Oral hygiene has been a vital aspect of overall health in Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, for thousands of years. Ayurveda places great emphasis on maintaining a healthy tongue, recognizing its connection to digestion, overall wellness, and dosha balance. In this blog post, we will explore the health benefits of using a tongue scraper from both modern and Ayurvedic perspectives, shedding light on why it should be a part of your daily oral care routine.

What is a Tongue Scraper?

A tongue scraper, known as “Jihwa Prakshalana” in Ayurveda, is a small, handheld tool designed to clean the tongue’s surface. Typically made of copper, stainless steel, or plastic, these scrapers have been used in Ayurvedic practices for centuries. I use this one from Amazon. 

Health Benefits of Using a Tongue Scraper: Ayurvedic and Modern Insights

1. Balancing Doshas

Ayurveda teaches that maintaining a balanced dosha is essential for overall health. The tongue is considered a reflection of the body’s internal state. A coated or discolored tongue can indicate doshic imbalances. Using a tongue scraper helps remove excess dosha and toxins, promoting dosha balance. Pitta-dominant individuals, for example, may benefit from this practice as it can help alleviate excess heat and acidity in the body.

2. Enhancing Agni (Digestive Fire)

A healthy tongue supports the proper functioning of Agni, the digestive fire. Ayurveda believes that a clean tongue helps improve Agni by reducing the accumulation of Ama (undigested food and toxins). This, in turn, aids in better digestion and nutrient absorption.

3. Preventing Oral Issues

From an Ayurvedic perspective, a coated tongue is associated with oral health issues and poor digestion. Regular tongue scraping helps prevent these problems by removing bacteria and toxins, promoting healthy gums, and reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease.

4. Promoting Prana (Life Force)

Ayurveda acknowledges the connection between oral health and the flow of Prana, the life force energy. A clean tongue facilitates the free flow of Prana in the body, contributing to overall vitality and well-being.

5. Mental Clarity and Awareness

Ayurvedic practitioners believe that a clean tongue can enhance mental clarity and awareness. It is thought to remove physical and mental impurities, helping you feel more centered and focused.

How to Use a Tongue Scraper the Ayurvedic Way

Using a tongue scraper in alignment with Ayurvedic principles is simple:

1. Begin with a clean mouth. You can use the scraper before or after brushing your teeth.
2. Hold the tongue scraper gently in your hand, placing it at the back of your tongue.
3. Gently pull the scraper forward towards the tip of your tongue, applying light pressure. Be mindful not to scrape too vigorously.
4. Rinse the scraper under running water after each pass to remove collected debris.
5. Repeat the process 3-5 times, ensuring you cover the entire surface of your tongue.
6. Finally, rinse your mouth with water or a clean mouthwash (nothing colored!) to eliminate any remaining residue.

Conclusion

Incorporating tongue scraping into your daily oral care routine not only offers modern benefits such as improved breath, digestion, and overall oral health but also aligns with the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda. By maintaining a clean tongue and balancing doshas, you can promote holistic well-being and cultivate a deeper connection between your oral health and your overall state of health. Embracing this Ayurvedic practice can be a transformative step toward achieving physical, mental, and spiritual balance.