June 29, 2025

From Field to Filling: Buckwheat Hulls Explained

Supportive, breathable and naturally grounding. Buckwheat hulls have long been used as a pillow filling in traditional Japanese bedding (e.g. the Sobakawa pillow). Today, they are also a trusted choice for bolsters, zafus, and cushions, particularly in wellness spaces that favour natural, plastic-free materials.

At Brow Farm, we carefully source our buckwheat hulls from trusted partners who share our commitment to quality and sustainability. The buckwheat plant grows naturally without the need for chemical fertilisers, fungicides or pesticides, and every part of the plant has a purpose.

What are buckwheat hulls?

Buckwheat hulls are the outer shells that protect the buckwheat groat (the seed-like part that’s commonly used in food). Once harvested, the groat is gently separated from the hull using a rolling process. The groats are used in everything from porridge to pancakes, while the leftover hulls are cleaned, air-dried and repurposed as a natural, biodegradable filling.

Why choose hulls over synthetic or foam fillings?

Buckwheat hulls create a dense yet adjustable structure. They naturally conform to the shape of your head, neck, or spine, offering grounded support that doesn't compress over time like foam or polyester.
They’re also Naturally breathable and chemical-free. Buckwheat hulls contain no added coatings or synthetic materials, making them a cleaner, more natural alternative to foam or polyester fillings.
Once settled, they’re also surprisingly quiet — some users find the soft rustle calming during movement.

We use buckwheat hulls in our buckwheat pillows, yoga bolsters, zafu meditation cushions and craft kits, all filled and packed by hand, here on the farm.

A note on allergies

While buckwheat hulls are considered low-risk for most people, they are a natural agricultural product. Despite being cleaned and dusted, traces of field dust or plant particles may remain. If you have asthma or are sensitive to airborne allergens, we recommend handling with care and trialling use before extended contact.