Anisha Riggs
Incense burning is a popular activity worldwide, with a wide range of fragrant woods, resins, herbs, and essential oils used to create aromatic smoke. While incense is not meant to be inhaled directly, some people claim that certain types of incense can induce a mild high or a marijuana-like high. However, it is important to note that incense smoke contains toxic compounds and contaminants that can be harmful to your health, and long-term exposure may lead to negative effects such as an increased risk of lung cancer and high blood pressure.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Incense types that can get you high | Mojo, Spice, Spice Gold, Vampire Blood |
| How it works | Contains synthetic chemicals that produce a marijuana-like high, including the compound jw8-018 |
| Health risks | Increased risk of lung cancer, high blood pressure, respiratory irritation, cardiovascular issues |
| Other risks | Fire hazard, harmful to children and pets |
| Recommended use | Use in large, airy rooms, not for daily use |
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What You'll Learn
Herbal incense: a new way to get high
Incense has been used for thousands of years, with ancient civilisations burning aromatic plants for rituals, prayer, and meditation. Today, incense is commonly used to fill rooms with pleasant aromas and to enhance meditation and yoga practices. However, there has been a recent rise in the use of herbal incense as a way to get high, particularly in places where marijuana is illegal.
Herbal incense, also known as "mojo" or "spice", is sold in herb shops and even convenience stores and gas stations in some areas. It is marketed as incense, but many people are smoking it to achieve a marijuana-like high. The appeal of herbal incense lies in the fact that it is legal in some places and does not show up on standard drug tests. However, it is important to note that just because something is legal, does not mean it is safe.
The high from herbal incense is caused by a combination of synthetic chemicals, including the compound jw8-018, which mimics the euphoria of THC found in marijuana. Manufacturers of these products are constantly changing the chemicals used, making it difficult for law enforcement to regulate and control their use. While herbal incense may provide a similar experience to marijuana, it also comes with potential risks and side effects.
The smoke from burning incense contains a range of toxic organic compounds, including carbonyls, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Long-term exposure to incense burning has been linked to increased risks of lung cancer and high blood pressure. Additionally, the smoke can irritate the eyes and lungs, and the high concentrations of particulate matter can travel deep into the respiratory tract and even the bloodstream.
While the aromatic herbs and plants used in traditional incense preparations can have positive effects on mood and consciousness, it is important to use incense safely and in moderation. Incense should not be directly inhaled and should always be burned in a large and airy room to minimise the potential negative health impacts.
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The health risks of smoking incense
Smoking incense can lead to several health risks. The smoke from incense contains particulate matter, including fine particles that are smaller than 10 μm in diameter. These fine particles can enter the alveoli in the lungs and cause respiratory issues, such as coughing, phlegm, and dyspnea. Incense smoke also contains gas products, including CO, CO2, NO2, and SO2, as well as volatile organic compounds like benzene, toluene, and xylenes, which contribute to air pollution. The inhalation of incense smoke has been linked to increased risks of respiratory system dysfunction, allergic contact dermatitis, and elevated cord blood IgE levels.
Long-term exposure to incense burning has been associated with an increased risk of lung cancer, as seen in research from Singapore, and higher cancer risk in general. A case-control study also found a significant association between maternal exposure to incense during pregnancy and an increased risk of brain tumours in the offspring. Additionally, incense burning may negatively impact brain health in older adults, leading to delays in cognitive performance and reduced brain connectivity.
The use of incense has also been linked to cardiovascular risks, with current incense users having a 12% increased risk of cardiovascular mortality and a higher likelihood of coronary heart disease and stroke compared to former or non-users. Furthermore, incense burning has been associated with adverse metabolic changes, such as increased triglycerides and decreased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations.
While the effects of incense vary depending on the specific plant substances used, some herbs like rosemary and hops contain terpenes that produce relaxing effects when inhaled. However, it is important to note that incense smoke contains products not suitable for human consumption, including traces of contaminants. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid directly inhaling the smoke from incense sticks and to use them infrequently in well-ventilated areas to minimise potential health risks.
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Incense and its effects on human consciousness
Incense is derived from the Latin word "incendere", meaning "to burn". It is made from a specially prepared bundle of plant matter and filler material. The tip of the incense stick is lit, and the smoke released contains an array of phytochemicals, including terpenes and cannabinoids, which are known to cause shifts in human consciousness.
The use of incense for its aromatic properties has been a popular practice for thousands of years, with ancient civilisations such as the Egyptians and Babylonians utilising incense for rituals and prayers. Even today, incense is widely used for meditation, yoga, and aromatherapy, enhancing the experience by elevating the mood and creating a pleasant atmosphere.
