Much like the amber teething necklace, hazelwood is gaining popularity amongst caregivers looking for alternatives to medication for a variety of health concerns. Many believe that hazelwood necklaces have the potential to improve conditions which are caused by excess acidity in the body, including eczema, colic, arthritis, migraines, constipation, heartburn, acid reflux, ulcers and even teething pain, by helping to neutralize acid in the body.

In order for the hazelwood to create an alkaline environment it has to have direct contact with the skin. When the wood rests on the skin the hazelwood will naturally oxidize and reduce the overall acidity in the body over time. Since the necklaces “absorb” acidity until saturation, their lifespans vary depending on the person and their particular level of acidity.

To reap the benefits of the hazelwood, it should be worn against the skin for as long as possible during the day. The more hazelwood that comes into contact with the skin, the better the potential to relieve particular health concerns. It is not recommended that babies under the age of 3 wear necklaces while unsupervised or while sleeping  so to prolong wearing time you can double wrap the necklace around the ankle and keep it secure under a snug fitting sock to hold it in place next to the skin.

Unlike an amber necklace, hazelwood can be kept on in the shower since water helps keep the wood moist, allowing it to be more absorbable. However, water with chlorine can alter the lifespan and efficacy of the hazelwood and should always be taken off before swimming.

The best way to monitor the lifespan of your necklace is to keep an eye on your symptoms. If you begin to notice any of your symptoms returning, even slightly, you should consider a replacement. Also check the ends of the wood beads to see if the middle of the wood (not the outer bark) has started to darken, if it has, its ability to absorb acidity is diminished and its time to pick out a new one.

When choosing your necklace, focus on ones with fewer stone beads and more hazelwood since its benefits are increased depending on how much is touching the skin. To determine the right size, you should be able to slip two fingers between the necklace and the baby’s neck and the necklace should never be long enough to allow baby to bring it to the mouth.

Jacqueline Banks is a certified Holistic Health Counselor focused on nutrition and green living strategies. She works with women in all stages of motherhood, from mothers struggling with conception, through pregnancy, lactation and beyond to ensure the best health and nutrition for both mother and baby. Visit her blog and website at JacquelineBanks.com.