Introduction

Common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) is thought to have originated in central and western China from a wild Asian species Fagropyrum cymosum. It has been cultivated in China for over 1,000 years, and was brought to Europe during the Middle Ages. Buckwheat as well as other grain species accompanied the colonists to the New World.

The Scots coined the word “buckwheat” from two Anglo-Saxon terms, boc(beech) and whoet(wheat). The word beech was used since the fruit of the plant was similar to that of beechnut. It was called wheat because the grain of buckwheat was used in the same way as wheat. This term is somewhat ironic since buckwheat does not belong to the grass family and is not considered a “true” cereal.

World acreage of buckwheat has been as high as 5 million acres (2 million hectares). Producers include the former Soviet Union, China, Brazil, Poland, France, Japan, United States, South Africa and Australia. The former Soviet Union (54 per cent) and China (38 per cent) make up the largest percentage of world production.

In Canada, buckwheat production was approximately 150,000 acres (60,700 hectares) in the late 1970′s and early 1980′s but has since declined to 30,000 to 40,000 acres (12,000 – 16,000 hectares) annually. Manitoba is the major producer of buckwheat in Canada with 70 per cent of the acreage on average, followed by Quebec at 16 per cent and Ontario at 14 per cent. In Alberta, the annual acreage has been 500 acres (200 hectares) for a number of years. The Canadian 1993-95 yield average was approximately 21 bushels per acre; however, the long-term information from 1981-91 shows average yields closer to 16 bushels per acre.

Description

Buckwheat is an annual, characterised by large heart-shaped leaves. The tall erect plant can grow from 2 to 5 ft. (.6 – 1.5 m) in height and can produce several branches (Figure 1). Stems are hollow and the plant is very prone to lodging. Stems vary in colour from green to red and brown at maturity. Buckwheat has a shallow tap root system, with numerous laterals extending to 3 to 4 ft. (9 – 1.2 m) in depth.

Figure 1. Buckwheat is an annual

The fruiting structure of buckwheat is on axillary or terminal racemes with densely clustered flowers (Figure 2). Flowers can be white or white tinged with pink. Seeds are wide at the base and triangular to almost round in cross section. Seed colour may be brown, grey-brown or black while size varies according to variety. The seed is comprised of a thick outer hull and an inner groat.

Figure 2. Buckwheat has densely clustered flowers

Buckwheat has an indeterminate growth habit, so the crop does not mature uniformly. Plants will begin to blossom 5 to 6 weeks after sowing and will mature in 80 to 90 days. Buckwheat requires cross pollination to produce seed, so insect pollinators are essential for effective fertilization and seed set. Manitoba research recommends one honey bee colony per acre.

Adaptation

Buckwheat thrives in cool, moist climates. It is not frost tolerant. Because of its short growing period, buckwheat is well adapted to Canadian conditions. High temperatures and dry conditions during flowering may cause some flower blast and lower yields. Cool evening temperatures and high humidity favour buckwheat growth.

Buckwheat can be grown on a wide range of soil types, but it is best suited to light and medium-textured soils, such as sandy loam, loam and silt loam. Clay soils and highly fertile soils should be avoided. Buckwheat is as acid tolerant as oat or potato. Liming soils above a pH of five should not be necessary. Studies in western Canada have shown an early growth-stage tolerance to saline soils; however, as the crop matured, this tolerance lessened.

Growers in areas with frequent heavy rain and strong wind should consider the risks in growing buckwheat. It is very susceptible to lodging because of its hollow stem and is easily flattened by high wind and heavy rain.

Properties and Uses

In Canada, buckwheat has been grown primarily for grain for domestic and export purposes. Throughout history, this crop has had a number of uses: food for humans, feed for livestock, a honey crop, smother and green manure crop.

Buckwheat is also harvested green for rutin extraction. Rutin, a flavonol glycoside compound, is used in medicine to check blood vessels for haemorrhagic diseases and to treat high blood pressure. The leaves of buckwheat contain the highest level of rutin.

Canadian processors use buckwheat in pancake mixes, breakfast cereals, breads and poultry stuffing. Europeans use whole groats in porridges, soups and breakfast cereals. Japan is the largest customer for Canadian buckwheat. Processors in Japan grind buckwheat into flour and combine it with wheat flour to produce “Soba” or buckwheat noodles. The term “Soba” is simply the word for buckwheat. Japanese consumers are very particular about the quality of Soba noodles, and only new crop buckwheat has the desired colour and flavour.

Buckwheat grain is of lower quality than cereal grains when used for livestock feeds and is usually fed in combination with barley, oats or corn. Whole grain protein is approximately 11 per cent, with 2.5 per cent fat. Buckwheat contains over 1 per cent of three amino acids: glutamic acid, arginine and aspartic acid.

The middlings from buckwheat grain are rich in protein, fat and minerals. Generally, middlings are fed only as a concentrate. The protein content of middlings is approximately 27 per cent and fat 7 per cent. The palatability of this product is poor and it is not fed to swine.

Buckwheat produces a dark, strong-flavoured honey, which is usually sold for a premium. One acre (.41 ha) of buckwheat may produce up to 150 lb. (65 kg) of honey per growing season.

