The act of swishing oil, typically coconut, sesame, or sunflower, in the mouth for a period of time, often 10-20 minutes, as a purported method for oral hygiene has gained traction, particularly within online communities. Discussion forums dedicated to health and wellness frequently host threads exploring the practice’s perceived benefits and drawbacks. One such example is the presence of related conversations and user experiences shared on a popular social news aggregation and discussion website.
Advocates suggest potential advantages like plaque reduction, gingivitis mitigation, and teeth whitening. These potential benefits are often attributed to the oil’s ability to trap bacteria and debris. Historically, this practice has roots in Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient Indian system of healing. The traditional practice emphasized its role in detoxification and overall health improvement.