Incense sticks types and properties of aromas. When you can and when you can not burn incense sticks. Indian incense and incense sticks

India is a land of scents. And as soon as you step over the side of the plane, a stream of smells will follow you always and everywhere. Why so many rich aromas, from which it is impossible to hide in any corner of India? It's all about Indian incense.

Where is incense used?

The locals have been using incense in their lives for many years. Previously, They were used for various rituals and ceremonies in the form of roots, leaves, fragrant flowers, essential oils, and oilcake. They were thrown into the sacred fire in order to propitiate the gods and goddesses.

They cleansed the space of their houses with incense. Also in ancient times they were used in healing. It would seem, what could be the use of aromas? In fact, they have a very beneficial effect on human body but not like drugs. Yes, fragrance alone will not cure an advanced cold or intestinal problems, not to mention more. serious illnesses such as diseases of the heart, liver, lungs and many others.

When buying Indian incense, you should take into account their quality, you should not think that if they are from India, then they are of the highest quality. But if we are talking about quality fragrances, then we can emphasize that they still have some kind of effect.

The harm and benefits of Indian incense, what to consider when buying

So what are the benefits of incense sticks? Indian incense exudes incredible exotic smells. It can be a pleasant, soft aroma of vanilla, or musk, sweet, spicy, minty, fresh, their great amount.

Modern manufacturers have made sure that when buying people can choose the flavor that they like. Filling the room with the aroma of a loved one, incense creates a pleasant atmosphere. They purify the mind, put thoughts in order, restore, soothe, create a spirit of peace.

But do not forget that Indian incense can also harm your body. If, when buying incense, you did not take into account their quality, then the result will not be long in coming. Poor quality sticks exude too strong a flavor that can be felt without opening the package. Of course, it is not advisable to buy such a product, since artificial flavors are probably present in the composition of incense.

Ideally, quality incense is made from natural ingredients such as: oils, aromatic herbs, flowers, spices, roots, and tree leaves.

Hence, of course, the conclusion is that you should not buy sticks with flavors such as strawberries, vanilla or roses.

Such Indian incense can lead to diseases respiratory systems, headaches, and also cause allergies, disrupt your sleep. Allergies can also be caused by using them too often. So don't overdo it.

Of course, the main indicator when buying incense sticks will be their price. Incense sticks with a low price tag, of course, leave much to be desired, because they use artificial flavors. It is also worth considering that incense comes with a base in the form of a bamboo stick, and baseless. Baseless ones are much better because they exude a clean, natural scent.

Types of incense

Incense is different and the methods of their production too. There are both traditional and modern ones. It depends on where and how they will be applied.

Indian incense with bamboo base. These are the most common types. They consist of a bamboo stick and a mixture of coal dust and sometimes some herbs. Of course, this type of sticks does not differ in special quality and they are used in bad-smelling dirty rooms. In addition, charcoal incense emits too much smoke, which often distorts the aroma that we expected to smell.
Stranded incense. They are closer to natural and are more often used in their manufacture. natural oils. They have a pronounced floral scent. Most often, such Indian incense is used in temples.
Baseless. positive quality of this type is, of course, the absence of a bamboo base. The scent is clean and natural. Unlike other species, they are very fragile.
Plasticine Indian incense. They are very popular in India, as they exude an intense aroma and are able to fumigate large areas. The downside is they smoke a lot.

To date, the use of incense in the life of Indians is considered commonplace, as well as sleeping and eating. And what to hide, we all are well aware that the aroma of incense perfectly covers the unpleasant smells that are present on the streets of India.

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You smoke the leaves of a tangerine tree: as if you are looking into the distance from the top of a mountain in autumn. You smoke osmanthus: as if you are contemplating the writings of ancient books, and the laws of the ancients themselves appear before your eyes.

Dong Yue - The Book of Incense, 17th century

Incense came to yoga from Hinduism, where they are burned to this day during religious rituals (yagy and puja) - and this is not surprising, because yoga is a part of Indian culture, just like religion. Many yogis use incense to address patrons, egregors of practice - the deities of the Indian pantheon. But in fact, incense is not an exclusively Indian thing, they are also used in other religions of the world: Christianity (incense is the oldest incense) and Buddhism, for example.

In general, incense probably existed before all religions - after all, fragrant (or not so) smoke from a fire from different “sticks” was part of the life of a primitive and later primitive man. Later, smoke - including narcotic plants, but not only - was used in shamanism. Gradually, religions almost everywhere replaced paganism and shamanism, but ... the use of fragrant smoke remained! What is so interesting about it that people have been doing it for thousands of years, like yoga?