Buckwheat has also been used as a smother crop for controlling weeds such as quack grass, Canada thistle, sow thistle, leafy spurge and Russian knapweed. The crop’s rapid germination and growth and broad-shaped leaves, which shade early in the crop’s development, smother most weeds. Buckwheat is not a good choice for a cover or companion crop. It has also been used as a green manure crop because of decent yields of dry matter in a short time.

Agronomy

Varieties
Tokyo was one of the first varieties developed in Canada. This small-seeded diploid type has a Japanese line as a parent; however, demand by the Japanese market for large-seeded types encouraged Agriculture Canada at Morden, Manitoba, to develop and release Mancan in 1974. Mancan is a large-seeded diploid type with good market acceptability but low test weight. The 1,000 kwt of this variety is 29 grams.

Manor, another large-seeded diploid variety, developed by the Agriculture Canada Research Station at Morden was released in 1980. The 1,000 kwt of Manor is also 29 grams. AC Manisoba, a higher-yielding extra large-seeded variety was brought forward from Agriculture Canada at Morden in 1995. AC Manisoba has a 1,000 kwt of 35 grams.

The following information on varieties has been provided courtesy of Manitoba Agriculture.

• AC Springfield – This large seeded variety has larger seed than Mancan and Manor, having 35.7 g/1000 seed compared to 29.6 g and 28.6 g, respectively. It has a higher percentage of large, whole groat after dehulling. Its yielding ability is intermediate to Mancan and Manor. Seed density is low at 523 kg/m3, compared to 557 kg/m3 for Mancan, and 570 kg/m3 for Manor. About two per cent of the seed has a winged extension of the hull.
• Koban – This large seeded variety is higher yielding, has greater seed density and contains higher protein than AC Manisoba. Seed is dark brown to black.
• BM 94362.3 – This large seeded variety has higher yields, increased seed density, 1000 seed weight
• (36.9 g compared to 34.2 g) and earlier maturity than AC Manisoba. Seed density is high at 621 kg/m3 compared to 557 kg/m3 for Mancan and 570 kg/m3 for Manor. Its protein content is slightly lower than AC Manisoba. The seed is very dark brown to black.
• BM 94199.1 – This large seeded variety has higher yields, increased seed density, 1000 seed weight (37.3 g compared to 34.2 g) and earlier maturity than AC Manisoba. Seed density is similar to BM 94362l3. Its protein content is slightly lower than AC Manisoba. The seed is very dark brown to black.
• Ever since their introduction, large seeded varieties have encountered problems in the marketplace. First, their low bushel weight has been mistaken for poor quality. But large seeded buckwheat is characteristically light in bushel weight because of its size and shape. Secondly, Canadian large seeded varieties are typically light to dark brown, not black. Light coloured kernels thus have mistakenly been thought to be immature. When harvesting weather is excellent, mature buckwheat has this range of color, with good green testa immediately below the brown husk.
• The newer varieties, BM94362.3 and BM94199.1, have very dark brown to black seed, which is plump and somewhat round. The difficulties in marketing, which arise from misunderstandings over bushel weight and color, should be avoided with these new varieties. Furthermore, the amount of groat from plump, round seeds should please processors.
• Earlier large seed varieties had winged extension of the hull. Japanese buyers dislike this feature and refer to such buckwheat as “oni,” which means devil, perhaps because these kernels resemble a small devil’s face. Such buckwheat has less groat and little value for processors. With later large seeded varieties, the winged extension has been eliminated.

As Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development does not conduct variety testing of buckwheat, visit Manitoba Agriculture’s web page for the most up-to-date variety information at 
http://www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/crops/specialcrops/bib01s01.html

Seeding
A firm moist seedbed is required for uniform rapid emergence. The seed should be placed between 1.5 inches (4 cm) to 2.5 inches (6 cm) deep. The deeper seeding depth should only be used under drier conditions. Deep seeding delays emergence and decreases uniformity of the crop. Buckwheat will germinate at soil temperatures as cool as 7° C.

Seed size ranges from 29 to 35 grams per 1,000 kernels, and the recommended seeding rate ranges from 35 to 72 lb/ac (39 – 81 kg/ha). The heavier rate should be used in fields where weed populations are higher than desirable and where larger-seeded varieties are being grown. Lighter seeding rates may be used on cleaner fields. Too heavy a seeding rate may be detrimental, as overly thick stands produce spindly plants with short stems and few seeds. A plant population of approximately 16 plants per square foot is desirable. Buckwheat does exhibit a high degree of plasticity, branching profusely to compensate for lower plant populations.

The seeding date for buckwheat will vary slightly from region to region depending on the date when the risk of the last spring frost has passed. The range for seeding dates in western Canada varies from June 1 to June 25. In the central, north central and northern parts of Alberta, seeding dates past June 15 risk the possibility of damage to the crop caused by early fall frost. Seeding past this date is not generally recommended. Early June seeding has produced the highest buckwheat yields.

No specialized seeding equipment is required for buckwheat although some time may have to be taken for calibrating grain drills that do not have a buckwheat chart.

