According to researchers, coconut oil has existed to be the most effective natural oils when it comes to destroying common mouth problems.
Enzyme-Modified Coconut Oil, The Toothpaste Of The Future
Based on the research conducted at the Athlone Institute of Technology, researchers discovered that coconut oil prevents the growth of common damaging mouth bacteria, including Streptococcus mutans, when treated with digestive enzymes (just as it would when swallowed).
Streptococcus mutans produces acid, which is the main contributor to tooth decay. It affects 60-90% of children and a huge number of adults in industrialized countries.
While plain coconut oil is particularly helpful for fighting bacteria, new research proves that enzymes contained in coconut oil are even more efficient and may actually destroy Candida Albicans, the yeast that triggers thrush.
Dr. Damien Brady, the lead researcher of the study, commented that:
“Incorporating enzyme-modified coconut oil into dental hygiene products would be an attractive alternative to chemical additives, particularly as it works at relatively low concentrations. Also, with increasing antibiotic resistance, it is important that we turn our attention to new ways to combat microbial infection.”
Moreover, enzyme-modified coconut oil is also beneficial for your digestive health as well.
Dr. Brady further added:
“Our data suggests that products of human digestion show antimicrobial activity. This could have implications for how bacteria colonize the cells lining the digestive tract and for overall gut health.”
How To Use Coconut Oil For Better Oral Health
Coconut oil is far safer than fluoride-laden toothpaste or mouthwash available on the marketplace. It’s just as effective as or maybe better than commercial oral hygiene products.
Coconut Oil Toothpaste Recipe
This all-natural DIY toothpaste is very simple to do. You just need:
- 2 to 3 tablespoons of baking soda
- ½ cup coconut oil
- 15 to 30 drops of peppermint essential oil
See to it that you melt down the coconut oil before using it. Combine it with the other ingredients and then transfer it into a glass jar and let cool. Use the mixture as a replacement of your regular toothpaste.
Oil Pulling
Take a spoonful of extra virgin coconut oil and swish it around in your mouth for 15-20 minutes. Do not swallow the oil because it’s full of harmful mouth bacteria. Rinse your mouth with water after the oil pulling.