In fact, they burn incense sticks (including Indian and Tibetan ones) and don’t even religious people! - after all, they simply, objectively speaking, smell pleasant and so help to create a pleasant atmosphere of peace and joy in the room. So, on the other hand, incense is also an air fragrance, cheap and easy to use - but more or less natural and harmless? - this is a must see.

If you “dig” a little deeper, then incense is not just a full house of fragrant smoke and a little self-hypnosis “for peace and success in business”: after all, incense often contains (presumably) natural substances, which are really useful (or, if you're not lucky - harmful) to health. Incense has long been widely and successfully used in Ayurveda, traditional Chinese, Tibetan and other types of ancient medicine. But the use of incense - which is included, for example, in the compulsory training course of a monk from Shao-Lin! - study for YEARS, under the guidance of an experienced mentor, a doctor ... Not our case, right? Therefore, let's leave aside for a moment the traditions of Indian Purna yoga (where it is difficult without sticks for ritual reasons), because the question of the benefits or harms of the components of the "stink stick" in terms of health comes to the fore for us.

First, of course, the "bad news"!

It is necessary, if possible, to avoid inhaling the smoke of "chemical" incense, which is widely used in India, because. they smell strongly, powerfully, and - there, in Asia itself - are ridiculously cheap. Often, these "sticks" have lurid, tasteless packaging and sometimes unusual names that would be more suitable for a toilet air freshener ("brandy", "coffee with milk", "surf", etc.). Such sticks contain not only the actual "stick" - a wooden rod, the smoke from the combustion of which contains the same substances as firewood in the stove (including CO2), but also artificially synthesized substances, poison for our body. These sticks usually have "heavy" aromas, if you try different incense, you will gradually give up on these. If your goal is not to drown out the smell of cow dung and rotting garbage from the street, as is often the case in India, then is it worth using "heavy artillery"? With Evian mineral water on hand, you are unlikely to drink bright yellow Pinocchio? Although, the taste and color. (POSITIVE: Usually expensive and "branded" (Sai Baba Ashram, Auroville, etc.) Indian ones are safer, as well as Tibetan (according to Tibetan medicine, i.e. 100% natural ingredients), Nepalese (Sang and cheaper "Tibetan" sticks) and Chinese (baseless) sticks and spirals.)
Scientists have found that too much smoke, even natural, indoors is definitely harmful. Usually there is a rule - no more than 3 sticks per room, but for some chemical incense even this will not work - even 1 "super-stick" can "stink" the entire hall and literally suffocate those involved. However, according to the sensations, such moments are usually determined quickly. And from the point of view of "chemistry", the smoke of cheap incense can contain polyaromatic hydrocarbons, carbonyl compounds, toluene and benzene - all this, with long-term exposure can cause cancer. In general, follow a simple rule: if the smell begins to "pressure on the brain" - it's time to "turn off" the wand, or even completely abandon the use of this type of incense, according to at least, in room. (POSITIVE: Many even "super-smelly" indoor sticks are perceived much better on fresh air. They can be burned without harm to health when practiced outdoors.)
If you use (especially Indian) incense without measure, then the whole room “stinks” with them for a long time. The author of these lines “at one time” stank of his apartment so much that the smell of “India” could still be heard from the entrance to the entrance (“there is a yogi’s apartment somewhere” - perhaps other residents might have thought). Do you want all your clothes and upholstered furniture to smell like an Indian flea market? You decide. (POSITIVE: If you smell strongly of exotic incense, other yogis will recognize you from a mile away and praise you for your "pleasant aura"!)

The BENEFITS of incense are no less significant:

Some incense is distinguished by a weak psychosomatic effect - i.e. are able to unobtrusively regulate the state: invigorate, calm, or promote concentration. This is important and beneficial for any yoga practice! Such incense, of course, is not addictive in the medical sense. That is, it is a safe way to modulate your state the way you want: for example, “burn lemon sticks” in the morning to cheer up, and in the evening - relax with the smell of patchouli, create a romantic mood with sandalwood or rose, or meditate “on a juniper wave.” ". This is normal and not dangerous (assuming the sticks are saturated with natural fragrance oils and not synthetic fragrances!). Examples of beneficial, natural incense ingredients: sandalwood, lavender, bergamot, jasmine, saffron, juniper, sweetgrass, lemongrass, citrus aromas. oils, wood oils (fir, pine, cedar), and others.
Properly selected incense harmonizes vital energy(prana or “qi”) and through this health in general: they make up for the missing or, conversely, remove the excess of some energies, manifestations, tendencies in the human body. And it, as we know from yoga, is “multilayered”, has not only a dense physical, but also a more delicate “pranic” “layer”, which also responds to the components of natural incense. Like practicing yoga! - and on any other influences: information, food, drinks, and medicines! In this aspect, incense is a medicine - or a poison if you choose and use it incorrectly. Everything is good not only in moderation, but also in due time: for example, some “sticks” are good for a cold, others are good for heat, others are good for depression, and fourth if you need to calm your mind, and so on. In the East (Tibet, China, India, Nepal, Bhutan, etc.), entire industries have been created since ancient times. medical science dedicated specifically to treatment with incense.

Evgenia Korsakova, specialist in external procedures of Tibetan medicine, a student of Dr. Phuntsog Wangmo, Geshe Rinchen Tenzin, Dr. Nida Chenantsang:

“In Tibetan medicine, often used as incense medicinal formulations or their components, which the patient takes orally. It is believed that this enhances the effect on the disease. The most famous of these is Agar 31. This Tibetan healing incense is made up of 31 herbal ingredients collected in the Himalayan region. The main one is the Aloga Aquarium, which has wide application in Tibetan medicine. Incense prepared by hand traditional way in strict accordance with the Tibetan Medical Tantra. Includes aloe, flowers various herbs, saffron, red and white sandalwood, sapwood resin and others. It has a positive effect on: pain in the upper body; dry mouth and tongue, rapid breathing, irritability, depression and insomnia, muscle or nerve stiffness, tightness of the limbs, pain in the waist, hips, bones and joints due to nervous breakdown. How to use: light one stick and inhale its smoke for a few seconds, then switch to common use. In other words, if you are tired, stressed, had a hard day at work, when you come home in the evening, light Agar 31 on a stick, inhale its aroma 2-3 times, and you will feel how your fatigue and stress dissolve ... "

Thus, we see that properly selected incense perfectly complements yoga practice and enhances its beneficial and harmonizing effects!

And, finally, no one canceled the "Pavlov's dog reflex" ... Many yogis noticed that as soon as you light your favorite "stink stick" (any, even the most harmful!), you get up (or sit) on the rug - so the practice immediately and “will do”, but this is the main thing for us ... Regular and energetic exercises are a matter of habit, this is a fact - and incense can become Starting point, "power button" is a good habit. But, as in other techniques, it’s good not to be lazy in using sticks, understand this issue, and do everything right - for health and success in Yoga!

Materials used in the preparation of the article (further reading):

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Indian incense: harm and benefit

In India, incense sticks that exude a specific smell have been used since ancient times. They are mentioned in the ancient Indian scriptures - the Vedas. The popularity of exotic incense has increased exponentially over the past decades.

The wand is installed on a special stand in the hole prepared for it directly or at an angle of 45 degrees. A reed with aroma must be set on fire and immediately extinguish the flame. The stick should slowly smolder. Burning, it exudes aroma, the ashes remain on the stand.

Today, Indian culture is in fashion: dances, clothes, religion. Many try to create a mysterious atmosphere in their home using Indian incense. Smoky sticks are not able to cure diseases. In India, they are used as a means of preparing a person for a meditation ritual.

The aroma stick consists of a bamboo base, on which an odorous mixture is applied, it is dipped for some time in essential oils of vegetable or animal origin.

In their homeland, Indians light such fragrant candles at various ritual ceremonies - attracting spirits, in memory of the dead, during daily prayer. Indians attribute healing and psychotropic properties to fragrant reeds. In fact, incense from India is able to fill the room with a certain pronounced smell. Therefore, incense should be used in a well-ventilated area.

Aromasticks have bactericidal, antifungal, anti-cold properties. Odorous aromas with antiviral properties are actively used. Smells can affect the state of mind of a person, his nervous system. There are teachings that say that incense should be chosen according to the horoscope. Diseases of the body and nervous system, characteristic of a certain zodiac sign, suggest preventing by inhaling a certain odor.

A large number of smells are on sale, everyone can choose a pleasant and useful aroma for themselves. It can be jasmine, lavender, lilac, lily of the valley - these smells relieve stress and fatigue. Ylang Ylang relaxes the nervous system. Sandalwood and pochuli excite passionate desire, eucalyptus and sandalwood can give positive result at colds. Lemon also helps with colds, relieves headache and strengthens the immune system.