Rotations
Cereal grains in a buckwheat sample are undesirable from a marketing standpoint because they are hard to clean out. Barley, oat, wheat, rye and triticale are considered foreign material in buckwheat, and samples containing more than 5 per cent cereal grain by weight are graded “sample.” Unless very good control of these plants can be accomplished prior to seeding, growing buckwheat is not recommended.

Avoid growing buckwheat on canola or mustard stubble because of their volunteering habit and competitive nature. Buckwheat grows well on field pea or dry bean stubble or summer fallow. Volunteer buckwheat in a succeeding crop may be a problem. Check rotations to see if the crop following buckwheat can be sprayed to control volunteer plants.

Fertilization
Buckwheat responds well to a balanced fertilizer program, but it is not considered a high nutrient user. A soil test to determine what nutrient levels are present is critical. Early research on buckwheat fertility requirements showed that highly fertile or rich soils should be avoided. Excessively high nitrogen levels in the absence of other nutrients compound the lodging problem. Growers using animal manures have had severe lodging problems.

General recommendations for added nutrients are as follows: 20 to 40 lb/ac (22 – 45 kg/ha) nitrogen, depending on whether the crop is planted on summer fallow, pulse stubble or cereal stubble. Normal rates for phosphate range from 27 to 40 lb/ac (30 – 45 kg/ha). Potash is generally recommended if the crop is grown on sandy loam soils. The suggested rate for potash in these cases would be 31 to 62 lb/ac (35 – 70 kg/ha). When sulphur is required, apply 13 lb/ac (15 kg/ha). No more than 5 lb/ac (5.6 kg/ha) nitrogen and 20 lb/ac (22 kg/ha) phosphate should be applied with the seed.

Harvesting
Buckwheat has an indeterminate growth habit. The plant matures from the bottom upwards, flowering until cut or killed by a frost. At harvest, mature seed, immature seed and a few flowers will be present. A grower must determine when to start harvest before losses occur due to shattering.

Harvest should begin when 75 per cent of the seeds have reached physiological maturity, and the plants have lost a majority of their leaves. This stage corresponds with the time the lower seed heads begin to shatter. Buckwheat may be swathed or straight combined. Either operation must be done carefully since aggressive reel action can cause additional shattering. Adjusting the reel speed to match the forward speed of the swather or combine may help. A draper-type pickup on the combine causes less shattering than a drum type.

Cylinder concave clearance and cylinder speed must be adjusted to minimize excessive cracking and de-hulling. Cylinder speeds are generally set at 600 to 800 rpm. If seed damage is occurring, slowing the cylinder speed and/or opening the concave clearance will help. Front cylinder concave clearance of 1/2 to 3/8 of an inch and 1/4 inch at the rear is recommended. Upper sieve openings should be in and the lower 5/16 inch.

The wind setting should be set to allow the maximum amount of foreign material through without buckwheat passing through. Straight combining an indeterminate crop such as buckwheat will result in a sample containing dry mature and tough immature seed.

Storage
Grain drying or aerating may be necessary. Combining the crop at slightly higher moisture will result in less shattering. A safe temperature for grain drying, for both seed and commercial grain, is 45° C. Buckwheat can be safely stored at 16 per cent moisture. The bushel weight of buckwheat is 48 lb. Growers are not allowed the luxury of long periods of storage before marketing since buckwheat contains a high percentage of fat.

Pest Management

Weeds
Very few herbicides are available for weed control in buckwheat. Clean fields are highly desirable. Volunteer plants of canola, mustard, barley, oat and wheat can be serious weed problems in buckwheat. Hoe Grass 284® is registered for control of wild oats and green and yellow foxtail. The crop tolerance is rated 8.6 out of 9. Poast® is also registered for grass weed control.

There are no broadleaf herbicides registered for buckwheat. Some broadleaf herbicides used in previous crops may present residual problems in buckwheat. Residues from herbicides such as Ally®, Lontrel®, Pursuit® and Tordon 22K ® could cause damage. Canada thistle, sow thistle, toadflax and quack grass should be sprayed with pre-harvest glyphosate the year prior to growing buckwheat. Cultural control is often used to achieve weed control. Since buckwheat is planted somewhat later in the season, a number of tillage operations are possible prior to seeding.

Diseases
There are few reports of diseases in buckwheat. Leaf spot caused by a fungus called Ramilaria can occur. Rhizoctonia (root rot), downy mildew and aster yellows have also been found. None of these diseases is of any economic importance.

Insects
Japanese beetles, aphids, cutworms and wireworms have all been reported in buckwheat. Japanese beetles do the most damage, attacking the flower head, and on occasion, can cause major economic loss.

Marketing

The Japanese market requires new crop buckwheat for Soba noodles. Because of this need, growers are not allowed the luxury of long periods of storage before marketing. New crop buckwheat groats are white with a greenish tinge, whereas old crop buckwheat is reddish-brown to grey. Buckwheat flour contains a high percentage of fat, and flour will become rancid if stored for long periods.

