Heidi Norton
Bakhoor is a type of incense that is made from wood chips that have been soaked in perfume oil. When burned, it releases an exotic fragrance that is a part of Arabic tradition and culture. There are several ways to burn bakhoor, including using an electric burner, a Dukhni burner, or the traditional method of burning it on coal. The most common way of burning bakhoor is to use a charcoal disc on a flame until it is hot and burning, and then placing the bakhoor on top. This will release fragrant smoke for 20 to 30 minutes, scenting your home, skin, clothes, and hair.
How to burn Bakhoor incense
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is Bakhoor? | Arabic word for 'incense'; wood chips soaked in perfume oil |
| Burning methods | Electric burner, dukhni burner, charcoal burner |
| Burn time | 15-20 minutes |
| Burn temperature | Hot enough to turn coal/wood grey/ashy |
| Extinguishing | Cover burner with a ceramic/clay dish |
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What You'll Learn
Using an electric burner
Electric bakhoor burners are a modern alternative to traditional burners, which use charcoal or a flame to burn bakhoor. Electric burners are convenient as they don't require any lighting, charcoal, or other additional tools. They are also easy to use and can quickly fill your space with fragrance.
To use an electric bakhoor burner, first, ensure you are in a well-ventilated area. Then, place the bakhoor, which is woodchip soaked in perfumed oil, onto the burner's plate or dish. Some burners allow you to place the bakhoor directly onto the plate, while others may require you to use a metal cup to prevent the plate from getting dirty.
Next, plug in the burner and turn it on by pressing the mains switch or turning the dial to the desired heat setting. Most electric burners will have a red light that indicates the burner is on and heating up. Start with a low to medium heat setting to allow the incense to burn slowly and give off a scent for a longer period. You can experiment with different heat levels to find the optimal setting for your incense.
Keep in mind that electric burners can get extremely hot, especially on higher temperature settings. Always use the handle to move the burner, and do not touch the plate or upper parts of the burner while it is turned on or for at least 30 minutes to an hour after turning it off to avoid the risk of burns.
Some electric burners have additional features such as timers and temperature controls, which can be useful for safety and convenience. With a timer, you can set the burner to turn off automatically after a certain period. If your burner does not have a timer, be sure to turn it off manually after a few minutes to avoid overheating and potential fire hazards.
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Burning on charcoal
Burning bakhoor on charcoal is a traditional method that can be done using a mabkhara, a traditional bakhoor burner. To do this, light a charcoal tab on a fire-proof surface with a match or lighter. When the charcoal is fully lit, it will be covered in grey soot and glow red. Use a pair of tongs to transfer the charcoal to the mabkhara and carefully sprinkle some bakhoor on top. The bakhoor's oils will evaporate due to the heat of the charcoal, releasing a rich, aromatic fragrance.
To fragrance clothes, this burner can be placed in a wardrobe. However, this method is controversial, with some deeming it a fire hazard. An alternative is to stand over the burner and waft the smoke over your clothes. To fragrance the hair, the burner can be carefully moved beneath the hair, lifting up sections to smoke out all layers.
To slow down the burn rate, you can place something on the charcoal to act as a barrier between the bakhoor and the coal, such as mica. Another method is to sprinkle some sand on the charcoal or to make little foil cups to put the incense in. Burying the hot coal in sand and then placing the bakhoor on top is another way to achieve a slow and steady burn, although some have found this challenging to execute.
Using charcoal to burn bakhoor is a time-honoured tradition that adds a rich, aromatic layer to your space. However, it is important to be cautious as it is a fire hazard.
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Choosing the right quality bakhoor
First, it is important to understand that bakhoor refers to processed incense made from various ingredients, usually natural, such as agarwood, resins, musk, ambergris, sandalwood, and oils. These ingredients are combined to create scented bricks or wood chips that release a rich fragrance when burned.
When choosing bakhoor, it is essential to consider the quality of the product. While synthetic bakhoor is more affordable, natural bakhoor is prized for its authenticity and richer fragrance profile. Look for bakhoor that contains top-grade ingredients, such as high-quality oud or agarwood, as these are known for their exceptional aroma. Avoid cheap bakhoor that claims to contain significant quantities of agarwood, as it may be of poor quality or not contain any agarwood at all.
