Why does baltic amber work

It is believed that when the beads are worn next to the skin, succinic acid is released into the body, providing relief from the pain and tenderness of teething.

In theory, this is a great idea, especially since baby teething gels intended to soothe sore gums have been removed from Canadian stores recently and banned in the United States by the U. A study by Canadian and Australian researchers , published in the medical journal BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, reported that the succinic acid found in Baltic amber is not released when worn next to the skin and that succinic acid is not an anti-inflammatory.

There is mounting research that amber teething jewellery, including necklaces, is not safe. Possible strangulation and choking are the main risks. Her study also included survey results from Canadian doctors, who reported cases of children swallowing the magnet clasp, non-fatal strangulation by the necklace, choking on the beads and contact dermatitis.

Fortunately, no deaths or serious injuries have been reported in Canada , but there has been at least one death in California and a near-strangulation in Australia. The study found that seven of the 15 necklaces did not open with 15 pounds of force, and eight did not open with 1.

Anklets: The easiest way to measure is with some string. It should fit so that you can slide your little finger under it, but not so it slides off the foot. The string can then be measured next to a ruler to determine the size needed. Bracelets: Please measure the same way as anklets or measure an existing bracelet you have. Necklaces: Adults - Measure an existing necklace you own or again use string.

Children - Necklaces must not be too long but also not too tight. The easiest way to measure is to take a piece of string, again and measure the desired length around their neck and then measure against a ruler. For safety the necklace must not be too long so it could come off or get tangled.

It is also advisable that they do not chew it. My baby wants to chew on the necklace or anklet, is this OK? The easiest solution is to tuck it under their clothing and the necklace will quickly assume body temperature and the child will ignore it.

You should use other teething aids such as chewing rings to meet your baby's increased chewing needs. Are there any safety features on amber jewellery? Each bead is knotted individually on the string Except stretch anklets. This ensures that in case the necklace breaks, they would only be able to free one bead.

All the beads used in baby jewellery are smaller than a pea, so that they can be swallowed safely in the event that one should come free. The clasp at the back is free from all metals and allergens and is held together by knots ensuring if there was pressure placed on the necklace, the clasp would pop open. The most well known use for Baltic amber in the modern world is for teething pain ; babies and infants who are teething can wear the bracelets or necklaces against their skin and the succinic acid will help provide relief from inflamed, sore gums.

How Effective Is It? It may take longer for Baltic amber to take effect in certain people than others, and the strength of the pain and inflammation relief can vary from person to person. It is considered effective for many types of problems, especially teething pain in infants, where it is most widely used today. Where to Get It: If you want to try out Baltic amber, you can find may professional shops that offer authentic Baltic amber in the form of teething bracelets , necklaces and other products.

Just be sure to buy only from reputable sources to ensure you get authentic Baltic amber. Shop Now. October 28, Are Amber Teething Necklaces Safe? Medically Reviewed by Michelle Kelman, D. Medical Review Policy All What to Expect content that addresses health or safety is medically reviewed by a team of vetted health professionals.

Some parents recommend amber teething necklaces, but these products aren't considered a safe way to soothe your baby's teething pain. Back to Top. In This Article. What are amber teething necklaces? Continue Reading Below. Read This Next.