A guest blog post by Matt from Ethereal Aromas Incense Company
Resin incense is one of the world's oldest forms of incense. These are naturally occurring in various plant species, especially in trees from the Torchwood (Burseraceae) family. You might have heard resins referred to as “sap”, such as the aromatic sap that is produced by pine, fir, and spruce trees. Some of the oldest and most widely known incense resins include Frankincense (Boswellia), Myrrh (Commiphora), and Dragon’s Blood (Dracaena/Daemonorops). The New World resins known as Copal (Bursera/Protium) are famous for their use as incense by the Maya and various other cultures throughout Central and South America. Many resins have been historically used in religious settings, for purifying the air, for repelling insects, and even for medicinal uses.
Resin incense is one of the world's oldest forms of incense. These are naturally occurring in various plant species, especially in trees from the Torchwood (Burseraceae) family. You might have heard resins referred to as “sap”, such as the aromatic sap that is produced by pine, fir, and spruce trees. Some of the oldest and most widely known incense resins include Frankincense (Boswellia), Myrrh (Commiphora), and Dragon’s Blood (Dracaena/Daemonorops). The New World resins known as Copal (Bursera/Protium) are famous for their use as incense by the Maya and various other cultures throughout Central and South America. Many resins have been historically used in religious settings, for purifying the air, for repelling insects, and even for medicinal uses.
Traditionally, small pieces of pure resin are placed on top of a hot piece of charcoal so that the resin smolders and releases its fragrance. In modern times, special charcoal is now widely produced with the intent to be used for this style of incense, such as the Three Kings brand. Many other methods have been devised over the course of the centuries, but they all have one thing in common: they all produce a heat source. Resin incense must be heated to release its naturally-stored aroma.
Electric incense heaters are now becoming more widely available at an affordable price and are optimal for using naturally fragrant material. Rather than producing smoke, these heaters warm the resins and unlock the aromatic essential oils, releasing them into the air. This method is becoming more common and is preferred for indoor use. This method releases the therapeutic aspects of many plant materials without the hazard of smoke being released into the air. Some electric heaters, such as the Golden Lotus, provide a wide range of heat settings by thermostat control and may be also used for dried plant leaves and flowers, fragrant woods, and even essential oils. For those who love natural fragrances, but are turned off by the smoke produced by most incense, electric heaters are the way to go.
I have been making my own resin-based incense blends for almost 10 years now. Acquiring unique and interesting resins from all over the world has moved from being a hobby to a business venture. This has allowed me to merge my background in graphic design with my love for creating artwork and creating incense blends. The incense blends created under Ethereal Aromas Incense Company are unique in that they are mostly resin-based. Other natural ingredients such as fragrant wood, leaves, spices, flowers, homemade extracts, and essential oils help make up the unique blends that are sold in the Ink ’n Scents store. I strive to use all natural ingredients and to be able to identify the sources of the ingredients used in all of the incense blends. If you or someone you know loves incense, perfume, or aromatics, resin incense provides a unique window into the traditions rooted in thousands of years of history and lore.
Shop our selection of gift-able resin incense blends in our new Island Octopus shop!
Shop our selection of gift-able resin incense blends in our new Island Octopus shop!
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