However, the effects of incense on human consciousness can vary dramatically. While some incense varieties can induce subtle shifts in consciousness, creating a mildly euphoric or meditative state, others may have more pronounced effects, producing a marijuana-like high. For example, "mojo" or "spice", a type of herbal incense, has gained popularity as a legal alternative to marijuana in certain places, despite containing synthetic chemicals that can be harmful.
It is important to note that incense is not meant to be directly inhaled like a cigarette. Burning incense produces toxic compounds, including carbonyls, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which can be harmful to the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Long-term exposure to incense smoke has been linked to increased risks of lung cancer and high blood pressure. Therefore, it is recommended to use incense infrequently and in well-ventilated areas to minimise potential adverse effects.
Additionally, the placebo effect or the power of suggestion may also play a role in the perceived effects of incense on human consciousness. The ritualistic act of burning incense, combined with its pleasant aroma, can stir emotions and alter one's headspace, enhancing the overall experience.
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The history of incense burning
The earliest known use of incense has been traced back to China, where it was employed in religious ceremonies and to ward off evil spirits. Incense was also prevalent in ancient Egypt, where it served both public and private ritualistic purposes. The ancient Egyptians used incense during mystical rituals and meditation, with resin balls discovered in prehistoric Egyptian tombs in El Mahasna, dating back over 6000 years. The Babylonians, who burned aromatic plants while offering prayers to divine oracles, also influenced the use of incense in Greece and Rome.
Incense was highly valued in ancient societies due to its perceived spiritual and medicinal properties. It was believed to offer protection against evil forces and was used to cleanse spaces and repel mosquitoes. Ancient civilisations also attributed healing properties to incense, using it to treat snake bites and ward off diseases. Incense was also used for practical reasons, such as masking body odours and serving as a natural deodorant before the advent of modern hygiene practices and products.
Over time, incense became associated with magic and sorcery during the Middle Ages and was incorporated into spells and rituals. It continued to be widely used during the Renaissance and Baroque periods in churches and homes.
Today, incense remains an integral part of religious ceremonies and spiritual practices, such as Buddhism, Hinduism, and Taoism. It is also valued for its pleasant fragrance, aesthetic appeal, and aromatherapy benefits, including stress reduction and relaxation. The art of incense appreciation, known as "Kōdō" in Japan, is considered a separate art form from the tea ceremony.
While incense burning has a rich history and offers various benefits, it is important to approach it with caution. Long-term exposure to incense smoke has been linked to increased risks of lung cancer and high blood pressure. Additionally, the smoke may irritate the eyes and lungs, especially in small, enclosed spaces.
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How to burn incense safely
Incense is a fragrant, aromatic biotic material that releases a pungent smoke when burnt. It is commonly purchased in a stick shape, although it also comes in powdered form. Burning incense can be harmful and dangerous if not done correctly. Here are some safety tips to follow when burning incense:
Ventilation and Fresh Air
It is important to ensure proper ventilation when burning incense. Open a window or door to allow fresh air to circulate and prevent the smoke from becoming too concentrated. This is especially important if you have pets, as the smoke can irritate their eyes and lungs. Birds are particularly sensitive to incense smoke, so keep them as far away as possible.
Lighting and Supervision
Always light incense in a well-ventilated room and never leave it unattended. Place the incense burner on a heat-resistant surface, away from flammable materials such as curtains, fabric, and furniture. Keep it out of reach of children and pets. Make sure to stay in the room while the incense is burning and gently blow out the flame or ember when you are finished.
Frequency and Duration
Use incense sticks infrequently and in moderation. Burning incense daily can increase the risk of adverse health effects and dilute the potency of the experience. A single incense stick typically burns for 20-40 minutes, depending on its thickness, length, and quality. You can put out a partially burned stick and save the remainder for your next session.
Health Considerations
Be mindful of the potential health risks associated with incense burning. Long-term exposure to incense smoke has been linked to an increased risk of lung cancer and high blood pressure. If you or anyone in your household has asthma, consider avoiding incense as the thick smoke can aggravate respiratory conditions.
Alternative Methods
If you are concerned about the health risks of burning incense, consider using smokeless alternatives such as infusers or warmers. Powdered incense, for example, is burned on a charcoal disk rather than an open flame. Japanese-style incense does not have a wooden core and produces less smoke.
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Frequently asked questions
While incense is not meant to be smoked, some people have reported smoking mojo, spice, or spice gold, which are herbal incenses that can get you high. However, these products are not meant to be inhaled and can be detrimental to your health.
Smoking incense can be harmful to your health. A 2015 study found that incense smoke and tobacco smoke have similar toxicities and produced similar mutagenic reactions in cells exposed to the smoke. Burning incense can also increase levels of particulate matter in the air, which can be harmful when inhaled or enter your bloodstream.
Burning incense can enhance meditation, elevate your mood, and release tension. Many traditional incense ingredients reduce anxiety and stress, promote sleep and relaxation, and induce meditative states.
