Tongue Scraping

One of the fundamental practices I recommend to everyone is tongue scraping. This ancient tradition, which dates back to India, offers significant benefits for oral and overall health. Tongue scraping is a simple yet effective method that promotes general well-being, and understanding its advantages can help individuals make it a regular part of their self-care routine.

According to Ayurveda, the tongue is closely linked to various vital organs in the body, including the heart, kidneys, liver, lungs, spleen, and stomach. Ayurveda further suggests that the state of the tongue reflects the health of these organs, making it an excellent tool for assessing overall health. Specific areas of the tongue correspond to the lungs, heart, stomach, liver, spleen, kidneys, and intestines, and regular scraping not only helps cleanse the tongue but also stimulates and supports the health of these connected organs.

There are several signs that indicate it may be time to incorporate tongue scraping into your routine, including:

• A white coating on the tongue (which suggests the presence of ama or toxins)

• Foul-smelling breath or body odor

• Mental fog or confusion

• A general sense of stagnation or weakness

• Persistent body aches

• A diminished appetite

• Digestive issues such as constipation, diarrhea, or bloating

• Fatigue or lethargy

  
  

Overnight, the body works to detoxify, and one of the places toxins accumulate is on the tongue. If not removed through scraping, these toxins can be reintroduced into the body when food or liquids are consumed in the morning.

Some of the key benefits of tongue scraping include:

• Removal of toxins, bacteria, and dead cells, which helps prevent bad breath

• Enhancement of the sense of taste

• Promotion of oral and digestive health

• Gentle stimulation of the internal organs

  
  

The practice of tongue scraping is quick and easy, requiring less than 10 seconds to perform. Here's a simple guide to incorporating it into your routine:

1. Ideally, use a tongue scraper each morning, upon waking, and on an empty stomach.

2. Hold the scraper by its handles and extend your tongue.

3. Place the scraper on the surface of the tongue, as far back as is comfortable, and gently pull it forward to remove the coating.

4. Rinse the scraper and repeat the process 3–5 times, if necessary.

5. Follow this with brushing your teeth and, if desired, oil pulling.

   
   

Tongue scrapers can be purchased for under $10 at most pharmacies or online retailers. Stainless steel and copper options are ideal, though it is best to avoid plastic versions. Be sure to rinse your scraper after each use and store it with your toothbrush.

By incorporating tongue scraping into your daily routine, you can enjoy improved oral hygiene, better digestion, and enhanced overall well-being.