Ayurvedic Oil Pulling with Cloves: My Dentist Was Amazed by the Results

If you’ve been curious about natural remedies for oral health, you’ve likely heard about Ayurvedic practices such as “Kavala Gandusha”—commonly referred to as oil pulling. This ancient Ayurvedic technique involves using oil as a mouth rinse to draw out toxins and maintain oral hygiene. Here’s my personal spin on this time-honored practice using coconut oil and cloves, which has left my dentist impressed with the results!

Why Ayurvedic Oil Pulling?

• Holistic Approach: Ayurveda focuses on balancing the body, mind, and spirit, and that applies to oral care, too.
• Natural Ingredients: Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and synthetic flavors commonly found in store-bought mouthwashes.
• Proven Benefits: Traditional wisdom suggests oil pulling can help reduce plaque, combat bad breath, and support healthier gums.
• Natural Antiseptic: Cloves contain eugenol, an active compound that is used in dentistry for its mild numbing and antibacterial properties.

DIY Coconut-Clove Ayurvedic Mouthwash

Ingredients

• 1 cup of coconut oil (preferably extra virgin, cold-pressed)
• 10–12 whole cloves

Method

1. Combine & Boil Gently

   • Place the coconut oil in a small saucepan.
   • Add the 10–12 cloves to the oil.
   • Heat the mixture over low to medium heat.
   • Allow it to gently boil for about 10 minutes to infuse the oil with clove essence.
     

2. Cool & Strain

   • Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool down.
   • Use a sieve or strainer to remove the cloves.
   • Transfer the infused oil into a clean, airtight container.
     
     

3. Store & Use

   • Store in a cool, dry place and use night & day, daily.
   • If the coconut oil solidifies in colder temperatures, run the container under warm water to liquefy before use. I just take a spoonful and let it melt in my mouth
   • It stays good for more than a month.

How I Use It: My Daily Routine

• Morning & Night: I take one teaspoon of this coconut-clove oil every morning and evening.
• Swish for 30–60 Seconds: Move it around your mouth, making sure to cover all areas. Oil pulling (Kavala Gandusha) is most effective when it contacts every nook and cranny.
• Spit It Out: Don’t swallow—spitting out the oil ensures you remove the bacteria and toxins captured during the swishing. Do not rinse mouth again with water. 

Additional Tips & FAQs

1. Is it okay to do this every day?

   • Absolutely! However, if you have any underlying oral health issues or allergies, consult your dentist first.

2. Does it help whiten teeth?

   • I saw a difference after my first use! It gradually removes surface stains, leading to a brighter smile over time. 

3. What if the oil solidifies?

   • I take a spoonful and let it melt in my mouth. Otherwise, run the container under warm water to liquefy it. Coconut oil’s melting point is around 76°F (24°C).

4. Can I add other ingredients?

   • Feel free to experiment with a pinch of sea salt or a drop of peppermint essential oil for added flavor and antibacterial benefits.