The benefits of incense has been scientifically proven

The use of incense has a millennial history in various religious and cultural traditions. Incense burning has been believed to have in both Hindu and Christian practices the ability to create mental and physical well-being. Various religious beliefs have praised the benefits of incense for centuries and claimed that burning incense is good for our souls.

Although today the burning of incense is considered to be a kind of esoteric voodoo, in fact it can already be said that ancient traditions did have truth in their beliefs. Incense play a very important role in our mental (and therefore physical) well-being.

The use of incense affects the way the brain works

The benefits of burning incense have even been scientifically researched and proven. In 2008, a study covered by the Science Daily^[1] proves that burning frankincense (Boswellia) resin has psychoactive properties, which means that it affects the way our brain works and is thus able to change our mood, awareness, thoughts, feelings and behavior.

The study found that burning frankincense helps alleviate anxiety and depression. However, this might mean that we have antidepressant and anxiety drugs from the new era right under our nose. And completely natural, by the way!

Consequently, it can be generalized that, in fact, burning incense (and also essential oils) is very useful to us.

The sense of smell in the role of an orphan

It is not in vain that we have been given five senses - sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell.

It seems to me that the first four are generally well developed and we can appreciate the calming or stimulating effects that result from them. Be it a beautiful sunset, soothing music, a sensual touch, or heavenly gourmet flavors.

The sense of smell, however, has somehow remained in the role of an orphan. If we ever notice this sense, it is mostly through unpleasant sensations when an unpleasant odor touches our nostrils. We have forgotten how amazingly pleasant aromas can affect our mind, soul, and body.

Aromas help relax the mind and lift the mood, but not only - they also help relieve tension in the joints and relax the muscles. In addition, aromas can be calming, enhance concentration, relieve headaches - and so much more! All you have to do is choose the right aroma for you.

Burning incense also helps balance the atmosphere at home by removing unpleasant odors and purifying the air. As a bonus, some incense also act as an effective insect repellent, like patchouli, citronella or palo santo incense

Which incense are the best to start with?

When choosing the right aroma, you should always make the choice based on what you like. Our body can instinctively choose the right scent for itself. With just the effect it needs right at that moment. So, first of all, I recommend monitoring your sense of smell and personal preferences.

If you have no previous experience with incense and you can't tell which scent might be right for you, you can start with the specific effect of each incense.

According to Ayurvedic and natural medicine, for example, frankincense helps alleviate anxiety and depression and increase creativity; sandalwood relieves tensions and creates awareness; cinnamon (leaf) and rosemary help to focus better; lavender relaxes, soothes, and relieves stress; jasmine balances hormones, increases sensuality and libido; rose opens the heart chakra and increases the energy of love; amber strengthens the immune system (especially when applied topically to the skin as an essential oil); dragon's blood soothes gastrointestinal problems and has an analgesic effect; coniferous aromas leevendavad depressiooni ja kurvameelsust.

Not all incense are useful

Burning incense is useful and has several bonuses, but only if you do it correctly and in moderation.

First of all, you should ensure that the incense you use is really made from natural ingredients and with natural herbs or pure essential oils. Many manufacturers have begun to add synthetic materials to incense, which can be harmful to both health and the environment.

Secondly, burning incense should remain moderate. One stick or cone a day is sufficient enough and it is recommended nevertheless to ventilate the room after burning. If you burn too many incense and do not ventilate the rooms, the smoke can become harmful to your lungs. Therefore, if you want to completely avoid smoke, it is recommended to use essential oils instead. Or burn incense outdoors in the fresh air.

[1] Science Daily, 2008. Burning Incense is Psychoactive