Buckwheat husk is an amazing, environmentally friendly pillow filling that gives the product orthopedic properties. This material is not yet very widespread and is only recently gaining popularity. Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of a buckwheat husk pillow, what are the benefits and harms of the product, and who can use it.
Natural filler made from buckwheat husks
Types and features of buckwheat husk pillows
A special feature of buckwheat husk pillows is the special cleaning of the husk from crushed grain, dust and twigs. Due to this, the filler is highly hypoallergenic. The sifted husks are of the same size and are evenly placed in the form of pyramids with small gaps in the bedding. This makes the product elastic, porous, moisture- and breathable. When using a pillow, the pyramids fall apart, repeating the anatomical curves of the neck, shoulders and head.
As for the varieties, these products are divided into pillows:
- for sleep
. They are produced in the form of a classic rectangle and their sizes, as a rule, are 40x60 cm or 50x70 cm. Models in the form of a medium-sized roller 40x36 cm are also popular. They are convenient to take with you on the road and on trips, and are often used during the day; - for sitting
(on a chair, for the driver on a car seat). They differ in sizes and shapes. Often there are products in the form of a circle with a diameter of 35 to 50 cm or square shapes with dimensions of 40x40 cm. These products help drivers and office workers relieve stress on the vertebrae during long periods of sitting, and also helps prevent and protect against hemorrhoids ; - children
's They have a classic rectangular shape and small sizes, unlike adult models. Children from 2 years of age are allowed to sleep on them. This pillow has a beneficial effect on hyperactive children. If children do not have allergic reactions to some plants, you can add to the napernik: lemon balm, thyme, mint, lavender and other herbs that have a beneficial effect on the nervous system and respiratory tract; - under the neck
(bone, horseshoe). Products in the form of a bone are small in size and are often taken with you on trips. And horseshoe-shaped pillows are most often chosen by pregnant women. Both of these models minimize the load on the spine, ensure proper blood circulation and allow muscles to relax during rest; - under the lower back
. Their advantages include the formation of correct posture, reduction of pain due to osteochondrosis, relieving fatigue and muscle tension during prolonged sitting, and normalization of blood circulation.
Buckwheat lumbar pillows are compared to massagers in terms of their effectiveness. Seat cushions for drivers are complemented by partitions. This prevents deformation of the product's shape and performs massage functions.
What are the benefits of a buckwheat husk pillow?
According to doctors, pillows filled with buckwheat husks have a lot of positive qualities. They not only have an orthopedic effect and proper head support, but also a number of useful properties. Their main advantages include:
- Orthopedic properties. Thanks to the unique filler, the product completely follows the curves of the body during sleep, properly supporting the head and neck. Sufficient hardness of the product improves blood circulation and allows muscles to relax. This helps prevent osteochondrosis, scoliosis and eliminates unpleasant and painful syndromes in the neck and lower back.
- Relief from constant chronic headaches. This is achieved by restoring microcirculation in the brain by equalizing blood pressure.
- Getting rid of snoring. Correct head position on the pillow prevents snoring during sleep.
- Hypoallergenic and hygienic qualities. Due to its breathability, a pillow stuffed with buckwheat does not heat up and absorbs moisture well. Dust does not accumulate in the filler; mites and other harmful microorganisms that provoke allergic reactions in people do not grow in it.
- The presence of a light massage effect. For bedridden patients, such products are placed under the head and lower back to prevent bedsores and improve blood circulation.
Video: How to properly sleep on a pillow with buckwheat filling
But at the same time, pillows with buckwheat husks are not without their disadvantages:
- noticeable rigidity. People who are accustomed to sleeping on soft down products for a long time will find it difficult at first to get used to a hard pillow;
- noise during sleep. Buckwheat scales rustle when a sleeping person turns over, and this interferes with sleep. Although most users believe that the rustle of husks has a positive effect on the emotional state and helps get rid of insomnia;
- specific smell. Not all consumers like the aroma of essential oils that manufacturers add to their products. But these oils are beneficial for the respiratory organs and nervous system.
The opinion of chiropractors
Berkeley chiropractor Mick Hamilton says buckwheat hulls are an excellent neck support with many positive side effects. Follow the link to find more information about other massage pillows for the neck.
A clinical assistant professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore points to buckwheat sleep products for those who complain of neck pain due to spasms caused by poor posture throughout the workday. Poor ergonomics at work is the fault of the patients themselves, but buckwheat filler during sleep relieves stress from the muscles, relaxes and soothes them, giving them a chance to recover. Some types of headaches can be successfully treated if they are caused by spasm of the muscles in the back of the neck.
Shelf life of buckwheat husk pillow
Most manufacturers claim that their products are designed to last from 5 to 10 years. In fact, this is far from the case. The husk itself wears out and becomes deformed during regular sleep. Even with careful care of the product, its service life does not exceed 3-5 years. At the end of this period, the filler needs to be completely replaced. In other words, you just need to buy a new product.
