Fitness and healthy lifestyle 

The world of incense and their history. Incense or incense sticks to cleanse the mind and body

Content

The importance of smells and aromas for a person, his health and emotional state was revealed long ago. In many countries, incense has long been considered a great value, stored, accumulated and passed on to children. To date, the importance of the smells that surround a person also remains important and in many ways affects life. This is due to the influence that aromas can have on a person: relax, excite, activate, depress, etc.

In ancient times, incense was used to create a favorable atmosphere in homes, to treat seriously ill patients, to perform various rituals, and even to communicate with the other world. Today, most people use fragrances to restore or change their inner state. For this, perfumes and toilet water, incense sticks, candles and essential oils are used.

Modern incense is not much different from the aromas that were made thousands of years ago, they use the same raw materials and natural ingredients. However, the level of modern technologies for the processing and production of incense is significantly different. Today, there are many types, classifications and methods of making fragrances. This is due not only to their areas of application, but also to their diversity, the ability to combine a large number of different flavors.

What are incense

All incense can be divided into several groups depending on how they affect the body:

Some of them have a double effect and have a universal positive effect on the body. However, all these components are only raw materials from which incense is made. Depending on the form in which fragrances are produced, they are also divided into:

  • sticks with a base;
  • baseless sticks;
  • cones;
  • spirals;
  • essential oils;
  • pressed mixtures.

Manufacturers

Before acquiring certain incense, you need to decide why they are needed and for what purpose they will be used. Modern fragrances are convenient for home use and can fill the atmosphere with a pleasant smell. The most common are incense from India, represented by a wide range of types and combinations of flavors. Thailand is trying to keep up, offering consumers a great choice.

But Chinese manufacturers are somewhat different from competitors, tying the manufacture and use of various flavors to the Feng Shui system. Each smell, according to Chinese experts, has a different effect on a person and the room in which he lives or works. Therefore, you need to use incense carefully, with knowledge of the matter, finding out the most complete information about a particular aroma.

Japanese fragrances are considered exclusive, elite and rare. This is due to the attitude of the Japanese towards incense and their production, they honor traditions, carefully approach this and honor the process on a par with the tea ceremony or ikebana. Japanese incense looks like thin sticks that can contain one scent or be a combination of flavors.

How to choose a fragrance

When choosing incense, you can first try something traditional and generally accepted.

For myself

Aromas that will fill the house with coziness, warmth, mutual understanding and comfort can be purchased from any manufacturer. Most often, these are ready-made mixtures that have a certain spectrum of action on the inner world of a person and his sense of self, and which include such well-known flavors as orange, tangerine, jasmine, lemon, sandalwood and many others. Incense specialists can suggest which options are best to purchase and how they will affect a person's aura.

As a gift

Sometimes people want to buy incense for gifts to loved ones, but do not know how to choose the right one. In this case, too, it is better to buy the most common fragrances or incense sets to please the gift. At the same time, it is important to take into account the preferences and wishes of the person to whom they will be presented, and most importantly, whether he is allergic to any smells.

If the gifted person is fond of oriental culture, uses incense in his life, knows their purpose and understands the actions performed, it will be difficult to please him, but all the more interesting. You need to try to find something original and unusual, even if it takes a lot of time and effort. Japanese incense can be a gift option for such a person.

For connoisseurs

For people who know little about this, you can pick up something more standard and familiar. At the same time, incense for men and women may differ: for the representatives of the beautiful half of humanity, light floral aromas are more suitable, and for men it is better to give more restrained, for example, woody smells. Incense such as tangerine, orange, cinnamon, chocolate, and the like can be a good all-round gift.

In order to use incense sticks indoors, they require a stand to attach them to. Therefore, if you give someone incense, you need to take into account this moment. You can purchase a set that includes both a stand and several different scents of incense.

A few more moments

If a person purchases incense for meditation, in this case, several important nuances must also be taken into account. Tibetan fragrances are best suited to accompany various spiritual practices. They are made from natural pure ingredients and have healing properties. At the same time, they are able to restore not only the body, but also the soul. Often, Tibetan incense is distinguished by discreet smells, without pronounced sweet or sugary shades, they are created on the basis of incense, rose, sandalwood, pine, juniper and some other aromas.

