You brush your teeth, splash water on your face, and maybe sip a glass of water first thing in the morning. But what if there’s a simple, centuries-old practice you’re missing, one that could transform your oral health, boost immunity, and improve your skin? Ayurveda, India’s 5,000-year-old wellness system, holds the key to this daily ritual.
Enter Jivha Nirlekhanam, an ancient Ayurvedic ritual of tongue cleaning that goes beyond just freshening your breath. While modern hygiene focuses on teeth, ancient wisdom-highlights another part of your mouth that deserves attention. An expert shares how gently scraping away the overnight coating can remove harmful bacteria, improve oral health, and even boost your immunity.
What Is Jivha Nirlekhanam?
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Jivha Nirlekhanam, or tongue scraping, is a daily Ayurvedic practice that involves gently cleaning the tongue to remove toxins, bacteria, and debris. Dr Ashutosh Shukla, Managing Director, Indian Sages Ayurveda Pvt. Ltd, Delhi, explains “Your tongue is a mirror to your digestive health. Toxins called ‘Ama’ accumulate here due to incomplete digestion. Scraping them off daily is like hitting a reset button for your body.” Derived from Sanskrit, “Jivha” means tongue, and “Nirlekhanam” translates to scraping or cleaning. Unlike brushing, which targets teeth, this ritual focuses on removing the thin coating that forms on your tongue overnight.
Importance of Cleaning Tongue
Ayurveda views the tongue as a diagnostic tool. A thick, white coating signals poor digestion or toxin buildup. Leaving this layer untouched allows harmful bacteria to re-enter your body, leading to bad breath, weakened immunity, and fatigue. Dr Shukla added, “When you skip tongue cleaning, you’re swallowing toxins with your first sip of water or bite of food. This strains your digestive system over time.”
Regular scraping not only freshens breath but also:
- Stimulates internal organs via tongue reflex points.
- Enhances taste bud sensitivity.
- Supports natural detoxification.
How Copper Scraper Is The Ayurveda’s Preferred Tool?
But why use a copper scraper, and how does this practice work? While tongue scrapers come in various materials like plastic or stainless steel, Ayurveda recommends copper for its unique properties. The expert explains, “Copper is more than just a metal, it’s medicinal. It has natural antimicrobial and detoxifying properties that make it ideal for tongue cleaning.” Here’s why copper stands out:
- Kills Bacteria: Copper ions disrupt bacterial cell membranes, reducing the risk of infections.
- Neutralises Toxins: It reacts with sulfur compounds responsible for bad breath.
- Promotes Skin Health: Copper aids collagen production, contributing to a radiant complexion.
“Plastic scrapers may clean the surface, but copper purifies,” says Dr. Shukla.
How to Use a Copper Scraper: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Morning Routine: Scrape your tongue first thing in the morning, before eating or drinking.
- Gentle Motion: Place the scraper at the back of your tongue and gently pull it forward 5–7 times.
- Rinse Between Passes: Wash the scraper with water after each scrape to remove debris.
- Clean Thoroughly: After use, wash the scraper with soap and water to maintain hygiene.
- Avoid pressing too hard, as this can damage your taste buds.
How Many Times To Use The Copper Scraper In A Day?
Dr Shukla advises scraping 5–7 times daily, especially after meals. “Every meal leaves residue. Frequent cleaning prevents toxin buildup and keeps digestion smooth,” he says. While this might seem excessive, think of it like washing hands repeatedly it’s about maintaining cleanliness in real time.
Conclusion
Jivha Nirlekhanam, or tongue cleaning, is a simple yet powerful Ayurvedic practice that can transform your health. By using a copper scraper daily, you remove toxins, boost immunity, and improve digestion all while freshening your breath and enhancing your skin. As the expert highlights, “Your tongue is a mirror to your health. Keep it clean, and your body will thrive.” So, why not add this ancient ritual to your morning routine?