Incense a spirtual history
Natural hand rolled incense has a rich history and a profound connection to the spiritual heart of India.
The art of making and using incense in India stretches back to the Indus Valley Civilization (3300-1300 BC) and it is believed the use of aromatics for ritualistic and medicinal purposes.
Early mentions of incense can be found in ancient Vedic texts, dating back to around 1500 BC. These texts describe the use of fire rituals (yajnas) where offerings, including aromatic herbs, resins, and woods, were cast into the flames to appease deities and create a sacred atmosphere. The smoke was seen as a medium to carry prayers and offerings to the heavens.
Over time, the knowledge and practice of preparing fragrant materials evolved. Different regions and monastic orders developed their own unique recipes and techniques, often using locally available ingredients. The forests of India, with its trees, spices, and resins provided a rich choice for incense makers.
Making Indian incense, also known as "agarbatti", is made by combining aromatic materials with a base, often consisting of bamboo sticks and wood powder.
Below are some of the ingredients that are found in our hand-crafted natural luxury incense:
Gums and resins
Rosin, coral, white copal, dammar, Nagar, muir, dragon blood, halmaddi, guggul.
Flowers and woods
Kapur plant “sandal wood”, muskmelon, arhat wood, orange peel, lemongrass, Champa, jasmine, rose, lavender, lotus, white sage, marigold.
Honey is also used in our Incense as a binding agent.
Sandalwood - in Vedic Traditions Sandalwood, known as "Chandana" in Sanskrit, has been used in India since ancient times. References to its aromatic and purifying properties are found in early scriptures. It was considered a sacred wood, used in religious rituals and ceremonies to create a spiritually conducive atmosphere. In Hinduism, sandalwood is closely associated with deities Lakshmi and Vishnu. It is used in "puja" ceremonies, where sandalwood paste is applied to idols and offered to the gods. Buddhism also values sandalwood for its calming and meditative properties. It is believed to aid in focus and concentration during meditation. Jainism also utilises sandalwood in their religious ceremonies.
Sandalwood has a long history of use in Ayurveda, the traditional Indian system of medicine. It is believed to have healing properties and is used to treat various ailments and has been used for centuries in temples and homes to purify the air and create a peaceful environment. Its fragrance is believed to promote relaxation and reduce stress. The fragrant oil extracted from sandalwood has been used in perfumes and cosmetics for centuries.
The "Mysore" region of India is particularly famous for its high-quality sandalwood. Due to over harvesting, sandalwood has become a protected species, and its trade is regulated. Despite this, sandalwood incense remains an integral part of Indian culture and spirituality.
Snake Flower (‘Nag Champa’) - The name "Nag Champa" is derived from Sanskrit. "Nag" can refer to "snake," and "Champa" refers to the "Champa" flower (Magnolia champaca). So, literally translates as "snake flower." The Champa flower is a key ingredient, and has a very distinctive, sweet, and floral fragrance.
Traditional Use of Nag Champa's origins are in the spiritual traditions of India, particularly within Hindu and Buddhist monasteries. It has been used for centuries in religious ceremonies, meditation, and other spiritual practices. The scent is believed to create a calming and purifying atmosphere. The blending of ingredients, including the Champa flower, sandalwood, and halmaddi (a resin), was often done according to traditional recipes, some of which were closely guarded secrets within monastic communities.
Today, Nag Champa remains a popular incense worldwide, used for a variety of purposes, including Meditation and yoga.
Lotus - has Symbolic Importance with Purity and Enlightenment. The lotus's ability to emerge from muddy waters, yet remain pristine, symbolises purity, spiritual awakening, and enlightenment. This is central to both Hindu and Buddhist philosophies. In Buddhism, the lotus represents the journey from darkness to light.
Ancient Hindu texts reference the lotus flower. Notably, the Puranas narrate the creation myth where, as Lord Vishnu rested upon the cosmic ocean, a magnificent lotus emerged from his navel. Upon this divine lotus sat Brahma, the God of creation, signifying the creation of the universe.
Beyond religion, the lotus is a national symbol of India, representing purity and spiritual growth.
Lotus fragrance has been incorporated into incense used in religious ceremonies, meditation, and spiritual practices for centuries. The scent is believed to create a calming and purifying atmosphere.
Jasmine - valued in India for centuries, with mentions in ancient Hindu scriptures like the Vedas. It has been used in religious ceremonies, as offerings to deities, and as a part of traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Jasmine flowers are frequently used in Hindu spiritual rituals and temple offerings. The scent is associated with purity, devotion, and divine connection. The use of jasmine incense is believed to create a sacred atmosphere, aiding in meditation and prayer. Jasmine flowers are also used in various cultural practices, including weddings, where they symbolise love, purity, and good fortune.
Instructions for use
Place an incense stick into an appropriate incense burner on a heat resistant surface in a well ventilated area. Keep away from children, animals and flammable materials. Never leave burning incense unattended.