Grading standards consider kernel size and a No. 8 slotted sieve is used. At least 80 per cent of the kernels must remain on top of the No. 8 sieve, or the sample is considered small-seeded, i.e. Canada No.1 Small.

To obtain a Canada No. 1 grade, a number of other criteria must be met:

• minimum test weight of 58 kilograms per hectolitre
• less than 1 per cent of the grain sample de-hulled with a maximum 4 per cent damage
• no more than 1 per cent foreign material allowable.

Also, degree of soundness is judged. The sample must be well matured, cool and sweet to meet the Canada No. 1 grade. Prices received for buckwheat fluctuate between $8.00 and $9.00 per bushel, and a majority of Canada’s crop is exported. Production contracts are available and provide security for marketing.

Source: Agdex 118/20-2. Revised July 2001.

 

Until Korea’s modern era, the toechim, a rectangular pillow, was an absolute necessity in the Korean home. It was especially required for taking a quick and relaxing nap.The various types of toechim are named for its primary material, including mokchim, a wooden pillow that was widely used because of the natural support it provided; dochim, a ceramic pillow; jukchim, a bamboo pillow with a cool surface that made it popular during the steamy summer season; and golchim, a pillow stuffed with rice stalks and covered with fabric, which people liked for its cushiony feel.The practical wisdom of ancient Koreans is clearly evident in the toechim’s design. The distance between the neck and the shoulder of an average Korean is about 15 centimeters, while the space between your neck and the floor is about 11 centimeters, when lying on your back. Thus, a regular rectangular toechim would have a size of about 15 centimeters in length and 11 centimeters in height. As such, the toechim comfortably supports the neck when lying on your back or side. In this way, the toechim is said to offer a kind of natural chiropractic treatment for the neck and shoulders.Toechim has long been a favorite of Korean men. Wooden pillows, often crudely made, would be found in the sarangbang, the main room of the men’s quarters in a traditional upper-class house, in which the master of the house studied and entertained guests, as well as the rooms of inns, where travelers stopped to spend the night.In homes, it was common for toechim to include small drawers, which men used to store stationery, and women for their hairbrush and other beauty implements.There were also high-end toechim in which the upper surface would be fitted with sheep or rabbit skin, along with others that would be adorned with pearls.Moreover, members of the elite class were known to prefer a wooden pillow that was coated with lacquer to produce a lustrous sheen.

A pillow is a large cushion support for the head or other parts of the body, usually used while sleeping in a bed, or for the body as used on a couch or chair. There are also throw pillows (also called toss pillows), which are pillows that are purely decorative and not designed for support or comfort. Outside the USA these are generally considered a type of cushion, with the term pillow reserved for the pillows on a bed.

History

Pillows were originally used mainly by wealthy men in Asia.They were also found in Ancient Egyptian tombs. The difficulty of sophisticated dyes and sewing techniques led to the development of pillows as an art form, with highly decorated pillows becoming prized commodities first in China and Persia and later in Medieval Europe. In Tudor England, pillows became widely-used; it was believed only women giving birth and weak men should use one. The Industrial Revolution saw the mass production of decorated textiles and decorated pillows. Traditional Chinese pillows are often hard boxes made from stone, wood, metal, or porcelain instead of stuffed fabric. Some ancient Egyptians slept on pillows made out of stone.

Construction and parts

Internally, a pillow comprises a filler made from foam, synthetic fills, feathers, or down and viscoelastic foam and latex. Traditionally straw was a filler, but this is uncomfortable and rarely used today. Feathers and down are the most expensive and usually the most comfortable; they offer the advantage of softness and their ability to conform to shapes desired by the user, more so than foam or fiber pillows. One of the disadvantages of a down-filled pillow is that a significant number of people are allergic to them. There are currently hypoallergenic varieties of down pillows to allow people sensitive to down to enjoy the comfort of feather or down pillows. In Asia, buckwheat is a common filler, as are plastic imitations. Such pillows tend to be smaller than a standard pillow. In India, cotton is also a common filler and is considered to be healthier and sexier than synthetic fills.

The fill is surrounded with a cover or shell made of cloth or silk, known as the pillow case or pillow slip. Some pillows have a fancier cover called a sham which is closed on all sides and usually has a slit in the back through which the pillow is placed. Rectangular standard bed pillow cases usually do not have zippers, but instead have one side open all the time, however, a zippered pillow protector is often placed around standard pillows with the case in turn covering the protector. It is recommended that all types of pillow covers be laundered periodically since they are the part that is in contact with a person’s body. But even with regular washing, pillows tend to accumulate large amounts of dust and vast numbers of microbes among the fill and it is recommended that they be replaced every few years, especially for those with allergies.

Types

A pillow is designed to provide support and comfort to the body and head. There are three main types of pillows; Bed pillows, Orthopedic pillows and Decorative pillows, with some overlapping of use between these. The appropriate size of a bed pillow depends on the size of the bed. In general a twin bed goes best with a standard pillow while for queen and king sized beds larger pillows are recommended.

