Antonio Mcgowan
Incense has been used for centuries for various purposes, from religious ceremonies to creating a romantic atmosphere. Making your own organic herbal incense at home is a simple, inexpensive and creative process that allows you to customise your ingredients and avoid potential toxins found in store-bought incense. The basic formula for natural incense involves combining aromatic ingredients with a binder and a base, which holds the incense together and helps to release the scent when burned. Popular aromatics include herbs, flowers, resins, woods, and essential oils, while common bases include sandalwood, cedar, and pine, and binders can be gum or wood-based. Once you've chosen and prepared your ingredients, you can shape your incense into cones, sticks, or pellets, and burn them to fill your space with a natural fragrance.
How to make organic herbal incense
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To evoke a mood or create an atmosphere for romance, entertainment, shopping, home relaxation, or ceremonies |
| Materials | Flowers, herbs, scissors, cotton twine, a heat-proof plate, a hanger, matches or a lighter, tree barks, saps, gums, resins, roots, fragrant leaves, needles, dried fruit, essential oils, decoctions, hydrosols, extracts, water, tea, coffee, milk, fruit juices, herbal teas, wine, cinnamon, frankincense, sandalwood, sage, basil, dill, lavender, marjoram, peppermint, rosemary, honey, raisins, dried prunes, dried apricots, red wine, a food processor, a mortar and pestle, a bowl, a piping tip, sand, charcoal, makko, mica |
| Steps | 1. Pick out flowers and herbs that are in season and have not been grown with chemicals or pesticides. 2. Cut the flowers and herbs with scissors. 3. Dry the flowers and herbs on a hanger. 4. Tie the flowers and herbs together with cotton twine. 5. Place the incense on a heat-proof plate. 6. Light the incense with matches or a lighter. 7. For loose incense mixtures or incense pellets, heat the mixtures with charcoal, makko, or mica. 8. For cones or sticks, light one end, fan out the flame, and allow it to burn on its own. |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing your base
Choosing the right base is an important step in making organic herbal incense. The base material is what replaces the charcoal or other outside heat source in non-combusting forms of incense. Sandalwood, cedar, and pine are all excellent bases that can add a strong scent to your incense blend. However, if you are new to making incense, you might find it easier to work with low-scent base materials such as red sandalwood, alder, or charcoal. These bases will contribute very little to the overall scent, allowing your aromatic ingredients to shine.
When choosing a base, it's also important to consider the type of binder you will be using. The binder is like a glue that holds the incense together in the shape you choose. There are two main types of binders: gum binders and wood binders. Wood binders, such as joss powder or "tabu no ki" (sometimes called "makko"), are easy to work with and often act as both a base and a binder. Gum binders, such as guar gum or xanthan gum, are much stronger than wood binders, but they require more precision in measuring as too much can prevent your incense from burning properly.
If you choose a wood or gum binder, you must add water or another water-based liquid to "activate" it. This can include tea, coffee, milk, fruit juices, or herbal teas and wine. Essential oils, decoctions, hydrosols, and other extracts can also be added for scent, but keep in mind that they do not contain water and cannot be used as a replacement for it.
Once you have chosen your base and binder, you can start mixing your incense dough. The basic formula for natural incense is simple, but the finer aspects can take a lifetime to master. The key is to create a mixture that will hold its shape. If it is too wet or too dry, your incense may not burn effectively. You can form your incense dough into any shape you like, but sticks and cones are the most common.
Remember to always use natural, organic ingredients when making your incense, and be mindful of any allergies or sensitivities to certain herbs and ingredients. With the right base and a bit of practice, you'll be well on your way to creating your own unique herbal incense blends.
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Selecting herbs and flowers
Firstly, it is recommended to use fresh, natural ingredients that are free from chemicals or pesticides. Opting for organic herbs and flowers ensures that the burning incense does not release any harmful substances into the air. Local farmer's markets, nurseries, or grocery stores are great places to source fresh herbs. When selecting flowers, look for ones that are not fully bloomed as they are less likely to mould or lose their petals during the drying process.
Secondly, consider the fragrance and aromatic properties of the herbs and flowers. Different herbs and flowers have distinct scents and can be combined to create unique fragrances. Some popular choices for incense include basil, dill, lavender, marjoram, peppermint, rosemary, and sage. These herbs are known for their potent aromas and can enhance the fragrance of your incense. Additionally, certain flowers, such as red roses, can be chosen for their romantic associations, while fresh lemongrass can provide an energy boost and improve concentration.
Thirdly, you can choose herbs and flowers based on their traditional or ceremonial significance. For example, in Native American religious practices, sweet grass, sage, cedar, and tobacco are burned for purification and ceremonial purposes. Similarly, frankincense and myrrh have a long history of use in ancient cultures and religious ceremonies. If you wish to create incense for specific purposes, such as relaxation or purification, selecting herbs and flowers with symbolic meanings can enhance your experience.
Lastly, consider the availability and seasonality of the herbs and flowers. Some ingredients may be easier to source locally or during certain times of the year. By choosing herbs and flowers that are in season, you can ensure they are at their freshest and most fragrant. Additionally, you can explore your local environment for wildcrafted ingredients, such as pine needles or rose hips, to create unique, foraged incense blends.
Remember, the selection of herbs and flowers is a personal choice and can be tailored to your preferences. You can experiment with different combinations to create incense that suits your desired fragrance, mood, or symbolic purpose.
