Katrina Rosales
Myrtle is a type of incense herb that is said to represent the female principle of virgin purity, offering youthful vitality and the energy of love. While there are many ways to make charcoal incense, the base material is key as it replaces the charcoal or other outside heat source. Common wood binders include joss powder (jiggit) and tabu no ki (makko). Alternatively, gum binders such as guar gum or xanthan gum are much more powerful than wood binders, but too much gum binder can cause the incense to bind too strongly to burn. To make myrtle wood charcoal incense, you will need to choose a base material that complements the other aromatic components, such as sandalwood, cedar, or pine.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing a base material
There are two main choices when it comes to base materials: those with very little scent and those with a scent that complements the rest of your blend. If you opt for a low-scent base, red sandalwood (which is not actually sandalwood), alder, and charcoal are all good options. If you choose to go with a scented base, sandalwood, cedar, and pine are all excellent choices that can add a strong scent to your incense blend. However, keep in mind that some types of wood, like sandalwood, have very prominent scents of their own, so you may need to plan for the scent of the base when adding other aromatic ingredients.
Wood binders are commonly used as base materials and include joss powder (also called jiggit) and “tabu no ki” (sometimes incorrectly labelled as “makko”). These wood binders are easy to work with and act as both a base and a binder. However, they typically make up a large proportion of the recipe, with many recipes calling for 75% wood binder. Wood binders are not as strong as gum binders, which can be made from substances like guar gum or xanthan gum. Gum binders are much more potent, with a typical incense recipe using just 1/8 teaspoon of binder for every 2 tablespoons of material. They also have the advantage of adding no scent to the blend, so you don't have to worry about their impact on the final fragrance.
When choosing a base material, you can either select a base first and then choose aromatics that complement it, or decide on your aromatic ingredients and then find a base that will complement or, at the very least, not interfere with them. Aromatic ingredients can include dried and powdered aromatics, as well as liquid scents such as essential oils, decoctions, hydrosols, and other extracts.
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Selecting a binder
Wood binders, such as joss powder (also known as jiggit) and tabu no ki (sometimes incorrectly labelled as makko), are easy to work with and often act as a base material in addition to being a binder. They are forgiving and a good choice for novice incense makers. However, they typically constitute a large proportion of the recipe—up to 75%—and are not as strong as gum binders.
Gum binders, such as guar gum or xanthan gum, are much stronger than wood binders, with a typical incense recipe using just 1/8 teaspoon of binder for every 2 tablespoons of material. This strength is a double-edged sword, as adding too much gum binder can cause the incense to bind too strongly to burn. Gum binders are also scentless, so they won't interfere with the fragrance of your incense.
When choosing a binder, it's important to consider the desired scent of your incense. If you want a strong, prominent scent, you should choose a base with a very low scent or one that complements your aromatic ingredients. Sandalwood, cedar, and pine are excellent bases that can add a robust fragrance to your blend. However, if you prefer a more subtle aroma, opt for "oil-extracted" or lower-quality varieties of these woods, which have minimal scent. Alternatively, red sandalwood, alder, and charcoal are base materials known for their faint aroma.
In addition to selecting a binder, you'll need to add water to your blend to activate it. While any water-based liquid will do, plain water is not your only option. You can also experiment with other liquids, such as essential oils, decoctions, hydrosols, or other extracts, to enhance the aromatic profile of your incense.
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Combining base and binder
Combining the base and binder is a crucial step in creating your own incense blend. The base material replaces the charcoal or other external heat sources used in non-combusting incense forms. Thus, a good base should burn well and evenly. You can choose a base with a subtle scent or one that complements the other aromatic components in your blend. Popular base options include sandalwood, cedar, and pine, which can add a strong scent to your incense. Alternatively, red sandalwood, alder, and charcoal have very low-scent profiles.
When selecting a binder, wood binders such as joss powder (also known as jiggit) and tabu no ki (sometimes mislabelled as makko) are common choices. These binders are beginner-friendly and can also act as base materials. However, they often constitute a large proportion of the recipe, with many recipes requiring 75% wood binder. Additionally, wood binders are generally not as potent as gum binders, which include guar gum and xanthan gum. Gum binders are much stronger, with a typical incense recipe calling for just 1/8 teaspoon of binder for every 2 tablespoons of material. While gum binders do not contribute any scent to the blend, it is important to be cautious when using them, as adding too much can cause the mixture to bind too strongly and prevent it from burning.
To activate both wood and gum binders, you must add water or another water-based liquid to your blend. This step helps to ensure that your incense mixture will burn effectively. When working with gum binders, be mindful that adding too much water can cause the binder to become too sticky and difficult to work with. Therefore, it is crucial to add water in small amounts and mix thoroughly to avoid affecting the consistency of your incense blend.
When combining the base and binder, it is essential to consider the desired scent profile and the functionality of your incense. The base and binder work together to provide the foundation for your incense blend, and the right combination will result in a harmonious burn that enhances the overall aromatic experience. Experimenting with different base and binder options will help you discover the perfect combination for your unique incense creation.
