Camilla Jessen
No chemicals, no fancy tools.
If you’re looking for a natural way to whiten your teeth without spending a fortune on whitening strips or dentist visits, you may already have the solution in your kitchen.
The practice is called oil pulling, and it’s as simple as swishing a tablespoon of coconut or olive oil around your mouth for 10 to 20 minutes.
Rooted in Ayurvedic tradition, oil pulling has been used for centuries in India as a daily cleansing ritual.
Now, it’s gaining popularity again as a gentle, natural alternative to chemical whitening treatments.
How it works
According to an article in the magazine Freundin, oil pulling works by “pulling” toxins, bacteria, and plaque from your mouth. The process may help:
- Whiten teeth by reducing surface stains caused by food and drink
- Freshen breath by targeting bacteria that cause odor
- Improve gum health by reducing inflammation and harmful microbes
- Create a protective barrier that helps prevent new stains from forming
While it’s not an overnight miracle, consistent use over a few weeks can result in noticeably cleaner, shinier teeth.
Step-by-step guide
- Choose your oil – Use a high-quality, cold-pressed oil like coconut or extra virgin olive oil.
- Measure it out – Place 1 tablespoon in your mouth.
- Swish gently – For 10 to 20 minutes, move the oil around your mouth, pulling it between your teeth. Don’t gargle.
- Spit it out – Never swallow the oil—it now contains toxins and bacteria.
- Rinse and brush – Rinse your mouth thoroughly with water (preferably warm) and follow up with brushing your teeth.
Pro tip: Start with 5 minutes if 20 feels too long and build up gradually.