After 3-5 years of constant use, the buckwheat husk pillow becomes unusable and may even begin to release harmful substances.
What types of pillow fillings are there?
To answer this question briefly, the fillers are:
- natural;
- synthetic;
- mixed.
Traditionally, the natural filler in Russia is the down and feathers of waterfowl, less often chickens. This filler has a lot of advantages, but one drawback: such pillows need to be cleaned regularly, how to do this and when is described here.
Over the past three decades, with the development of the chemical industry, synthetic fillers have entered the market. At first it was padding polyester, I think we remember what the pillows became after a month of use: the filler rolled into terrible lumps that no longer broke, we had to sleep on a “pile of cobblestones.”
These were the first impressions left of the pillows of those times, hence the persistent rejection of synthetics in any form. I got the feeling from sleeping on such a thing: at night the neck muscles fight with the springy fiber of the filler, and in the morning you get up broken.
Since then, the production of synthetic materials has gone far ahead, and the quality has increased significantly. Also, in stores today there are many offers of goods made from bamboo, camel and sheep wool. What is contained inside such pillows and blankets is a topic for a separate study.
Manufacturers of such products say that a thin layer of natural animal hair and natural bamboo fibers is sewn into the pillowcases, and the volume of the pillowcase is filled with the same synthetic fiber. What is more in such a pillow - the answer is obvious. You will be the first to know about new publications if you click here.
Service life (operation) of a buckwheat husk pillow
The service life of a pillow with buckwheat husk is influenced by many factors. These include product quality and proper operation. As for quality, it is worth purchasing bedding only from proven and well-established manufacturers. As for the rules of care, it is worth remembering the following:
- products are not washed with water;
- pillows must be dry cleaned once every few months using a vacuum cleaner (manufacturers recommend vacuuming the products every two weeks for the first 6 months);
- if the cover gets dirty, it can be washed separately in an automatic washing machine;
- to remove worn-out particles, the filler is sifted through a sieve;
- The product must be periodically ventilated in fresh air.
By following simple operating rules, husk pillows will serve their owners for many years without losing their original qualities, shapes and freshness.
With constant friction with each other, the scales become smaller, causing the pillow to gradually lose its original shape and volume.
How to care
The pillows are easy to care for. Latex is simply wiped with a damp cloth. Materials such as polyurethane foam can be dry cleaned, preferably professionally. Removable pillowcases can be washed at a temperature not exceeding 40 °C.
Basic recommendations during operation:
- keep away from heating devices;
- do not expose to direct sunlight;
- do not place on objects that can damage the material;
- Do not use washing powder when washing.
Reviews from doctors
According to medical reviews, these products can not only prevent diseases such as osteochondrosis and scoliosis, but will also permanently relieve snoring, insomnia, and headaches. It has an affordable price and a wide range of models. Due to the fact that the filler is evenly distributed inside the pillowcase, sleeping on the product is convenient and comfortable. Pillows containing buckwheat husk have a long service life and are suitable for users suffering from various allergies and bronchial asthma.
As for models for children, the opinions of doctors differ somewhat. Some of them believe that the rustle from the product while turning over will wake up the baby. Also, such products are heavy, which is not very convenient for a small child.
DIY orthopedic pillow
A pillow with buckwheat filling can be easily made at home.
For this you will need:
- buckwheat husk;
- dense natural fabric;
- cotton fabric for a pillowcase (calico, chintz or cambric) of any color you like;
- thread and needle. You can use a sewing machine, but an experienced seamstress can easily sew such a thing by hand.
First you need to decide on the size. Typically, orthopedic pillows are smaller in size than classic down pillows, but you can sew an accessory of any size, even a “royal” one. It all depends on the desire of the needlewoman. The product is sewn from the inside out, then turned right side out. The seams remain inside. When sewing, you should try to make the seams very small, neat, almost invisible. This is especially true if the item is intended for a child, since rough seams on the pillow can injure the delicate baby skin. Then it is filled with buckwheat husks and sewn up.
There should be just enough buckwheat husk to distribute it in an even, even layer over the entire area. However, you do not need to make this layer too thick, because orthopedic sleep accessories should be flat. After the product is sewn up, you can shake it a little in different directions. You can also lightly pat it with your hands so that the filler is better distributed and compacted inside. Now all that remains is to sew the pillowcase to size and put it on so that the product gets less dirty. If you decorate the product in a beautiful pillowcase, such an item will become not only the main attribute of a comfortable sleep, but also a wonderful interior decoration.
You can stuff medicinal pillows not only with buckwheat husks. Many fans of a healthy lifestyle use medicinal herbs as a filler to promote good sleep and relaxation, for example, dried lavender flowers. However, medicinal herbs can cause allergies, so this option is not suitable for everyone.
How much does a buckwheat pillow cost?
The market offers a large selection of pillows with natural buckwheat husk filling. Both Russian and foreign brands are popular.
