Incense

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Incense is an aromatic biotic material that releases fragrant smoke when burnt. The term is used for either the material or the aroma.[1] Incense is used for aesthetic reasons, religious worship, aromatherapy, meditation, and ceremonial reasons. It may also be used as a simple deodorant or insect repellent.[2][3]

Incense is composed of aromatic plant materials, often combined with essential oils.[4] The forms taken by incense differ with the underlying culture, and have changed with advances in technology and increasing number of uses.[5]

Incense can generally be separated into two main types: "indirect-burning" and "direct-burning." Indirect-burning incense (or "non-combustible incense") is not capable of burning on its own, and requires a separate heat source. Direct-burning incense (or "combustible incense") is lit directly by a flame and then fanned or blown out, leaving a glowing ember that smoulders and releases a smoky fragrance. Direct-burning incense is either a paste formed around a bamboo stick, or a paste that is extruded into a stick or cone shape.

  1. ^ "Incense". Merriam-Webster. Retrieved December 23, 2019.
  2. ^ Gina Hyams; Susie Cushner (2004). Incense: Rituals, Mystery, Lore. Chronicle Books. ISBN 978-0-8118-3993-8.
  3. ^ Maria Lis-Balchin (2006). Aromatherapy Science: A Guide for Healthcare Professionals. Pharmaceutical Press. ISBN 978-0-85369-578-3.
  4. ^ Cunningham, Scott (2000). Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs. Llewellyn Worldwide. ISBN 978-0-87542-122-3.
  5. ^ Oller, David. "Making Incense". Baieido. Retrieved 2018-06-16.
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