In addition to Tibetan incense, special Japanese and Chinese products can be used for meditation. They are called "temple sticks" and are created specifically for a specific effect. The action of such aromas creates a calm, relaxing atmosphere around a person, favorable for immersion in oneself. That is why they are so highly valued all over the world.

In the modern world, there are many communities that continue to perform certain rituals and use incense. In this case, you need to select aromas, starting from the goal that must be achieved during the magical action. For rituals associated with love relationships, jasmine, ylang-ylang and musk are most often used. If the ritual is cleansing, you can take incense, juniper or sage.

People have long believed in the magical powers of different aromas, so the traditions of their use have come down to modern magicians. Particularly professional figures have learned to combine different incense for the best result and maximum achievement of the goal. Although there are enough ready-made kits on the shelves of specialized stores.

Folk healers use incense for therapeutic purposes, influencing the inner world of a person through smell. Some healing rituals can affect the body and mind of the patient, helping him to recover and recover.

The thousand-year history of the use of incense testifies to their great strength and internal energy, which can be successfully applied in your life. The main thing is to learn more information about this and learn how to apply aromas correctly.


There are various incense, and accordingly methods of their classification. This is due to both a large variety of varieties and a wide range of their application. Typically, incense is distinguished by the place of production, appearance, composition and purpose.

The composition of incense sticks is divided into two parts: the base and the filler oil. And the bases, in turn, can also be divided into two types: coal bases and "masala" (a mixture of fine particle dust or crushed fragrant plants). Charcoal-based incense has a bright black color. They are good because when burned, the coal does not give off odor impurities, and the stick strictly emits the aroma of the filler oil. This is very favorable in the selective effect on certain body systems.

Masala incense sticks can have different shades: from light beige to dark brown. During combustion, the smell depends not only on the filler oil, but also on the composition of the base. It is wrong to think that its quality depends on the color of the stick and that black sticks are chemical, and light sticks are natural. The main thing for incense is the quality of the filling oil, as well as the quality of the "masala" in the case of light sticks. Basically you can find Indian, Tibetan and Nepalese incense sticks. Although there are still Chinese, Bhutanese, American. They are divided according to the method of application and manufacture. So let's take a look.

indian incense

Used during meditations and temple festivals, for thousands of years they were available only to dedicated monks and scribes. Today, the power of aroma sticks can be used by a person who has nothing to do with the monastery.

The manufacture of Indian incense is as follows: the odorous base is applied to a bamboo stick. After that, the stick is soaked in essential oil for several days (the most popular oils are eucalyptus, sandalwood and patchouli). The result is a double aroma, due to which saturation with a pronounced smell occurs.

Like essential oils, incense sticks are good for relieving a number of medical and psychological problems. For example, incense made from eucalyptus brings relief from a runny nose and cough, patchouli incense (like patchouli essential oil) excites.

Tibetan incense


The composition of Tibetan incense includes up to forty components. They differ from Indian incense sticks in that they do not have a bamboo base and, when burned, gradually change the smell, adding new overtones to the original aroma.

Tibetan incense got its name because of the specific structure, in which completely different, more advanced components are used as a binding reinforcing element instead of a bamboo base, which, when burned, carry not a neutral, like bamboo, but a direct, practical effect.

The smell of incense can be described as herbal, forest and resinous, but the composition of Tibetan incense includes only natural ingredients with healing properties. Tibetan aroma sticks soothe the nervous system, put thoughts in order, tune in to meditative thinking.

Nepalese incense


This is a baseless incense made from several herbs and minerals, and is not applied to bamboo like Indian incense, but pressed for a long time. Herbs for Nepalese incense, as well as green tea leaves, are harvested by hand at a strictly defined time, the peak of the harvest falls on the spring months.

To feel the power of the fragrance, it is not necessary to burn the incense stick to the ground. It is best to set fire to its tip, wait two minutes, then extinguish and slightly ventilate the room. Since Nepalese incense is not made from pollen, but from pressed herbs, the fragrance emitted is stronger and richer, and lasts longer.

