Most of us gargle when we have a sore throat. But do you know that only if there is a sore throat, the throat does not need to be pampered? Gargling is an age-old technique in which we bubble a liquid into the mouth. It's like washing your throat in motion.

Several studies show that daily gargling can reduce the chances of respiratory infections like colds. While most people prefer gargling with lukewarm saltwater, many others use gargles to reap its health benefits.

Coconut oil can be used for gargling and has some great benefits. Coconut oil is natural which can benefit our health in many ways. From improving digestion to boosting the immune system, coconut oil can do wonders for our overall health.

Coconut oil is rich in many essential vitamins and fats that promote our health. This oil is a good source of saturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, polyphenols, vitamin E, vitamin-K, and other important acids and minerals that can help treat many of our common health problems.

Coconut oil gargles

Always use virgin and unprocessed coconut oil for gargling. However, using coconut oil regularly can be harmful to your health as you may ingest some of the oil in the process of gargling.

Method to prepare

  • Take 2-3 spoons of coconut oil and put it in your mouth.
  • Start gargling. Do it slowly, not too fast.
  • Also, make sure that you do not swallow the oil.
  • Once you have gargled for a few minutes, spit out the oil.
  • You can spit the oil in a glass and throw it.
  • It should not be split in the sink or toilet, as it can block both of these places.

Benefits of gargling

  • Gargling with coconut oil will not only soothe your throat but will also help kill any harmful bacteria in the mouth or respiratory tract.
  • Coconut oil is widely used for oil pulling which is highly beneficial for teeth. By doing this, the cavity is removed and your teeth will be healthy and white.
  • Gargling relaxes your throat. If your throat is itching, then gargling will give you relief.
  • Coconut oil is believed to reduce inflammation and gargling with it helps reduce inflammation in the mouth and also benefits gum health.
  • Gargling helps to clear out any mucus in the respiratory tract and nasal cavity.

What do experts say?

Dr. Mukesh Singh Pachahara, Senior Resident (Medicine), Deep Chand Bandhu Hospital said, “In case of severe dehydration in the mouth or ulcers, gargles with coconut oil should be done. It helps in retaining the moisture in your mouth. Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce inflammation in the mouth. It also has antioxidant properties that help in healing mouth ulcers.

Although gargling with coconut oil has many health benefits, you mustn't gargle too much or do it too vigorously. Gargling can also have side effects. If you are troubled by any problem, consult a doctor immediately. Also, if you have been trying coconut oil gargles for a long time to get relief from other problems including swelling, pain, but not getting any relief, make sure you consult a doctor as soon as possible. Take it or the situation may get worse.

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