Lance Carson
Resin incense is a natural substance harvested from gum trees via 'tapping'. It is the original way to use incense, offering a rich and deep fragrance that is longer-lasting than other forms of incense. Resin incense is usually extracted from the bark of a woody plant, the buds of a shrub, or the flowers of an herb. The term resin incense also refers to herb blends consisting of bark, leaves, flower petals, and wood pieces. Burning resin incense is believed to promote a healthier inner world, purify the air, and boost mood levels.
Characteristics and Values of Resin Incense
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Natural substances such as frankincense, copal, myrrh, and tree resin |
| Source | Resin is obtained from living trees via 'tapping' |
| Use | Burned for meditation, relaxation, and spiritual purposes |
| Benefits | Aromatic herbs purify the air, boost mood levels, and reduce headache, anxiety, and depression |
| Ritual | Burning resin is a ritual that serves as a bridge to become in tune with your spirit and spirituality |
| Scent | Resin incense has a stronger and longer-lasting scent compared to other forms of incense |
| Burning process | Requires an external heat source, such as charcoal tablets, and a heat-safe vessel or incense burner |
| Customization | Different resins can be blended to create custom scents |
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What You'll Learn
Resin incense sources and extraction
Resin incense is sourced from trees, with the resin being harvested directly from the tree or sap. The resin is obtained from living trees via 'tapping', which is done sustainably to ensure the tree continues to thrive. Resin incense can be sourced from gum trees, conifer trees, and pine trees.
Resin incense is also available for purchase from suppliers, with some suppliers sourcing their resin from Europe, Africa, and Asia. Commercial resins such as frankincense and myrrh can be purchased, or resins like copal, which is native to Central and South America, can be purchased.
To extract resin incense, the resin must first be gathered from the tree. This can be done by either gathering resin from the tree directly or by looking at the base of the tree for pieces that have fallen off. If gathering resin directly from the tree, it is important to be mindful of the impact on the tree. Resin that is still on the outside of the tree is serving the purpose of protecting the tree from potential infection, so it is best to gather resin that has fallen off the tree. Only gather hard resin, not soft, sticky sap. To make the resin easier to crush, it can be placed in the freezer for a few hours to make it brittle.
Once the resin has been gathered, it can be crushed or ground into a powder. The resin can be blended with other resins or combined with select herbs to create a blend. A binder such as honey, water, or dried fruit soaked in wine can be added to help the mixture stick together and form a stiff dough. The dough can then be rolled into pea-sized balls and dried. The incense is then ready to be burned.
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Burning resin incense
To burn resin incense, you will need an incense burner specifically designed for this purpose, although any heat-safe vessel can also work. It is important to place the burner on a heat-resistant surface and ensure that it is away from flammable materials. You can fill the burner with salt or sand to help absorb heat and protect the dish or bowl. Charcoal tablets or discs are then placed inside the burner and lit using a match or lighter. Once the charcoal is fully lit and ashed, you can place a piece of resin on top. The resin will begin to melt and release its fragrance. You can also add multiple pieces of resin or blend different resins to create a custom scent.
Alternatively, you can burn resin incense without charcoal by using an oil warmer, also known as an aroma lamp or oil burner. Add a small amount of almond oil to the bowl of the warmer and then add a few pieces of your chosen resin. Light the tealight underneath or plug in the warmer, and the resin will slowly soften, infusing the oil with its fragrance.
The process of burning resin incense is often seen as a ritual, and the smoke is believed to have therapeutic and spiritual benefits. The strong aroma of resin incense can invoke different emotions and states of being, enhance relaxation, and boost mood levels. It is also used to cleanse the air and remove negative energies.
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Health and spiritual benefits
Resin incense is a natural substance harvested from gum trees. The resin is obtained from living trees via 'tapping', which is done sustainably to ensure the tree continues to thrive. Resins have been used for millennia by the world's main religions and are also a significant part of rituals within shamanism.
Frankincense resin is found in trees in the Middle East and North Africa, where it gathers energy from the hot desert sun and eliminates negativity. It is renowned for the sacred atmosphere it creates, helping to enhance meditation as it has the ability to make one more aware of the spiritual realms. It has been used to deepen experiences during religious rituals for thousands of years and is best known by Christians as one of the precious gifts offered to Jesus shortly after his birth.
The essential oil of frankincense is also commonly used topically or in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and overall well-being. Frankincense is produced by the resin of the Boswellia tree, which is native to the Middle East and Africa. The resin is collected by making incisions in the bark of the tree, and the sap that is released hardens into a resinous substance that can be burned or used to produce essential oil.
Frankincense is associated with emotional and spiritual well-being, while myrrh is often linked to purification and protection. Both oils can be used to enhance one's spiritual journey. The choice between the two depends on personal preference and the intended purpose.
