Incense sticks for the home: benefits and harms, where to buy and which ones to choose. Indian incense sticks harm and benefits Indian incense sticks harm and benefits

26.03.2022

Many of us use incense sticks (incense). This product became very popular during the "esoteric boom" when the magic of the East began to penetrate our country. In those days, they were credited with all sorts of "magic" and healing properties, used during rituals, practices and various ceremonies. Then incense began to be used mainly as fragrances, to create a pleasant atmosphere, and so on.

Recently, there have been many discussions on the Web on the topic “are aroma sticks harmful”? The use of incense is said to increase the risk of lung cancer, asthma, and other diseases. They are also credited with a psychotropic effect and are sometimes even classified as narcotic substances.

In fact, incense sticks have practically no effect directly on health. They cannot cure a cold or relieve stomach pain, nor can they cause cancer or asthma. Incense does not have a narcotic effect and does not contribute to the expansion of consciousness.

Incense sticks can only be harmful if they are of poor quality. Then you can earn a headache and an allergy. Also, outdoor incense will seem too smoky and spicy and may cause discomfort. This, by the way, applies to most Indian incense, as in India they are used to drown out the unpleasant odors that literally soak the streets.

In order to avoid such troubles as allergies and headaches, you should carefully consider the choice of incense sticks, and do not buy incense that is packaged in a bright wrapper and is inexpensive. High-quality aroma sticks are never cheap. In addition, you need to make sure that they do not smell too intense and “poisonous”. If you feel a strong smell even through the packaging - it is better not to buy such sticks. You still can't use them at home.
Incenses with "popular" smells, such as rose, vanilla, pine, lavender, strawberry, as a rule, leave much to be desired, because artificial flavors are used in their manufacture.

"Types of incense".

Among all the variety of incense sticks presented in stores, there are undoubtedly higher class and really good quality incense. These are Japanese incense. As you know, the inhabitants of the land of the setting sun are distinguished by a scrupulous approach to business and are literally obsessed with the high quality of production. Japanese aroma sticks are a fundamentally different product, which is most often handmade in a family business, recipes are inherited under great secrecy, and raw materials (herbs and plants) are harvested at certain times of the year and in certain places.
In addition, Japanese incense is baseless. This means that the aroma of the stick is not distorted by the smell of smoke and burning bamboo base (as happens with Indian incense). The Japanese do not welcome perfume additives, so the aroma of these incense is never sharp and "chemical", and you will not get a headache or an allergy.

Japanese aroma sticks, like good tea and aged wine, are not cheap compared to Indian and Nepalese ones. However, they deserve it.
There are several Houses in Japan that have been producing incense for several centuries. One of them is Shoyeido. This company has a long history and an excellent reputation, the products are certified, and the level of quality is beyond doubt.

In Europe, incense came from the East. The most ancient perfumers were probably the Egyptians. Incense accompanied them not only in life, but also after death. Now, thanks to the enthusiasm of our contemporaries for the exoticism of oriental teachings and medicine, incense is experiencing a new period of popularity. Incense comes in different types: incense sticks based on bamboo chips, charcoal incense sticks, baseless incense sticks, cones, barrels, powders, "plasticine" incense and liquid essential oils. How to use incense correctly to get a favorable result, not a headache or an allergy.

You will need

Sour-milk Bulgarian stick - the benefits and harms

What is a Bulgarian stick? Origin story

Bacillus bulgaris and thermophilic streptococcus

The composition of the Bulgarian sourdough

Sphere of use. natural yogurt

How to make your own yogurt at home

Benefits for the body

Is Bulgarian sour milk stick harmful?

When pronouncing “bacterial bacillus”, associations immediately arise with some kind of harmful pathogen. But the sour-milk Bulgarian stick does not have bad qualities. Its benefits and harms to the body are constantly being studied by microbiologists and immunologists.

To date, only the beneficial qualities of the bacterium Lactobacterium bulgaricum have been recorded. This is especially true for aging and strengthening the immune system.

