Katrina Rosales
Incense is used across the world for various purposes, from cooking to religious or spiritual practices, to creating a cosy atmosphere or setting a mood. The most common form of incense used today is the incense stick, but incense cones are also popular. Incense sticks come in two forms: one type has a core in the centre, and the other does not. Incense cones, on the other hand, are a relatively new type of incense where the smoke flows in the opposite direction, downwards instead of upwards. In this article, we will be discussing how to use both incense sticks and cones.
How to use incense sticks and cones:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Burning incense | Requires basic materials such as lighters, matches, and a fire-proof ash-catcher |
| Incense types | Sticks, cones, loose resin, coils, powders, ropes, paper |
| Burning incense safely | Never leave burning incense unattended; keep away from children and pets |
| Incense coils | Burn for several hours to several days, depending on size |
| Incense powders | Burned in special burners or tossed into an open flame |
| Incense ropes | Burned in a shallow dish often lined with sand |
| Incense paper | Lit and blown out like sticks and cones |
| Incense cones | Burn out quickly and produce more smoke than sticks; burn time 15-25 minutes; leave behind ashes and a sticky oily residue |
| Incense sticks | Easier to light and burn than cones; burn time 45-60 minutes |
| Incense burners | Used to catch ashes; made from heat-resistant materials such as metal, stone, or ceramic |
| Lighting incense | Light the coated tip and let it burn for a few seconds before blowing out the flame |
| Incense and health | Burning incense may lead to the formation of cancer-causing chemicals and cause lung and heart problems |
| Incense and aromatherapy | The fragrant smoke can have a soothing effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety |
| Incense and meditation | Used as part of meditation rituals to create a calming atmosphere and achieve deeper states of mindfulness |
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What You'll Learn
Lighting incense sticks and cones
To light an incense cone, place the cone on a holder, with the tip pointing upwards. For extra heat protection, spread a layer of sand or uncooked rice underneath the cone. Place the holder on a fire-resistant surface in a spacious, well-ventilated room. Open a window to let in natural air and ensure the smoke from the cone does not become overwhelming. Keep incense away from children and pets, who are more sensitive to smoke. Use a match or lighter to apply a flame to the tip of the cone. Be patient, as it may take a few moments to ignite. Once the tip is ignited, allow it to burn for a few moments before gently blowing out the flame. You do not want to extinguish the burn completely, so be careful not to blow too hard. If the cone was successfully ignited, you will see the red glow of a burning ember on the tip. Place the lid on the burner. If the burner does not provide enough airflow, you may need to re-ignite the cone.
To light an incense stick, stand it straight up or diagonally. Light the coated tip with a match or lighter and let it burn for five to ten seconds before blowing it out. The tip should smolder and start to release smoke. If the flame doesn't catch, simply light it again. Once the stick has burned completely, all that is left is ash and the base of the stick. To extinguish the stick, shake it gently or press it on a fireproof surface.
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Choosing the right incense burner
Type of Incense
First, consider the type of incense you plan to use. Different types of incense, such as sticks, cones, or coils, may require specific burners. Cone incense burners, for example, are often covered containers with perforations to allow the smoke to escape. They can range from simple bowls to intricate structures like backflow burners, which create a captivating waterfall effect with the smoke. Stick incense, on the other hand, doesn't always require a burner, but you can find burners that prop up the stick and catch the ashes.
Material
The material of the incense burner is another important consideration. Common materials include ceramic, metal, wood, and clay. Ceramic holders are known for their heat-resistant properties and versatility in design. They can add a traditional or minimalist touch to your space. Metal holders can also complement a minimalist aesthetic with their clean lines and simple designs. Wooden incense burners are often preferred for their natural look, especially in traditional Japanese interiors. However, they may have a brass bottom to reduce flammability.
Safety
When choosing an incense burner, always prioritize safety. Some materials may be more flammable than others, so look for burners with features that prevent accidental fires. Additionally, ensure that your burner is heat-resistant and can withstand the heat generated by the incense. Always use incense in a well-ventilated space and follow safety guidelines to prevent any hazards.
Aesthetics
Incense burners can also be a decorative element in your space. Consider your interior design style and choose a burner that complements it. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern look or a traditional aesthetic, there are incense burners to match your taste. Incense burners can be a beautiful focal point on a coffee table, shelf, or bedside table, enhancing the overall ambiance of the room.
Functionality
Finally, think about the functionality you need in an incense burner. Some burners have specific features, such as adjustable heights or ash-catching capabilities. If you plan to move your burner around, consider a portable option. Additionally, if you want to burn incense without creating smoke, look for electric or candle-based burners that gently heat the incense instead of burning it.
Remember, the right incense burner will not only enhance your sensory experience but also blend seamlessly with your space, creating a tranquil and harmonious environment.
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Safety precautions
Incense is a popular way to add fragrance to your home, but it's important to follow safety precautions when using it. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind when burning incense sticks and cones:
Use proper incense burners or holders: Always use an incense burner or holder to ensure the safe burning of incense. Incense burners catch the falling ash and prevent it from creating a mess or causing accidental fires. For incense sticks, you can use a simple burner with a hole to hold the stick upright or a tray with a groove to catch the ash. Incense cones should be placed in a burner with a metal platform or a non-flammable holder to catch the ash.
Choose a safe location: Incense should always be burned on a heat-resistant surface, away from flammable objects like curtains, towels, clothes, and fabrics. Keep the area around you clear of any flammable materials before lighting the incense. Additionally, avoid burning incense near substances like alcohol, hairspray, and aerosols, as they can create dangerous fumes when burned.
