Many people are surprised to learn that incense smoke contains the same harmful air pollutants as cigarette smoke. Long-term exposure can cause respiratory problems, including asthma and lung inflammation.
Whether you’re shopping for incense sticks, granulated resin crystals or a special raw plant material, quality is important. You also need to determine your aroma preference.
Direct Burning
As many people are aware, incense can take a variety of forms such as sticks, cones, coils and even granular powder. It’s also been used in various cultures across the world for millennia for aesthetic and therapeutic purposes as well as to accentuate the scent of the home. In addition, it is often used in therapy, meditation and ceremony as a way to relieve stress and enhance a sense of calmness.
Traditionally, incense was made of natural materials such as resins (frankincense and myrrh), wood powder and bark, seeds, roots and flowers. These materials are combined with fragrant oils and binders such as gum arabic or tragacanth which help the incense stick hold its shape. This method of incense production is still widely used today as it has remained relatively unchanged since ancient times.
The majority of incense available on the market falls under the category of direct burning. It contains a combustible material such as charcoal or wood powder which allows it to burn without an external heat source. This includes cored stick, solid stick and dhoop incense as well as rope incense.
Direct-burning incense is lit using a flame to ignite the combustible material. It then smolders to release its fragrance. The incense may be blown out or fanned to spread the aroma.
This is the most common type of incense you’ll see at most stores and it is typically used for everyday use. It is easy to light, burns quickly and emits a pleasant smell. It is recommended that you never burn a solid or gel incense directly on your skin. The smoke can irritate the skin.
Depending on the incense, some will burn for longer than others. It is important to read the label to know how long it will last. This information is usually based on testing by an independent laboratory.
If you are considering purchasing incense, it is recommended to always purchase from a reputable supplier that has good customer service and has the product knowledge to answer any questions. It’s also important to keep in mind that incense should be burned only in a well ventilated room, away from drafts and in an appropriate incense holder.
Is incense healthy?
Several studies suggest that the chemicals in incense may have positive effects on health. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Many people enjoy the calming effect that incense can have and it is great to help reduce stress, relax and promote sleep. It’s also been suggested that incense can help with pain relief, breathing problems and insomnia. The health benefits of incense are still being investigated, but there is no reason not to try it for yourself and see if it helps you. Incense can be purchased online, from most specialty shops and even some department stores. It’s also readily available in most supermarkets and health food stores. Just be sure to read the label carefully and follow instructions. It is best to avoid burning incense near open flames as this can cause the incense to smoke and possibly set things on fire.