If you’ve ever spent any time in the U.K., hearing the words “on the pull” probably brings back some very vivid memories. But if not, we’d like to help you build some new connections to the term. We want you to become as fanatical about oil pulling as we are. We want everyone to be “on the pull” every single day.

One of the newest (and oldest!) trends swirling around wellness spheres is oil pulling, an ancient Indian natural folk remedy that has recently become wildly popular. But what is it, you ask? Oil pulling is a natural oral health routine that requires you to swish oil – usually coconut or sesame – around in your mouth as you would mouthwash, but for a much longer period of time.

You take about a tablespoon of oil in your mouth and swish it around for 10-15 minutes. It may feel weird or gross at first, but it will definitely pay off in a long run, and you can always start out with shorter periods of time. Although you can certainly use sesame or other types of oil, we usually prefer coconut oil, as it is a highly absorbable oil with numerous health benefits. It’s edible, so it comes with few risks, and it boasts the ability to reduce inflammation and fight harmful bacteria. Swish it thoroughly around your mouth while you get ready in the morning or tackle items on your to-do list. Once your time is up and the coconut oil has become thinner and turned a milky white, spit it out into the bin or the toilet to protect your sink’s drains. Then all you need to do is brush your teeth, and you’ll feel as if you’ve come straight from the dentist.

Wondering what the benefits are? Let us break it down for you.

One of the greatest benefits of oil pulling is the fact that it is able to reduce the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth and the saliva, helping to support good oral hygiene. Studies have shown that it is a safe and effective alternative to the chlorhexidine that is found in many mouthwashes. So you’ve killed the bacteria, but what does that mean? Well, better breath for starters. Bad breath is often a result of bacteria build-up in the mouth that has caused tongue coating, gum disease or poor oral hygiene. Studies have shown that oil pulling with coconut oil is a natural, effective method for stripping your mouth of bad bacteria.

Our smiles are so important to us, and that’s why no one wants a cavity. Oil pulling has been shown to help prevent cavities if employed alongside regular brushing and flossing. Additionally, because it helps reduce inflammation, oil pulling with coconut oil can improve gum health by reducing plaque and helping to quell inflammation.

And though it’s not exactly a health benefit, the idea that oil pulling can actually help whiten teeth is pretty damn appealing to us. You too, right? Anecdotal evidence has shown that oil pulling with coconut oil can help to clear stains away from the surface of your teeth. It also acts as a mini-workout for the muscles in your face, helping to loosen the tension so many of us carry around our jaws.

While of course you can just head to your nearest supermarket to pick up a jar of coconut oil, we particularly love Sister & Co Raw Coconut Mouth Rinse. It’s got a bright spearmint flavour that will leave your mouth refreshed, and it’s made from 100% natural, organic ingredients.