Benefits of Ayurvedic Gandusha, Oil Pulling, Kavala Graha
Gandusha, commonly known as Oil Pulling or Kavala Graha, is a traditional Ayurvedic practice that has gained attention for its role in daily self-care and oral hygiene routines. Rooted in classical Ayurvedic wisdom, Gandusha involves gently swishing oil in the mouth for a specified period of time.
This practice is traditionally associated with supporting oral cleanliness, promoting freshness, and contributing to overall wellbeing as part of a holistic lifestyle approach. Below, we explore Gandusha, its traditionally associated benefits, how to practise it at home, and its role within Ayurveda.
Gandusha / Oil Pulling / Kavala Graha: An Overview
Gandusha is an established practice within Ayurveda, based on the traditional understanding that oral hygiene plays an important role in overall wellbeing. The practice involves holding and gently swishing approximately one tablespoon of natural oil—such as coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil—within the mouth for around 15–20 minutes.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, this process is traditionally believed to support oral cleanliness and encourage balance within the body when practised regularly as part of a daily routine.
Traditionally Associated Benefits of Gandusha
According to Ayurvedic tradition, regular practice of Gandusha is commonly associated with the following supportive benefits:
Supporting Oral Hygiene:
Gandusha is traditionally used as part of daily oral care routines to help maintain freshness and support gum and teeth hygiene.Supporting Overall Wellbeing:
The practice stimulates saliva production, which is traditionally associated with maintaining oral balance and comfort.Skin Wellbeing (Ayurvedic Perspective):
Ayurveda views oral care as interconnected with overall wellbeing, including skin appearance, as part of a holistic lifestyle.Head and Jaw Comfort:
The gentle swishing action is traditionally associated with easing tension in the jaw and facial area.Sinus and Nasal Comfort:
Gandusha is traditionally believed to support freshness and comfort around the mouth and nasal area.
How to Practise Gandusha / Oil Pulling at Home
Practising Gandusha at home is simple and can be incorporated into your morning routine.
Choose a Suitable Oil:
Use natural, cold-pressed oils such as coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil. Specially prepared Gandusha oils may also be available from Ayur Healthcare.Best Time to Practise:
Traditionally practised in the morning on an empty stomach.Swishing the Oil:
Take about one tablespoon of oil and gently swish it around the mouth. Avoid gargling or swallowing.Duration:
Continue for 15–20 minutes, or for as long as is comfortable.Spit and Rinse:
Spit the oil into a bin (not the sink), rinse with warm water, and follow with normal tooth brushing.
Gandusha in Traditional Ayurvedic Care
In Ayurveda, Gandusha is commonly included as part of daily self-care routines (Dinacharya). It is traditionally used to support oral comfort, freshness, and balance when practised consistently alongside appropriate diet and lifestyle habits.
Why Choose Ayur Healthcare?
Ayur Healthcare offers authentic Ayurvedic services grounded in traditional knowledge and delivered within a modern Australian clinical setting. Our experienced Ayurvedic practitioners provide personalised guidance aligned with individual needs, supporting wellbeing through lifestyle and self-care practices inspired by Ayurveda.
Conclusion
Gandusha, also known as Oil Pulling or Kavala Graha, is a time-honoured Ayurvedic self-care practice traditionally associated with oral hygiene and overall wellbeing. When incorporated mindfully into daily routines, it reflects Ayurveda’s holistic approach to balance and self-care.
For personalised guidance, consulting with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner is always recommended.
