The Ancient Practice of Gandush: A Powerful Oil Pulling Technique

Ayurvedic Daily Routine: Dinacharya Certification Course, Section 7, Lecture 53

Introduction

Ayurveda, the ancient system of holistic medicine, has gifted us numerous health practices. One such powerful practice is oil pulling, which is known for its incredible benefits. While many are familiar with Kaval (Kavala)—a simpler form of oil pulling—today, we are diving into a more extensive and powerful technique called Gandush (Gandusha).

Gandush is mentioned in ancient Ayurvedic texts and is considered more beneficial than Kaval. This practice, when done regularly, not only improves oral health but also enhances overall well-being. Let’s explore how to perform Gandush, its benefits, and why you should incorporate it into your daily routine!

What is Gandush?

Gandush is an Ayurvedic oil-pulling technique where you fill your mouth to its maximum capacity with a medicated liquid, such as oil, herbal decoctions, or milk. Unlike Kaval, where you swish the liquid around, Gandush requires you to hold the liquid in your mouth without movement.

This seemingly simple practice has profound benefits, as the liquid extracts toxins, strengthens the oral cavity, and supports overall detoxification.

How to Perform Gandush

Step 1: Prepare Yourself

Before starting Gandush, it is advisable to massage your face with oil. You can use sesame oil, coconut oil, or any other Ayurvedic herbal oil suited to your dosha type (Vata, Pitta, or Kapha).

• Massage your cheeks, jawline, and forehead gently.
• Perform hot fermentation by placing a warm towel or heating pad on your face and neck.
• Avoid applying heat near the eyes. Instead, use a cool cotton pad over your eyes to protect them.

This pre-step helps enhance blood circulation in your face and throat region, preparing your body for the Gandush process.

Step 2: Choose the Right Liquid

The choice of liquid depends on your needs and body constitution:

• Sesame Oil – Best for Vata dosha; nourishes and strengthens the gums.
• Coconut Oil – Cooling effect, great for Pitta dosha; reduces inflammation.
• Ghee or Milk – Good for dry mouth and people with excessive heat in the body.
• Medicated Decoctions – Herbal solutions for specific oral or systemic conditions.

Make sure the liquid is lukewarm, as it enhances absorption and effectiveness.

Step 3: Holding the Liquid

• Fill your mouth to its maximum capacity with the chosen liquid.
• Do not swish the liquid as you do in Kaval. Since the mouth is completely full, there’s no space for movement.
• Hold the liquid in your mouth until you start feeling pressure in your cheeks and jaw.
• As time passes, saliva accumulates, and your cheeks might feel tired.
• If the pressure becomes uncomfortable, spit out a small amount of the liquid to relieve it, then continue holding the rest.

Step 4: How Long Should You Hold It?

• Beginners can start with 2-3 minutes.
• Gradually increase the duration to 10-15 minutes.
• According to ancient Ayurvedic texts, the ideal duration is until tears form in your eyes or nasal secretions start. This means the detoxification process has reached deeper tissues.

However, this advanced level is not necessary for beginners. Even 5-10 minutes of practice can yield excellent benefits.

Step 5: Spitting Out the Liquid

Once you have completed the duration:

• Spit out the liquid. Never swallow it!
• The liquid contains extracted toxins, bacteria, and food particles that should not be reabsorbed.
• Rinse your mouth with warm water or a decoction of Triphala to remove any remaining residue.
• You can brush your teeth with herbal powders or toothpaste afterward.

Benefits of Gandush

1. Deep Oral Detoxification

Gandush removes deeply embedded toxins, food particles, and bacteria from the oral cavity, promoting fresher breath and cleaner teeth.

2. Strengthens Teeth & Gums

Holding oil or herbal liquids in the mouth nourishes the gums, strengthens the teeth, and prevents gum diseases like gingivitis and bleeding gums.

3. Enhances Facial Muscles & Skin Health

• The constant pressure inside the mouth strengthens facial muscles, keeping them firm and toned.
• Regular practice can prevent sagging skin and premature wrinkles, acting as a natural face yoga!

4. Improves Digestion & Detoxification

• In Ayurveda, oral health is connected to digestion.
• Gandush stimulates salivary enzymes that support the digestive process.
• It also helps in removing accumulated toxins (Ama) from the mouth, preventing them from entering the digestive system.

5. Supports Eye, Ear & Sinus Health

Since Gandush influences connected cavities, it can:

• Improve vision by nourishing the eyes.
• Strengthen hearing by balancing the Eustachian tube pressure.
• Clear sinuses, reducing nasal congestion and allergies.

6. Reduces Stress & Promotes Mental Clarity

According to Ayurveda, the mouth is an important Marma (vital energy) center. Holding liquid in the mouth can calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and enhance mental clarity.

Difference Between Gandush & Kaval

Feature	Gandush	Kaval (Kavala)
Liquid Amount	Full mouth	Small amount
Movement	No swishing	Swishing required
Primary Power	Duration	Force of swishing
Best For	Deep detox & strengthening	Quick cleansing & activation
Duration	5-30 minutes	1-5 minutes

Who Should Practice Gandush?

Gandush is beneficial for almost everyone, but it is especially recommended for:

• Those suffering from frequent oral infections or gum issues.
• People experiencing dry mouth or excessive saliva problems.
• Those who want to naturally improve skin health.
• Individuals suffering from sinus issues, headaches, or eye strain.
• Anyone looking for an effective detoxification method.

Final Thoughts

Gandush is a powerful Ayurvedic practice that offers numerous health benefits beyond oral hygiene. It detoxifies, strengthens facial muscles, enhances digestion, and even promotes better skin health.

If you’re new to oil pulling, start slow and gradually increase your duration. Remember, the key to Gandush is consistency—even practicing for a few minutes daily can yield incredible results.

Give Gandush a try and experience the ancient Ayurvedic wisdom for yourself! Have questions? Share your experiences in the comments! 🌿✨