Can Indian incense be harmful? Scientists from all over the world are arguing about this. Studies by Danish scientists have shown that regular inhalation of fragrances applied to sticks can lead to the development of lung cancer. The probability of getting this terrible disease is doubled. But when aromatherapy is performed no more than twice a week, the harm from it is minimized.

Ailments are caused by combustion products - organic carcinogens, including benzene, carbonyl substances, polyaromatic hydrocarbons.

The strong-smelling smoke can cause severe headaches and, in some cases, an allergic reaction. Poor-quality aroma sticks can be harmful to health and cause sharp deterioration well-being. It is important that the aromatic base consists of natural, not synthetic, components.

Particular attention should be paid to the quality of aroma sticks. For the price, they are the most affordable way of aromatherapy. When choosing Indian incense sticks, you need to pay attention to their smell - if a sharp aroma is already felt through the packaging, it is better to refuse to use such incense.

Buy products from India that can affect the nervous and physical state, better in specialized stores that are responsible for the quality of their goods. Indian sticks have discreet packaging, unlike aroma sticks from Thailand, which are packaged more colorfully. Thai products are of lower quality and more high price. When buying, you need to specify the origin of aromatic fumigants.

If the aroma that you liked initially causes any discomfort or general discomfort, it is better to refuse it. You need to fumigate the room with only one aroma. Smells cannot be mixed. Before starting the aromatherapy ceremony, it is worth studying the meaning of smells and their effect on the body and nervous system, so as not to get the opposite effect.

Indian incense is not limited to scented sticks. Indians use powder from dried plants to fumigate rooms, on which smoldering coals are placed. Figurines fashioned from mixtures with a strong smell are exhibited on the streets.

Aromatherapy using Indian incense can bring a lot of pleasant moments and positive emotions. You need to remember about the limitations in the use of aroma sticks and choose the right fragrance for a particular situation. Then the smells from India will not do harm.

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How to use incense sticks correctly

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Aromatherapy is one of ancient ways treatment of a person with the help of odors. Incense sticks (or incense) are the most convenient and best way effects on the human body with the help of aroma. Incense sticks can be with or without a stem. Aroma sticks are made of thin bamboo, on which a special aromatic substance is applied along the entire length (except for the end of 3 cm). Such sticks burn together with bamboo and, in addition to the main smell, have a light woody aroma. Sticks without a stem are made only of aromatic substance, they do not have a special handle. The smell of such sticks is more delicate and deep.

Incense sticks are common all over the world, as many ancient cultures used incense during various events. To date, the most famous are Tibetan, Chinese, Nepalese and Indian incense. Each fragrance can bring a certain feeling and emotion to a person.

Choosing an aroma stick scent

Some incense is aimed at meditation and relaxation, others help to increase a person's performance. In order not to fall asleep at work, you need to know what various aromas contribute to.

Cedar, lemongrass, citrus, fennel, sandalwood, cinnamon, rosemary, magnolia are stimulating aromas that increase efficiency, make a person concentrate on what is important. With the help of these aromas, you can improve memory, cope with stress, acquire a cheerful mood. In many eastern countries, such incense is lit in large offices.
Mint, lavender, jasmine, rose, almond, oregano, myrrh, laurel - these incense help to establish contact with people and their own Self. Such aromas are used for various contradictions, when a person does not know what to do. These tools will help you immerse yourself in the process of meditation and accept the right decision.
Frankincense, orchid, lemon balm, chamomile, geranium, tea tree help you calm down. Such incense perfectly relieves nervous exhaustion, pacify after the physical and mental fatigue. They can even overcome severe depression.
Carnation, jasmine, sage, rose, opium, juniper - have a powerful energy component. Such aroma sticks will protect your spirit from energy vampirism, from the evil eye, ill-wishers. They are able to restore the human aura.
Musk, patchouli, ylang-ylang, violet, nutmeg rose, ginger are the strongest aphrodisiacs. Such incense kindles sexual desire and attraction.
Sandalwood, patchouli, pine are able to fight bacteria and germs in the air. They are often used to disinfect rooms where there are patients. Even in ancient times during periods of rampant typhus epidemics pine branches burned in every house so as not to get infected.

Before buying, it is important to decide what exactly you need - to relax or concentrate, to protect your home from envious people or to awaken passion in a partner. When the necessary incense is bought and brought into the house, you need to kindle it.

