Seems to be a bit of a fad at the moment, was reading about it earlier so thought I'd give it a try and it does seem to work!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oil_pulling
Quote:
Oil pulling or oil swishing is a traditional folk remedy that involves swishing oil in the mouth. It is mentioned in the Ayurvedic text Charaka Samhita, where it is called Kavala Gandoosha or Kavala Graha. Ayurvedic literature describes oil pulling as capable of both improving oral health and treating systemic diseases such as diabetes mellitus or asthma. While scientific evidence is lacking to support any systemic benefits of oil pulling, some studies have suggested that it may reduce oral plaque, halitosis, and gingivitis when included in a regular oral healthcare program.
The practitioner rinses the mouth with approximately one tablespoon of oil for 15–20 minutes (on an empty stomach) before eating/drinking then spits it out and washes the teeth, gums, tongue (softly) and palate thoroughly. Cold pressed (raw) oil is often said to be critical to the alleged effectiveness. Sesame oil, sunflower oil, coconut oil and olive oil are the most recommended. Oil pulling is usually recommended to be done first thing in the morning, followed by rinsing the mouth with (sea salt) salt water and then brushing the teeth in a normal morning routine.
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So yeah just tried it with vegetable oil there (apparently it works with any kind of cooking oil) for about 15 minutes - key thing is to NOT SWALLOW IT - when you spit it out it's all white from all the bacteria it pulls out from your mouth - essentially just a natural form of mouthwash.