Oil Pulling: The Ancient Morning Ritual That Could Keep You Looking Younger

Akanksha Tiwari | Sat, 16 Aug 2025
Could a spoonful of oil every morning be the secret to youthful skin? This article explores the science and tradition behind oil pulling’s anti-ageing benefits, from reducing oxidative stress to improving circulation, revealing how this Ayurvedic practice may help keep skin firm, radiant, and younger-looking for years.
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Anti-ageing products often focus on creams, serums, and expensive treatments. But what if one of the simplest tools for youthful skin came from an ancient Ayurvedic ritual, swishing oil in your mouth? Known as oil pulling, this centuries-old practice is now making a modern comeback in the beauty world for its potential to slow the visible signs of ageing.

What Is Oil Pulling?

coconut ​Oil
coconut ​Oil
( Image credit : Freepik )
Oil pulling involves swishing a tablespoon of oil , traditionally sesame or coconut, in your mouth for 10–20 minutes, then spitting it out. Ayurveda recommends doing it first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. While it’s primarily known for oral health, advocates claim its benefits go beyond teeth and gums, influencing skin health and ageing.

The Anti-Ageing Connection

Anti-Ageing
Anti-Ageing
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One of the leading theories behind oil pulling’s beauty benefits is its effect on oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals unstable molecules, damage skin cells, leading to wrinkles, sagging, and dullness.

Here’s where oil pulling comes in:

Reduces Toxin Load – Oil binds with bacteria, heavy metals, and toxins in the mouth, preventing them from entering the bloodstream.

Supports Liver Detox – A cleaner mouth means less strain on the body’s detox organs, which in turn supports clearer, healthier skin.

Balances Oral Microbiome – Healthy mouth bacteria can lower systemic inflammation, which is linked to premature skin ageing.

The Science Behind the Glow

Research on oil pulling is still growing, but several studies have shown indirect beauty benefits: Reduced Inflammation: A 2020 clinical trial found that coconut oil pulling lowered oral inflammation markers, which could contribute to overall lower inflammation in the body, a known factor in ageing. Improved Circulation: Swishing stimulates facial muscles and increases blood flow to the skin, supporting a natural glow. Better Nutrient Absorption: Healthier oral health supports digestion, and better nutrient absorption means the skin gets the vitamins and minerals it needs for repair and regeneration.

Why It May Work Better Than Topical Creams Alone

​Oil Pulling
​Oil Pulling
( Image credit : Freepik )
Most anti-ageing creams target symptoms, wrinkles, dryness, and pigmentation, but oil pulling may work from the inside out. By targeting root causes such as toxin build-up and inflammation, it could slow the process of ageing rather than just masking its effects.

How to Oil Pull for Anti-Ageing Benefits

  1. Choose Your Oil: Coconut oil (antibacterial and rich in antioxidants) or sesame oil (traditionally used in Ayurveda for its warming and detoxifying properties) are the most common.
  2. When to Do It: First thing in the morning, before eating or drinking.
  3. How Long: Swish gently for 10–20 minutes — don’t gargle or swallow.
  4. Spit & Rinse: Spit into a trash bin (oil can clog sinks), then rinse your mouth with warm water.
  5. Brush Your Teeth: Complete your oral care routine.


Extra Tips to Boost Results

Pair with a balanced diet rich in antioxidants (berries, leafy greens, nuts).

Stay hydrated to support toxin elimination.

Combine with facial massage to improve circulation.

Youthful Skin, Ancient Wisdom

While oil pulling isn’t a magic overnight solution, its potential anti-ageing benefits come from improving overall health, lowering inflammation, and supporting the body’s natural detox systems. By starting your day with this mindful, low-cost ritual, you might just give your skin the inner support it needs to stay radiant and youthful. In a world full of expensive serums and treatments, sometimes the most effective beauty secrets are the ones that have been with us for thousands of years.

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