Bulgarian yoghurt reviews

How to choose?

>Incense sticks

Quote from susana19 Read the WholeTo your quote pad or community!
Incense sticks (incense), properties of aroma sticks, aromatherapy in horoscopes

Incense sticks (incense), properties of aroma sticks, aromatherapy in horoscopes

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 way of life 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

Incense sticks can only be harmful if they are of poor quality. Then you can earn a headache and an allergy. Also, outdoor incense will seem too smoky and spicy and may cause discomfort.

In order to avoid such troubles as allergies and headaches, you should carefully consider the choice of incense sticks. High-quality aroma sticks are never cheap. In addition, you need to make sure that they do not smell too intense and “poisonous”.

Properties of different flavors of aroma sticks
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?

Properties of aroma sticks

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 diseases, but their tendency to abuse work, feelings, emotions, a lot of bad habits, leads the energy of the body 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, and improves the body's 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 most prone 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 problem. 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.
* Libra can get sick from anything. 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 Sagittarians are interested in life, they can live it without illnesses. 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.
* Because of the 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.

Lilia Yurkanis
for the women's magazine InFlora.ru

From this article you will learn:

Why incense cones are convenient

How to use church incense

How to use incense? Turning to the study of this issue, a person will discover a lot of important and interesting information. How do scents affect our lives? In what cases can you use certain incense. This article will provide answers to the most popular questions.

What are the types of incense

Aromas have a unique ability to influence our physiology and energy. Plants have a huge supply of energy, which gives them the ability to survive even in poor conditions. All the objects around us have a similar reserve. Fragrances give us this energy, which in turn has a truly magical effect on us.

Aroma molecules penetrate our aura and have a powerful effect: they relieve immune deficiency, help distribute and harmonize energy, improve healing, make the ethereal body lighter and denser. In addition, aromas affect physical health and emotions. They can even replace a psychologist. Aromas restore the aura, work with complexes and aggression, help to believe in goodness again. But how to choose and use incense correctly so that it works to its full potential? First of all, you need to focus on Prakriti (in Ayurveda, this concept means the original nature of a person given to him from birth).

Incense is also used for medicinal purposes. In this case, you can get rid of the imbalance of doshas (the so-called vikriti). Having studied the state of prakriti and vikriti, you will be able to choose and use the right fragrance correctly. A variety of materials are used to make incense: a variety of herbs, aromatic trees, special resins. Sometimes incense combines about a hundred different aromatic components.

The extensive classification of incense is due to two factors: a rich variety of varieties and a wide range of applications. Incense is divided according to the following characteristics - composition, application, appearance, country of origin.

Origin incense are:

Indian and similar.

This includes Indian, Thai, Ceylon, Malay and Burmese incense. In this group, there are almost no sticks without a base. But only here you can find "cones" and "plasticine" - a great alternative to aroma sticks.

Such incense is the most powerful in terms of energy. Their composition and method of manufacture are kept secret, this knowledge has been passed from generation to generation for many centuries. Herbs are harvested in the highlands of the Himalayas only at certain hours and only by hand. After the raw material is subjected to environmental impact assessment.

Unlike Indian, the composition of Tibetan incense has up to forty ingredients. In addition, due to the absence of a bamboo base, there are no additional foreign odors. They also differ in a more complex composition - during burning, the aroma is revealed gradually.

Sometimes in Tibet, incense is made in the form of a powder with crushed Tibetan herbs. The most popular producers are: Dr. Dolkar Tibetan Medicine Center, Dalai Lama Center, TWYC Center, Tara Tibetan Incense Center of Tashi Choling Monastery, Zonkar Shuud Monastery and others.

Tibetan sticks do not have a base. True, due to their lower density (compared to Chinese and Japanese ones), they crumble a lot and burn out faster.

Photography of the aura and energy centers (chakras)

An analysis of the glow of the aura will help to understand the causes of many problems related to health, emotional state, communication with other people, understanding yourself and your inner world.