The most used ingredients for making incense sticks are red or white sandalwood, lotus, cedar and pine. The aroma of sandalwood calms the nerves, relieves depression, helps with insomnia, stress, fear, anxiety, a sense of uncertainty. By burning incense from sandalwood, even a severe runny nose can be cured or nausea can be eliminated.

Smells

Now let's try to deal with the aromas "radiated" by the sticks.

Mint scented incense sticks

The smell of mint soothes, gives energy and strength. If you light these incense sticks in the friends zone or in the knowledge zone, it will help you improve relations with your friends or find helpers in any business. But pregnant women should not use peppermint essential oil, this will have an undesirable effect on her well-being.

Basil helps to raise self-esteem, so it is better to burn basil incense in the northern sector - in the career zone, then it will help you to see your real friends and enemies. In general, basil is a symbol of the implementation of your projects and goals, your success and personal growth. The smell of this incense will invigorate you and clear your thoughts. But during pregnancy, this fragrance is also not recommended for use.

Incense sticks with incense scent

This sweet smell will cleanse the room of all negative energy. It is appropriate to use it before you pray or meditate. The smell of incense will help you tune in the right way. It is best to use these incense sticks or incense-scented essential oil in the assistant area.

Chamomile incense sticks

The aroma of chamomile will give harmonious and warm relationships, both in the family and between spouses, if you fumigate the area of ​​\u200b\u200bfamily and relationships with it. In the health zone, the aroma of chamomile will favorably affect the state of mind of all residents of the apartment. It will relieve you of unnecessary fears and give peace and tranquility.


Eucalyptus incense sticks

This fragrance has a wide range of effects. Even in ancient times, eucalyptus was used to treat rhinitis and upper respiratory tract. Its aroma activates thinking, so if there are students or schoolchildren in your house, then light this incense in the knowledge zone. And if you are going on a trip, then light a wand with this smell in the northeastern part of the apartment, this will help you distinguish true friends from deceivers. And if you drop a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil into the water while taking a bath, this will help you find a way out of a difficult situation and solve any problem. You will restore your mental strength and clarity of mind after a hard day's work.

Incense sticks with lavender scent

Lavender-scented incense is mainly used to cleanse the home, and its fragrant, woody scent is also used against infectious diseases. If one of the household members is sick at home, then it will not be superfluous to light this incense in the health zone.


Rose incense sticks

Since ancient times, the rose has been considered the patroness of love, tenderness and devotion. If you use rose scented incense, then you will be able to align your aura and the aura of your home. Also, the smell of a rose will help with various types of stress, insomnia and depression. Rose-scented incense is best burned in the area of ​​family and relationships. By doing this, you will strengthen your relationship with your partner, bring a little more tenderness and affection into them.

Incense sticks with geranium scent

The smell of geranium relieves headaches, migraines and helps with hypertension very well. If you are very overexcited, then a geranium-scented incense stick will help you put your nerves in order. She can fumigate any area in the house, it does not matter much.

Rosemary incense sticks

Rosemary is considered to be a sacred plant. It is widely used in various rituals. Rosemary-scented incense treats many diseases, but this is especially true of the gastrointestinal tract, liver and nervous system. Also, this incense has a rejuvenating effect.

Juniper scented incense sticks

This incense is great for purifying the air in a room, and it is believed that using juniper incense can awaken love feelings in a partner. But besides this, these incense have an antiseptic effect.


Saffron incense sticks

Demanded in Tibet and Nepal. Using saffron incense, you will acquire the energy of love and compassion. Saffron has a good effect on the respiratory system.

Basil incense sticks

In India, basil was associated with God Krishna, so Indians revere this plant very much. Incense with the smell of basil will help you not only cleanse the room and aura, but also get rid of mosquitoes. In addition, basil is an excellent antidepressant and immunostimulant. This incense is recommended to fumigate the health zone and the knowledge zone.

Opium scented incense sticks

Opium will develop your intuition and self-knowledge. It will enhance the brightness of your personality and will suppress all sorts of bad thoughts and envy. It is good to fumigate the career zone and the knowledge zone with incense sticks with the smell of opium.


