Next in the sequence of morning rituals according to ayurvedic tradition is oral hygiene. Oral hygiene is not only important for oral health but affects overall health as well, ama (toxins) accumulated over the tongue during night can lead to health issues if not taken care off. Ayurveda offers several traditional practices to ensure oral health, prevent diseases, and promote detoxification. Here are some Ayurvedic practices for maintaining oral hygiene:
Tongue Scraping
It is an ancient practice with roots in Ayurvedic medicine that has gained popularity for its potential oral health benefits.
How to Perform Tongue Scraping
- Select a tongue scraper made from stainless steel, copper, or silver. These materials are durable and effective in removing debris and bacteria.
- Perform tongue scraping after brushing your teeth and before rinsing your mouth.
- Gently scrape the surface of your tongue from back to front.
- Rinse the scraper under running water to remove the collected debris.
- Repeat the scraping and rinsing process about 14 times, or until you feel your tongue is clean.
- After finishing the scraping, rinse your mouth thoroughly with water.
Benefits of Tongue Scraping
- Removes Ama (Toxins) and Bacteria: Tongue scraping helps remove the layer of ama (toxins) and bacteria that can accumulate on the tongue overnight. This can prevent these substances from being reabsorbed into the body.
- Prevents Bad Breath: By removing the bacteria and food particles that can cause bad breath, tongue scraping helps keep your breath fresh.
- Improves Overall Oral Hygiene: Regular tongue scraping can reduce the overall bacterial load in the mouth, leading to healthier gums and teeth.
- Enhances Taste Perception: Removing the coating on the tongue can enhance your ability to taste, as the tongue’s taste buds become more exposed and sensitive.
- Supports Digestive Health: According to Ayurvedic principles, clearing the tongue of toxins can improve digestion by reducing the ingestion of harmful substances.
Remember
- Consistency is Key: For best results, incorporate tongue scraping into your daily oral hygiene routine.
Hope all will remember these healthy habits we once had!
Oil Puling
Oil Pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice. This simple yet effective technique involves swishing oil in the mouth for a set period, typically 10-20 minutes.
Commonly used oils for this practice include sesame oil, coconut oil, and sunflower oil.
How to Perform Oil Pulling
- Select a high-quality, cold-pressed oil such as sesame, coconut, or sunflower oil.
- Perform oil pulling first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
- Take about 1 tablespoon of the chosen oil.
- Swish the oil gently around your mouth, ensuring it reaches all areas. Do not gargle or swallow the oil.
- Continue swishing for 10-20 minutes. start with 5 minutes and gradually increase the time.
- Spit the oil into a trash can, not the sink, as it can clog drains.
- Rinse your mouth thoroughly with warm water and brush your teeth as usual.
Benefits of Oil Pulling
- Detoxifies Mouth and Body: Oil pulling helps to remove toxins (ama) and bacteria from the mouth, preventing their absorption into the body.
- Improves Oral Hygiene: Regular oil pulling can reduce plaque, strengthen gums, and whiten teeth, freshens breath.
- Supports Gum Health: The anti-inflammatory properties of the oil soothe and strengthen gums, reducing the risk of gum diseases.
Always follow oil pulling with thorough rinsing and regular oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing.
Teeth Cleaning
Ayurveda emphasises using natural methods and ingredients to promote oral health.
Herbal Powder for brushing teeth
- Herbal powders or toothpaste containing natural ingredients like neem, clove, licorice, and babool
- Other pant sticks or powder that can be used- Karanj, Arjun, Vijaysar, Khair, Jambhul- if sticks not available powder made from branches of these plants is useful
- Brush your teeth using an Ayurvedic herbal or powder or fresh sticks of these plants. Ensure you cover all surfaces of your teeth and gums.
Gum Massage (Dantamool)
- Use herbal oils or pastes formulated for gum health.
- After brushing and oil pulling, gently massage your gums with your fingertips using herbal oil or paste.
- Benefits: Strengthens gums, improves circulation, reduces inflammation, and prevents gum diseases.
Neem Chewing Sticks (Datun)
Datun is a traditional Indian way of cleaning teeth.
- Material: Neem sticks or twigs from other medicinal plants like babool.
- Method: Chew on a neem stick for a few minutes, then use it to brush your teeth gently.
- Benefits: Antibacterial properties, strengthens teeth and gums, freshens breath, and prevents cavities.
Avoid Harmful Habits
- Tobacco and Alcohol: Avoid smoking, chewing tobacco, and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Sugary Foods: Limit intake of sugary and acidic foods that can cause tooth decay.
Teeth and gum health can be maintained and restored with ayurvedic and indian traditional ways. Avoiding harmful habits is much more important than treating disease.