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How to use incense sticks

Special stands for sticks, which are called incense burners, can be wooden, marble, clay or glass. If you use a rod stick, you can take a wooden censer for it, since the rod itself does not burn without aromatic substance. If you use incense without a stem, then you need to choose a non-combustible material so that a fire does not happen. Today, incense burners can be a real piece of furniture - they are very beautiful, artsy, patterned. If you don’t have a special incense burner, you can use improvised means - a glass of rice, sand or salt. The incense stick will just need to be stuck into the bulk composition.

When the incense burner is ready, simply insert the stick into the holder. If the incense burner is homemade, stick the stick in salt or sand.
If the room is small, it is better to use half an aroma stick so that the pungent smell does not cause a headache.
Choose a place where the burning stick will stand. It is better to place it away from carpets, curtains and other flammable objects. Place the censer on the table (if there are no children in the house), on a bookcase or a high shelf.
Lighting aroma sticks is not difficult, just hold a lighter or a burning match to the end of the stick and wait until it lights up. It will not burn in the literal sense - only a barely noticeable smoldering. If a red light is visible at the end of the wand and the wand smokes heavily, everything is in order, you did everything right. If the wand is extinguished, it must be lit again. You are probably lighting the wand in a draft, so it will die out.
Place the smoldering stick in the holder so that it is tilted at a slight angle over the stand into which the ashes fall. If you are using a homemade incense burner, insert the stick into the bulk composition so that it holds well and does not fall.
The incense stick usually burns for half an hour, but long after burning, it fills the room with its aroma.
Do not leave burning incense unattended. If you urgently need to leave, just dip the burning end of the stick into the water.

This simple way to burn incense will help you achieve your desired goal.

The benefits and harms of incense sticks

Incense will help to relax and calm down, if necessary, increase efficiency and give your home pleasant aroma. Along with all these benefits, incense also has negative sides.

Scientists have found that permanent use incense sticks increases the risk of developing lung cancer. However, this does not threaten those who fumigate their house less than twice a week. In addition, a certain aroma can cause individual intolerance. allergic reactions can manifest as dizziness, coughing, and even spasm respiratory organs.

When choosing incense sticks, special attention should be paid to the place where they are sold. Cheap incense of low quality may consist of synthetic substances, the combustion of which is very harmful to the body. To test the quality of the incense, sniff the sticks through the packaging. If they exude a sharp aroma, it is better to refuse them. Real aroma sticks do not have strong odor when not lit. It is best to buy this product in its home country, such as India. Keep in mind that aromatic compounds in India are sold not only in the form of sticks. They can be loose - the powder is poured onto burning coals. Animal figurines are also very popular. They are set on fire, and they envelop the room with a magical aroma.

Incense sticks are effective method relaxation in this noisy and fast paced world. Look for time for self-knowledge and relaxation, live in harmony with yourself. And incense, which helps to expand your consciousness, will help you with this.

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Indian incense and incense sticks

Agarbatti is the Hindi name for Indian incense, or incense sticks, which emit a special captivating aroma when burned. They were mainly set on fire during prayers and religious rites and ceremonies, but they were also used in medicine and in many other occasions. It is still believed that the inhalation of incense smoke is perfect way raising the spirit of a person when he is in a very bad mood.

Making incense sticks takes special place in the Hindu tradition and has more than one millennium. The first mention of them is found in the Vedas. Sacred incense was believed to purify the atmosphere and a place for meditation and prayer. Even today, during daily prayers, Indian families offer incense, candles and flowers to the gods as a sign of supreme devotion and respect. In ancient Sanskrit texts, it is described that the smell of incense was distributed in the houses and on the streets during any holiday, as a result of which the hearts of the inhabitants were filled with joy and delight. In India, they say that "our actions in life should give happiness to other people, just like an incense stick gives off its beautiful smell."

Many Indian incense have a unique scent that you won't find anywhere else in the world. In addition, each fragrance carries a special energy and is used for specific purposes:

raising mood and improving well-being;
relaxation, reduction of psychological stress
enlightenment of human consciousness and purification of the atmosphere in which he lives.

Aromas and meanings of incense

Rose. The rose is known for its excellent scent. The soft sweet scent of rose is ideal for creating a romantic atmosphere. It helps reduce anxiety, stress, sadness, depression and improves mental and emotional condition. Rose petal sticks and rose oil contain all the aromatic and healing properties of the flower and, when burned, increase mental strength, heal emotional pain and soothe anger. These sticks are also good for improving physical health, especially effective against insomnia, phobias and stress. Rose-scented sticks were also burned when it was about love, divination for love or divination. This scent is also believed to bring good luck.

