Heidi Norton
Incense has been used for centuries, with tree resins being one of the oldest forms. Resin incense is harvested directly from the resin or sap of different trees and is less processed than other types of incense. When burned, tree resins release their true aroma, offering a level of complexity that artificial fragrances cannot match. With so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the best-smelling resin incense. Some popular choices include frankincense, myrrh, copal, and benzoin. Factors such as quality, ingredients, brand, customer reviews, and price can help guide your decision.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Best-smelling incense resin | Frankincense |
| Average price | $20 |
| Origin of frankincense | Ethiopia |
| Manufacturer of frankincense | Govinda |
| Weight | 1 lb |
| Other best-smelling incense resins | Benzoin, Copal, Piñon resin, Breuzinho, Myrrh, Labdanum, Amber |
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What You'll Learn
Frankincense: a traditional favourite with a lemony note
Frankincense is a traditional favourite when it comes to incense, with a complex aroma that blends well with warmer notes. It is a common note in fresh citrus fragrances, with a citrusy, peppery top note and a dry, woody, balsamic finish. In its pure state, frankincense oil initially smells like freshly ground black pepper, with a twist of lemon peel in the background. As it dries down, it reveals its woody character, with balsamic richness and a flinty mineral crispness.
Frankincense is a resinous material obtained from a Boswellia tree species native to the east. It has been used in ceremonies by both Eastern and Western religions, as it is believed to aid prayer and meditation. The Europeans used it in church services, the Egyptians used it during the embalming process, the Persians used it for its supposed medicinal properties, and in Abrahamic religions, it is used to cleanse spaces of bad or evil energy.
Frankincense is a versatile fragrance, equally suited to the dark heft of an oriental fragrance as to the effervescence of citrus cologne. It is a common ingredient in fragrances from the Amouage collection, including Opus XII Rose Incense, which uses frankincense to add a dark and sultry, smoky essence to a rose-forward scent. Atelier Cologne Bois Blonds is another example of a fragrance that pairs the brightness of incense with citrus, resulting in a composition free from liturgical associations.
When it comes to incense resin, most customers opt for frankincense, which has a pure, strong scent. It can be purchased in one-pound bulk bags, with the highest quality frankincense being Grade A.
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Breuzinho: an earthy, dark scent from the Amazon
Breuzinho is an earthy, dark-scented incense resin sourced from the tree Protium heptaphyllum in the Brazilian Amazon. It is also known as Breu and has been used for centuries in local folk healing and spiritual rituals. The resin is extracted in a similar way to rubber from rubber trees, without cutting down the source tree, and its correct extraction stimulates greater resin production.
Breuzinho has a long history of use in Amazonian folk medicine, treating ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, rhinitis, stomach pains, liver malfunction, and even memory problems and epilepsy. It is also believed to have spiritual benefits, cleansing the environment of negative energies and creating harmony. Father José de Anchieta, during his first Mass in Brazil, used Breuzinho resin and dubbed it "A Mirra Brasileira" ("The Brazilian Esoteric Aroma").
The incense is commonly sold in the form of sticks or ropes made of cotton string, soaked and coated in Breuzinho resin. To use, one end of the stick is lit, the flame is extinguished, and the stick is allowed to smoulder, filling the space with its distinctive fragrance. For a more delicate aroma, a single strand can be pulled from the rope and burned.
The scent of Breuzinho smoke is likened to dark Copal, a fragrance that promotes relaxation, receptivity, and reflection. Its natural aroma is complex and unequalled by artificial fragrances, making it a unique and appealing choice for incense enthusiasts.
Breuzinho is a natural, aromatic product with a rich history in Amazonian culture and folk practices. Its earthy scent and purported benefits make it a sought-after incense resin, offering a unique sensory experience rooted in the traditions of the Amazon.
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Dragon's blood resin: a sweet, warm scent
Dragon's blood is a natural plant resin that is dark red in colour. It is extracted from various tree species, including Croton, Pterocarpus, Daemonorops, and Dracaena, which are commonly referred to as "dragon trees". Dragon's blood has been utilised for centuries in diverse applications such as medicine, incense, dye, and spiritual practices. It offers a wide range of benefits, including potential health advantages and antimicrobial properties.
The scent of dragon's blood resin is distinct and memorable, characterised by its warmth and earthy, spicy notes. It exudes a sweet fragrance, reminiscent of vanilla and spices, creating an alluring aroma. The complexity of its scent has led to a resurgence in its use as incense and in fragrances for candles. Dragon's Blood Fragrance Oil, for instance, combines dragon's blood with cedarwood, orange, clove, and patchouli essential oils, resulting in a potent and captivating blend.
