Anisha Riggs
Incense has been used in worship and rituals for thousands of years, and it continues to be a fixture of myriad countries and cultures. Whether you're looking to begin a yoga session, cleanse your space, or simply fill your home with a pleasant aroma, there are many incense options to choose from.
Incense from India and Tibet tends to be stronger and more highly perfumed, while Japanese incense is known for its subtlety and refinement. If you're looking for a non-synthetic scent, Japanese incense is a good option.
Some popular brands of incense include Satya, which offers a variety of fragrances such as Nag Champa, Super Hit, Dragon's Blood, and Sandalwood; and Calmveda, which offers incense sticks made from upcycled flowers and natural ingredients. For those who prefer artisanal incense, Commune, a Los Angeles-based design firm, offers a minimalist box of over 100 hand-rolled incense sticks with a sandalwood scent.
When purchasing incense, it is also important to consider the type of holder you will need. For example, sticks of incense require a different holder than paper incense or bars of palo santo.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Country of origin | Japan, India, China, Tibet, Pakistan, Oman, Mexico, France, Morocco, Taiwan, Arabian Peninsula, Peru, United States |
| Scent notes | Frankincense, myrrh, sandalwood, patchouli, cedar, aloeswood, rose, spice, citrus, herbaceous, floral, sweet, earthy, musky, herbaceous, fruity |
| Incense type | Sticks, cones, coils, paper, powder |
| Burn time | Long-lasting, short-lasting, slow-burning |
| Ingredients | Natural, organic, synthetic |
| Purpose | Spiritual, aromatherapy, relaxation, meditation, yoga, home fragrance, mosquito repellent |
| Presentation | Hand-rolled, hand-dipped, natural resins and woods, synthetic fragrance oils |
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What You'll Learn
Where to buy incense
There are a variety of options when it comes to buying incense. You can opt for online retailers like Wild Berry, Juniper Ridge, and P.F. Candle Co., or explore physical stores like Walmart. Additionally, online platforms such as Etsy, Amazon, and Reddit also offer incense purchasing opportunities.
Online Retailers
Wild Berry, established in 1971 in Oxford, Ohio, offers a range of incense products with over 90 premium fragrances. They provide subscription services with monthly deliveries of different incense sticks, shipped across the United States.
Juniper Ridge is another online option, specialising in 100% plant-based incense sticks, bundles, and essential oils. They craft their oils using traditional steam distillation techniques and sustainably sourced plants from America's Western landscapes.
P.F. Candle Co. offers incense sticks and cones, as well as incense holders, providing a one-stop shop for all your incense needs.
Physical Stores
Walmart provides a wide range of incense options, including assorted fragrance incense sticks, incense cones, and incense kits. Their kits typically include incense sticks in fragrances like dragon's blood, lavender, and sandalwood, along with an incense holder.
Online Platforms
Etsy, Amazon, and Reddit are also potential sources for purchasing incense. While Etsy offers a variety of handmade and unique incense options, Amazon provides a vast selection from various brands. Reddit, specifically the r/Incense community, serves as a dedicated space for incense enthusiasts to discuss and recommend different types of incense, providing insights into various purchasing options.
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Incense for cleansing
Incense has been used for hundreds of years to purify energy and create a sacred and harmonious environment. The sense of smell is closely linked to memory and emotions, and burning incense during a cleansing ritual can help to create a sensory experience that reinforces the idea of transformation and renewal.
There are many different types of incense sticks available for cleansing, each with its own unique properties and benefits. Here are some of the most popular and effective options:
- Sage incense is derived from North American white sage and has been used in Native American rituals for centuries. It is a powerful cleanser that can help to clear stagnant energy and negativity. However, due to overharvesting, it is important to source this type of incense carefully.
- Palo Santo incense, also known as 'holy wood', is a sacred wood from South America that has been used for its spiritual clarity and uplifting mood. It is often burned for tranquil meditation and deep contemplation.
- Frankincense and myrrh are ancient treasures that are cherished for their spiritual significance and ability to invite positive energy.
- Lavender incense is renowned for its stress-relieving properties and gentle floral scent, making it perfect for creating a peaceful and serene environment.
- Sandalwood incense has a seductive flowery aroma and is excellent for reducing tension due to its calm, pleasant scent.
- Eucalyptus incense can help to clear bad energy and improve your capacity to breathe.
When using incense for cleansing, it is important to set an intention and create a sacred space. Move the incense around the room or object you wish to cleanse, visualising the smoke driving out any negative energy. You can also incorporate spoken words that echo your intentions of cleansing and protection.
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Incense for yoga and meditation
Incense has been used for thousands of years, from ancient civilisations to modern yoga studios, to enhance spiritual practices and create a pleasant environment. Burning incense is believed to aid meditation by creating a harmonious space and enhancing your yoga practice.
When choosing incense for yoga and meditation, it is important to consider the experience you want to create. Different scents can evoke different responses in our minds and bodies. For example, if you are seeking relaxation, you might opt for frankincense, which is known to be uplifting and can help dispel feelings of anxiety. If you are seeking a deeper spiritual connection, you might try sandalwood, which is said to fill the heavens, or lotus flower, which is believed to be transformative. Oudh is another option, which is described as grounding and euphoric.