Saffron. Saffron is known throughout the world as a spice that has many medicinal properties. It is widely used in perfumery and aromatherapy due to its rich, mild aroma. Saffron helps balance the nervous system and calm the mind. For thousands of years, people have used it to gain calmness, awareness and additional energy. The smell of saffron is important part rituals and the spiritual side of life. Its soft natural aroma affects a person like fresh sea air, opening the mind, spirit and heart.

Sandal. Smell sandalwood is famous for being the most exhilarating fragrance and is one of the oldest known incense. It has been used in Asia for almost 4000 years. It has a refreshing, relaxing and slightly sensual scent that helps awaken the intellect and promotes a calm state of mind. The fragrance of sandalwood is also widely used during meditation, as it promotes relaxation, increases mental clarity and awareness. With the healing and protective properties of sandalwood leaves, the fragrance soothes and has a joyful effect on the mind and body.

Lavender. The pleasant gentle aroma of lavender is widely used in many aromatic formulations. It soothes, gives a rejuvenating effect and has antiseptic properties, which helps to relieve fatigue and muscle pain, feel lightness, balance emotions and get rid of stress. Lavender is considered a scent that promotes peace, happiness and love. It also improves sleep and alleviates anger. Lavender sticks are lit in the workplace to relieve tension and headaches.

Jasmine. Jasmine flowers are called in India the "queen of the night", as they release their fragrance at night. It is known for its stimulant properties and as an antidepressant. Jasmine gives a feeling of confidence, optimism and a certain euphoria and is a valuable remedy for depression, stress and fatigue. Burning, the incense spreads a delightful aroma in the air, rejuvenates, restores energy balance, soothes the mind, body and soul.

Lotus. The lotus is known in many cultures as a sacred flower that was given to the gods. It has many medicinal and aromatic properties. The aroma of the lotus contributes to the improvement of spiritual and divine inspiration. The lotus is considered a symbol of love, divinity, and also brings good luck and the blessings of the gods.

Basil. Basil is perhaps the most sacred plant in India. It opens the heart and mind, gives divine protection, cleanses the aura and strengthens immune system. When burned, the smell of incense eliminates negativity and brings good luck to the home. Basil helps to increase sympathy between two people, reconcile quarreling lovers and avoid conflicts. In addition, it will protect you in a crowd of people. Basil calms the mind, helps to relax. Thus, the use of its fragrance is perfect for meditation and spiritual practices.

Lemon. Lemon has a characteristic refreshing aroma. lemon flavor commonly used for cleansing and medicinal oils. The aroma of lemon promotes spiritual purification and love, refreshes the mind, strengthens and calms the nerves, and eliminates depression.

Herbal. Herbal incense is made by mixing various aromatic medicinal herbs. These sticks refresh, purify the atmosphere and promote peace and mental stability. Herbal Blend used in these incense has many healing properties that help relieve stress. These wands are great for meditation, as they eliminate negative energy flows and promote inner peace and tranquility.

How to use incense

As a rule, special decorative coasters are used for incense sticks. The stick is inserted into the hole in the stand. After that, it is first set on fire, allowed to burn out a little, then the fire is blown out, leaving the incense to smolder, emitting smoke. Ash falls on a special area of the stand, which saves you from having to sweep the floor or wipe the table after using the incense.

People burn incense sticks for many reasons - for relaxation, for religious purposes, or simply because they like the smell of incense. It is important to know how to use them correctly.

Steps

Part 1

Choice of chopsticks and censer

Consider purchasing incense sticks with a core. Such sticks consist of a thin wooden rod (usually bamboo) covered (with the exception of 2-3 centimeters from the bottom) with an aromatic substance. The aromatic substance can be both smooth and smooth, and granular in appearance. The aroma produced by burning, usually quite intense, consists of the smell of the aromatic substance itself and the burning wood core.

Consider purchasing solid incense sticks. Such sticks consist entirely of aromatic substance and do not contain a core. They have a milder scent, so they work well in smaller spaces like a bedroom or office. Since these sticks do not have a core, their aroma is uniform, without the admixture of the smell of burning wood.

Find a suitable chopstick stand. Such coasters, also called incense burners, have many different forms and sizes. The type of stand will depend on which sticks you use, with or without a core. You can purchase an incense burner that fits the chopsticks you use, or you can make your own using household items.