Beds

The classic bed pillow shape is a square or rectangle. In the US, they are common in these three sizes (in inches): Standard (20 x 26 inches), Queen (20 x 30 inches), and King (20 x 36 inches). Pillows are generally covered with a removable pillow case, which facilitates laundering. Apart from the color and from the material of which they are made, pillowcases are described by three characteristics:

• Size
• Features
• Opening/closing

Size conforms to the pillow the case is to contain. They are typically described as:

• Standard: (square) 16 × 16 in (41 × 41 cm)
• Square: 26 × 26 in (66 × 66 cm)
• Standard: 20 × 26 in (51 × 66 cm)
• Queen: 20 × 30 in (51 × 76 cm)
• King: 20 × 36 in (51 × 91 cm)

Square is also called continental in the UK. German pillow sizes are 80 cm × 80 cm (older) or 40 cm × 80 cm (newer). When considered as a subset of Bed Pillow, Euro pillows finish 26 in × 26 in and older style Travel Pillows commonly finished 12 in × 16 in.

The main distinguishing feature is whether the pillow case is plain or with a valance around the edge. In the former case this is described as ‘plain style’ and in the latter as ‘Oxford style’.

“Oxford … has a 5cm-10cm valance round all four sides. With a hemstitched or corded decoration around the inner edge of the valance.”

The opening/closure of pillow cases ranges from the straightforward approach in USA called simply bagstyle to the more usual European method with a pocket inside the open end to fully contain the pillow. This is Housewife style.

“Housewife is … essentially a bag, with a flap in the open end to tuck the pillowcase behind to keep it in…”

Other methods of closure are ties or buttons/buttonholes.

Body pillows are as long as a full adult body, providing support to the head and neck at the top and to the knees and legs lower down. This type of pillow can be especially useful in providing support for those who sleep on their sides and for pregnant women. Size is 40 cm x 140 cm.

 

Orthopedic

Neck pillows support the neck by providing a deep area for the head to rest and a supportive area to keep the neck in alignment with the spine while sleeping. These can also be known as cervical pillows.

Travel pillows provide support for the neck in a sitting position. Their “U” shape fits around the back of the neck and keeps the head from slipping into an uncomfortable and possibly harmful position during sleep. However, U-shaped pillows can sometimes force the head forwards creating neck stiffness.

Donut pillows are firm pillows shaped like a torus, with a space in the middle to alleviate pressure on the tailbone area while sitting. These pillows are used primarily by individuals who have suffered an injury to the tailbone area or who suffer pain from hemorrhoids or another ailment of the colon.

Lumbar pillows are designed to support the inward curve of the lower back, filling the space created between the lower back and the back of the chair when in a sitting position. These pillows are generally used to support the lower back while driving or sitting, such as in an office chair. Orthopedic pillows are similar to Memory foam pillows.

Decorative

Decorative Pillows serve a dual purpose. They likely have fancy cover material which serves to decorate the room where they are found. Since Decorative Textiles are commonly 54 inches in width, many decorative pillows finish about 17×17 inches. (54/3 = 18 less seam allowance) When used to decorate a fully made up bed, decorative pillows are likely thrown aside at bedtime, since they are not covered with a washable pillow case, thus, while found on the bed, they are primarily there for decoration, hence they fall under this category. These pillows may be custom made, as well as made by freelancers.

Decorative pillows are also found on furnishings in more public parts of the home, such as sofas, chairs and window seats. Here, their common use may overlap both orthopedic and bed pillows. For example, unless a person has some particular medical condition, they will likely use a handy decorative pillow for lumbar support, as needed, while seated on a sofa. Likewise, for the occasional nap, decorative pillows are handy for supporting the head or neck, even though they are not covered with a pillow case, as are bed pillows.

There are five common synonyms for decorative pillows which are descriptive of their use in the home. “Accent” Pillows emphasize or accent some other part of the home decor. The terms Sofa Pillow and Couch Pillow refer to the place these decorative pillows are likely found. The terms “toss pillow” and “throw pillow” may refer to the way they generally arrive in their places.^{[citation needed]}

Novelty Pillows are shaped like humorous objects (a banana, tweety bird, a human leg, a chainsaw, a dill pickle, a former president), and are meant to brighten up and add humor to a room or lounge area.

Floor Pillows are another subset of decorative pillows. These pillows often finish 26×26 inches (one half of the width of the textile, less seam allowance)

Miscellaneous styles

• Dakimakura is a hugging pillow originating in Japan.
• Guling is a long hugging pillow originating from Indonesia.
• Abrazador is a long hugging pillow originating from the Philippines.
• Firestop pillows are technical firestop products, used in passive fire protection.
• A husband pillow (also known as a boyfriend pillow) is a large, high-backed pillow with two “arms”. It is used to prop the user upright while in bed or on the floor, as for reading or watching television.
• Shitou zhentou (Chinese for rock pillow) played an important role in ancient China. Made from jade, it was believed to translate the energy from the stone to the human brain. Derived from the Ming dynasty, this piece of material was trusted to cure headaches or depressions, or simply to better the intelligence of those who use it. It was more common in the royalties because it was expensive and rare.
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pillow

We start a tour of how our pillows are made. We are committed to the sustainable development of our company and if you often come across the words “ecological”, “sustainable”, “ethical” or “socially responsible” in our documents, this means that we are committed to being totally transparent by showing you and by explaining in more detail the concrete elements of our commitment to sustainable development. You will notice that we attempt to do the same with our products with regard to HEALTH. Moreover, certain past bulletins such as “The secret to good sleep” or “What do health professionals think?” attempt to explain and show you why our pillow has orthopaedic qualities that are good for your health. But let’s go back to sustainable development. We have already seen how our pillows are manufactured and sewn by hand locally in a socially responsible manner through the work integration company Petites-Mains.