Proper lighting and extinguishing: When lighting incense sticks or cones, use a match or lighter to ignite the tip. Allow the tip to burn for a few seconds before blowing it out or dipping it into a bowl of water or sand. Blowing out the flame can disperse burning embers, so it is recommended to extinguish it in a bowl of water or sand. Always monitor burning incense and never leave it unattended.
Ventilate the area: Incense smoke can build up in enclosed spaces, posing potential health hazards. Always burn incense in a well-ventilated area to avoid the concentration of smoke and ensure fresh air circulation.
Dispose of ashes safely: Allow the ashes from incense sticks and cones to cool down completely before handling them. You can wrap the cooled ashes in paper or cloth and bury them securely to prevent potential reigniting. Make sure to dispose of the incense sticks or cones only when they are fully extinguished, as smouldering embers can start a fire.
Avoid direct inhalation: Enjoy the aromatic benefits of incense without directly inhaling the smoke. Inhaling incense smoke can have negative effects on lung health.
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Making your own incense
Ingredients and Tools
The primary ingredients used in incense are fragrant materials such as cinnamon, frankincense, sandalwood, herbs, oils, resins, and various types of wood. When selecting wood, keep in mind that some types are "oil-extracted" or of lower quality, which can impact the overall scent. Popular choices for herbs include basil, dill, lavender, marjoram, peppermint, rosemary, and sage. It is important to use potent herbs to ensure the best aroma. Additionally, consider any allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients and consult a doctor if needed.
You will also need a mixing bowl, a grinding tool such as a mortar and pestle, a measuring spoon, and a binding agent. Common wood binders like joss powder (also known as jiggit) or tabu no ki are suitable for beginners. Gum binders, such as guar gum or xanthan gum, are more potent but should be used sparingly to avoid affecting the burn.
Preparation and Mixing
Start by mixing your dry ingredients (herbs and woods) in one bowl and your resins in another. Combine these mixtures and blend them thoroughly. You can use a mortar and pestle to grind the mixture into a fine powder, enhancing the release of aromas. If using ingredients like honey, add them after grinding. You can also add liquid ingredients like water or essential oils. The recommended ratio is 1 tablespoon of water and 1-2 tablespoons of other liquid ingredients for every 1.5 teaspoons of the herb mixture.
Shaping and Drying
To shape your incense, you can roll it into thin sticks or cones by hand. For cones, a piping tip with a wide nozzle can help you mould them effectively. Insert a toothpick into the centre of each cone to create a space that aids in burning. For sticks, you can use an extruder for better results, although hand-rolling is possible.
Place your shaped incense on a tray or in a container and leave it to dry for at least a day in a sunny spot. Ensure they are completely dry before use, as moisture can impact their burning. Store your incense in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption, especially if you used honey in your mixture.
Burning and Safety
When burning your incense, always exercise caution. Keep it away from pets, children, and flammable objects. Never leave it unattended, and always have water nearby. You can burn your incense on a non-flammable surface, using a charcoal disc or makko powder as a base.
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The history of incense
The use of incense dates back to biblical times and is believed to have originated in Egypt during the time of the Old Kingdom. Incense-bearing trees were imported from the Arabian and Somali coasts into ancient Egypt, where it was used in religious ceremonies. The ancient Egyptians employed incense for both pragmatic and mystical purposes. It was burnt to counteract or mask unpleasant odours, but it was also believed to ward off malevolent demons and please the gods with its pleasant aroma. Resin balls were discovered in several prehistoric Egyptian tombs in El Mahasna, and one of the oldest known incense burners dates back to the 5th dynasty. The Temple of Deir-el-Bahari in Egypt features carvings that depict an expedition for incense.
Incense is also mentioned in the Book of Exodus, where it is referred to as Ketoret and described as a mixture of stacte, onycha, galbanum, and frankincense. The Babylonians used incense extensively while offering prayers to divine oracles, and it later spread to Greece and Rome. Incense burners have been discovered in the Indus Valley Civilization, and evidence suggests that oils were used primarily for their aroma.
In China, incense was burned during festivals and processions to honour ancestors and household gods, and it was introduced to Japan by the Buddhist priest Ganjin in 754 AD. Japan has a unique history of kneaded incense, known as nerikō or awasekō, which is made by mixing powdered incense with binding substances like nectar and treacle.
Incense has been a fundamental part of Hinduism for thousands of years, and it is believed to have been used in India and other parts of Southern Asia as early as 3300 BC. The earliest documented evidence of incense use is from ancient China, where it was made from blends of herbs and plants such as cinnamon and sandalwood, fragrances that are still popular today.
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Frequently asked questions
Lighting an incense cone is a little more challenging than lighting a stick because cones generate more heat and smoke. First, place the cone on a heat-resistant burner with a metal platform, upright and pointed-side up. Light the tip with a match or lighter, blow out the flame, and let the tip smoulder. If the cone fails to ignite, try lighting it for a little longer and blow gently to encourage a red glow at the tip. Once the cone is burning, put the lid on the burner. Burn incense in a well-ventilated area.
Light the coated tip of the incense stick with a match or lighter. Let it burn for a few seconds, blow out the flame, and place the stick in an incense burner, bowl, boat, or ash-catcher to smoulder. You can also stand the stick straight up or diagonally without a burner, as long as you have something to catch the ashes.
Burning incense is a cherished practice around the world, used for aromatherapy, spiritual ceremonies, and meditation. The fragrant smoke can have a soothing effect on the mind and body, helping to reduce stress and anxiety, and creating a relaxing atmosphere.