It is also important to consider the format of the incense. Incense sticks are the most common and convenient type, but cones burn faster and release a more intense fragrance, making them ideal for shorter practices. Resins are made from raw, natural materials and offer the purest aroma, but they require charcoal to burn, so they are better suited to longer and deeper meditation sessions.
When selecting incense, it is recommended to choose high-quality, natural incense crafted from pure essential oils and botanicals. Avoid synthetic fragrances and artificial ingredients, which can be harsh and irritating. Choose incense that burns cleanly with minimal smoke, as heavy smoke can be distracting and may cause respiratory discomfort.
Burning incense is not necessary for meditation or yoga, but it can help to create a serene and enjoyable environment that gets you in the right mindset. It is important to be mindful of others, as some people may be sensitive or allergic to certain scents, or find the smoke distracting or uncomfortable.
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Incense holders
When choosing an incense holder, it is important to consider the functionality, material, design, and type of incense it can accommodate. The holder should be able to catch the ash of the incense sticks and prevent any mess. Common materials for incense holders include ceramic, metal, and wood. Ceramic holders are known for their heat-resistant properties and design versatility, while metal holders are durable and often feature elegant finishes. Wooden holders, especially those made from aromatic woods, can add a subtle fragrance of their own.
Traditional Japanese incense holders are made of ceramic and wood, adorned with traditional Japanese motifs. These designs serve as exquisite decor pieces and enrich the ritualistic practice of burning incense, reflecting Buddhist and Shinto cultural heritage. For a minimalist aesthetic, opt for incense burners with clean lines and simple designs, such as a sleek ceramic dish or metal holder.
There are various types of incense holders available, including stick, coil, cone, and resin holders. Stick incense holders usually feature a small hole or clip to secure the stick, allowing the ash to fall into a tray or dish below. For stick incense, you can choose a holder that supports the stick straight or at an angle, or a coffin-style holder to protect the incense from drafts.
Some unique incense holder designs include the ZenBless 5-in-1 Incense Burner, which can hold incense sticks, coils, and cones, and the SPACEKEEPER Waterfall Backflow Incense Holder, which creates a dramatic visual effect with downward-flowing smoke. If you're looking for an eco-friendly option, the Utama Spice Bali Reclaimed Wood Incense Holder is crafted from repurposed chopsticks and is suitable for natural incense sticks.
Additionally, you can create your own incense holder by using a bowl filled with sand, a decorated plate, or even aluminium foil. These options are cost-effective and can be easily replaced or disposed of without the need for cleaning.
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Incense for beginners
Incense has been used in worship and rituals for thousands of years, and it continues to be a fixture of myriad countries and cultures. With so many options available, it can be challenging to know where to start. Here is a guide to incense for beginners.
Types of Incense
Incense typically comes in sticks, cones, or coils, and can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, resins, and essential oils. Some incense is synthetic, while others are made from natural ingredients. It is worth noting that some incense may be dipped in synthetic fragrance oils, so if you are looking for natural incense, be sure to check the ingredients.
Where to Buy Incense
Incense can be purchased from a variety of sources, including local stores, online retailers, and specialty shops. If you are looking for natural, high-quality incense, it may be worth seeking out a local crystal or metaphysical store, as these stores tend to carry more discerning products. You can also find incense at Indian grocery stores, which often carry a variety of options. Online retailers like Amazon also offer a wide range of incense options, including best-sellers and natural incense.
Popular Incense Scents
The type of incense you choose will depend on your personal preferences. Indian and Tibetan incenses tend to be stronger and more highly perfumed, while Japanese incense is known for being more refined and subtle. Popular Japanese incense brands include Shoyeido, Minorien, and Kuumba. If you're looking for a good base scent, sandalwood is a popular choice, with brands like Minorien and Satya offering highly-rated sandalwood incense. Other popular scents include aloeswood, frankincense, myrrh, and patchouli.
Incense Accessories
In addition to incense, you will need a few accessories to get started. It is important to have a cool holder for your incense, such as a ceramic holder or plate. You may also want to invest in a burner or censer to hold your incense and catch any ash.
Incense Etiquette
When burning incense, it is important to open a window to allow for ventilation and to avoid excessive smoke buildup. Incense should also be used sparingly, as too much incense smoke can be overwhelming. Always burn incense responsibly and follow any safety instructions provided by the manufacturer.
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Frequently asked questions
If you're looking for something new, you could try incense from India or Tibet, which tends to be stronger and more highly perfumed. You could also try Arabian bakhoor, which is slow-burning and convenient.
If you're looking for a more subtle scent, you might prefer Japanese incense, which is known for being refined.
If you're looking for natural incense, you could try ZenBunni, which is hand-rolled in small batches with sustainably grown ingredients. You could also try Bodha's Ground variety, which is made with organic woods and essential oils.
If you're looking for something affordable, you could try the Indian brand Primo Incense, or the Indian manufacturer Haridas Madhavdas Sugandhi (HMS). You could also try Satya, which is hand-rolled in India and available at a local Indian grocery store.
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