Certified Color Therapist
(International Academy of Color Therapy ASIACT, UK).

You will receive a detailed explanation regarding the individual characteristics of your aura. Our master will determine the level of energy in each chakra and in the entire energy system as a whole. According to the data determined by the auro-sensor, you will learn about how the energies of the Mind, Body and Spirit are distributed in your life and much more.

There are also Chinese incense. In this group, sticks without a base of sandalwood or flowers are popular. There are also unique incense, for example, incense in the form of a spiral. It is believed that when they burn clockwise, an energy column is created. Thanks to this, higher powers will be able to help a person faster. Noticing small sandalwood and flower barrels, boats, baskets, you will know for sure that their homeland is China.

Chinese sticks are as elegant as their country of origin. The delicate scent of flowers promotes clarity and concentration of the mind. Such incense can be safely used at home. The sticks are thin, but hard, and tinted in various shades.

A more delicate and sophisticated smell of sticks from Japan. True connoisseurs of beauty, the inhabitants of the Land of the Rising Sun made sticks with a fragrance that is very difficult to capture. Such incense is pacifying, soothing and can be used by very sensitive people. Just like Chinese and Tibetan chopsticks, Japanese chopsticks are made without a base. Their main feature is beautiful packaging; the Japanese approach its choice with great responsibility. Incense in a neat wooden box decorated with traditional painting will be a wonderful gift.

By shape allocate:

Such incense is common in Tibet and China. They are made in the form of sticks, which are cut off on both sides. For example, Chinese incense resembles a bunch of pasta. Incenses originating from Tibet are thicker and most often tied together with colored thread.

Bulk incense is a special powder or ground herbs. To use them, the powder is placed in an aroma burner, and a burning coal is placed on top. Also, such incense can be sprinkled on a burning stick.

This type of incense is really very similar to plasticine familiar to us. This texture is achieved due to the composition: it most often contains honey and ghee. Due to the plasticity of incense, you can make a variety of shapes. Another feature is a strong rich aroma. Plasticine incense is recommended for use in spacious rooms or outdoors.

5 rules for using incense

First rule- choose a fragrance, focusing on your characteristics: body constitution, date of birth and zodiac sign, character.

Second rule- choose fragrances that will work with your weaknesses and bring the doshas into balance.

Third rule- listen to yourself: whether an allergy is manifested and whether you experience a feeling of disgust after using incense.

Fourth rule- You need to use only those incense that you really like.

Fifth Rule- experiment. You can use several types of incense at once, mixing aromas with each other.

How to use incense sticks

How to use incense correctly? First of all, you need to purchase incense sticks and a stand in which the ashes will be collected. As soon as the smoke comes out of the incense, place them in the room or in the center of the apartment so that the aroma can envelop the entire room. You can place the wand in any room and open the door - very soon a delicate aroma will reach the most secluded corners of your home.

How to use incense cones

To use this type of incense, you will need a special incense burner. It should be bought together with aromatic cones. Couldn't find? No problem. Take any saucer with a smooth bottom. Then everything is simple: you need to set fire to incense, gradually smoldering, they will spread the exquisite aroma throughout the house. After some time, the cone will completely burn out. Sometimes smokers have a special lid that can be used to extinguish the incense at any time. Aromatic incense in the form of cones can be used to scent rooms and for meditation.

How to use incense according to your zodiac sign

When choosing aromatic incense, you can also focus on your zodiac sign. However, keep in mind that it is quite difficult to make the right choice and predict the result. Don't be discouraged if the listed fragrances don't suit you or if you don't quite agree with the list. This is just a guide that will help you understand the many flavors. Listen to your intuition. So, for each sign, you need to use certain healing herbs and aromas.

ARIES(March 21 - April 20): Pine, Patchouli, Geranium, Rose, Lemon, Musk, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Vanilla, Coriander, Violet, Juniper, Sage.