Consider making your own incense burner. You can make your own chopstick stand out of clay, or use a cup filled with something crumbly and non-flammable. Here are some options:

Blind a figured clay incense burner. Take a lump of natural self-hardening modeling clay and roll it into a flat sheet. After that, cut out the desired shape from it, using a craft knife or a pastry knife. You can leave the cut out figure flat, or bend its edges, giving it the shape of a vase. Take an incense stick and stick it into the clay, making a recess in it. Take out the stick and wait for the clay to harden before using it as a coaster.
Make an incense burner out of a bowl or cup. Take a vessel large enough to contain the ashes that fall from the burning incense stick. Fill it with grain, rice, salt or sand.

Light the tip of the incense stick. This can be done with a match or a lighter. Bring a flame to the wand and wait until it ignites.

Let the stick burn for about 10 seconds. The flame will go out on its own. When this happens, look at the tip of the incense stick. If a glowing smoldering light is visible on it, the wand burns properly. If the glow is not visible and the tip is covered with ashes, it is necessary to light the wand again.

Kindle the fire carefully. Fan the fire so that a smoldering fire is visible with a thin column of smoke rising from it; while you should not see the flame. After about 30 seconds, you will feel the aroma coming from the stick. These signs indicate that the stick is burning correctly. If you can't see anything and the tip doesn't glow, having an ashy appearance, it means that the wand is completely extinguished. In this case, light it again. This time cover the tip with the palm of your hand, gently fanning the flame.

Place the incense stick in the holder. If you are using a stick with a core, place the unscented wooden tip in the stand. If you have a stick without a core, it does not matter which end you fix it in the holder. In most incense burners, the sticks are mounted vertically or at a slight angle. If the stick is at a slight angle, make sure its burning tip is above the stand. If the top tip protrudes beyond the stand, cut the stick or place the censer on a wider fireproof stand.
- If you are using a bowl or cup filled with grain, rice, salt, or sand as a stand, gently stick the tip of the stick into the loose material so that it stands up on its own when you release it. You can stick the stick vertically or tilt it slightly. In the latter case, the top of the stick should not protrude beyond the stand, so that the ashes from it fall on the stand, and not on the table or on the floor.
Wait until the stick burns out to the end. Most incense sticks burn for 20-30 minutes, depending on length and thickness.

Take precautions. As with other burning objects, do not leave a lit wand unattended. If you need to go away, extinguish the wand by dipping its burning tip in water or pressing it against a fireproof surface. Place the incense burner on a heat-resistant surface, away from curtains, curtains, children and pets.

Part 3

When you can and when you can not burn incense sticks

Use incense while meditating. Their aroma will allow you not only to relax and distract from extraneous thoughts, but also help you focus on the subject of meditation.

Use the sticks as an air freshener. When burned, they emit a large amount of fragrant smoke that can freshen the air in the room. However, remember that their aroma only masks unpleasant odors without destroying them; to completely eliminate these odors, it is necessary to get rid of their source (garbage, dirty dishes, spoiled food, etc.).

The most common type of incense is incense sticks. They are popular because they are easy to use, cheap and fit perfectly into any interior. What do you need to know about them?
The “core” of the stick is thin bamboo chips, on which the base with an aroma filler is applied. Usually, charcoal or "masala" is used as a base, a mixture of fine particle dust or crushed fragrant plants. The bright black charcoal sticks emit a pure aroma filler smell when burning (charcoal does not remove impurities!).
Sticks on "masala" can be from light beige to dark brown, and when they burn, the aroma of the base plants is mixed with the smell of the aroma filler.

There are "barless" incense without a bamboo chip. They are more brittle, but when they burn, the smell of smoldering bamboo is not added to the main smell.

The quality of the stick does not depend on its color (they say, all black chemical, and light natural). The main thing is the composition of the aroma filler. If it consists of synthetic substances, the incense will be mediocre, and if it is made from pure natural ingredients, it will be excellent.

Incense differs in shape (sticks, cones) and in composition (mono-aromatic with the smell of one plant, and poly-aromatic odor compositions). Do not burn incense at night with a stimulating, exciting effect.
Sometimes burning bamboo base causes allergies. In this case, switch to either stemless incense or pure essential oils, not synthetic ones!

