We all know that sleep is important for good health. Yet, there are many things that can make or break your quality of slumber beyond simply getting the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Which brings us to Buckwheat pillows—an alternative option to your normal pillow that packs a punch when it comes to health benefits.

Here are the six best benefits of Buckwheat Pillows that help ensure you get a restful night’s sleep.

1. They’re extremely moldable, which is great for your head and neck
Buckwheat pillow are filled with actual buckwheat hulls, which naturally move around inside its pillowcase throughout the night. In short, they offer superior support to your body; buckwheat hulls will mold perfectly to the shape of your head and neck. This allows you to have the right posture all night long, which is important for good head, neck, and spine alignment. You can also add or remove hulls to get the moldability just right.

2. There are no toxins!
Many pillows out on the market are chock-full of chemicals and synthetic materials, like the flame-retardant polyurethane. These chemicals could potentially be toxic (and also emit a pungent chemical odor). On the bright side, buckwheat pillows do not use any toxins or chemicals, being that buckwheat seeds are both all-natural and organic. This makes for an eco-friendly and healthy night’s rest—with no need to worry about breathing in toxins in the place where you spend one-third of your life.

3. They’re the best at controlling temperature (and you can put them in the freezer!)
The worst feeling in the world is when you’re tossing and turning all night because it’s too hot or too cold. And a pillow that won’t cooperate with the temperature? Even worse! Regular pillows, especially foam ones, are often hot and sticky, even when you try to turn them over in the middle of the night. Buckwheat pillows are known for being extremely breathable and great at temperature control, mainly because the buckwheat hulls move around easily, allowing for optimal air movement and circulation. Another “cool” tip is you can put your buckwheat hulls in the freezer (which can be removed from the pillowcase). The hulls will stay cold for a handful of hours and naturally keep your head cool. On the flip side, you can also microwave the hulls to keep your head nice and warm as you fall asleep during a chilly night.

4. They smell good
Many traditional pillows don’t really smell like anything. Or worse: They smell like the chemicals or plastics used to fill them. Buckwheat pillows have a natural smell that at best can help you feel super relaxed, and at worst, is so subtle that you’ll simply think it’s odorless. The strength of the buckwheat scent will vary depending on the type of pillow, but they all tend to exude a soft and fresh scent that won’t overpower anyone’s slumber.

5. They last…forever
Well, maybe not forever, but buckwheat pillows do indeed hold their ground for several years—up to 20 if you care for them properly! The reason they last so long is because buckwheat hulls are really sturdy, and take many years to start breaking down. And once they do, it’s really easy to replace the hulls. This is not only great for convenience’s sake, but you’ll also save a ton of money not having to replace your normal pillow every couple of months! Buckwheat pillows tend to be cheaper than a regular pillow, too (they average at around $50), making it a safe investment that will last a lifetime.

6. You can use them for things other than sleep
Lastly, these pillows can be used for things other than sleep! Because they are both firm and moldable, they are perfect for other scenarios you may find yourself in throughout your day. The smaller pillows are great to rest your wrist on when typing at a computer. Try placing them behind your back while sitting at the office, or use them during long car drives. They’re even great for youngins who need help making sure to sit up straight at the dinner table!

No matter how you spin it, it seems that trying a buckwheat pillow could result in many great health benefits. From ensuring proper body alignment and being 100% chemical free, to the other unexpected stuff—scent, temperature, longevity, and versatility—it’s safe to say these pillows are worth a shot.

Now deciding which buckwheat pillow you want? Check out my favorite buckwheat pillows here.

The post 6 Benefits of Buckwheat Pillows appeared first on Sleepopolis.