CALF(April 21 - May 20): bergamot, mint, cedar, chamomile, lemon, Myrrh, Neroli, patchouli, Frankincense, rosemary, vanilla, thuja, jasmine, sage, lily of the valley, strawberry, lilac.

TWINS(May 21 - June 21): Strawberry, Eucalyptus, Geranium, Lavender, Orange, Musk, Neroli, Rose, Palmarosa, Frankincense, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Vanilla, Cinnamon, Lemongrass, Ylang-Ylang, Jasmine, Tulasi .

CANCER(June 22 - July 22): Jasmine, Amber, Bergamot, Pine, Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, Myrrh, Neroli, Orange, Frankincense, Sandalwood, Rosemary, Vanilla, Ylang-Ylang, Juniper, Sage.

A LION(July 23 - August 23): Frankincense, coconut, lemon, orange, lemongrass, patchouli, myrrh, rose, gardenia, sandalwood, rosemary, thuja, juniper.

VIRGO(August 24 - September 23): Myrrh, sandalwood, cedar, eucalyptus, geranium, orange, lemongrass, Musk, Neroli, Aphrodesia, Frankincense, cinnamon, ylang-ylang, tulsi.

SCALES(September 24 - October 23): pine, rose, lavender, incense, cedar, mint, cinnamon, ylang-ylang, geranium, eucalyptus, orchid.

SCORPION(October 24 - November 22): patchouli, jasmine, tulasi, pine, lemon, rosemary, sandalwood, cinnamon, vanilla, ylang-ylang, magnolia.

SAGITTARIUS(November 23 - December 21): lavender, Musk, lemon, lemongrass, almond, Myrrh, Neroli, patchouli, Frankincense, rose, rosemary, cinnamon, thuja.

CAPRICORN(December 22 - January 20): Amber, Sandalwood, Bergamot, Pine, Lavender, Sage, Carnation, Eucalyptus, Juniper, Frankincense, Rose, Cinnamon.

AQUARIUS(January 21 - February 20): lemongrass, rose, cedar, bergamot, pine, lemon, orange, Frankincense, thuja, thyme, eucalyptus, tulasi, ylang-ylang, hyacinth.

FISH(February 21 - March 20): Cedarwood, Orange, Bergamot, Chamomile, Lavender, Eucalyptus, Lemon, Musk, Myrrh, Neroli, Frankincense, Rosemary, Vanilla, Jasmine, Juniper.

How to use incense for different purposes

A huge number of incense can be used at home every day.

Most often there are incense from India with a base of bamboo. They are easy to buy, they are cheap, and a wide variety of compositions will allow you to find the desired flavor.

If your goal is to improve relationships in the family, pay attention to the following aromas: jasmine, orange, musk, mandarin, coconut, incense, lemon, sandalwood, myrrh, as well as combinations of them. They can be used to improve energy and make the room more comfortable. This is a great choice if you are just starting out in aromatherapy.

Incense from Tibet and Nepal is recommended for various spiritual practices. From the very beginning, they were made to improve physical and mental health. It contains only natural ingredients, often using unique ingredients that are famous for their strong healing and sacred properties. Such incense is not characterized by too sugary and sweet aromas. They are distinguished by an exquisite, calm, deep aroma of herbs that grow in the harsh Tibetan climate.

If you need to create an appropriate atmosphere for meditation, try using incense from China and Japan, especially sandalwood sticks. Among other types of incense, it is worth looking at sandalwood, myrrh, pine, incense, musk, neroli, juniper, rose, rhododendron. These aromas can be used to improve energy and achieve harmony with the outside world.

To communicate with higher powers. The use of incense is an important part of the rites and rituals of many traditions. When choosing incense, a number of factors are taken into account - the tradition that a person is guided by, the tasks that need to be completed. A simple example: for a love ritual, you can use the following types of incense - ylang-ylang, rose, vetiver, jasmine, musk. However, when performing a cleansing ceremony, you need to use completely different aromas - sage, incense, juniper.

By the way, there are a number of universal fragrances that can be used to perform rituals and other magical actions in different traditions. These include frankincense, myrrh and cedar.