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Preparing ingredients
Once you have decided on the purpose of your incense, you can select your ingredients. Incense is made from a variety of materials, including herbs, flowers, resins, woods, tree barks, saps, gums, roots, fragrant leaves, and needles. You can also add liquid scents such as essential oils, decoctions, hydrosols, and other extracts. Some popular herbs to use are basil, dill, lavender, marjoram, peppermint, rosemary, and sage. If you are using flowers, it is best to choose ones that are not fully bloomed, as mature flowers are more likely to mould or lose their petals during the drying process. You can also add dried fruits such as raisins, dried apricots, or dried prunes to your incense, which can be soaked in a liquid such as wine before use. Honey can be used as a preservative for dried fruits and also adds a warm fragrance to the mixture.
When preparing your ingredients, you will need to dry and grind them. Clumps of sweet grass, for example, can be hung upside down to dry and then braided before being burned. You can also dry and grind your chosen herbs and flowers. It is important to note that most herbs lose their potency over time, so it is best to use fresh ingredients when making incense. Once your ingredients are dried and ground, you can mix them together in a bowl using a mortar and pestle. You will need around 1.5 teaspoons of this herb mixture for each incense cone you make. If you are using ingredients like honey, you should add them to the mixture after grinding your herbs.
In addition to your dried and powdered aromatics, you will need to choose a binder to hold your incense together in the desired shape. There are two basic types of binders: gum binders and wood binders. Gum binders, such as guar gum or xanthan gum, are more powerful and add a strong scent to your incense. Wood binders, on the other hand, are easier to work with and can also act as a base material. Common wood binders include joss powder and "tabu no ki" (also known as "makko"). When using a binder, you must add water or another liquid to "activate" it. This can include water, tea, coffee, milk, fruit juices, or herbal teas and wine. However, it is important to note that essential oils do not contain water, so you will need to adjust the amount of liquid in your mixture accordingly.
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Binding your incense
There are two main types of binders: gum binders and wood binders. Gum binders, such as guar gum or xanthan gum, are stronger and require much smaller quantities than wood binders. Gum binders are typically used when burning incense, as they are combustible. However, they can be overpowering, so it is important to use them sparingly. Wood binders, on the other hand, are easier to work with and often act as both a binder and a base material. Common wood binders include joss powder (also known as jiggit) and "tabu no ki" (sometimes mislabelled as "makko"). Makko, derived from the bark of the tabu-no-ki tree, is a popular choice for Japanese incense as it has minimal impact on the scent and burns well.
To activate your binder, you must add a water-based liquid to your blend. This can include water, tea, coffee, milk, fruit juices, or herbal teas. It is important to note that essential oils cannot be used as a substitute for water, as they do not contain water. However, they can be used to supplement the amount of water in your blend.
When creating incense sticks or cones, some people use gum arabic or tragacanth as a binder, mixing it with charcoal or saltpeter to aid combustion. However, it is recommended to avoid saltpeter as it is a toxic substance. An alternative method is to use makko, which is a natural combustible material that is also water-soluble.
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Burning your incense
Firstly, it is important to note that the burning of incense should be done with caution. Some studies have linked increased incense use to a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease, and the smoke may be difficult for asthma patients or those with lung disorders. Always consult with a healthcare professional before burning incense, and be mindful of any allergies or sensitivities to the herbs and ingredients used.
Now, let's get into the steps for burning your organic herbal incense:
- Prepare your space: Choose a well-ventilated area, especially if you are sensitive to smoke. You will need a heat-proof plate or dish, sand or ash, and a lighter or matches.
- Assemble your incense: If you have created your own incense cones or sticks, ensure they are dry and ready for burning. If you are using loose incense or pellets, you will need to place it in a cup, bowl, or dish filled with sand or ash.
- Light your incense: If you are burning cones or sticks, light one end, then gently fan out the flame and allow it to burn slowly on its own. Be mindful not to blow on the flame, as this may be considered disrespectful in some cultures.
- Use charcoal for loose incense: If you are burning loose incense or pellets, you will need to light a charcoal briquette. Place the briquette on top of the sand or ash in your dish and light it. Allow it to burn for about 30 seconds, or until it is evenly hot.
- Enjoy the fragrance: Once your incense is burning, you can enjoy its fragrance. Place your incense ball or additional loose incense on top of the charcoal briquette if you are using one. Take this time to relax, meditate, or create a special atmosphere for your event or ceremony.
- Store leftover incense: If you have any leftover incense cones, sticks, or loose incense, store them in a safe place, away from direct sunlight or moisture. This will ensure they remain effective and fragrant for future use.
Remember, the art of burning incense is a personal and meditative experience. You can create strong associations with the fragrances you use, evoking specific moods or memories each time you burn a particular scent. Enjoy the process and allow the aromatic smoke to enhance your environment and your well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need flowers and herbs, scissors, a heat-proof plate, a hanger, matches or a lighter, and cotton twine. You can also add essential oils, dried fruit, honey, or resins.
First, pick out your favourite fresh flowers and herbs, making sure they are in season. Cut them with scissors and hang them to dry. Then, tie your herbs and flowers together with cotton twine. Burn your incense on a heat-proof plate, lighting it with matches or a lighter.
Some popular choices include basil, dill, lavender, marjoram, peppermint, rosemary, sage, and thyme. You can also use sweet grass, cedar, pine, and sandalwood.