In this bulletin, we are proposing that you find out a little more about where our buckwheat hulls come from. Buckwheat hulls are what make the Mayukori brand unique. Our hulls originate from Aliments Trigone, a farm located in Saint-François de Montmagny, near Québec. This company grows buckwheat, harvests it, shells it and dusts the hulls before supplying them to us in large 16kg plastic pouches. We recycle these resistant plastic pouches as packaging for the transportation and storage of our pillows. Let us now introduce you to Aliments Trigone.

The only company of its kind in Eastern Canada, Aliments Trigone Inc. has been devoting itself to the production and transformation of organic products since 1984. Their specialties are hemp, black and green buckwheat, spelt, kamut and fresh garlic. The following bodies certify these products:

Their team is strongly committed to the quality of their products. The production and transformation are done according to the methods of organic agriculture and are certified by Ecocert Canada. In addition, all of their grains undergo quality testing to ensure they comply with their technical and qualitative requirements.

They have agricultural practices that are health and environmentally friendly and transform their grains with this in mind, conscious of the impact of a healthy environment and good eating habits upon health and quality of life.

We know Aliments Trigone better thanks to their famous brand “Les Moissonneries du Pays” which is found on many organic grocery stores shelves throughout Quebec.

We thus work with a company that has the environmental aspect of its production and transformation at heart. It is also important to point out that it is these types of companies that allow a number of families who live in the region to reap the benefits of decent, sustainable jobs having a beautiful mission. Aliments Trigone is not a multinational corporation that can close its doors from one day to the next, as is often the case in many regions of Québec. To know more about Aliments Trigone, you can visit their website and learn all about buckwheat hulls. By clicking on the link below, you can take a virtual tour of the farm! Going left to right with your mouse, you will feel as if you were in the middle of a buckwheat field!

Visit the farm

 

 

Créations Mayukori’s healthy BUCKWHEAT pillow (we may also hear such terms as therapeutic, orthopaedic, cervical…) is presently recommended by a number of health professionals, such as:

• François Saine: osteopath D.O. (member of the Ordre des Osthéopathes du Québec – OOQ), chiropractor D.C. (member of the Ordre des Chiropraticiens du Québec – OCQ) and homeopath (member of the Syndicat Professionnel des Homéopathes du Québec – SPHQ) at the François Saine clinic
• Josiane Tremblay: chiropractor D.C. (member of the Ordre des Chiropraticiens du Québec – OCQ) at Centre de Santé Chiropratique de Ste-Julie
• Marilène Perreault: naturopathic doctor (member of the Ordre des Naturothérapeutes du Québec – ONAQ) and her entire team at the Capucin in Victoriaville and in Sherbrooke

We add to this list Victor Babey, osteopath D.O. (member of the Ordre des Osthéopathes du Québec – OOQ) in the Montreal region. Victor received his training in osteopathy at the Institut Supérieur d’Ostéopathie d’Aix in Provence (France) full time during 6 years. He is currently an osteopath in the greater Montreal region, professor at the Collège d’Ostéopathie du Québec in Montreal and president of the Syndicat Professionnel des Ostéopathes du Québec.

Here are his comments concerning our pillows:

I was very pleasantly surprised by the ergonomic and supportive qualities. As an osteopath, I attach considerable importance to the regeneration of the body during sleep. The Mayukori pillow supports the head and neck so as to diminish the tensions that we accumulate during the day. The body can thus regenerate and regain energy. As with any change in our habits, there is an adaptation period, which is normal and can seem negative. But for having tried it, the Mayukori pillow is very beneficial for the relaxation of the spinal column, the body’s central axis.

I strongly recommend it, for people with cervical pain as for those with none. It is a very good element of prevention.

Victor BABEY, osteopath D.O. (F)

 

