# Oil Pulling Cup

> Oil Pulling Cup (Sanskrit: Kavala / Gandusha Patra) is an instrument used in nasal and oral devices. A small cup or vessel used to measure and hold medicated oils, decoctions, or other liquids for Kavala (gargling/swishing with smaller quantity) and Gandusha (holding liquid to full mouth capacity) practices.

## Key facts

- **Sanskrit name:** Kavala / Gandusha Patra
- **Ayurvedic category:** Nasal and Oral Devices

A small cup or vessel used to measure and hold medicated oils, decoctions, or other liquids for Kavala (gargling/swishing with smaller quantity) and Gandusha (holding liquid to full mouth capacity) practices.

## Where is it described in the classical texts?

Charaka Samhita Sutrasthana Chapter 5 (Dinacharya); Sushruta Samhita Chikitsasthana Chapter 40; Ashtanga Hridaya Sutrasthana Chapter 22. Charaka attributes oil pulling with ability to treat about 30 systemic disorders.

## How is it used traditionally?

Oral health, prevention of dental caries and gingivitis, strengthening gums and teeth, treatment of jaw disorders, improving voice quality, treating oral ulcers. Recommended with [sesame oil](/glossary/concepts-m-y/#tila-taila) ([Tila](/herb/tila/) Taila) as primary medium.

## Traditional materials

- Copper (Tamra)
- Silver (Rajata)
- Brass (Pittala)
- Earthenware

## Modern variants

- Stainless steel measuring cups
- Glass cups
- Pre-measured oil pulling sachets

## Regulatory status

- **India Cdsco:** Not classified as a medical device. The cup itself is a general vessel.
- **Us Fda:** Not regulated as a medical device. The oils used may be subject to cosmetic or supplement regulations.
- **Eu Mdr:** Not classified as a medical device.

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Published by Age Ayurveda in the Nighantu. Educational reference only, not medical advice.
Incorporates material from the Amidha Ayurveda Herb Database under CC BY 4.0.