Natural aroma therapy solutions to common ailments such as stress, muscle aches and sleepless nights are becoming very popular today. Many people shy away from prescriptions and over the counter sleep aides because of their side effects. The lavender scented neck wrap has become a leading substitute for drugs. The fragrant aroma and medicinal qualities of the lavender plant work to relieve stress headaches and stiffness while relaxing enough to allow sleep.

There are many companies that offer a number of sizes and styles of the neck wraps. You have a choice of weight and coverage of the affected areas. Weight is an important factor. You will want it to feel soothing with out feeling like a dead weight on your neck and back. The warmth and aroma are the key and if you are forced to move it every few minutes it may become a nuisance rather tan a help.

Texture and strength of the cover fabric make a big difference when creating these items. Many factories create them from cottons and flannels. These fabrics are both soft and strong but light enough to allow the aromas to emanate from the wrap. Others are made from velvet or fuzzy fabrics in the form of stuffed animals.

The wraps should be stored in plastic in the refrigerator when not in use. This ensures that the therapy scents will stay active for a long time. If you find that you need to refresh the essence there are ways to do this that are easy and relatively inexpensive.

Some companies will supply you with the replacement items either at the time of purchase or by ordering them separately. These options include liquid essences that are sprayed onto the item and small packets of herbs and fragrances that you specify. The liquids offer the added advantage of being used for pillows or toys that are in the bedroom. This helps to sooth and relax all night long.

The fillers for these items generally are rice or flax seed. Flax seed is the most popular because it is an oil based seed that does not dehydrate when heated or cooled. It also has no scent that interferes with the healing aromas you need. Rice has a tendency to degrade when micro waved and can become burnt easier than flax seed.

When heating or cooling the wraps it is essential that you follow the instructions supplied. Being in the microwave for too long will cause the fillers to scorch. This smell does not go away even if you replace the aroma packets. Placing them in the freezer uncovered can allow moisture into the packaging and cause the fillers to clump and stick together. You must never use a conventional oven when heating them. This may cause a fire in the stove.

As a tension and stress relief method the lavender scented neck wrap is a viable and effective tool. They offer the same effects as a massage parlor without the hassle of leaving home and interrupting your daily schedule. They offer a cost effective and safe way to unwind at the end of a long and stressful day.