Tongue scraping is a quick way to cleanse the surface of your tongue. The simple tool is a slightly rounded stainless steel or copper scraper that can be used a couple of times each day, prior to oil pulling, flossing, brushing, and mouthwash.

What are the benefits?

1. Oral Health - Create a healthy oral environment by removing bacteria that is associated with bad breath and dental decay by using your tongue scraper twice daily. A 2005 study showed positive effects in 7 days. (source)
2. Overall Health - It is believed that “good oral health is important not only to prevent oral disease but also to maintain good general health.” (source)
3. Improve Taste Sensation - While tongue scraping is not a substitute for gentle but thorough toothbrushing and flossing as well as proper swishing/gargling with mouthwash, tongue cleaning improves taste sensation. Your tongue may be able to better distinguish between bitter, sweet, salty, and sour. (source) 
4. Improve Digestion - Have you ever noticed a white coating on your tongue? Digestion of our food starts in the mouth as the enzymes present in our saliva begin the process to break food down for easier digestion. When our taste buds are blocked by this coating, our brain may not activate the relevant enzymes needed for digestion. Regular gentle tongue scraping should remove remove this coating. (source)

How to Use Your Tongue Scraper:

• Over the bathroom sink, stick out your tongue as fas as comfortably possible.
• Place the scraper near the back of your tongue but not so far that it causes you to gag.
• Press down gently so the scraper sits flat against the surface of your tongue then slowly pull it forward to the tip of the tongue.
• Spit out any debris & saliva, and wipe or rinse the scraper.
• Repeat - gently - until you’ve covered the whole surface of your tongue including each side several times.
• Thoroughly rinse your mouth.
• Clean and dry your tongue scraper. 

Where to find a tongue scraper? I’ve used a stainless steel one like this but copper is considered to be more of an antimicrobial option. I just received a new copper tongue scraper as part of doTERRA’s Wellness Program Immunity Kit this month and I love it!

Will you add this healthy habit to your plans for 2021? Let me know!

I believe wellness is a combination of healthy habits + good lifestyle choices. One of my favorite ways to serve my RealFoodCarolyn family is to help them get started with the Healthy Habits Kit HERE. This kit includes therapeutic grade essential oils & superior products/supplements that are perfect for daily use in order to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Reach out when you're ready and I'll also send you my customized Welcome Packet. Cheers to a NEW year!