Offer 14 incense for relaxation and recharging:
1. Bergamot tones, gives strength, improves memory and attention.
2. Jasmine has an anti-stress, relaxing effect, mobilizes the body's reserves. Enhances sensuality, is considered a "feminine" fragrance.
3. Ylang-ylang good antidepressant evokes a sense of self-confidence. Relieves cramps nervous tick, headache. Excellent aphrodisiac "male smell", increases male potency.
4. Lavender relieves fatigue, insomnia, strengthens the immune system. Stimulates blood circulation, eliminates mental lethargy, irritability and conditions causeless fear.
5. Frankincense inspires, awakens interest in life.
6. Lemon tones, strengthens the immune system, has an antiviral effect. Relieves headaches, dizziness, nausea.
7. Lotus relieves fatigue, promotes spiritual development.
8. Myrrh is a strong anti-inflammatory agent. Helps with insomnia, soothes stressful conditions.
9. Opium tones, invigorates, sharpens the mind and fires the heart.
10. Patchouli antiviral. Nourishes, refreshes, gives strength and determination. Strong erotic stimulant.
11. Rose helps with depression, insomnia, stress and nervous tension. Relieves fear, nightmares. Improves blood circulation.
12. Sandalwood relaxes, calms the nerves. Helps with depression, insomnia, hiccups nervous ground, sore throat, runny nose, nausea, heartburn. It is a mild aphrodisiac, increases sensuality.
13. Pine activates respiration, has an anti-inflammatory effect, accelerates the process of rehabilitation after long-term illnesses.
14. Eucalyptus purifies the air, kills bacteria. Powerful antiviral and anti-inflammatory agent.

Each sign according to the aroma!
Aries: pine, patchouli, rose, lemon, nutmeg, frankincense, rosemary, sandalwood, vanilla
Taurus: bergamot, mint, cedar, jasmine, lily of the valley, lilac
Gemini: sandalwood, eucalyptus, orange, nutmeg, vanilla, cinnamon, lemongrass, ylang-ylang
Cancer: Jasmine, Bergamot, Pine, Lavender, Lemon, Myrrh, Ylang Ylang, Juniper
Leo: Frankincense, Lemon, Orange, Lemongrass, Patchouli, Myrrh, Rose, Sandalwood
Virgo: myrrh, sandalwood, cedar, eucalyptus, orange, lemongrass, musk
Libra: Cedarwood, Mint, Cinnamon, Ylang Ylang, Eucalyptus, Orchid
Scorpio: Patchouli, Jasmine, Pine, Lemon, Magnolia
Sagittarius: almond, myrrh, patchouli, frankincense, rose, rosemary, cinnamon, thuja
Capricorn: amber, sandalwood, bergamot, pine, lavender, sage, clove
Aquarius: frankincense, thuja, thyme, eucalyptus, ylang-ylang, hyacinth
Pisces: Cedarwood, Orange, Bergamot, Lemon, Musk, Myrrh, Frankincense, Rosemary, Vanilla

Aromatherapy can affect the psychological and physical health of a person. Even in ancient times, the science of aromas and smells was actively applied in practice. Proof of this are the incense vessels that were found during excavations. Incense was actively popular among the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. Most of them, thus, cast out the disease, evil spirits, or simply helped to ask for help from the ancestors. To date, with the development of civilization, mankind has faced such problems as stress, depression, malnutrition and many toxic effects. Therefore, it is not uncommon to encounter such health problems as: obesity, chronic diseases, disorders of the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

Aromatherapy specialists practice incense treatment for many diseases. Aromas quickly penetrate the circulatory system, thereby actively influencing problem areas of the body. Smells allow you to balance the internal processes of a person, increasing the level of resistance toxic substances. There are several methods of aromatherapy. But the most popular incense is sticks, the harm and benefits of which are known today. Since a recent period of time, experts have begun to actively declare negative impact aroma sticks on human health. According to their theory, with regular inhalation of the smell of incense, there is high probability occurrence of lung cancer. Such concerns are due to the composition of the stick, which includes carcinogens of the following type: benzene, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, carbonyl compounds.

Aromatherapy sticks should be chosen carefully. It is best to refuse a cheap product and pay attention to the composition of incense, which is indicated on the package. If the aroma sticks already smell through the box, then they cannot be used, because the smell will be too harsh. This will lead to headaches, fatigue and irritability. On sale there are sticks for the street and for the house. Therefore, it will be possible to choose for any holiday and recreation. It is best to acquire the smells of nature: jasmine, rose, sandalwood, lotus, etc. They will allow you to relax and unwind from the bustle of the city.