Introduction

Ayurvedic oil pulling, an age-old oral detoxification practice, is gaining popularity in the Western world gone viral on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, with celebrities sharing their daily routines, making it a mainstream wellness habit. According to Ayurveda two types Kavala (swishing) and Gandusha (holding liquids in the mouth) that supports oral hygiene, strengthens gums, and nourishes the sense organs, helping clear toxins from the body. Ayurveda considers toxins (ama) and accumulated bacteria as contributors to disease. Oil pulling helps pull these impurities from the mouth, acting as a preventive practice for overall wellness. While traditional mouthwashes like chlorhexidine are clinically proven to fight bacteria and treat gingivitis, they may cause side effects such as tooth staining or thyroid-related issues. Ayurveda has recognised the mouth as a mirror of general health and Oil pulling is a preventive routine that nurtures both the mouth and the body’s general health without any risks.

Types of Oil Pulling in Ayurveda: Kavala and Gandusha

Gandusha (Holding)

The mouth is completely filled with oil or medicated liquid, leaving no room for movement. The liquid is held until it becomes frothy, heavy, or until secretions start from the nose and eyes and spit out. It may be difficult initially start from 2 minutes increase gradually till 10 minutes.

Liquids Commonly Used:

• Sesame oil (Ayurveda choice and best for daily use).
• Coconut oil or ghee (soothing choice for ulcers, burning sensation, bleeding gums).
• Herbal decoctions, milk, buttermilk, or honey depending on the condition

Benefits:

• Penetrates deep into oral channels and clears toxins.
• Used in Chronic disorders like headaches (sinusitis).
• Offers systemic benefits for the head, neck, and sense organs.

Kavala (Swishing)

Procedure:

The mouth is partially filled with liquids/ oil leaving space for swishing, Oil is swished or pulled around the mouth for 10–20 minutes. Once it becomes thin and milky spit out.

Liquids Commonly Used:

• Sesame oil for strengthening teeth, gums, and voice.
• Coconut oil for cooling and freshness.
• Herbal infusions or medicated oils for targeted conditions.

Benefits:

• Strengthens teeth, gums, and jaw.
• Improves voice and enhances taste perception.
• Ideal as a daily wellness routine (Dinacharya).

Common Indications

Both Gandusha and Kavala support similar health outcomes, with Gandusha offering deeper and more system-wide benefits:

• Oral: Reduces plaque, strengthens gums, improves taste and breath, prevents ulcers and sensitivity.
• ENT & Respiratory: Helps with sore throats, tonsillitis, infections, sinus congestion, supports clearer airways.
• Craniofacial Benefits: Strengthens jaw and facial muscles, gives young look, reduces TMJ pain, cervical neck pain, enhances voice, nourishes sense organs.
• Systemic: Aids detox, digestion, and may support skin clarity and overall balance of doshas.

Best Time to Practice

Both Gandusha and Kavala are ideally performed in the morning on an empty stomach, after brushing as part of the traditional Ayurvedic daily routine (Dinacharya), promoting oral health and overall detoxification.

• Optimal Timing Details:
  • Kavala: Typically done after brushing or meals, or before bedtime, helping flush residual toxins.
  • Gandusha: Particularly effective after oil massage (Abhyanga) or during daytime.

Daily Ayurvedic Swish & Hold: Home Ingredients You Can Use

• Sesame Oil (Til Oil) – Best for daily use; strengthens jaws, protects teeth, prevents dryness, cracks, and sensitivity.
• Coconut Oil – Cooling option for mouth ulcers and burning sensations.
• Warm Milk or Ghee – Soothes inflammation, heals oral ulcers, and nourishes tissues.
• Honey – Clears mouth slime, heals ulcers, relieves burning, and reduces sticky mucus overnight.
• Turmeric + Salt + Cinnamon in Warm Water – Effective for throat irritation, tonsillitis, coughs, colds, or sinus discomfort.
• Dhanyamla (Fermented Grain Liquid) – Freshens breath, removes dryness, and cleans teeth and tongue.
• Ksharambu (Alkaline Water) – Breaks down Kapha build-up, clears mucus congestion.
• Warm Plain Water – Simple daily option for cleansing and refreshing the mouth and sense organs.

Classical Ayurvedic Medicines for Kavala & Gandusha

These formulations are mentioned in Ayurvedic texts and are available online (Amazon, eBay, Indian stores in the UK):

• Irimedadi Taila – Strengthens gums, prevents bleeding, cures mouth ulcers
• Dashamoola Kashaya – For inflammation and ulcer care
• Khadiradi Kashaya – For mouth infections and bad breath
• Triphala Kashyam – Infectons, ulcers an detoxification.

Precaution: Always consult a qualified Ayurvedic physician before using classical formulations, especially if you have chronic conditions, pregnant, or have health concerns such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or cholesterol. Dosages and suitability vary for each individual.

Conclusion

With rising dental problems in UK and long waits for dental appointments, Ayurveda offers a simple, home-based solution. By making oil pulling a part of your daily Ayurvedic routine, you can enjoy fresh breath, stronger teeth and gums, and better protection of your sense organs while supporting overall health and wellness naturally.