Incense sticks with poppy scent

Poppy has long been considered a symbol of beauty and youth. It soothes, pacifies and relaxes very well, therefore it is recommended to use incense sticks with the smell of poppy seeds before you are going to meditate or during relaxation. The smell of poppy will be appropriate in the assistant zone.

Cinnamon incense sticks

With its sweet-spicy aroma, cinnamon can improve mood and give vigor. It will warm you up and relieve any depression. Incense with the smell of cinnamon is allowed to be used in any zone, but if you want it to have the proper effect on you, then it is better to fumigate the health zone with it.

Part of the article is based on portal information www.inmoment.ru

The ancient science of aromatherapy has knowledge of how aromas affect the human condition: psychological and physical. During the excavations of ancient civilizations, vessels for incense were found for a reason - incense was valued by the Egyptians, the Romans, and the Greeks like gold and like spices.

And in the Middle Ages, when the plague mowed down people indiscriminately, it was effectively fought with the help of fumigation of the air. Aromatic pine fires were kindled all over the city, giving off acrid smoke. Any of the aromatic plants known at that time was used against the plague, because they were the best antiseptics available at that time.

Modern civilization has given us daily fumigation with fumes and chemicals, and the modern lifestyle has given us stress and haste along with lack of movement and poor diet. As a result, we also get ailments, obesity, accumulation of toxic substances in the body, and a real possibility of developing severe chronic diseases.

Aromatherapy makes it possible to slow down this process. Aromas are quickly introduced into the circulatory system, improving blood circulation, normalizing the human condition and balancing the processes occurring in the body, thereby increasing the resistance to harmful external influences.

There are many methods of using aromatherapy, but incense sticks are considered one of the most popular.

Incense sticks (incense) are inexpensive and very easy to use.

Harm of aroma sticks

Not so long ago, Danish scientists announced that they had established a link between an increased risk of lung cancer and the constant use of incense sticks. It turns out that systematic long-term inhalation of incense almost doubles the risk of lung cancer.

And with irregular use of incense, you can inhale them calmly: the likelihood of cancer does not increase.

The development of cancer is influenced by organic carcinogens contained in smoke: carbonyl compounds, benzene and polyaromatic hydrocarbons.

indian incense

In their homeland, Indian incense sticks are burned during temple festivals and meditations. The fragrant base is applied to a bamboo stick, which is then soaked for several days in essential oil, resulting in a double fragrance. It is thanks to this technology that Indian sticks have a pronounced smell, they immediately fill the room with aroma.

The most popular essential oils in Indian sticks are sandalwood, patchouli (excites passion) and eucalyptus (helps with colds).

Indian incense is the most popular on the Russian market. Their packaging may be nondescript, but the quality of the oil is high, whether it is natural or synthetic.

Thai incense is offered in brighter packaging, but they are more expensive and of lower quality.

Nepalese incense

Nepalese incense sticks are baseless, they consist of several minerals and herbs that are pressed for a long time. It is not necessary to burn them to the ground: only the tip is set on fire for about two minutes, after which the stick is extinguished. Composed of pressed grass, Nepalese sticks have a rich, long-lasting aroma.

The most commonly used in Nepalese sticks are lotus, red and white sandalwood, pine and cedar.

The aroma of sandalwood helps with fear, anxiety, insomnia, calms the nerves, and also treats a bad cold and eliminates nausea.

Jasmine treats runny nose and asthmatic cough. Lavender stick eliminates insomnia and nervousness. Geranium incense soothes, relieves fears.
Tibetan incense

These are the most sought after incense and have a special place in the aromatherapy tradition.

Herbs for them are collected by hand in the Himalayas and at a strictly defined time.

Tibetan incense sticks contain up to 40 components. The sticks are pressed, like the Nepalese ones. When burning, they gradually change the smell, but they are intended not only for flavoring. They are used both in acupuncture for cauterization of points, and in massage, ground into powder and added to cream.
Chinese incense

These are most often baseless floral and sandalwood incense. They can also be in the form of thin spirals twisted in several circles. Burning clockwise, they create an "energy pillar", as they say in China.

They can also be in the form of small baskets, boats, kegs.

How are aroma sticks used?