As for the Korean-style pillow, which differs markedly from that of the West, begaenmo refers to the decorative pads that are used to adorn the ends of a pillow. A traditional Korean pillow is made with a cloth sack that is stuffed with various filler material, such as red beans or mung beans, as well as rice bran, buckwheat chaff, or dried flower petals. Therefore, in contrast to the fluffy type of pillow found in the West, a Korean pillow is noticeably firmer and more compact, usually with a rectangular or cylindrical shape.
Tradition called for the pillow’s ends to be adorned with decorative features, which might involve such crafts as mother-of-pearl inlay (najeonchim) or hand-painted ox-horn appliqué (hwagakchim). However, by far, the most popular choice was the decoration of pillow ends with works of embroidery. The embroidered designs, typically related to symbols of good fortune and longevity, would often be based on the user’s gender or circumstances. For example, decorative images of butterflies and flowers, such as peonies, orchids, lotus and apricots, were favored for women, while a pine tree or bamboo, symbols of a forthright character, were suitable for men. And pillows for newlyweds would be decorated with twin phoenix images and seven baby birds to symbolize marital bliss and fecundity. Other popular patterns included symbols of longevity, such as the crane, deer, pine tree, turtle, and bullocho (fungus of immortality), and auspicious Chinese characters.
In the past, it was common for a mother to embroider the pillow end adornments for her husband and children. As such, the great care and affection that went into the making of pillow decorations have been captured in works of poetry. In the poem “My Lover is Sleeping” by the modern Korean poet Seo Jeong-ju (1915-2000, pen name Midang), he writes: “While my lover is sleeping, I become a crane in flight on his pillow’s end.”
The pillow end depicted here is titled “Pillow End Embroidered with the Symbol of Royal Longevity,” which features blue and yellow cranes, along with a saw-tooth pattern that is meant to fend off misfortune. According to Huh Dong Hwa, director of the Museum of Korean Embroidery, who owns this pillow, the scent of musk that permeates this piece clearly identifies it as an artifact from the royal palace. At a Begaen¬mo Exhibition being held at the Museum of Korean Embroidery, located in Nonhyeon-dong, Seoul, in October, visitors will have a rare opportunity to view 100 or so pieces of royal and traditional pillow ends, which Huh Dong Hwa has collected over several decades.
Begaenmo is another example of the importance and value that regular Korean people placed on everyday articles, such as their pillows, bedspreads, and clothing. Along with enhancing the aesthetic appearance of these daily items, the decorative elements were also expressions of hope for good health and
prosperity.

http://www.koreana.or.kr/months/news_view.asp?b_idx=382&lang=en&page_type=list

Can be placed on your face and pillow to improve the quality of your sleep.

Takes the shape of your face and exerts pressure which promotes relaxation
Essential oils favour relaxation and a deep sleep
Slight heat to the face encourages relaxation and a deep sleep
Blocks out all light, which facilitates slumber
Acts against stress and sleep disorders
Will last for 6 months
Hand sewn in Quebec by a socially responsible business
Natural and eco-friendly filling supplied by a Quebecois organic farm
Fabrics designed by artists in touch with the latest in fashion

Pouch: 100% cotton 236 Thread Count
Filling: organic dust-free buckwheat hulls, organic dried flowers

Dimensions: 14 cm x 21 cm (6″ x 9″)
Weight: 100 gr

How to use
You can apply the aromatic diffusor on the eyes and nose about ten minutes before going to sleep. You can then set the diffusor on the side of the pillow in order to benefit from its effects all night. The buckwheat diffusor can be used in the same manner as the other diffusors. Simply add a drop of the essential oil of your choice to the pillow. The aroma will last for 24 to 48 hours. Add a drop on one side of the diffusor and place the other side on your face. The buckwheat diffusor can also be heated or chilled. Just follow the same heating and chilling instructions as directed for pillows. However, note that the maximum heating time is 30 seconds in the microwave, 30 minutes for a convection oven at 80 degrees Celsius, and 30 minutes in the freezer. Following heating or cooling, the diffusor can be used as previously described. The buckwheat diffusor is thus aromatic and thermal at the same time. Take note that the lavender, rose, citrusy verbena, and chamomile diffusors must not be heated or chilled.

 

 

COMFORTABLE, ADJUSTABLE, ALWAYS COOL AND DRY

The buckwheat hulls and the moon-shaped cushion take the shape of the mother’s tummy and the baby’s body.

It is possible to adjust the pillow’s volume according to the mother’s or the child’s size.

Due to their shape, buckwheat hulls let air circulate with ease inside the pillow - SWEATING

ERGONOMIC SUPPORT OF LUMBAR AND CERVICAL VERTEBRAE

The buckwheat hulls and the moon-shaped cushion support the mother’s lumbar vertebrae while correctly aligning the vertebrae and relaxing the entire spinal muscle and membrane system during breast feeding - BACK PAIN - FATIGUE

The cushion also helps baby maintain a proper spinal alignment.

ANTI-MITE AND EASY TO CLEAN

Buckwheat hulls contain tannin, which repels mites and bacteria - ALLERGIES

Contrary to synthetic pillows, Mayukori pillows do not emit any volatile organic cancerous compounds (VOCs) such as xylene, benzene, etc. - SINUS PROBLEMS

A zipper allows you to empty the pillow’s contents so you can wash the pouch.

ATTRACTIVELY DESIGNED AND FUNCTIONAL

The cushion’s moon shape and beautiful fabrics makes breastfeeding even more enjoyable.

The envelope which contains the buckwheat hulls is made of a very resistant fabric.

The flannel cotton case is absorbent and gentle on baby’s skin.

With its knotted straps, you can easily carry the cushion on your shoulder.

