R&D update
Wool the natural ingredient to a good nights sleep
A recent study conducted by The Woolmark Company of Australia has uncovered how the natural properties of wool can lead to a better nights sleep.
Earlier this month at the world’s biggest home fair, Heimtextil, in Frankfurt, Germany, The Woolmark Company presented the results of its ‘Sleeping Comfort’ study.
The 18-month research study combined human and laboratory tests, which established that wool bedding products:
- Breathe more naturally than man-made synthetic products
- Increase the duration of the most beneficial phase of sleep known as the Rapid Eye Movement sleep stage, where the sleeper is totally relaxed and most dreaming takes place
- Regulate body temperature – the body gets to a comfortable sleeping temperature more quickly and stays there for longer
These results all add up to a better night’s sleep.
As reported last week by the West Australian rural newspaper, Countryman, The Woolmark Company Australasia general manager, Leah Paff, said one of the biggest benefits of wool was its microclimate control and its ability to absorb moisture and maintain body temperature.
“A bad night’s sleep, when you are in and out of sleep, is all related to heart rate.
“The second your body overheats, your heart rate goes up and down quite erratically, and that’s what stops you from being in Rapid Eye Movement sleep stage, or deep sleep,” said Ms Paff.
The ‘Sleeping Comfort’ study was conducted by The Woolmark Company and the University of Sydney’s Faculty of Health Science and was funded by Australian Wool Innovation Ltd.
The study report will be available from The Woolmark Company in February 2006.
For further information visit www.woolmark.com