Oil Pulling (Mouthwash)

Oil pulling is a great way to freshen your breath and reduce plaque accumulation. Since the bacteria responsible for tooth decay and bad breath is pretty nasty, keeping it under control can result in additional benefits like whiter teeth, healthier gums, clearer sinuses less allergy outbreaks and clearer skin.

Coconut oil has antimicrobial properties and has a pleasant taste, but you can also use other edible oils such as sesame oil or sunflower oil. The latter is a favourite of traditional Ayurvedic medicine.

Instructions

Take a table spoon of coconut oil. Since the oil is generally solid at room temperature you have to chew on it for a few seconds until it melts. Swish and swirl the oil through your mouth, pushing and pulling it through your teeth for about 15 to 20 minutes, like you would a normal mouthwash. Then spit it out. Rinse your mouth out with water as necessary.

The best time to do it is first thing in the morning. A lot of people do it while they are showering. Oil pulling is a great way to freshen up after sleep and before breakfast. After breakfast brush your teeth normally.

Note: To avoid clogging your drains with the used oil, which will set when it cools, spit it out onto a paper towel or into some tissues.