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Adding aromatic ingredients
When making myrtle wood charcoal incense, adding aromatic ingredients is a crucial step to enhance the scent and overall experience. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for this process:
Choosing Aromatic Ingredients:
Select ingredients that complement the base material, such as myrtle wood or charcoal. Consider the desired scent profile and choose ingredients that will create a harmonious blend. For example, if you're using a woody base like sandalwood, you might choose aromatic ingredients like frankincense or patchouli, as suggested by The Incense Dragon.
Dried and Powdered Aromatics:
Common choices for incense include various herbs, resins, and woods known for their aromatic properties. For example, myrtle leaves are traditionally associated with purity and are believed to offer youthful vitality and a refreshing effect. Dried and powdered aromatics provide a strong and concentrated scent when burned.
Liquid Scents:
In addition to powdered ingredients, you can incorporate liquid scents such as essential oils, decoctions, hydrosols, and other extracts. These liquids add complexity and depth to your incense. For instance, you could use myrtle-infused essential oils to enhance the aromatic qualities of the myrtle wood base.
Using Binders:
Binders are essential to hold your incense mixture together. Wood binders like joss powder (jiggit) or "tabu no ki" (sometimes called "makko") are commonly used and act as both a binder and a base material. However, they may require a significant amount in your recipe, and their scent should be considered. Gum binders, such as guar gum or xanthan gum, are more potent, adding no scent of their own, but be cautious as too much can prevent the incense from burning properly.
Water Activation:
Regardless of your choice of binder, remember that water is necessary to "activate" it. You can use plain water or a water-based liquid. This step is crucial to ensure your incense mixture binds together properly before shaping and drying it.
Experimentation and Customization:
Creating incense allows you to customize your scent experience. Feel free to experiment with different combinations of aromatic ingredients, bases, and binders to find your unique blend. The Incense Dragon suggests that sometimes an incense maker will start by choosing a base and then select aromatics that complement it, or they might do the opposite, depending on their preference.
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Burning incense safely
While incense burning has been a traditional and common practice in many parts of the world, especially in the East, for various purposes since ancient times, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with it and take necessary precautions to ensure safe usage. Here are some detailed guidelines for burning incense safely:
Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality:
Ensure proper ventilation in the area where you are burning incense. Open windows or doors to allow fresh air to circulate and reduce the concentration of smoke. Improving indoor air quality is crucial, especially if you burn incense regularly or in enclosed spaces. Consider using air purifiers or exhaust fans to help remove particulate matter and improve the air you breathe.
Moderation and Distance:
Burn incense in moderation and limit your exposure. Avoid burning incense continuously or for extended periods. Space out the burning sessions to minimise the potential impact on your health. It is also advisable to maintain a safe distance from the incense smoke. Stay a few feet away from the direct path of the smoke to reduce the amount of particulate matter you inhale.
Natural and Safe Ingredients:
Opt for incense sticks made from natural ingredients, free from harmful chemicals or artificial additives. Certain types of incense may contain high levels of metallic content, coal, or undesirable ingredients that can increase the health risks. Choose brands that use natural fragrances and essential oils, ensuring a safer and more natural burning experience.
Alternative Practices:
Explore alternative practices to traditional incense burning. For example, electronic incense burners or diffusers can provide a similar aromatic experience without the risks associated with smoke inhalation. These alternatives often allow you to enjoy the fragrance without exposing yourself to the potential dangers of burning incense.
Awareness and Research:
Stay informed about the potential health risks associated with burning incense. Research the specific ingredients and possible drawbacks of the incense you intend to use. Be cautious of the latest scientific findings and their implications for your health. This awareness will enable you to make informed decisions and choose the safest options available.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of burning incense while minimising potential health risks. Remember to always burn incense responsibly and be mindful of the well-being of yourself and those around you.
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Frequently asked questions
Myrtle leaves represent the female principle of virgin purity and are believed to offer youthful vitality and the energy of love. It is also said to aid in clarifying opinions, clearing the atmosphere, and relaxing nerves.
The ingredients of myrtle wood charcoal incense include myrtle leaves, charcoal, and a natural gum binder.
To make myrtle wood charcoal incense at home, you will need to gather myrtle leaves and dry them. You can then mix the dried leaves with a wood binder such as joss powder or "tabu no ki" (also known as "makko", which includes tabu no ki), and a small amount of gum binder such as guar gum or xanthan gum. Water must be added to activate the binder. The mixture can then be shaped into cones or sticks and dried before use.
Natural incense charcoal burns more evenly and has virtually no scent, unlike major brands that often contain potassium nitrate, high-tar coal, and other undesirable ingredients that can cause a strong smell and burn too hot.
Light the end of the incense cone or stick and allow the flame to burn for approximately 10-15 seconds before blowing it out. The incense should produce a glowing red ember and a tendril of smoke, and will continue to burn on its own. Always burn incense on a heatproof, non-flammable holder to prevent residue stains and ensure safety.
