Xerostomia, commonly known as dry mouth, is a condition of the oral cavity in which the salivary glands don't produce sufficient saliva to keep the mouth wet enough.
This disorder, affecting about 10% of the population, not only makes you feel uncomfortable but may also lead to some health issues since salvia is highly important for disease protection and controlling the oral microbiome balance. Thus, the risk of tooth decay or fungal infection is increased in the case of xerostomia.
Since ancient times, people have used coconut oil pulling to manage a few dry mouth symptoms, and in our time, scientists can understand why.
How does it work?
Coconut oil is well known for its ability to reduce plaque accumulation. Indian researchers revealed that systematic oil-pulling noticeably reduces the plaque index, improves gum condition, and balances the microbiome.
It turned out that coconut milk is as effective as chlorhexidine, which is usually used in dental practices to modify the gingival index and reduce tooth plaque.
How can we use it?
Mouthwashes are commonly water-based and provide only short-term effects. Coconut oil, in turn, provides a much longer-lasting solution, enveloping mucosal surfaces with a special barrier to keep them moist. A study by Canadian scientists revealed that coconut oil-based mouthwashes are highly effective in treating xerostomia caused by chemotherapy and radiation therapy during cancer treatment.
Another research from the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center refers to ancient Ayurvedic medical practices, during which people with dry mouth symptoms hold a few tablespoons of coconut oil for 15 minutes without swallowing to get relief.
Scientists claim this method is effective and may be used for all patients suffering from xerostomia in the modern world in addition to traditional therapy for dry mouth causes.
By the way, coconut oil is not the only natural product that can help keep your mouth healthy. Check out our news about matcha extract.