For what purposes incense can be used, sometimes you can already find out from the name. For example, "Clean House", "Gold and Silver", "Divine Healing", "Higher Power" and others.

Often, rituals use aromatic resins (incense and mixtures, myrrh, copal, etc.) and herbs (common and white sage, juniper, bison, and others). Many experts prepare aromatic mixtures on their own. True, the choice of incense is very extensive, so you can easily find the necessary composition.

Incense is an indispensable attribute of magic and spiritual practices. They have a beneficial effect on you, the space around you and the result of your practice: they calm you down, promote concentration, and cleanse you of negative energy.

In "Witch's Happiness" there are incense for any ceremony and for everyday use. Not sure which type of incense is right for you? And we are always in touch on Facebook, Telegram, VK and WhatsApp.

"Witch's Happiness" - the magic starts here.

To use incense sticks in our country at the beginning at the end of the 20th century, just with the advent of new trends in oriental culture (feng shui, yoga, etc.). The product is used for various rituals, relaxation, treatment, rituals of magic and simply as a means for flavoring the air.

What are incense sticks?

The incense stick is a base made of natural wood in the form of a stick of small diameter, which is impregnated with an odorous mixture, namely, essential oils. To feel the incense, the aroma stick must be set on fire. Outgoing aromas are designed to create a unique mood, sharpen feelings and change the state of a person at the physical level.

There are many legends that such incense was used only by sorcerers, so in many eastern countries they were banned in the Middle Ages. In fact, modern scientific research has disproved the supernatural or magical powers of aromatics. The impact on the body is carried out through the influence of essential oil, which exudes a smell when burned.

Why are incense sticks so popular among other aromatherapy products? The secret is simple - ease and ease of use, low cost, the ability to combine with any style of interior. Plus, they are easy to make at home.

Types and purpose

Sticks from India

Made from bamboo. This is the most popular type, as it has the most pronounced aroma.

The fact is that during the production process, the Indians initially apply an odorous mixture to the base and only then soak the sticks in essential oils for several days. This makes it possible to obtain a double flavor.

At home, sticks are used for meditation, temple rites. The most popular oils are: eucalyptus, patchouli, sandalwood.

Aroma sticks from Nepal

The production technology is different: herbs and minerals are used. The collected raw materials are subjected to long-term pressing, resulting in the shape of a stick.

A feature of these sticks is that they need to be set on fire for a maximum of 3 minutes. This time is enough to fully fill the room with aromas. The scent is strong and lasts quite a long time.

Nepalese use red or white sandalwood, jasmine, lotus, pine, geranium, cedar as the main material. At home, products are used for relaxation, treatment.

Aroma sticks from Tibet

They are made according to the type of Nepalese products, but one stick can contain up to 4 dozen herbs that are harvested by hand, and in the Himalayas. Tibetans adhere to special rules: herbs are harvested at a certain time, not only manual collection, but all subsequent work, up to packaging. For this reason, such aroma sticks have a high cost.

The remains after burning the stick can also be used, for example, for massages or acupuncture treatments. Another plus is that in the process of smoldering the sticks change their smell. Such sticks can be ground to a powder and then added to your favorite cream or ointment.

Products from China

Always have the shape of a spiral, boat, barrel or basket. Such funds act identically to sticks. The shape is thought out on the basis of Chinese philosophy - incandescent spirals resemble vital coils, thanks to which any problem and question can be resolved. Burning occurs exclusively in a clockwise direction.

Today you can find a lot of fake aroma sticks that are produced far from the indicated countries. Their danger lies in the fact that they do not contain natural raw materials, but synthetic ones, which harm the body. It is easy to distinguish them: for example, straight sticks are never made in China, and many unfortunate manufacturers produce just such, indicating that these products are from China.

See in our video how incense sticks are made:

What smells of aroma sticks are there?