Smell plays an important role in our life. They can relax and excite, cause headaches and focus attention, cheer up and poison our lives. To properly use the power of odors, you need to know their properties.

Incense sticks are the most convenient type of incense to use. This popularity is ensured by convenience, ease of use and low cost. The base impregnated with aroma filler is applied to a wooden chip. Usually the base is made from coal or masala (a mixture of fine dust or crushed plants).

Black aroma sticks are made of charcoal. When burning, they smell only of aroma filler. And in brown and beige sticks, a masala base is used, whose smell will be mixed with the aroma when burned.

Pay attention to the quality of the filler. The smell of a synthetic fragrance is not as pleasant and healthy as the smell of a natural one. Do not burn several sticks at the same time - they can have the exact opposite effect.

In order not to get drowsiness instead of the expected increased working capacity, you need to figure out which smells contribute to what.

Relax - jasmine, myrrh, rose, lotus, sandalwood.

Stress removes the smell of jasmine, it also helps to mobilize hidden reserves. Enhances sensuality.

The sweet and tart smell of lotus relieves fatigue.

Aromatherapy in horoscopes
Aries are most prone to colds, viruses, headaches and eye diseases. They are recommended the aroma of lemon, which tones and has an antiviral effect, relieves nausea, relieves headaches and strengthens the immune system.
Aries can also use incense, pine, sandalwood, vanilla and patchouli sticks.
Taurus has a chance to live life to a ripe old age without disease, but their tendency to abuse work, feelings, emotions, a lot of bad habits, causes the body's energy to decline. In such situations, they are found by ailments - diseases of the neck, throat, nose.
The aroma of Taurus is jasmine, which promotes relaxation, relieves stress, improves body defenses. Recommended and sticks with scents of cedar, lilac, pine, bergamot, lily of the valley.
Gemini suffer from boredom and nerves. Hence the insomnia, allergies, breakdowns, joint diseases. For therapy, sandalwood is used, which relieves depression, insomnia, headache, colds. The taste for life is returned with the aromas of orange, vanilla, ylang-ylang, cinnamon.
Cancer is the most susceptible to depression. All ailments come from the nerves and through self-hypnosis, which contributes to diseases of the stomach, intestines, and urinary system. In such a situation, it is best to use the smell of myrrh, which helps to get out of depression, cope with insomnia, and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Useful aromas of lavender, juniper, bergamot, ylang-ylang, lemon, pine.
The lion is resistant to diseases and resists them well. The most vulnerable place in Leo is the heart. Less worries, loads and stresses are needed. The main aroma is considered to be a rose, which improves blood circulation and relieves tension.
Virgos are attentive to their health, but due to anxiety and unrest, the intestines can become a problematic place. The scent of sandalwood is good for soothing. In case of poor health, eucalyptus will have an anti-inflammatory effect. You can use orange, cedar, lemongrass, myrrh.
Anything can make Libra sick. You can tidy up the nervous system with the aroma of ylang-ylang. It will relieve headaches, cramps and nervous tics. Use more mint, cinnamon, eucalyptus, cedar.
Scorpios can manage health on their own, but this will require energy and strength. The aroma of patchouli gives strength, energy, determination, vivacity. The smells of magnolia, lemon, pine are good.
If life is interesting to Sagittarius, then they can live it without illness. They will need a good mood and should not overwork, otherwise diseases of the heart system, nerves, and liver may occur. For prevention, the aroma of cinnamon is suitable, which uplifts the mood, calms the nerves, and gives self-confidence. Also use incense sticks with almond, patchouli, rosemary, frankincense scents.
Capricorn has the ability to resist disease. He tends to think of chronic diseases. Suffer skin, joints, blood circulation. Lavender-scented incense sticks are the best. They will give strength to resist the painful condition. For Capricorns, aromas of bergamot, cloves, pine, sage, sandalwood are effective.
Due to unwillingness to be treated, chronic diseases occur in Aquarius. It is better for them not to allow illnesses at all, which means that they need to maintain vigor and optimism. Raises the mood and improves the well-being of Aquarius incense, whose smell does not allow you to become depressed and disappointed. Hyacinth, ylang-ylang and eucalyptus also contribute to this.
Pisces are most predisposed to schizophrenia. This is due to the peculiarity of the nature of Pisces, which feels like a victim in any circumstances. They need to pay attention to colds, often giving complications to the nose and legs. The festive and bright smell of orange cheers up and helps to take a more positive look at what is happening. Incense sticks with the smells of myrrh, vanilla, bergamot, lemon are suitable for fish.