Burning incense serves as a bridge to become in tune with your spirit and spirituality. It can be therapeutic and relaxing, and each scent can invoke different emotions.
Resin incense is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent choice for use both internally and externally. It is commonly used for skincare and joint support.
However, it is important to note that recent research has revealed some health drawbacks to burning incense. A study in 2021 confirmed that incense contains natural and unnatural ingredients that create small, inhalable particulate matter, some of which is carcinogenic. Burning incense has been associated with an increased risk of respiratory diseases, asthma, and heart disease.
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Incense burners and tools
Resin incense has a mystical vibe and is often used in rituals, prayer, and smoke-cleansing ceremonies. Burning resin is a ritual in itself, and it can be therapeutic and relaxing. Resin incense is also used to invoke different emotions and states of being, and it can also help to purify the air.
Incense burners are an essential part of the resin incense experience. They are used to contain the burning incense, allowing the smoke to fill the room with its aroma. Incense burners come in various shapes and sizes, including stick holders, cone holders, and censers. They can be made from different materials, such as copper, steel, clay, glass, brass, stoneware, or recycled brass. Some incense burners are designed to hang, while others are hand-carved or handmade. You can find incense burners at Shamans Market, Etsy, or Rene Schonefeld's website.
To burn resin incense, you will need a few tools:
- Incense burner or a heat-safe vessel, such as a heatproof bowl (an abalone shell or a clay pot)
- Charcoal tablets or discs
- Tongs
- Lighter or matches
- Sand or small rocks (for insulation and to protect your dish or bowl)
- Small spoon (to spread the resin on the charcoal)
- Place a handful of sand or small rocks in your incense burner or heat-safe vessel.
- Put a charcoal disc between a set of tongs and light it.
- Place the charcoal on top of the sand or in your incense burner.
- Spread a piece or a few smaller pieces of resin incense on top of the charcoal using a small spoon.
- The resin will begin to melt and smoke. You can now meditate, pray, or set your intentions.
- After use, immerse the charcoal remains in water.
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History of resin incense
Resin incense is a natural product made from the sap of trees, primarily those in the Burseraceae family, such as Boswellia and Commiphora. The sap is harvested and dried to create the final product, and the incense is then burned to release its fragrance.
The history of resin incense is deeply rooted in ancient civilizations, particularly in Egypt, Africa, and Mesopotamia. Archaeological evidence suggests that the use of incense dates back to ancient Egypt, with old incense burners discovered providing verification. The earliest inscription of incense use is found in the tomb of Queen Hatshepsut, who ruled around 1500 BC. Frankincense, a popular type of resin incense, is also mentioned in the Bible, highlighting its significance in biblical times.
Resin incense has been valued for its aromatic and therapeutic properties, finding widespread use in religious and spiritual ceremonies. It was employed in burial rites and other rituals, believed to possess purifying and relaxing qualities. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans incorporated resin incense into their religious practices, and its use continued to flourish in the Middle Ages, particularly in European churches and monasteries.
Frankincense, derived from the sacred Boswellia tree, holds a special place in the history of resin incense. It has been treasured for its warm, pleasant fragrance and its association with spiritual practices. Frankincense is also known for its ability to strengthen the Root Chakra and enhance feelings of union with the divine.
Other types of resin incense, such as myrrh, copal, benzoin, and styrax, have also been used throughout history. These resins, sourced from various trees and plants, offer unique fragrances and benefits. For example, myrrh, with its warm and earthy scent, is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. Copal, sacred to indigenous cultures of Central and South America, is burned during the Day of the Dead to guide souls back home.
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Frequently asked questions
Resin incense is derived from small pellets of hardened plant secretions or saps. The resin is usually extracted from the bark of a woody plant, the buds of a shrub, or the flowers of a herb. Natural resins are the original incense and are harvested from gum trees.
Resin incense is believed to have several benefits. It is said to promote a healthier inner world by activating desirable thoughts, emotions, and states of being. The aromatic herbs also help purify the air and boost mood levels. Additionally, resin incense is used for smoke cleansing and is believed to harmonize the mind, body, and spirit.
To burn resin incense, you will need an external heat source such as charcoal. Place a charcoal disc in between a set of tongs and light it. Then, place the charcoal on a heat-safe vessel, such as a resin burner, or a heatproof bowl filled with sand or small rocks. Finally, place a piece of resin incense on top of the charcoal and it will begin to melt and release its fragrance.
Some popular types of resin incense include frankincense, myrrh, and palo santo. These resins are commonly used in religious and spiritual ceremonies and are known for their energy-purifying properties.
If you prefer less smoke, you can use an oil warmer or aroma lamp to enjoy the fragrance of resin incense. Simply add a small amount of almond oil and a few pieces of resin to the bowl of the warmer and light the tealight underneath.
