Natural resins and herbs have been used since ancient times for their spiritual, medicinal/healing and fragrancing properties. They can be mixed with a combustible powder such as makko and applied to incense blanks to form natural dipped sticks that are then burned on charcoal tablets or within the Japanese Kodo Ceremony.
Natural ingredients
Resin incense is a natural alternative to the traditional stick incense. Burning resins on charcoal disks creates a pleasant and mystical aroma that can be used for purification, prayer and meditation.
Many natural resins have been used for thousands of years for their distinctive scents that linger in the air and heighten spiritual awareness. They are a staple in churches, mosques and temples throughout the world.
Some varieties have been used for medicine, like Boswellia dalzielii which has been shown to help treat rheumatoid arthritis, respiratory problems and gastrointestinal issues. Others are known for their sacred qualities such as the gift of myrrh that was given to Jesus by the three wise men.
Other types of natural oleoresins include copal, damar and Ethiopian myrrh. These are also available in a variety of different fragrances. Some can be combined with others to create a more unique scent like the Pontifical blend, which contains three of the most precious ancient resins, frankincense, myrrh and benzoin.
Fragrance
Resin incense is made with small beads of hardened tree resins that produce a fragrant smoke when burned. It is commonly mixed with other aromatic ingredients such as dried flower petals, wood chips and natural oils. The resulting blend is then imbued with a spiritually meaningful fragrance to enhance the user’s experience.
Depending on the resin used, it may also have therapeutic properties. For example, Boswellia papyrifera resin – or Frankincense – contains boswellic acids that have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety.
Other important scent compounds found in tree resins include myrcene and pinene. These terpenoids have been known to aid with healing, respiratory and skin-related ailments.
Packaging
Resin incense is usually sold in small jars with a comfortable screw-top lid. They are typically labeled with the name of the resin, a description of its healing properties and an ancient Sanskrit symbol that represents the chakra it corresponds to in the human body.
The packaging is a clear recyclable container that keeps the resin’s scent in until it’s ready to use. Some brands of resin incense are also packaged with a wooden stick for burning.
Certified Vegan, this exotic resin incense blend was made in accordance to ancient shamanic wisdom and blessed with special mantras to open and stimulate the seven main energetic centers (chakras) located in our astral bodies. Its authentic aroma is so powerful that only 1/2 teaspoon on a piece of charcoal fills the room, and uplifts the mood while facilitating healing. It’s a perfect gift for those who seek spiritual connection to the Creator. It contains Black Ethiopian, Gum Damar, Frankincense and Styrax Benzoin resins.
Health
The soothing scents of resin incense can help to relieve stress, anxiety and depression. They can also help to clear negative energy from your home or office. They also smell good and may inspire you to meditate or relax.
There are several different types of resin incense available, each with its own unique benefits. Benzoin resin, for example, comes from the benzoin tree and has a sweet balsam fragrance. It has been shown to reduce pain, improve mood and relieve insomnia. It is also believed to stimulate the imagination and promote creativity.
Frankincense, Myrrh and Copal resins come from various trees and have different health benefits. The frankincense Sacra resin, which is traditionally used in churches and mosques throughout the world, contains boswellic acids that are beneficial for a number of conditions. Frankincense can also help to rebalance the crown chakra. Myrrh, which is known for its romantic properties, helps to heal bonds between people and promote spiritual awareness.