Jihwa Prakshalana (Tongue Scraping) (Jihwa Prakshalana)
Gently scrape the tongue each morning to clear overnight buildup.
When to practise
Immediately upon waking, before food or drink.
Beginner shortcut
Three gentle strokes if you gag easily.
Where it fits in your routine
- warm-water
- tongue-scraping
- oil-pulling
What you need
- Tongue scraper: Copper or stainless steel
- Warm water: For rinsing after scraping
How to practise
- 1. Extend tongue: Stand at a mirror, open wide, and extend your tongue.
- 2. Scrape gently: Place the scraper at the back of the tongue and pull forward gently. Do not gag yourself.
- 3. Rinse and repeat: Rinse the scraper and repeat 5–7 times until the tongue looks clean.
Benefits
- Removes bacteria and coating
- Improves sense of taste
- Freshens breath
- Supports morning digestive readiness
Cautions
- Skip if you have open sores on the tongue
- Avoid after oral surgery until cleared by a clinician
Common mistakes
- Scraping too hard
- Starting too far back
Dosha notes
- vata: Gentle strokes; follow with warm water.
- kapha: Helpful when morning coating is thicker.
- pitta: Do not scrape aggressively if the tongue feels raw.
Seasonal notes
Year-round; thicker coating may appear in Kapha season.
Frequently asked questions
Plastic or metal scraper?
Metal (copper or stainless steel) is traditional and easy to clean; replace plastic scrapers when worn.
How hard should I scrape?
Use light pressure. Soft tissue should never feel abraded or painful.