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 is a good antidepressant, it causes a feeling of self-confidence. Relieves cramps, nervous tics, headaches. Excellent aphrodisiac "male smell", increases male potency.

4. Lavender relieves fatigue, insomnia, strengthens the immune system. Stimulates blood circulation, eliminates mental lethargy, irritability and states of 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, relieves stress.

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, nervous hiccups, throat irritation, 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.

WHY DO INCENSE? "All the ways of movement of vital forces in a person depend on breathing, and what is inhaled through the nose penetrates into the very depths of our body. That is why in strengthening life one cannot do without incense. The purpose of incense is to harmonize vital energy, relieve tension , fill in the missing and eliminate the excess" Dong Yue, "The Book of Incense". Burning incense is an ancient tradition, which was not originally associated with any specific religion, but was one of the ways to influence a person, common in shamanic cultures, from where a variety of types of burning came from - incense, incense in Buddhism, etc. Burning has two aspects. The first - the smoke from incense "feeds" spirits or deities (since they are incorporeal, then feeding them is immaterial), and also cleanses a person from "defilement" (this is the essence of incense in the church). The second aspect - a number of substances have a mild effect on the psyche and body, for example, they can calm the mind, purify thoughts, prevent falling asleep during meditation, etc. By the way, modern aromatherapy is based on this effect. Why aromas can have such a pronounced positive impact on energy and physiology. It turns out that this is not surprising. Plants always have a large supply of vital energy, allowing them to adapt to adverse environmental conditions. The same potential of life force is inherent in all objects of the world around us. Through the smell, their energy and qualities are transmitted to us, and this influence can work wonders. Volatile compounds of aromas contribute to the redistribution and harmonization of energy, clarification and compaction of the etheric body. Moreover, they have a huge positive impact on physiological health as well as human emotions. WHAT DO INCENSE? The composition of incense sticks is divided into two parts: the base and the filler oil. And the bases, in turn, can also be divided into two types: coal bases and "masala" (a mixture of fine particle dust or crushed fragrant plants). Charcoal-based incense has a bright black color. They are good because when burned, coal does not give off odor impurities, and the stick strictly emits the aroma of the filler. This is very favorable in the selective effect on certain body systems. Masala incense sticks can have different shades: from light beige to dark brown. During combustion, the smell depends not only on the filler oil, but also on the composition of the base. It is wrong to think that its quality depends on the color of the stick and that black sticks are chemical, and light sticks are natural. The main thing for incense is the quality of the filler oil, as well as the quality of the base in the case of light sticks. PROPERTIES OF INDIVIDUAL AROMAS. Conventionally, according to their effect, incense can be divided into the following groups: Stimulants - increase concentration, improve memory, eliminate depression, give vigor and efficiency. These include aromas of cedar, lemongrass, lemon, fennel, mandarin, orange, patchouli, cinnamon, rosemary, rhododendron, magnolia, camphor and sandalwood. Adaptogens - normalize the work of the nervous system, increase sociability. Mint, lavender, savory, laurel, jasmine, rose, myrrh, oregano, almond. Soothing - used for mental and physical overwork, stress, depression. Chamomile, geranium, neroli, lemon balm, sandalwood, vanilla, tea tree, incense, lotus, orchid, marjoram. Protect against: energy vampirism, envy, malevolence, restore the aura: jasmine, lemon balm, almond, sage, carnation, rose, opium, rosemary, juniper, frankincense, lemon. In cold weather, it is recommended to use: eucalyptus, almonds, cinnamon, geranium, camphor, rose, aphrodesia. In the warm season: sandalwood, frankincense, hyacinth, violet, magnolia, lemon, bergamot, lavender. The strongest aphrodisiac is musk. HOW TO CHOOSE AND BUY INCENSE? Many types of incense are suitable for DAILY USE at HOME. One of the most important benefits of incense is that it is (for the most part) made from pure, natural ingredients. Bamboo-based Indian incense sticks are the most common: they are inexpensive, readily available, and the palette of their aromas is endlessly diverse. Recognized "family" fragrances that improve mutual understanding between family members, and create the energy of warmth, comfort, and light in the house: jasmine, orange, musk, mandarin, coconut, incense, lemon, sandalwood, myrrh, as well as mixtures of these smells . SPIRITUAL PRACTICES AND MEDITATIONS ARE PERFECTLY SUITABLE FOR SPIRITUAL PRACTICES AND MEDITATIONS Tibetan and Nepalese incense (without base). Since ancient times, they have been created as a means of healing the body and spirit, therefore they contain exclusively natural, often very rare components that have powerful healing and sacred properties. The aroma of Tibetan and Nepalese incense is never sweet or "perfumy" - it is a discreet, noble and pure aroma of plants growing in the harsh climate of Tibet. Of the other types of incense, most often recommended for meditation are aromas that allow you to enrich your spirit and energy, to achieve a harmonious merging with the outside world. These are sandalwood, myrrh, pine, incense, musk, neroli, juniper, rose, rhododendron. FOR RITUALS AND OFFERINGS TO DEITIES AND SPIRITS. In almost all traditions, burning incense is an integral part of any magical act. Incense is selected depending on the task, and on the tradition in which the practice is carried out. For example, if a ritual is being done for a love relationship, then aromas will be appropriate in it - aphrodisiacs: ylang-ylang, rose, vetiver, jasmine, musk and others, but they will not work for a cleansing ritual, but you will need sage, incense, juniper. Among Indian incense sticks, you can find special ritual incense for different purposes: "Clean House", "Gold and Silver", "Divine Healing", "Higher Power" and others. SOME RULES FOR APPLICATION OF INCENSES. The most important principle is moderation, as in everything. It is desirable that the aroma is felt somewhere in the background. If you smell a distinct smell of smoke, then there is too much incense. Indoors, you should also avoid "heavy" odors, which are most often a sign of artificial fillers. Aromas should be light, barely noticeable, refreshing. Usually, even in a large hall, never put more than three candles, and for a small room or apartment, one is enough. And, finally, incense can also serve as a special “mood” for what will happen. So many yogis have noticed that as soon as you light your favorite “wand”, you stand (or sit) on the mat - and the practice “goes” as if by itself and you no longer want to be distracted by anything extraneous.

