We had a good laugh when we came across info on oil pulling. We had been swishing coconut oil in our mouths once a day because we know it kills mouth bacteria and leaves our teeth feeling squeaky clean. It turns out swishing oil in the mouth (on an empty stomach) is known as oil pulling.

It’s an ancient Indian dental technique used to improve oral and overall health. The idea is to swish and pull a tablespoon of coconut, sesame or sunflower seed oil through the teeth and gums for 15-20 minutes. It supposedly draws out toxins and the fatty acids trap bacteria, so it’s important to spit out when complete.

Oil pulling isn’t something to replace brushing teeth, but it is supposed to whiten teeth, strengthen gums, freshen breath and detox the body. People swear by it and we are obsessed.