also highly emollient, making it a great choice for maintaining the moisture balance of your mouth during the pulling process. It doesn’t have an overpowering taste like some other oils (such as sesame or olive oil), which makes it easier for many people to incorporate into their daily routine. Additionally, coconut oil has a pleasant aftertaste that leaves the mouth feeling refreshed.
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling
1. Organic and Unrefined Coconut Oil
The best coconut oil for oil pulling should be organic and unrefined. Organic certification ensures that the oil is free from harmful pesticides and chemicals. Since oil pulling involves keeping oil in your mouth for an extended period, you want to avoid introducing any toxins that could be absorbed through the oral mucosa.
Unrefined coconut oil, also known as virgin or extra virgin coconut oil, is made from fresh coconut meat rather than dried copra. The oil is extracted without the use of high heat or chemical solvents, preserving its natural nutrients and beneficial compounds like lauric acid, caprylic acid, and capric acid. These compounds are crucial for the oil’s antibacterial and antifungal effects, which are vital for achieving the best results from oil pulling.
2. Cold-Pressed Coconut Oil
Cold-pressed coconut oil is another important factor to look for. This method of extraction ensures that the oil is processed at low temperatures, retaining its natural flavor, aroma, and nutritional properties. Cold-pressing is preferable to expeller-pressed methods, which use heat and can reduce the oil’s potency and benefits.
Cold-pressed oil also has a fresher, more pleasant taste, making your oil-pulling experience more enjoyable.
3. Fractionated Coconut Oil
While virgin coconut oil is ideal for oil pulling, some people may prefer fractionated coconut oil. Fractionated coconut oil is a refined form of the oil where the long-chain fatty acids have been removed, leaving only the medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). This results in a liquid form of coconut oil that remains in a liquid state even in cooler temperatures, unlike virgin coconut oil, which solidifies below 76°F (24°C).
Fractionated coconut oil is lighter and less greasy, which some people find more comfortable for oil pulling. It also has a longer shelf life due to the removal of certain fatty acids. However, fractionated coconut oil lacks some of the nutrients found in virgin coconut oil, making it slightly less effective for oil pulling in terms of antimicrobial benefits.
4. Packaging
Coconut oil for oil pulling should ideally come in a glass jar rather than plastic. Plastic containers can leach harmful chemicals into the oil over time, especially if the oil is exposed to sunlight or heat. Glass packaging ensures the purity of the product and maintains the integrity of the oil.
5. Certifications
Look for certifications that indicate the oil has been produced ethically and sustainably. In addition to organic certification, some oils may be fair trade or non-GMO certified. These certifications not only ensure the quality of the product but also that the farmers and producers are paid fairly and that the environment is respected during the production process.
Top Coconut Oils for Oil Pulling
Now that you know what to look for, here are some of the top brands of coconut oil that meet the criteria for the best oil pulling experience.
1. Nutiva Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
Nutiva is a popular brand that offers high-quality, organic, and unrefined virgin coconut oil. Their cold-pressed oil is packed with all the beneficial nutrients that make coconut oil ideal for oil pulling. It has a light coconut flavor and a smooth texture, which many users find enjoyable for oil pulling. Nutiva is also non-GMO and sustainably sourced, making it an ethical choice.
2. Viva Naturals Organic Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Viva Naturals is another excellent choice for oil pulling. This oil is organic, unrefined, and cold-pressed, ensuring maximum retention of beneficial compounds like lauric acid. It comes in a glass jar, which is preferable for maintaining the quality of the oil over time. Viva Naturals is also known for its mild coconut flavor, which is pleasant and not too overpowering.
3. Garden of Life Raw Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Garden of Life is known for producing high-quality health products, and their raw extra virgin coconut oil is no exception. This oil is certified organic, unrefined, and cold-pressed, retaining all of the natural goodness that makes coconut oil ideal for oil pulling. It’s also vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO certified. The company prides itself on ethical and sustainable sourcing, ensuring that the product is not only good for you but also for the environment.
4. Carrington Farms Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
Carrington Farms offers a budget-friendly option without compromising on quality. This coconut oil is organic, cold-pressed, and unrefined, making it a great option for oil pulling. It has a smooth consistency and mild flavor, making it an accessible choice for those new to oil pulling.
5. Dr. Bronner’s Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
Dr. Bronner’s is well-known for its ethical and sustainable practices, and their organic virgin coconut oil is no exception. The oil is unrefined, cold-pressed, and packaged in a glass jar to preserve its purity. It has a rich coconut flavor, which may be a plus for coconut lovers. Dr. Bronner’s is also fair-trade certified, ensuring that the farmers who produce the coconuts are paid fairly.
How to Use Coconut Oil for Oil Pulling
Once you’ve chosen your coconut oil, using it for oil pulling is simple. Follow these steps:
- Take about 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. If the oil is solid, you can let it melt in your mouth.
- Swish the oil around your mouth. Move it between your teeth and all around your gums. Do not swallow the oil, as it will collect bacteria and toxins from your mouth.
- Continue swishing for 10-20 minutes. The oil will mix with your saliva and become thinner as you continue to swish. Aim for at least 10 minutes, but not longer than 20 minutes.
- Spit the oil into a trash can. Do not spit it into the sink, as coconut oil can solidify and clog your pipes.
- Rinse your mouth with warm water. You can also use salt water for added benefits. Then, brush your teeth as usual.
Conclusion
Choosing the best coconut oil for oil pulling can significantly enhance your experience and the benefits you receive. Look for organic, unrefined, cold-pressed coconut oils that come in glass packaging and are sustainably produced. Brands like Nutiva, Viva Naturals, and Garden of Life offer excellent options that meet these criteria. By incorporating the right coconut oil into your daily routine, you can enjoy the full benefits of oil pulling, from better oral health to overall detoxification.