incense ----

The resin itself was a symbol of unification.

Since ancient times, the burning of gum and other odorous resins, wood, dry plants or fruits has been the most universal sign of admiration for all religious rites. Spiritual literature and iconography suggest that incense was originally used to stifle the smell of sacrifices and funeral pyres, but was later burnt on its own as a purely symbolic offering.

Frankincense and myrrh, two gifts of the Magi to the newborn Christ, were a very valuable commodity throughout the ancient Near East.

In Egyptian, Persian civilizations, in the Sumerian-Semitic world, and later in Greece and Rome, these and other types of incense were burned in daily worship.

In the Far East, India, China and Japan, basil and sandalwood were widely used (“Chinese sticks” is a Vulgar English term for sandalwood sticks, “joss”, probably an incorrect Portuguese “deus” - “god”).

In Central America, incense, often gum, was also a symbol of fertility and was believed to bring rain through the association between smoke and clouds.

The Old Testament is full of references to the "salvation" of fragrant trees, pleasing to God.

The Christian Church, initially wary of the association between incense and the worship of pagan gods and the state funerals of emperors, soon began to use it as well, which became a common ecclesiastical tradition of incense smoking.

Incense's recent popularity in the West stems from the Buddhist tradition of using it as an aid to meditation.

Aroma, like color and light, is nothing but a vibration that evokes in every person a reaction of like or dislike. It has a calming or stimulating effect on the body, causes irritation or, conversely, a feeling of contentment and euphoria. Some fragrances evaporate from the surface of the skin of some women and intensify, combining with the natural fragrance of others, obeying the laws of the affinity of like with like.

The burning of incense in the temples of the gods was at all times considered a sacrifice.