BREASTFEEDING CUSHION

Specially designed for either breastfeeding or bottle feeding, the LUNA cushion is as much for the mother as it is for the father.

lumbar support, the cushion can be placed flat on the thighs and a small amount of buckwheat hulls can be pushed into each extremity of the moon shape. The extremities can then be crossed behind the lower back.

Baby can also be fed in a more inclined position by simply tying the straps together to form a shoulder strap.

BODY PILLOW – MATERNITY CUSHION

A single cushion is enough to support the head, wrap around the tummy, and slide between the legs. Who needs the hassle of multiple cushions?

Buckwheat hulls support cervical vertebrae, allowing for a good alignment of the spine, all night.

Buckwheat hulls support the tummy and spread the legs in order for the user to adopt a lumbar-friendly position.

MATTRESS, SEAT AND BABY SUPPORT

The LUNA cushion can also serve as a cozy mattress. Just fold it and the small interior crater serves as a secure nest which prevents baby from falling.

The cushion can also be transformed into a semi-inclined seat for baby.

It can also be wrapped around baby to help him sit up securely.

 

COMFORTABLE, ADJUSTABLE, ALWAYS COOL AND DRY

Buckwheat hulls take the shape of the head and neck.

You can adjust the pillow’s height according to the child’s age and sleeping position.

Due to their shape, buckwheat hulls let air circulate with ease inside the pillow - SWEATING

ERGONOMIC SUPPORT OF CERVICAL VERTEBRAE

Buckwheat hulls support cervical vertebrae, thus allowing the spine’s muscle and membrane system to relax.

Mayukori pillows facilitate deep restorative sleep which is important for physical and cognitive development.

Mayukori pillows allow for a good alignment of the spine, thus reducing related problems - SLEEP DISTURBANCES

ANTI-MITE AND EASY TO CLEAN

Buckwheat hulls contain tannin, which repels mites and bacteria - ALLERGIES

Contrary to synthetic pillows, Mayukori pillows do not emit any volatile organic cancerous compounds (VOCs) such as xylene, benzene, etc. - SINUS PROBLEMS

A zipper allows you to empty the pillow’s contents so you can wash the pouch.

AN IDEAL BEDTIME COMPANION

The shape and attractive fabric of Mayukori pillows make them fun, loveable and comforting, which favours bedtime habits.

Buckwheat hulls contain magnesium, which favours sleep - SLEEP DISTURBANCES

Buckwheat hulls contain tannin, which is a powerful anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory agent - ASTHMA - DERMATOLOGICAL DISEASES

Buckwheat is rich in rutin, which stimulates the immune system.

MULTIPLE USES

The pillow can serve as a warming or cooling bag to upgrade your comfort level or sooth aches and pains.

Travel pillow

Leg pillow

Lumbar\cervical support

Visit our Facebook page for more ideas, tricks, and testimonies.

ORGANIC PILLOWS

Our organic pillows are stuffed with certified organic buckwheat hulls.

Our hemp and satin bamboo fabrics are more environmentally-friendly, comfortable, resistant, and anti-bacterial than cotton.

Hemp and bamboo plants grow very fast and their culture requires no chemical products.

COMFORTABLE, ADJUSTABLE, ALWAYS COOL AND DRY

Buckwheat hulls take the shape of the head and neck.

You can adjust the pillow’s height according to your morphology and sleeping position.

Due to their shape, buckwheat hulls let air circulate with ease inside the pillow - SWEATING

ERGONOMIC SUPPORT OF CERVICAL VERTEBRAE

Buckwheat hulls support cervical vertebrae, thus allowing the spine’s muscle and membrane system to relax - BACK PAIN - FATIGUE - SNORING

Mayukori pillows facilitate deep restorative sleep.

Mayukori pillows allow for a good alignment of the spine, thus reducing related problems - HEADACHES - STRESS - INSOMNIA - TENSION - DEPRESSION - FATIGUE

ANTI-MITE AND EASY TO CLEAN

Buckwheat hulls contain tannin, which repels mites and bacteria - ALLERGIES

Contrary to synthetic pillows, Mayukori pillows do not emit any volatile organic cancerous compounds (VOCs) such as xylene, benzene, etc. - SINUS PROBLEMS

A zipper allows you to empty the pillow’s contents so you can wash the pouch.

THERAPEUTIC

Buckwheat hulls contain magnesium, which favours sleep - INSOMNIA - STRESS

Buckwheat hulls contain tannin, which is a powerful anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory agent - ASTHMA - DERMATOLOGICAL DISEASES

Buckwheat contains cellulose and lignin, which help reduce the pillow’s humidity level to a minimum - RHUMATISM

Buckwheat is rich in rutin, which stimulates the immune system.

MULTIPLE USES

The pillow can serve as a warming or cooling bag to upgrade your comfort level or sooth aches and pains.

Meditationcushion

Massagecushion

Body pillow

Visit our Facebook page for more ideas, tricks, and testimonies.

ORGANIC PILLOWS

Our organic pillows are stuffed with certified organic buckwheat hulls.

Our hemp and satin bamboo fabrics are more environmentally-friendly, comfortable, resistant, and anti-bacterial than cotton.

Hemp and bamboo plants grow very fast and their culture requires no chemical products.