Benefits of Baltic Amber Teething Necklace

Teething is one of those milestones that isn’t pleasant for baby or parents. Teething infants learn first-hand that growing up can sometimes be an unpleasant time.

While there are various options, such as gels and tablets, on the market that can be used to help give your baby some relief, more and more parents are switching to natural teething remedies.

One of the most popular natural teething remedies is using a Baltic Amber teething necklace.

What is Baltic Amber?

Amber is a fossilized resin from extinct trees of the Genus Pinus; trees that date back to approximately 320 million years ago. Similar to present-day pine trees, these ancient trees would produce a resin substance from the bark or heartwood, similar to an antibiotic (or ‘band-aid’), that would protect and heal itself from injury or infection.

There is much speculation on the origins of Baltic Amber, however, it is generally accepted that Baltic Amber originated from trees, particularly from ancient forests in Northern Europe. Trees that were covered in resin would eventually decompose into detritus (or compostable matter), make its way into a water source, and eventually deposit into soil. Since amber was usually found carried by sea or river, it was assumed that amber had originated from a water source, undergoing transformation within the water. Baltic in Baltic amber does stem from the Baltic sea, where it was carried and deposited.

From its original resin composition, liquids, oils, volatiles, and terpenes dissipate out over a period of time to create a hardened and stable organic substance. It is hypothesized to take ~40,000 years to form, yet it still maintains a stable chemical structure throughout its lifetime. This is what makes amber unique. The quality of amber is determined by the geological features under which it was formed, such as depth and soil type that it was formed under.

Because of its impressive organic structure, amber has the capability to preserve any plants or animals that it came in contact with in ancient times. Great scientific discoveries have been made through amber preservation, such as ancient pollinators from 20 million years ago.

Besides its beauty and luster, amber also contains properties that make it a very interesting mineral and compound. Pliny the Elder found that this substance had magnetic properties, naming it the Greek word “elektron” for its attractive properties. He had also found that amber would not melt rather burn when placed under extreme heat. Transparent amber, usually considered the highest quality, was later given the Latin name “glaseum” for its glass-like qualities, since it could be used as a magnifier.

In eastern countries, they used Baltic Amber Beads to purify their souls and ward off the evil spirits. Baltic amber was believed to have magic powers that would protect from harm, increase fertility, and have regenerative properties. Since amber does not melt, it was also burned as an incense for further protection.

In Chiapas, Mexico, men would wear the Baltic Amber Beads in their nose as they believed it gave them courage and freedom from fear.

In the United States and Russia, it was used for many medicinal purposes and its anti-aging properties.

How Does A Baltic Amber Teething Necklace Work?

There are many names that Baltic amber is recognized by, one of them being succinite. This name comes from its primary ingredient, succinic acid, which contributes to its healing powers. This natural analgesic is found on the surface layer of amber, absorbed directly through the skin upon contact.

The healing properties of a Baltic amber teething necklace are activated through body heat. The heat from the body releases the succinic acid and is absorbed through the skin. Not only does it provide pain relief for your teething baby’s discomfort, it can also have a mild sedative effect.

Why Parents Choose All-Natural Teething Relief Remedies

There are many reasons why parents turn to all-natural teething relief options from OTC medications to soothe a teething baby from the uncomfortable signs and symptoms of teething. As information becomes more accessible to the public, parents are able to align their understanding and obtain awareness. This awareness is the primary step in easing a baby’s teething discomfort and preventing potential for illness.

The US Food and Drug Administration has also been active in providing information to parents warning the potential risk of OTC medications, which has also given rise to parents searching for natural remedies to ease their child’s teething discomfort.

Utilizing natural remedies gives the reassurance of no odd chemicals or unnamed compounds. This also brings the confidence that your child is not exposed to risk.

In chemistry, a way to measure the density of a specific compound is by comparing its density to that of water. This is called specific gravity. The specific gravity of amber is between 1.04-1.10, just a bit denser than water [1]. Therefore, in fresh water, Baltic amber would sink. However, in salt water, the specific gravity changes to a denser value, causing the Baltic amber to float.

One way to know if you have an authentic amber teething necklace, place the necklace in salt water. Make a mixture of water and salt (2:1) and observe if the necklace floats.

Amber tends to contain a smell that resembles a pine-like smell. Because of its stable structure and composition, amber contains its terpenes that are responsible for this smell. Placing a Baltic amber teething necklace next to a high heat source can release these terpenes, thus revealing an authentic teething necklace.

Natural Baltic Amber tends to have uneven color and shape.  Natural Baltic amber has been shaped by the earth and should appear as so. Imitation amber is usually made from plastic or colored glass, typically polished or uniformly shaped, and treated with tree resins to mimic amber’s natural smell.

Luckily, imitations are denser than water and will sink, fresh or salt. These also don’t carry the terpene properties of natural amber, so placing them next to a high heat source can expose that imposter. You can try more authentic amber tests to ascertain the quality.

Price is also a factor in authenticity. The price of Baltic amber is typically higher because of its rarity. If you find an inexpensive Baltic Amber necklace, it is likely a lower quality or imitated product. Always purchase from a reputable supplier.

When Can Babies Start Wearing A Baltic Amber Teething Necklace?

Babies can start wearing them as soon as they start teething. Remember that when wearing them, babies should always be under the supervision of an adult. Baby teething period is typically 3 days before and 4 days after eruption. Watch for signs and symptoms of teething to know precisely when your baby should wear the Baltic amber teething necklace.

Amber should not be chewed and should fit snugly against their skin. The best way to wear it is tucked under baby’s clothes, so they forget that they are even wearing it.

Safety & Precautions For Baltic Amber Teething Necklaces

Baltic Amber is non-toxic and safe for all ages. Necklaces are threaded with cotton so that if baby pulls hard or it gets caught on something, it will break.

Most necklaces are designed with a knot in between each bead on the necklace so that if it should break, only one bead will come off. If an amber bead is accidentally swallowed, it is small enough to pass through the system without causing harm.

The FDA warns about the use of teething jewelry due to the risk of suffocation or strangulation. As parents, it is our duty to keep an eye on our children for their safety. Although some necklace designs ensure safe use, this does not mean there are no associated risks.

How To Clean & Care Of Your Baltic Amber Teething Necklace

Cleaning your Baltic Amber teething necklace is easy. All you need to do is dip it in warm water, rinse it, and rub it dry with a clean cloth.

You don’t want to wash it in detergents or harsh soaps as it can break down the succinic acid and make it less effective.

You also want to make sure it does not come in contact with hot water or a hot radiator. Baltic Amber teething necklaces are good for 2 years when they’re well cared for.

Start Soothing Away Teething Symptoms

When treating the discomfort your teething baby feels, Baltic Amber teething necklaces are a great alternative to medications and can complement other natural teething remedies when used as directed.

Many parents today continue to use this tried-and-true method of teething relief. An ancient practice that continues to relieve stress and concerns for the modern parent.