Dragon's blood resin has a mysterious and captivating cold throw scent, reminiscent of incense sticks. When burned, it transforms into a sweet floral fragrance, providing a delightful olfactory experience. Its versatility allows for blending with other scents, such as Egyptian musk, creating unique and personalised aromas.
The Zum Dragon's Blood Collection showcases the versatility of dragon's blood resin in personal care products. The collection includes soap, body oil, and other natural items that energise and invigorate your daily routine. Dragon's blood's warm and spicy scent lingers, providing an unforgettable sensory journey.
Dragon's blood resin, with its sweet and warm scent, has become a popular choice for those seeking a unique and captivating fragrance. Its versatility in incense, candles, and personal care products showcases its ability to enhance various aspects of our daily lives. The warm and inviting aroma of dragon's blood resin makes it a sought-after option for those looking to create a cosy and indulgent atmosphere.
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Amber resin: a smoky, tarry fragrance
Amber resin is a crystalline fragrance made from a combination of several resinoids and oleoresins (plant secretions), including myrrh, gum frankincense, gum styrax, benzoin, sal tree, and labdanum, among other aromatic compounds. These ingredients are sourced from the tropical sub-forests of India and Africa. They are crushed, mixed, carefully heated, and cooled to form the crystalline amber.
The fragrance of amber resin is characteristically described as sweet, woody, and earthy, with notes of vanilla and spices. When burned, amber resin releases a smoky and evocative fragrance that has been considered sacred and referred to as the "Nectar of the Gods" or "Ambrosia". Spiritually, amber resin is used for meditation, healing, purification, luck, love, emotional and spiritual balancing, and as an aphrodisiac.
To burn amber resin, you can use an oil warmer or charcoal tablets. When using charcoal, light the charcoal and place it in an incense holder. Hold the charcoal with tongs until it self-ignites across the surface. Once the charcoal starts to turn grey around the edges, add the resin. You can also add sand to the incense holder to help absorb heat. Alternatively, you can use a hotplate to heat your resins, which allows you to control the temperature and avoid burning your resin.
Amber resin is soft and slightly oily to the touch. It is often used as a solid perfume or worn as an amber charm pendant around the neck. However, caution must be exercised when placing amber in warm or hot environments, as it will melt and liquefy above room temperature.
The unique fragrance of amber resin has led to the creation of various blends, such as Golden Amber, Dark Amber, and Celestial Amber, each with its own distinct scent. Golden Amber is warm and rich with vanilla, while Dark Amber adds a touch of spice to the sweetness. Celestial Amber has a hint of patchouli-like earthiness. These blends showcase the versatility and allure of amber resin as a base for creating captivating fragrances.
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Piñón resin: a rich, pine-scented smoke
Incense has been used for thousands of years, with resins being one of the original sources of fragrance compounds used in perfume. Resins are derived from the sap that collects in the wounds of trees, and their scents vary from strong woody notes to soft, almost creamy profiles.
Piñón resin is a natural incense resin sustainably sourced from the wild forests of Central America. The scent is sweet and pine-fresh with notes of balsam. The primary active ingredient in Piñón resin is pinene, which has antiseptic properties and acts as a natural aphrodisiac. Other beneficial components include myrcene, linalool, and limonene, all of which have calming effects.
The smoke from Piñón resin incense is reputed to be beneficial for emotional balance and calming the senses. However, it is not suitable for households with pets, as the smoke can irritate them. Some people may also find the scent too strong or overpowering.
To avoid burning the resin, it is recommended to use a cheap hotplate to heat it gradually. This method also allows for better control over the temperature, preventing the resin from burning and smelling like plastic.
Piñón resin incense offers a rich, pine-scented smoke with a range of beneficial properties, making it a unique and enjoyable incense experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Frankincense is one of the most popular incenses and is considered the best by many. It has a sweet aroma with notes of balsam and pine and is reputed to be beneficial for emotional balance.
Other good options include Copal, which has a light, sweet, and pleasant aroma with notes of light citrus, and Breuzinho, which has a complex aroma that is earthy, dark, and refreshing.
Resin incense is harvested directly from the resin or sap of different trees. It is less processed than other types of incense, which are ground into a powder and pressed into a specific shape.
You can burn resin incense on a charcoal burner or an electric burner. Some people also use a cheap hotplate to heat the resin, which is better than using charcoal as you can control the temperature and avoid burning the resin.
Resin incense has been used for centuries, with a long tradition in Arabic and Persian cultures. Resin incense is often sustainably sourced from wild forests in Central and South America, as well as places like New Mexico, Ethiopia, and Sumatra.
