Incense has been part of cultural and spiritual rituals for a very long time. It comes in many forms, but put simply, incense is any plant matter which is burned for its aromatic or spiritual properties. Some of the most common forms of incense are Indian agarbatti sticks, also sometimes called joss sticks, or incense cones.
The History of Incense
Incense is believed to have originated in Egypt in the time of the Old Kingdom and was used by priests for fumigating tombs. Incense has a long history of being used as part of ceremonies, rituals, and spiritual or religious occasions.
Incense burning was popularised in India and Southern Asia as early as 3300 BC. Often being used alongside prayer and worship, it was widely believed that burning incense could ward off evil spirits whilst also purifying the surroundings.
Over 2,000 years ago, the trade of spices and incense played a significant economic role between the East and West. Back then, the Middle Eastern Incense Route wound its way through the Middle East to the Mediterranean region. As a result, incense was then popularised by the Roman Empire. It’s been estimated that around 3,000 tons of incense traveled this route each year!
The Spiritual Uses of Incense
The spiritual purposes of burning incense can vary based on the religious ceremony or intention during its use. Catholic churches, for example, may often burn frankincense to connect the community to the story of Jesus.
Incense can also be burned for its physiological impacts, which can then be used to aid in meditation and mood enhancement. Different scents are often considered to have different properties, according to aromatherapy practices.
Today, burning incense goes hand-in-hand with the practices of several religions, including Catholicism, Buddhism, and Hinduism. But its use goes beyond this, as it is now commonly used in yoga studios, wellness spaces, and our own homes.
The Benefits of Different Scents
If you’re burning incense that’s made with all-natural ingredients, there are many benefits you can reap from the experience. Our handmade incense is made from 100% natural, all vegan ingredients by a wonderful charity in India. We have hand-picked our scents not only for their lovely aroma, but also for the benefits they possess.
Citronella: Smooth, sweet, scented smoke to reduce stress and ward off mosquitos in your home. Use outdoors as a natural repellent alternative to chemicals.
Sambrani: Supports emotional balance, eases depression, and stimulates happiness. Ancient cultures use Sambrani for healing both spiritual and mental health.
Eucalyptus: Enhances creativity, concentration, and productivity with a boost of positivity. Used for meditation and rituals to improve relaxation and reduce anxiety.
Tulsi: Named the Holy Basil, believed in Ancient India to be the goddess incarnate. Lessen unwanted emotions and protect yourself from negative energies.
Parijat: A mystical healing flower known as Night Jasmine. Powered by the moon, it’s an ancient cure for stress, stomach issues and wounds of the body and mind.
Rose: Open your heart chakra by invoking love and intimacy. Known to strengthen romantic connections, relieve anxiety, improve sleep, and cleanse negative energies.
Frankincense: Made from the resin of the Boswelia tree, Frankincense is often used to aid meditation and mindfulness due to its breath enhancing properties.
Sandalwood: This calming scent lowers blood pressure, reducing anxiety and aiding sleep. In Indian Astrology it is believed to bring success and wealth.
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