Benefits of Buckwheat Pillows

I’ve been on the hunt for a new pillow, so when asked to review a buckwheat hull pillow from Crooked Brook, I jumped at the chance. The pillow arrived, small and flat with the feeling of a sack of birdseed. How could that possibly be comfortable? And yet, when I lay my head down at night, the pillow seemed to conform perfectly to my head and I melted into dreamland.

What is in this magic pillow?

The pillow is filled with buckwheat rather than feathers or foam. This idea dates back to ancient China and Egypt but has become more popular in America in recent years. Buckwheat is actually a fruit seed of the rhubarb family, not a grain like the name suggests. The hulls are typically roasted first to remove any dust from the fields before being inserted into pillows.

Allergen note: While buckwheat is an excellent natural substitute for people with feather allergies, some people may be allergic to buckwheat flour. Be sure to research and buy quality buckwheat pillows to ensure the hulls have been roasted prior to pillow insertion. Some companies may vacuum instead of roast the hulls, which does not fully remove the dust. The good news is that buckwheat pillows are not prone to mold or dust mites.

My Crooked Brook pillow measures 20 x 14” The case is made of certified 100% organic cotton twill filled with certified organic buckwheat hulls.

I had worried about the “crunchy” sound of the buckwheat kernels while sleeping, but that has been a non-issue. Thus far, I am in love with my new pillow. Part of me misses the fluffiness of a regular pillow. That’s what pillows are supposed to be, my mind argues. But each consecutive night of rest and comfort (even when I was sick), and that argument is losing ground.

Here are some benefits of buckwheat pillows:

Neck Support

Because the buckwheat hulls do not lose their shape, they conform to your head and neck. This is supposed to provide ideal body alignment, which is why some chiropractors recommend these pillows. The malleability of the buckwheat pillow is apparently beneficial for migraines, snoring, insomnia and neck pain.

I am a side and back sleeper, and both positions are comfortable with this pillow. I do scrunch up the pillow a bit for neck support when on my side.

Eco-Friendly

Compared to polyester fiber or petroleum-based foam pillows, buckwheat has a lighter footprint. It’s a natural, renewable resource, comparable in price to regular pillows (mine was $40).

Temperature Control

Air circulates between the buckwheat hulls, so they do not become overheated like other pillows—this is key for me as I cannot sleep when the least bit hot. I’m looking forward to using the pillow in summer. With buckwheat, you can even chill it in the freezer or heat it on low in a microwave. (Buckwheat is often used this way in eye masks and neck pillows. You can try making your own.)

The care of the pillow seems simple enough. Put it outside in sunlight for a few hours every few months and wash the cover. If well cared for, the pillow should last 7-10 years, and you can always add or remove more hulls to adjust the pillow to your desired firmness.

This pillow is the first item in my long-standing dream of converting to a natural, non-toxic bedroom.

Buckwheat Honey

The buckwheat crop is also an excellent source of honey. Raw buckwheat honey is dark colored with a robust, earthy flavor. This honey has higher levels of macronutrients and antioxidants. Some doctors recommend taking a spoonful a day to boost immunity during cold and flu season. I’m planning on trying it as a natural cough suppressant.

You can buy raw or regular buckwheat honey made form New York apiaries online at Mohawk Valley Trading Company.