The average cost of a pillow measuring 40x60 in Russia is 450 - 500 rubles. The price of a product with dimensions of 40x40 cm is slightly cheaper - about 400 rubles, standard products 50x70 or 60x60 cm will cost between 650 - 700 rubles, and 70x70 around 1000 rubles.
Photo: “Healthy Sleep” pillow made of buckwheat husk from Faberlic, 60x40 cm, price 1,199 rub.
Bottom line
Buckwheat husk is a valuable biological material for the garden. It contains potassium oxide, so it is used as a potassium fertilizer. Buckwheat hulls have alkaline properties, so they are used on acidic soils to equalize the acid-base balance. The husks are also used as mulch, to impart drainage properties to the soil, and to feed livestock. Buckwheat cake increases the yield on the site and protects seedlings from diseases and insect pests.
Mulching the soil with buckwheat cake attracts earthworms, which loosen the soil well. Strawberries remain clean after rains if buckwheat husks are sprinkled around the bushes. Buckwheat cake is used as a decorative layer covering flower beds and tree trunks. Buckwheat mulch protects the soil from drying out in hot weather.
Buckwheat husks are used as bedding for domestic animals - rabbits, birds, goats. The cake is saturated with moisture and animal feces, acquiring beneficial properties. The cake is then used to fertilize the garden. The husks are also added to the compost heap. The compost becomes friable and enriched with potassium. Buckwheat cake can replace peat or humus in their absence.
How to choose the right buckwheat pillow
When choosing a pillow with buckwheat husk, it is recommended to hold it in your hands and visually evaluate the quality. When choosing, pay special attention to:
- filler. There should be no debris in it. High-quality products spring back when touched and quickly regain their shape. Calibrated and heat-treated husks provide the products with an orthopedic effect and hypoallergenicity. High-quality filler is easily poured, does not bunch up in the case, and does not emit foreign odors;
- size. The best option is a product with dimensions of 60x40 cm, a simple rectangular shape. These sizes help relieve tension from the shoulders and neck while resting. If people have broad shoulders, they are recommended to purchase a product with dimensions of 50x70 cm;
- confidant It should be made of durable and natural fabric and its main purpose is to prevent the filler from spilling out.
Where can I buy
You can buy a pillow filled with buckwheat husks in a retail or online store that sells bedding, health stores and orthopedic salons. When purchasing, choose trusted manufacturers. To do this, just study useful information on the Internet, read reviews from previous customers and compare the cost of products on different sites (in order to inexpensively purchase the option that you like).
A competent approach to choosing a pillow will guarantee that you will purchase a truly high-quality product at an appropriate price.
When purchasing, it would be a good idea to ask the seller for a quality certificate and a license for the product.
Video: How to make a buckwheat pillow with your own hands
Proper sleep
For a night's rest to be beneficial, you need to remember a few rules for healthy sleep.
- The optimal position is lying on your side with your legs pulled up to your chest.
- Only your head should rest on the pillow.
- Sleeping on your back is harmful, since when you turn your head to the side, the vessels passing through the cervical spine can be pinched and the muscles tense.
- You can place a small pillow between your legs. This will further relieve the load on the spine.
- The surface of the bed should be hard or semi-hard. The best option is an orthopedic mattress.
Given the large selection of pillows, everyone can find a suitable option. Good and high-quality models are expensive, but can last for many years. Cheap bedding will have to be changed often, but even they will help you feel rested and full of energy the morning after waking up. Source: https://moyaspina.ru/raznoe/pomogayut-ortopedicheskie-podushki-sheynom-osteohondroze
Source: https://moyaspina.ru/raznoe/pomogayut-ortopedicheskie-podushki-sheynom-osteohondroze
Nappers for buckwheat pillows
When choosing a pillow with buckwheat husks, attention is paid to its pillowcase. It must be made of high-quality and dense fabric. Teak is considered a good choice, as it is hygroscopic. The bedstead can also be made of satin. It is durable and breathable. But calico is not the best option for sewing a pillowcase for a pillow with buckwheat filling. Since it is not strong enough and with constant contact with the husk it wears out and becomes deformed.
Checking the quality of the bedstead is quite easy. To do this, it is enough to shake the product; if the contents do not spill out, then you can purchase bedding. Experts recommend choosing bed covers with zippers or Velcro. This will greatly facilitate regular product care.
Photo: Buckwheat pillow 40x40, 40x60 and 50x70 from Ecotex
In conclusion, it is worth noting that a good buckwheat pillow is not a luxury, but a necessity. It prevents the development of various diseases, relieves neck and back pain, helps overcome insomnia and promotes the correct position of the neck, head and shoulders during sleep.
Do you spend more than 3 hours sitting?
Office chair cushion with buckwheat husk “Comfort”
- seat cushion. Designed to prevent the consequences of sedentary work. The embossed surface of the buckwheat pillow has a soft massage effect on the muscles of the buttocks, improves blood circulation in the pelvic organs, and, in addition, provides comfort in the heat - it does not heat up, and allows air to pass between the body and the seat.