The fragrance profile of bakhoor varies greatly, and it is crucial to select one that aligns with your personal taste and the intended purpose. Consider whether you want a peaceful fragrance for relaxation, a ceremonial scent for spiritual practices, or something more exotic for special occasions like weddings. Sample different fragrances to find the one that resonates with you.
Additionally, pay attention to the form and variety of bakhoor. It can come in different shapes, sizes, and textures, such as chips, blocks, balls, or even chocolate shapes. Choose a form that suits your burning method and personal preferences. Some popular brands known for their quality and pleasant scents include Nabeel, Ard Al Khayam, and Al Khayam Zafron.
Lastly, consider the cost and rarity of the bakhoor. While price does not always indicate better quality, it may reflect the rarity of the scent or the longevity of the fragrance. If you are a beginner, it is recommended to start with affordable 40g squares from reputable brands to explore different aromas without breaking the bank.
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How to extinguish the burner
When you are done burning bakhoor, you will need to extinguish the burner. Here are the steps you can follow:
Using a traditional burner
If you are using a traditional burner, such as a mabkhara, you will need to cover the burner with a ceramic or clay dish to extinguish the coal disc. It is important to note that you should only dispose of the coal once you are sure that it is completely cold. The coal itself does not release smoke, which is why it is important to use this special kind of charcoal for burning bakhoor.
Using an electric burner
If you are using an electric burner, simply unplug the device or turn it off and wait for it to cool down. Some electric burners come with a timer and temperature control, which can be useful for safety and convenience. Once the burner is cool, lift out the metal cup (if using) and dispose of the burned bakhoor. If you are not using a metal cup, empty the contents of the burner into the trash.
Using a Dukhni burner
The Dukhni burner is a slow, easy, and convenient option that does not generate smoke. To extinguish the burner, simply blow out the candle or remove the heat source.
Regardless of the burner type, it is important to follow the necessary safety precautions when handling hot materials and flammable substances. Always ensure that the burner and coal are completely cooled before disposing of them, and be cautious when handling open flames or heated elements.
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Using a dukhni burner
Burning bakhoor incense is a centuries-old tradition that adds a rich, aromatic layer to your space. The Dukhni burner is a smokeless candle burner that offers a slow, easy, and convenient way to burn bakhoor. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a Dukhni burner:
Preparing the Burner:
Before you begin, ensure you have a suitable incense burner, often made of brass, copper, or clay, with decorative patterns that enhance the aesthetic experience. The Dukhni burner comes with a copper plate and a space for a tealight candle. Place the burner on a stable, flat surface away from flammable objects. Always follow the manufacturer's safety guidelines and instructions before use.
Lighting the Candle:
Place a tealight candle in the designated space below the copper plate. Light the candle, creating a gentle heat source. The candle's flame will provide a smokeless and mess-free experience, making it ideal for indoor use and those sensitive to smoke. The candle typically has a burn time of approximately 3-3.5 hours, ensuring uninterrupted enjoyment.
Adding the Bakhoor:
Once the candle is lit and emitting a soft heat, it's time to add the bakhoor. Place a piece of bakhoor on the copper plate. The heat from the candle will slowly warm the bakhoor, causing it to release its captivating fragrance. The fragrance will diffuse slowly, filling your space with a lush aroma.
Safety and Maintenance:
Always supervise the burning bakhoor and do not leave it unattended. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets. Ensure proper ventilation in the room to prevent excessive smoke inhalation and to spread the scent effectively. After 3-3.5 hours of continuous burning, the bakhoor piece should be discarded, even if it still has a residual scent.
The Dukhni burner provides a safe, stylish, and mess-free way to enjoy the enchanting fragrance of bakhoor incense. It is perfect for creating a calming atmosphere, enhancing your surroundings, and elevating your sensory experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Bakhoor is the Arabic word for incense. It refers to wood chips that have been soaked in perfume oil.
You will need a burner, charcoal, and a pair of tongs. You can also use a metal cup or some foil to keep your burner clean.
Light a charcoal disc or tab with a lighter or match. When it is hot and covered in grey ash, use the tongs to place it in your burner. Then, crumble or sprinkle the Bakhoor on top.
The Bakhoor will release fragrant smoke for 15-30 minutes.
Cover the burner with a ceramic or clay dish to extinguish the coal. Only dispose of the coal once it is completely cold.