The smell of an incense stick directly depends on the raw materials used. For example, almond sticks smell like almonds, mint sticks smell like mint, sandalwood sticks smell like sandalwood, and so on. It can be sweet, tart, bitter, sour and other flavors.

Each fragrance has its own properties:

Herb mint, savory, oregano, lavender, myrrh, jasmine and almond. These products have a beneficial effect on the nervous system, act as adaptogens.
Tea tree, marjoram, chamomile, sandalwood, lemon balm, geranium and frankincense have sedative properties. Smells neutralize depression, soothe, restore sleep, eliminate fatigue.
But with the help of cinnamon, orange, lemon, rosemary, cedar, fennel, magnolia and camphor, on the contrary, you can find vigor and recharge your batteries. These smells have a positive effect on brain function.

How to use?

To light an incense stick, it is enough to use matches. But there are also special rules:

Take care of fire safety. Do not place aroma sticks near flammable objects.
The tip of the stick should be set on fire. Immediately after it ignites, blow it out a little, as it should smolder, not burn.
Remember that ash will fall off the product, which can burn through the tablecloth, paper and other surfaces. Therefore, it is advisable to substitute a fireproof object under the stick.
Do not light several aroma sticks at the same time, especially different ones. Remember that even one stick can fill the room with the smell as much as possible.
If there is no window in the room or you do not have the opportunity to ventilate the room, then it is better not to use aroma products.
Do not buy too cheap analogues, they will bring harm instead of good.
It is undesirable to use such products daily.

Useful properties of aroma sticks

Undoubtedly, there are benefits from the use of aromatic devices. They have antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which will disinfect the home.

When the plague "walked" around the world, the inhabitants of cities and villages kindled coniferous fires. Their acrid smoke acted as a bactericidal agent. Incense sticks work in a similar way. Therefore, their use in colds is fully justified.

Incense is also useful for human health, especially for the nervous system. Some herbs can kill insects, such as eucalyptus, mint and lemon. If you are afraid of the evil eye and damage, then it is recommended to use juniper, tangerine, incense and lotus.

Is there any harm?

If used incorrectly, aroma products can harm the body, especially if used more than 2 times a week.

Scientists conducted studies, as a result of which it turned out that smoldering smoke leads to lung cancer, because it is this organ that filters harmful substances coming from the air.

Many people have an allergic reaction to certain herbs, which is manifested by severe headaches, watery eyes, sneezing, and itchy skin. Therefore, at the slightest discomfort, refuse to fumigate the room.

Pay special attention to the quality indicators of sticks - purchase them in specialized stores. Remember: a quality product in a dry state should not have sharp aromas, and low-quality fakes contain synthetic harmful impurities with a pronounced odor.

How to make incense sticks with your own hands?

If you want to save on the purchase of a product or want to be sure of its quality, then make them yourself. For this you will need:

buy a natural bamboo base or ordinary barbecue skewers (maximum length - 30 cm, minimum - 15);
choose the right essential oil;
pick up a beautiful vase or bottle (to match the interior);
prepare refined oil and alcohol.

Combine vegetable oil with essential oil. You need enough liquid to cover one third of the stick. On average, 50 mg of essential oil can be taken for 200 ml of ordinary oil. If you want a more intense flavor, add a little more. Alcohol is enough 2 teaspoons (it will make the smell more stable).

Pour the resulting mixture into a beautiful container and insert the bamboo base. As the stick is soaked with an odorous mixture, the room will be filled with a pleasant aroma. The advantage of such a wand is that you do not need to set fire to it. Consequently, the aroma will be gentle and your lungs will not suffer.

Another option for making incense sticks without the need to set them on fire is presented in this video:

Now you know everything about aroma sticks, it remains only to choose the necessary aroma. Employees of specialized stores will help you to do this. On your own, you can also determine the smell, but on an intuitive level: if the aroma gives pleasure, there is no discomfort, then this smell is yours.

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 obtained during combustion is usually quite intense, consisting of the smell of the aromatic substance itself and the burning wooden 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. These coasters, also called incense burners, come in many different shapes 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.